5 Items Our Editors Would Never Buy From Zara

Hold up—there are actually items Who What Wear UK editors won’t buy from Zara? I know—we can barely believe it ourselves, but it’s true, and today we’re here to share exactly what we prefer not to buy from the fast-fashion retailer. While the “don’t buy” lists are significantly shorter than the “must-buy” lists, the reasoning behind each editor’s answer is worth hearing out.

Now, we aren’t saying you shouldn’t be purchasing these things from Zara. (Heck, some of the items our editors would rather not buy might be your favourite Zara section, and that’s okay.) In this situation, there’s no right or wrong answer, because at the end of the day, you know we all have an unhealthy obsession with the brand, so who are we to judge? We just thought it would be interesting to find out what these knowledgeable editors steer clear of when it comes to shopping at Zara, in addition to the items they’re eyeing at this exact moment. Read on to find out which items our Who What Wear UK editors would never buy from Zara, plus the items currently on their radar.

“I don’t buy trousers from Zara, as they never fit me! I’m a size 12, and unless they’re stretchy or feature an elastic waistband, it’s a no-go. Although I love the styles on offer, even the size L doesn’t seem to work for me, so rather than make myself feel fed-up, I’ve just stopped even trying them on. Instead, I always opt for skirts, especially those that are fitted at the waist but fuller on the bottom. That kind of silhouette seems to fit my hourglass figure far better when it comes to this store.”

“In my lifetime, I have spent a lot of money on costume jewellery from Zara—big earrings, statement hair accessories and OTT necklaces—but I find it’s better to buy better quality, quieter jewellery that I will wear for years and years, so try to avoid buying jewellery that is too trend-led. Instead, I tend to buy blouses, printed dresses and blazers from Zara, the latter of which are proving incredibly strong this season.”

“Quite a few people have waxed lyrical about how good Zara denim is, but for some reason, I’ve never quite got on board. It’s probably because I’m a loyal Topshop jeans follower. I know what my size is and which styles suit me best. Sorry, Zara. I won’t be venturing into your denim department any time soon. I hate to sound like a fashion victim, but I have, however, fallen a little bit in love with Zara’s organza pieces this season. They’re whimsical, statement-making, oh so pretty, and just what I want to wear to elevate my usual pared-back staples. I particularly have my eye on the tweed blouse, which is crying out to be worn with straight-leg jeans and strappy sandals.”

“Much like Joy, I never buy jeans from Zara. I definitely prefer structured denim, and I often find Zara jeans can lose their shape throughout the day. I do, however, really rate Zara’s midi dresses. I always end up getting tons of wear out of them throughout and bring them back out again year after year. Naturally, there’s plenty I want to add to my collection from its 2020 offering, too.”

In all honesty, there are very few items I won’t buy from Zara—the only thing I can think of is swimwear, which I seldom buy from any high street store. With my larger bust, Zara’s swimwear is a complete no-go as I find it grossly lacks in support. Right now, though, I can’t seem to help myself when it comes to Zara’s cardigans. In fact, I’ve either already added the below to my wardrobe or have them pending in my digital basket.

This post was originally published at an earlier time and has since been updated. 

Next, every item on my M&S wish list just so happens to be under £30.