I'm not going to lie: I like my outfits to look expensive. Give me a Miu Miu– and Prada-filled wardrobe any day. I may not have the budget for daily designer looks, but I do, however, have a great eye for stylish fashion items that look expensive but aren't. (There's a reason I'm associate shopping director.) I'm happy to tell you that after perusing, testing, and trying Zara's latest summer pieces, there is a whole host of chic and elevated pieces that could honestly pass for designer. I've lost count of the number of items I bookmarked as I scrolled through the brand's website, but I have done my best to whittle down my selection of seriously luxe-looking buys. Think elevated butter-yellow blazers, Chloé-inspired boho lace dresses, and luxe-looking leather sandals.
Take a look below, as I share my absolute favorite luxe-looking Zara finds you won't regret buying this season. If you think these affordable pieces—from dreamy dresses to elevated basics—look designer, I wouldn't blame you.
The high V-neckline makes this look so luxe.
Chic pleated pants will elevate your outfit in an instant.
Love the metallic toe rings.
A knit ivory vest oozes rich vibes.
Chloé vibes. Zara prices.
Woven and braided shoes were all over the S/S 2025 runways.
Ready for compliments?
These have a chic, vintage vibe.
You can style this designer-looking top with so many different bottoms.
How is this not designer?!
It doesn't get any chicer.
Such a gorgeous metallic detail.
The ruching! The color!
White linen tailored trousers will keep you looking polished in the summer heat.
Effortless and on-trend.
Sleek black thong sandals will go everything.
It's a butter-yellow summer.
Designer-looking frames.
I have a feeling this won't stay in stock for long.
More butter yellow, please.
Peep-toe shoes are a huge trend this season.
Powder pink is having a moment.
Wow. Just wow.
I just got this, and it looks even better in person.
Romantic, sheer pieces will be everywhere this summer.
Minimalist chic.
Simple yet striking.
For your upcoming summer soirée's.
This combination dress is dreamy.
Update your blazer collection with this hourglass linen number.
Nineties chic.
A belt that will pull together an outfit in an instant.
Turn heads in vibrant red.
-
Don't Say You Never Knew—These 32 Elevated Nordstrom Basics Are a Steal During the Half-Yearly SaleDon't mind if I do.
-
FYI: The Accessory Trend Everyone Is Wearing With Swimsuits Right Now Is $26 at H&MDon't miss the boat.
-
I'll Know You Have Good Taste If These 30 New Arrivals Are Already in Your Shopping CartA little summer wardrobe update.
-
This Summer, Everyone Everywhere Will Be Swapping Skirts for One of These Shorts TrendsPlus, learn how to pull them off with ease.
-
This Stylish French Woman Paired Summer's Controversial Shoe and Shorts Trends, and the Outfit Is So ChicSee how to re-create the unexpected look.
-
Calling It: These 35 Swimsuits and Cover-Ups Will Be First to Sell OutMy sellout senses are tingling.
-
The Surprising Accessory Trend That's Kicking Sun Hats to the CurbSorry for your loss.
-
Fashion People With Unlimited Access Still Only Wear Bikinis From This One BrandNamely, Bella Hadid, Hailey Bieber, and Dua Lipa.
