As a fashion editor, I'm often asked what my favourite designer brands are, so for a while now, I've had a pre-prepared list in my head ready to rattle off. They've all been firm favourites for some time, but recently, there's been a new addition: Alaïa.
Obsessed with the brand's unique silhouettes and bold designs, Alaïa's recent collections have hugely influenced my daily dressing of late, encouraging the sleeker and more striking side of my style. Unfortunately for me though, my budget doesn't stretch as far as I might like it to, which is why I decided to research where I can find pieces that have the same vibe but at a much more accessible price point.
I wasn't searching for long before I found Zara's new-in section. With items that look much more directional than elsewhere on the high street, whilst it will never come close to the real designer deal, Zara can help me achieve the high-end payoff I want from my outfits without bankrupting myself. However, in the name of mindful shopping, I would implore you to shop Zara (and any other brand) with acute consideration. In the interest of doing the same, I've kept my below edit discerning and concise.
Hosting plenty of items that resemble the elegant styles I've come to admire, scroll on to discover the Zara finds that give a good impression of Alaïa.
DISCOVER OUR EDIT OF ALAÏA-STYLE ZARA ITEMS:
The fit-and-flare design is a signature silhouette for Alaïa.
The leopard-print shoe trend is taking off this winter.
Style this over a bodysuit or layer it with a slip.
Wear with a metallic skirt for an edgy party-season look.
The padded shoulders and cinched waist add a sculptural element to this blazer.
These would look so good with baggy jeans.
In my opinion, these are the perfect party shoes if you can't hack heels.
Go all out with the matching skirt.
Shop the matching Animal Print Velvet Mini Skirt (£30).
The burgundy colour trend is the most important of the season.
This also comes in black.
Layer this up with other necklaces or style on its own.
This also comes in burgundy and red.
Bundle up in style.
The detailing on the waistband makes these look very high-end.
It's giving '90s supermodel.
Often, the simplest Zara pieces look the most expensive. Case in point.
Just add a slouchy knit and knee-high boots.
-
Just so You Know, Zara Already Has All the Best Shoes for Winter 2025Shop before they sell out.
-
If Designer-Looking Bags Are the Goal, Don't Miss These Standouts From H&M, Zara,Replica Store, and MoreThese will have you doing a double take.
-
New Week, New Zara: The Winter Arrivals Worth Dropping Everything ForFrom chunky sweaters to holiday dresses.
-
This Denim Wash Will Have You Looking Like a Fashion Person This WinterThese jeans make any outfit look more expensive.
-
Hot Stuff! Zara x Ludovic de Saint Sernin Is Sexy, Chic, and Guaranteed to Sell Out by December 1Shop the collaboration inside.
-
My Mom Is 56, and I'm 22—29 Chic Zara Finds We're Loving RNSee the rich-looking pieces inside.
-
I'm Bored With My Closet—These 27 Chic Zara, J.Crew, and COS Finds Have the Power to Turn Things AroundEffortless and rich-looking is the vibe.
-
These Head-Turning Zara and H&M Pieces Won't Last Until the End of the Month—39 Styles to Get Now or RegretThese look like straight-up designer.
