I Went to Zara, and These 8 Winter Pieces Really Stood Out

Hands down, Zara has to be my favourite high-street brand, and I know I’m not alone in my adoration. In fact, I get a little too excited when the weather starts to feel like autumn because it means that Zara—an expert in winter dressing—will be providing me with a reliable rotation of cool pieces to get me through the rest of the year.

Zara has been my go-to for basics that stand the test of time. Great knitwear, beautiful dresses and brilliant footwear are just a few of the categories I’ve gone to Zara for in the past, and these pieces still serve me well now. I know I can always rely on the Spanish brand whether I’m looking for something trendy or something a little more understated and classic.

I’m building my autumn/winter wardrobe at the moment, and you already know where I was keen to head to first for some inspiration. I went to Zara to check out what its latest drop had to offer and tried on a few bits that tickled my fancy. Of course, there were some failures during my try-on, but I narrowed it down to eight key pieces I’d buy in a flash! Check out my review of the chosen items below.

1. CHECKED KNIT DRESS

The checked pattern is a big trend for this autumn and winter, and it’s a motif that comes back time and again, which makes this dress a clever trending item that has plenty of mileage.

I already own something similar but in a different colour way from Warehouse, and I get plenty of wear out of it, so it makes sense that I instantly gravitated towards this dress. 

I think the sage green and cream complement my skin tone very well. This will look just as good in the summer months with sandals, too.

2. KERMIT-GREEN BLAZER

This shade of green is having its moment right now. This was the first item I spotted and grabbed to try on because the colour is just stunning. 

I like how it really stands out against a plain black outfit, but this could work just as nicely in a more vibrant look, too.

Zara is well-loved for its tailoring, but I would love this blazer even more if it was made of a thicker and more structured material.

3 & 4. THE KNIT SET

This co-ord is definitely a chic alternative to the usual sporty tracksuit, and I love it. It’s super comfortable and so nice to move around in. It’s a pairing that can be dressed up or down.

This exact iteration isn’t available online at the moment, but there are similar pairings around. I’ve included the closest alternative below.

5. WATERPROOF JACKET

I’ve been spotting this quilted style of jacket everywhere recently, and for a good reason—these styles are practical and make every outfit look a little bit cooler and more laid-back.

I love how this water-repellent quilted jacket has a leather look without the associated price tag. I think this style of jacket works well when paired with wide-leg trousers.

6. JACQUARD TROUSERS

Speaking of trousers, I’ve recently been living in anything that has a generous, wide-leg fit. I’m not usually one to take a second glance at a houndstooth textile, but I was swayed by this particular pair of trousers because of the fit. They create a really cool silhouette when paired with a slightly cropped jacket.

7. OVERSIZED SHIRT

I gravitated towards this classic striped shirt because of its slightly oversized fit and material. It feels great against the skin, and I love how it hangs off the body. It’s so simple but so useful to have in your wardrobe.

It could work in a smarter look, but pairing it with some knitted trousers created a great weekend-downtime look.

8. CROPPED BLAZER

I’ve never thought of owning a cropped blazer until I tried this one on, and I think I’ve been converted. It’s definitely something you can take from day to night. 

For a daytime look, I’d opt for a turtleneck and wide-leg, high-waist jeans. And for an evening look, I’d pair it with a cute mini skirt and heels.