I Spent 3 Hours in the World’s Biggest Zara—Here’s What Came Home With Me

There are few things in life as glorious as the Zara new-arrivals section, especially when it’s on sale. The Spanish retailer is known for its trend-forward pieces (particularly those inspired by high-fashion runways) and a slew of elevated basics that almost always fit with anything in your closet. 

When I headed to Madrid to spend the holidays with my family, there was only one thing I had in mind: heading to the world’s biggest Zara, which recently opened next to the Plaza de España. Opened in late 2022, the shopping mecca boasts four floors of the best Zara has to offer, including dedicated sections for women, men, children, and cosmetics. The first week of the new year is one of the busiest times of year for retail sales, so naturally, I used the occasion to stock up on 2023 trends at incredible prices. If you know me, you know I can’t resist a bargain.

Below are all of the eye-catching new arrivals I tried on, picked up, and took home with me—including the ones I had to buy a carry-on suitcase for.

Who doesn’t need a striped sweater?

Calling all fashion people who love the rosette trend…

The anti-skinny-jeans trend would like a word.

Biker jackets are my latest obsession. 

Would you like a side of biker boots with your leather jacket?

Can you tell I love stripes?

This puffer may give all the other jackets in my closet a run for their money.

If you’re a fan of ’90s minimalism, this top is for you.

This punchy jacket’s color is predicted to dominate 2023, according to experts.

Tube tops in the winter? More likely than you’d think thanks to this ultra-chic pick.

This was so comfy in the dressing room I almost bought all three colors.

These cutouts are giving “Julia Fox opening the LaQuan Smith fashion show in 2022.”

New Year’s Eve may have come and gone, but sequins are forever.

These mid-rise trousers fit perfectly on me as a plus-size fashion editor—a testament to how much I love them.

Metallic handbags may be my favorite accessory trend for 2023.

Menswear-tailoring fans, look no further than this pair of pants.

This half-moon silhouette instantly reminded me of The Row, so naturally, it was an instant buy.

It was love at first sight between these cowboy boots and me.

This print may be one of my favorite pickups from my shopping trip.

Chocolate goodness.

The sheer trend may be for the out-there dresser, but I’m all for it.

These kitten heels were surprisingly comfortable.

Next, Fashion People in London and Paris Will Wear These Trendy Basics Most in 2023