My Friends Always Ask for Shopping Recs—30 Items From Zara, Madewell, and Free People I Suggested

Being a fashion editor comes with its share of perks, and one of the biggest is shopping expertise. Writing about and curating the best trends and shopping picks all day provides an acute insight into what pieces are worth the investment—both in terms of quality and longevity. My friends and family take full advantage of this foresight and always come to me for guidance on what items they should add to their closets, and I'm happy to oblige.
Right now, my friends are looking specifically for seasonal staples and holiday party looks at reasonable price points, so I directed them towards Zara, Madewell, and Free People. From cozy cashmere to timeless suede to satin pumps and sequin minidresses, these three retailers have winter wardrobe essentials covered—in utterly chic ways might I add. Below are the 30 best shopping picks from Zara, Madewell, and Free People (in my humble opinion).
ZARA
MADEWELL
Cardigans are having a resurgence, and this color goes with everything.
FREE PEOPLE
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Free People Has the Cutest Shorts, Skirts, and Jeans Right Now—Shop My 12 Faves
Hop to it!
By Drew Elovitz
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Just Some Really Good Buys for Spring—That's All
Thank me later.
By Eliza Huber
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I Tried On the 12 Posse Pieces Everyone Wants Right Now—Here's How They Fit
Verdict: I'm not surprised it's all selling out.
By Allyson Payer
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My Sister's Her Early Twenties—31 Chic Urban Outfitters and Free People Items I Recommended
Gen Z–approved picks.
By Chichi Offor
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Style Rut? I Have Something for That—33 Stellar Spring Picks From Nordstrom, Zara, and Madewell
I see chic outfits in your future.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
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Zara's Linen Collection Is Top-Notch—27 Pieces That Have My Attention
The pants alone are worth checking out.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
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I'm Craving a Beach Vacation—39 Revolve Items I Would Pack
Crochet, linen, and raffia ahead.
By Caitlin Burnett
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I'm Hunting for Chic Spring Basics—34 I'm Considering From Nordstrom, Zara, and J.Crew
From cropped trench coats to linen trousers.
By Caitlin Burnett