Live From Madrid: 31 Zara and Mango Finds That I Guarantee Will Soon Sell Out Stateside


After spending the past month living in Madrid—splitting my time between walks through Las Salesas and people-watching in El Barrio de Salamanca—one thing became abundantly clear: Spanish women just get fall fashion. Their ability to mix elevated staples with fresh-feeling trendier pieces is next-level. Naturally, I found myself ducking into just about every Zara and Mango in sight, given that Spain is the birthplace of both brands and a go-to store for stylish Madrilenians. In my humble opinion, the selection at both stores is better there, and as a result, I went a little overboard with my shopping.
From sharply tailored coats to the slouchy boots I saw everywhere, both Zara and Mango are fully tapped into that refined, polished-but-not-trying-too-hard vibe everyone is craving this fall season. Think chunky knits, luxe faux leather, rich burgundy tones, and mocha-colored trousers that actually make you want to ditch your basic blue jeans. A few of the pieces I spotted in-store have already started popping up online—and I have a strong suspicion they won’t stay in stock for long once U.S. shoppers catch on.
Whether you're building out your capsule wardrobe or just want something that makes you feel like a cool Spanish girl this fall, I’ve pulled together the best of what’s out there right now. Keep scrolling to shop 31 Zara and Mango fall finds that feel straight out of Madrid (because they low-key are).
Zara Fall Items
Much like in the States, cool women are layering their lacy dresses under chunky knits and over basic jeans.
You can always trust Zara to get a good knit right.
Ultra-thin ballet-style sneakers are just as much of a moment in Madrid as they are in NYC.
The European philosophy to buying clothing is more akin to the buy-it-for-life method, where it's worth it to spend a bit more money on items that'll last for years in your closet. Case in point, this double-faced wool jacket that I've seen nearly every cold-weather season while going to Madrid.
There's a ton of bohemian inspiration in the Spanish capital, with ponchos and fringes becoming more and more popular among style insiders.
Chic!
Nothing says fall as much as a pair of suede boots.
Funnel-neck jackets are always a good idea.
In lieu of technical running sneakers or fuzzy slippers, Spanish women are opting for sleek leather silhouettes in the form of boat shoes and penny loafers this fall.
The number one item I saw, by large and far, was a simple suede jacket. Spanish women often dress it up with a white tee, denim jeans, and a patterned silk neck scarf to keep things interesting.
These came home with me. Zero regrets.
Argyle sweaters have been gaining traction in New York for the last few weeks, so I wasn't shocked at all to see them also have the Spanish stamp of approval.
The same goes for plaid shirts and plaid cardigans. Clearly, it's a print-heavy fall.
This entire outfit is simply too good to pass up, but the mocha harem pants are doing a lot of the heavy lifting.
Although you'd think patent footwear is a bit passé, I was shocked to see dozens of patent loafers, boots, and flats on the feet of Spanish women walking from store to store.
Mango Fall Items
No joke, I already saw several chic Madrid grandmothers bust out their fur coats while staying in the Spanish capital. I'm feeling inspired to buy my own—at a fraction of the price, of course.
This cropped tailored jacket is just speaking to me.
Another pair of sleek ballet-style sneakers I'm seeing Spanish women gravitate toward in lieu of chunky athletic trainers.
This is a classic.
A simple gray cardigan goes well with everything, no questions asked.
While you'd think lace shirts aren't stylish by any means, I spotted at least five a day while in Madrid, most of the subtle, white-eyelet style. They're romantic, classic, and seasonally relevant, and I have a sneaking suspicion this trend is going to cross over to New York and L.A. very soon.
This entire look feels rich.
I'm loving the salmon color.
Trust fund, anyone?
This entire suede look, down to the shoes, is peak Spanish cool.
Spanish women often pair their simple blouses with a sleek necktie in the fall—this shirt has both in one.
Think about how elegant this would be with a simple white tank and a leather jacket.
Unlike their French cousins, the Spanish aren't afraid of bold colors or patterns when it comes to their wardrobe.

Ana Escalante is an award-winning journalist and Gen Z editor known for her sharp takes on fashion and culture. She’s covered everything from Copenhagen Fashion Week to Roe v. Wade protests as the Editorial Assistant at Glamour after earning her journalism degree at the University of Florida in 2021. At Who What Wear, Ana mixes wit with unapologetic commentary in long-form fashion and beauty content, creating pieces that resonate with a digital-first generation. If it’s smart, snarky, and unexpected, chances are her name’s on it.
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