I've always been a *huge* fan of Zara because of its sophisticated, yet girly style. The brand keeps things simple with a pretty neutral palette and classic pieces. The San Francisco Westfield location is one of my favorite Zara stores, but I'd have to say that the Washington, D.C. Metro Center Zara (1025 F St. NW) definitely gives SF a run for its money! After a day of roaming around the D.C. monuments, my friend, Kim, and I were surprised to find the store unassumingly nestled down the street from the Smithsonian American Art Museum. Since it was getting chilly, we figured we could pick up some jackets and scarves to get us through the rest of the night... Instead, we stumbled upon a WHOLE bunch more, thanks to Zara's spring collection.
Although I wasn't really looking to buy that much, I managed to find some super adorable pieces that I've always wanted--a ruffled skirt and simple, crisp white dress! The clutch and tee were just bonus, random goodies. I've been looking for a pretty skirt to wear in the spring with either a long cardigan or blazer, depending on the occasion. I *love* the pretty silk print and can't wait to wear it. The tee was a random item I picked up to try with the skirt, but it ended up fitting well enough for me to buy it. I've seen a few girls wearing these shoulder-ruffle tees, but would've never thought I could pull it off. It's definitely different from anything I own, despite being so simple. The clutch is made of real leather and is perfectly tiny for nights out. I didn't take a picture of the inside, but it's very well constructed with a zippered pouch for coins, pockets for credit cards and IDs. Plus, it fits my iPhone and camera!
My favorite piece has to be the dress, however. The cut is slim and hits about an inch above my knee so that it's flirty enough on its own for daytime lunch dates, or conservative enough for summertime family outings. What's fun is that the ruffled neckline can be worn in the front or in the back. I tried pairing the dress with my gold J.Crew high-waisted belt for a more fitted look. Love that I could even substitute the belt with a bright colored satin ribbon for an even girlier look (the endless color combos are what's so great about white dresses!). The large eyelet texture also gives it a breezy, playful feel. Love, love, love the low-back since it will be perfect to pair with a large side-braid when my hair grows out again. I can't wait to wear this!!
I also fell in love with this super cute dress while I was there, but they were out of XS. This is more of a fun dress and although I've been trying to dress more sophisticated, being in business casual for the majority of the week makes me appreciate pieces like this even more. Can't you see this being a great choice for a day in the park or at the beach? So many dresses, so many possibilities! I am loving all the blues and whites that the brand's decided to use for their collection and am excited to see more of what they have to offer. Another Zara trip is definitely in order in the coming weeks...
LOVE that white dress...you'll have to show pics of the entire ensemble when finished! Is it Zara Woman or TRF? I have better luck with their TRF sizing (& I like their lower prices)...I remember you said you were a 0P in Ann Taylor; I'm wondering if I could fit this dress if I manage to find it. I hope it's also more affordable than the AT rendition!
ReplyDeleteLove the surprise back when the neckline is worn that way - classy in front, and hot when turned around! Agrred with PAG - we want full ensemble pics =P
ReplyDeletePAG: The dress is Zara Woman and was super affordable--$59.95!! It's a new piece, so you should definitely still be able to find it in stores. I think you're a lotttt more petite than I am, so hopefully the XS will fit okay on you but if not it's pretty simply made so taking in the sides should be a cinch! Hope you find it, it's soooo cute.
ReplyDeleteI apologize for not posting a full picture of the outift! It was late and I didn't get a chance to put together a decent enough outfit. Will remember to take some pictures once I wear it out. :)
Finally got to try on the Zara dress you have! It was so cute in person, but unfortunately an XS was too big. Thankfully I found a similar one at H&M for half the price, so I'm not too disappointed.
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