Zara and Its Sister Brand Have Never Been Better—16 Epic Fall Finds I Tried On
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@anna__laplaca
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@anna__laplaca
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@anna__laplacaMy review: Distressed-effect leather jackets are, no doubt, one of fall's biggest trends, and Zara's version hits the nail on the head. Initially, I was drawn to the faded look of the faux leather on this cool cropped jacket, but once I discovered that there was a matching skirt, it was game over for my shopping cart. Both pieces make for the coolest ready-made outfit that I can confirm receives plenty of compliments IRL.
I paired the outfit with these gorgeous knee-high boots from Zara's sister brand Massimo Dutti, and before I was even done slipping my foot into the first boot, I knew they'd become my fall hero shoes. Their slim-heel, square-toe shape reads as designer, as does the buttery-soft leather and comfortable insoles. I personally wouldn't say they're an affordable purchase at $299, but I'd consider the elevated details and wearability to be worth every penny.
Photo:
@anna__laplaca
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@anna__laplacaMy review: Despite being a loyal Zara shopper, I'd never tried anything from Massimo Dutti before. I knew the Zara sister brand came with a slightly higher price point and more sophisticated aesthetic, but I was still blown away when I tried on this particular outfit. Eighties cardigans are having a moment right now, and Massimo Dutti's striped iteration just might take the cake. The fabric is soft but weighty, and the fit is ideal for wearing as a top like I did here or layering over a tank or tee. Even the buttons feel luxe and premium, something that's worth clicking on the product page and zooming in to appreciate.
The straight-fit jeans were a hit as well with their button fly and perfectly-lived-in fit. I sized down so they would be more fitted and sit higher on my waist, but take your typical size if you're looking for a more relaxed fit that's similar to the on-model image. I styled the outfit with Zara's wildly comfy slingback flats for a cool everyday denim look that's very fall 2023 coded.
Photo:
@anna__laplaca
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@anna__laplacaMy review: Is your jaw on the floor too? Mine sure is. I don't know if I need to get married or attend a black-tie affair in this, but I'm certain of one thing: This is easily the most beautiful dress I've ever put on my body. It comes from Massimo Dutti's Studio collection and is cut from a luxurious satin-effect material. According to the brand's site, it is actually made from 50% recycled polyester, a fabric that's produced largely from plastic water bottles. Not only is it elegant and sophisticated, but it's also eco-friendly. It features a strappy low back with a '90s cowl. I paired it with Zara's faux-pearl clutch for the ultimate eveningwear look.
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@anna__laplaca
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@anna__laplacaMy review: Zara has the best suiting separates, and that's a fact. This asymmetric vest hits on the waistcoat trend but feels a little fresher than a lot of what's in the market now. I wore it with the matching contrast-waist trousers and flats for a versatile combo that would be perfect for the office or dressed up for drinks with heels. I sized down in the vest and would recommend you do the same.
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@anna__laplaca
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@anna__laplacaMy review: Last fall, the oversize bomber jacket was one of Zara's best-selling items, so I was excited to try this year's quilted version, a super-soft and oversize layer that I wore with a red midi dress but would also throw on with jeans and a tee too. Speaking of the dress, it's so… wow. Online, it looks quite simple, but the material is surprisingly sculpting, and with a subtle padded shoulder, the silhouette is so striking. Not to mention, it's an easy way to embrace fall's It color—fiery red.
Photo:
@anna__laplaca
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@anna__laplacaMy review: Did I just stumble upon the perfect LBD? If there are any weddings or cocktail events in your future, I highly suggest ordering this chic strapless number. It's simple but features a single under-bust cutout that I found to actually be quite wearable since I didn't need to spring for fashion tape or endure a complicated sticky-bra situation to make it work. Easy, cool, and rather timeless—I'm obsessed.
I wore it with a pair of T-strap kitten heels from Massimo Dutti that reminded me of a Celine pair I saw once. They offered the tiniest lift that immediately made them the most walkable heels in my closet, and the supple suede feels so right for fall.
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@anna__laplaca
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@anna__laplacaMy review: It takes a lot for a sweater to impress me, but this one definitely did. I love the high V-neck and thick ribbing along the cuffs and hemline that give it a directional, designer-like look. The wool-blend fabric was deliciously warm without being scratchy, and the hemline was perfect for wearing with high- and mid-rise denim as I did here. I would recommend sizing up if you want it to fit more oversize.
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@anna__laplaca
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@anna__laplacaMy review: Before cooler weather completely takes over, I tried on this cool halter dress from Zara. Halters are in the midst of a comeback right now, and this one feels especially modern. The main event is, of course, the buckle strap that makes the entire dress adjustable according to your preferences on fit and style. Adjust it tighter for a closer fit and looser for a more sultry vibe. This is definitely one of those pieces that will have people saying, "Wait, that's Zara?"
