The Best Zara and H&M Fashion Finds According to an Editor

last updated 28 March 2025

Whenever I'm in the mood to treat myself to something new—something affordable to scratch the itch but still make all my existing outfits feel fresher—I always head directly to two places: H&M and Zara. Both retailers have nuanced and often elevated takes on the trends and appeasing price tags, so I don't think I need to go into detail as to why I find them so appealing. However, just because I get the urge to shop doesn't mean I do so frivolously or without consideration.

@aidabadji_ wears jeans from Zara — *Aïda wears jeans from Zara.*

Sure, there are pretty pieces in every H&M and Zara category, but that makes their respective websites a bit of a trap where appearances can easily lull you. However, when I shop H&M and Zara, I do so with as discerning an eye as possible, seeking out the pieces that go beyond the current season and that genuinely fit with my aesthetic. While everyone has their own personal style, I do believe I've managed to curate an edit of the best Zara and H&M fashion items that won't date for anyone. Take a look below, and hopefully, you'll find something you love.

Shop My Zara and H&M Wish List for Spring:

H&M

Waisted Cardigan

The hourglass silhouette of this cardigan feels incredibly elegant.

H&M

Wide High Jeans

The perfect wide-leg jeans.

ZARA

Zw Collection Long Skirt

The draped pleating of this skirt means this it has already joined my forever wardrobe.

ZARA

Mini Split Suede City Bag

A yellow suede bag? I'm in.

H&M

Linen-Blend Skirt

This entire outfit is so elegant.

H&M

Linen-Blend Blazer

It might look black, but the blazer and skirt set here is actually a very dark brown. Delicious!

ZARA

Flat Split Suede Sandals With Metal Embellishment

I already know these will be the sandals of the season.

H&M

Smocked Jersey Dress

This dress will work hard in your wardrobe.

H&M

Suit Waistcoat

Waistcoats continue to be the top of choice for fashion people across Europe.

ZARA

Waxed Jacket With Contrast Collar

The perfect spring layer.

ZARA

Striped Stand-Up Collar Shirt Zw Collection

I love the collar on this classic striped shirt.

ZARA

Contrast Dress With Shoulder Pads

This dress could easily be 3x its price tag.

ZARA

Kitten Heel Leather Sandals

So chic!

ZARA

Zw Collection 100% Linen Palazzo Trousers

It's never too early to start investing in linen.

H&M

Pintucked Blouse

Now is the time to bring our your pretty blouses to wear with jeans!

H&M

Trainers

For a little pop of colour...

H&M

Wide Linen-Blend Trousers

A look I'll wear on repeat throughout the next 6 months.

H&M

Waisted Cardigan

Another cardigan I just can't seem to forget about!

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Maxine Eggenberger is Who What Wear UK’s Deputy Editor and has over fourteen years of experience in fashion journalism. She been creating engaging and authoritative content for Who What Wear UK since 2018, covering runway reports, emerging trends, long-form features, talent interviews 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 search and keyword planning, works closely with the fashion and beauty team on strategy and continues to pen many of her own articles. Prior to Who What Wear UK, Maxine's contributed to publications including Grazia, InStyle Marie Claire, Elle and Look, amongst others.