4 Items Our Editors Would Never Buy From Zara (Yes, Really)

Hold up—there are actually items Who What Wear editors won’t buy from Zara? I know—we can barely believe it ourselves, but it’s true, and today, we are 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.

what-not-to-buy-from-zara-229830-1560460172219-image

(Image credit: @slipintostyle)

Slip Into Style’s Ellie wears a polka-dot Zara dress

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 favorite Zara section to shop overall, and that’s okay.) In this situation, there is 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 are 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.

Hannah Almassi, Editor in Chief

"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 zone. 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.”

Joy Montgomery, Acting Assistant Editor

"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 green pussy blouse, which is crying out to be worn with straight-leg jeans and strappy sandals.”

Alyss Bowen, Social Media Editor

"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 summer midi dresses. I always end up getting tons of wear out of them throughout the warmer months and will bring them back out again year after year. Naturally, there’s plenty I want to add to my collection from its 2019 offering, too.”

Maxine Eggenberger, Contributor

I’ve always embraced my bigger bust, but the one setback of it is not being able to fit into the majority of high-street swimwear. This is doubly sad considering Zara’s swim collection is so strong this season. The cups are typically too little. In fact, one bikini top I tried on in the past barely covered my modesty. Instead, I’m buying into Zara’s tops and dresses with square or sweetheart necklines; they make my boobs look amazing if I do say so myself.

This post originally appeared on Who What Wear UK.

Maxine Eggenberger
Deputy Editor

Maxine Eggenberger is Who What Wear UK’s deputy editor and has over thirteen years of experience in fashion journalism. She been creating engaging and elevated style content specifically for Who What Wear UK since 2018, covering runway reports, emerging trends, long-form features, self-styled shopping stories and columns, including her edit of the best new-in buys. She ensures the highest editorial standards are met across the site, leads the editorial team in their SEO strategy and keyword planning, works closely with the beauty team on content initiatives, represents the brand at industry events, and regularly contributes to social media, including her own Who What Wear UK TikTok franchise, French Style Fridays. Previously, Maxine appeared on ITV's This Morning in her own fashion segment and has interviewed countless celebrities—everyone from Victoria Beckham to Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o.

Prior to Who What Wear UK, Maxine’s career began when, after completing her first-ever internship at Look magazine, she was offered a position on the brand's fashion desk. She accepted, leaving university a year early in the process. Her passion and natural talent for writing and styling meant she swiftly rose through the ranks to become the title's fashion news and commercial content editor, with a stint as InStyle.co.uk’s fashion and beauty writer along the way. She later served as Look’s acting Editor in Chief, overseeing both print and digital, before embarking on a successful freelance career, working with Grazia, The Pool, and Marie Claire amongst others. Maxine is based remotely from her countryside home near Edinburgh where she spends her downtime renovating her house, walking her dogs, hosting friends and trying to master the art of making Old Fashioned cocktails.