I Check Zara Daily—7 New-Yet-Classic Buys That Defy the Trends
When it comes to fashion, simplicity never goes out of style, and Zara seems to have embraced this notion in a big way for autumn. Scrolling through its new-in section this week, I couldn’t help but think how anti-trend it was. I place of statement pieces and bold palettes, there is a distinct focus on what I’d generally consider to be basics—pieces such as tailored trousers, Oxford shirts and easy flats. Essentially, items that ensure you always look chic, regardless of the current trend climate.
Of course, this really should come as no surprise considering the quiet-luxury aesthetic has had a hold on fashion for over a year. In case you aren’t 100% set on what quiet luxury is, it’s essentially fashion that embodies understated elegance and refined simplicity; timeless pieces that exude sophistication without the need for overt logos or flashy designs. Although many have embraced this look, I’d say it’s London that is truly encapsulating this movement right now, especially as we head into autumn where things like tailoring, loafers and trench coats come into play. And Zara is proof that you don’t need an unlimited budget to give your new-season capsule that anti-trend finish.
Below, I’ve assembled an edit of the chicest Zara buys that have just landed on site, all of which fall under the category of "affordable but classic”. You know what to do…
SHOP MY ZARA ANTI-TREND EDIT FOR AUTUMN:
1. DARK-WASH DENIM
2. CLASSIC CARDIS
This classic cardi would look just as good with jeans as it would with trousers or over dresses.
For a slightly fresher take on the classic style, opt for something like this khaki, peter pan collar iteration.
3. BALLET FLATS
If the rest of your outfit is simple, why not add a playful touch with some printed flats?
I already know that these will go with so many looks in my wardrobe.
4. LBD
You can never have too many LBDs... This mini is perfect for date night or, dare I say it, party season.
5. OXFORD SHIRTS
I'll never stop shouting about just how versatile a white shirt can be.
Baby blue goes with every other colour, so you can rest easy knowing this will blend seamlessly into your wardrobe.
6. WIDE-LEG TROUSERS
White wide-legs are just as versatile as black. Add a chunky knit and trainers in the daytime or heels and a blazer for an evening out.
7. DO-IT-ALL TOTES
Burgundy bags are going to be everywhere this season. Don't believe me? Just read our deep dive on the colour trend here.
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.
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