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

last updated 18 December 2024

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 2025:

H&M

Oversized Polo-Neck Jumper

A cream jumper is a capsule wardrobe staple, but if you're looking for a brighter hue, this style also comes in 8 other shades.

ZARA

Faux Leather Midi Skirt

A leather midi skirt acts as the foundation to so many of my winter work looks.

H&M

Wide High Jeans

The perfect wide-leg jeans.

ZARA

Split Suede Maxi Shopper

The perfect suede tote.

H&M

Fine-Knit Jumper

This simple jumper is so elegant, and pairs perfectly with jeans or skirts.

ZARA

Wide Leg Split Suede Ankle Boots

So damn chic! Especially with a sock poking through.

H&M

Jacquard-Knit Cardigan

For a festive knit that still feels chic.

H&M

Braided Ballet Pumps

We've had mesh ballet pumps and crystal ballet pumps, but now it's time for braided styles to come to the fore.

ZARA

Plain Knit Polo Sweater

I've been waiting to invest in a polo knit and have finally found the one in this brown iteration.

H&M

Flared Knitted Skirt

This set is the perfect way to do comfy, cosy and chic Twixmas dressing.

H&M

Tote Bag

A very designer-looking tote for less than £40.

H&M

Pointed Leather Court Shoes

I love how these brown suede heels look with opaque tights.

H&M

Puff-Sleeved Jacket

Just so sweet. And a fantastic price! I recommend sizing up in this as I have the version from last year and it was a little neat, especially if you are busty.

H&M

Ruffled Top

The perfect party top for any last-minute festive drinks.

ZARA

Velvet Bow Dress

If I were looking for a New Year's Eve dress, this would be my pick of the bunch.

ZARA

Zw Collection Double-Faced Jacket

If you're in the market for a shearling-lined jacket, may I please direct your attention to this lovely number.

ZARA

Diamond Pattern Jumper

I'm picturing this with grey wide-leg trousers and loafers for the office and a mini skirt and tights at the weekend.

H&M

High-Waisted Tailored Trousers

There is just the perfect amount on slouch on these trousers.

ZARA

Wool Coat With Scarf

It's no secret that scarf coats have dominated the outerwear trends this year, and I predict they will still be big news in 2025.

H&M

Oversized Alpaca-Blend Jumper

The Who What Wear team rave about H&M's alpaca-blend knits.

H&M

Heeled Ankle Boots

These classic heeled boots come in black, but I personally love this rich chocolate brown.

ZARA

Knitted Cape Coat

Along with scarf jackets, capes are also having a moment. You can wear this one as a coat or as knitwear - the choice is yours.

H&M

Knee-High Leather Boots

We could go on and on about how great H&M's knee-highs are. In fact, we have...

H&M

Handmade Wool-Blend Coat

Simply stunning.

ZARA

Satin Midi Skirt

I'm honestly taking all my styling tips from Zara right now, and will be copying this brown slip skirt and argyle knit look at the weekend.

ZARA

Knit Cardigan With Golden Buttons

Such a pretty set, and one I would wear as above with heels but also with loafers.

ZARA

Blouse With Ruffles

This pretty blouse in one of 2025's biggest colour trends is a sure sell out.

ZARA

Buckle Slingback Shoes

These classy burgundy mules will work hard for you.

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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.