I'm in the Mood for Something New Yet Timeless—These H&M and Zara Buys Are Ideal

Whenever I’m in the mood to treat myself to something new—something affordable to scratch the itch but still make all my existing outfits feel fresher—I always head directly to two places: H&M and Zara. Both retailers have nuanced and often elevated takes on the trends and appeasing price tags, so I don’t think I need to go into detail as to why I find them so appealing. However, just because I get the urge to shop doesn’t mean I do so frivolously or without consideration.

Emily wears a striped shirt from Zara.

Sure, there are pretty pieces in every H&M and Zara category, but that makes their respective websites a bit of a trap where appearances can easily lull you. However, when I shop H&M and Zara, I do so with as discerning an eye as possible, seeking out the pieces that go beyond the current season and that genuinely fit with my aesthetic. While everyone has their own personal style, I do believe I’ve managed to curate an edit of the best Zara and H&M fashion items that won’t date for anyone. Take a look below, and hopefully, you’ll find something you love.

A little black dress will always be a good idea.

The simplicity of this body makes it timeless. 

A gorgeous khaki green hue.

A striped shirt is such a classic.

I can imagine this looking so cool with a pair of bagg high waisted jeans. 

So chic.

This looks far beyond its affordable price tag. 

Ideal for beach days and heatwaves in the city. 

A dream dress tbh. 

It’s never too early to think about investing in a great trench.

Dress it up with heels and statement earrings or down with flat sandals and a basket bag.

Ballet flats are a french fashion expert’s favourite shoe.

These look so comfy.

I always come back to H&M’s linen shirts.

Waistcoats aren’t going anywhere. This will look just as good with jeans as it does with the matching linen skirt. 

Effortless. 

Something about the shape and heavy cotton of this T-shirt elevates it. 

The comfiest denim on the high street right now. Fact.

Ruching always makes a piece look more expensive, in my opinion. 

H&M is so good at doing elegant little bouclé jackets like this. 

Just gorgeous.

A chic way to wear colour. 

These are H&M’s best-selling jeans right now. 

A gorgeous dress that will serve you well this summer and next.

Next Up: The 9 Most Expensive-Looking Pieces on the High Street This Week

This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.