I Have Alaïa Taste on a Zara Budget—17 Pieces That Will Make Me Look Much Richer Than I Am

As a fashion editor, I'm often asked what my favourite designer brands are, so for a while now, I've had a pre-prepared list in my head ready to rattle off. They've all been firm favourites for some time, but recently, there's been a new addition: Alaïa.
Obsessed with the brand's unique silhouettes and bold designs, Alaïa's recent collections have hugely influenced my daily dressing of late, encouraging the sleeker and more striking side of my style. Unfortunately for me though, my budget doesn't stretch as far as I might like it to, which is why I decided to research where I can find pieces that have the same vibe but at a much more accessible price point.
I wasn't searching for long before I found Zara's new-in section. With items that look much more directional than elsewhere on the high street, whilst it will never come close to the real designer deal, Zara can help me achieve the high-end payoff I want from my outfits without bankrupting myself. However, in the name of mindful shopping, I would implore you to shop Zara (and any other brand) with acute consideration. In the interest of doing the same, I've kept my below edit discerning and concise.
Hosting plenty of items that resemble the elegant styles I've come to admire, scroll on to discover the Zara finds that give a good impression of Alaïa.
DISCOVER OUR EDIT OF ALAÏA-STYLE ZARA ITEMS:
The leopard-print shoe trend is taking off this winter.
Wear with a metallic skirt for an edgy party-season look.
The padded shoulders and cinched waist add a sculptural element to this blazer.
These would look so good with baggy jeans.
In my opinion, these are the perfect party shoes if you can't hack heels.
Go all out with the matching skirt.
Shop the matching Animal Print Velvet Mini Skirt (£30).
The burgundy colour trend is the most important of the season.
It's giving '90s supermodel.
Often, the simplest Zara pieces look the most expensive. Case in point.
Just add a slouchy knit and knee-high boots.

Natalie Munro is Who What Wear UK’s news writer and has worked in the fashion industry since she graduated with a degree in Journalism from the University of the Arts London. Natalie’s experience in the industry spans journalistic and styling roles that have seen her work for publications including British Vogue, Conde Nast Traveller, Vogue Ukraine, AnOther Magazine and Elle UK.
With an interest in uncovering the latest fashion trends, Natalie takes a leading role in identifying news for Who What Wear UK. Reporting on a daily basis, Natalie focuses on trends on and off the runway, as well as street style and celebrity fashion. Natalie also creates content for Who What Wear’s social channels including TikTok and Instagram on a weekly basis.
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