H & M vs. Zara: any thoughts?

catgirl

Quality, pricing, selection, style, sizing? Not that I have options - I am just curious as they seem to hit the same range.

12 years ago

Shopping

12 replies

Latest reply was from catgirl

Marley

Veteran

For me H&M runs much smaller than Zara. I find that I usually, but not always have to size up one size for Zara and two (or) 3 sizes up for H&M.
IMO Zara carries more age appropriate items for WOMEN (more sophisticated), as opposed to H&M which seems to cater to more of a younger group (generally speaking.) Zara has much more of a European feel to it - H&M seems like a cousin to Fashion 21. As far as the quality goes, for Zara it is hit and miss. Some items are gorgeous and stand up to multiple washes - while others are poorly made and I would never spend my money on them! I tend to shop at Zara much more than H&M because Zara's quality seems better to me than H&M's and the styles are more age-appropriate. However, I can't imagine ever ordering anything online from Zara - without being able to touch the fabric and try the garment on because some of their stuff is kind of funky (but not funky in a good kind of way!)
Don't know if this helps you or not Una!

12 years ago

Anonymous

Well, I say Zara is more fashion forward in a good way. The designs are better quality ( and look good on more people ) as opposed to elastic waisted H&M skirts. Quality, also much better ( in menswear also). The fabrics are mostly sturdier. The leather goods ( shoes, bags) are nice. The prices are unfortunately higher that H&M. For a blazer, some pants, a new bag/shoes I'd go for Zara. For fun and cheap skirts, I'd go to H&M.

12 years ago

bella

(website)

Veteran

Zara is a grown up, sophisticated version of H&M. They both do a good job of following trends but Zara does it in a more thoughtful, elegant way to appeal to a more refined clientele. I think the quality is overall better at Zara, but the prices are also elevated to reflect that. But again, as Marley said this doesn't guarantee an individual item will be of high quality, it is better to touch the fabric and examine the construction in person. In my opinion, while H&M sizing runs small according to the US standard, it is pretty accurate according to EU sizing and also very consistent. I can actually buy things there without trying on. If I were to try on at Zara, I would go with one size smaller than my H&M size or the same depending on the item. Zara has a Zara basics line. But if I were after basics, I would buy them at H&M. Zara does a wonderful job with statement items like jackets with interesting details, tunics with interesting silhouettes and patterns, sophisticated dresses., etc.

12 years ago

Jonesy

Veteran

To me, Zara seems more stylish and chic while H&M seems more quick and trendy. Zara seems more upscale and a bit more grown-up, somehow. I think quality is all over the map with both of them, and sizing runs small at Zara in my experience (as I posted on your other thread about sizing).

12 years ago

Sona

Veteran

I think quality at Zara is higher. drape and feel of materials is usually better. and pieces tend to last.

12 years ago

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Una, have you yet to visit a Zara? Or "Thurra" as they say in Barcelona. If so, you are in for a treat.

I agree 100% with all the comments here.

Zara is one of the most successful retailers in the world. If I was fluent in Spanish, we would be living in Spain and I would be working for Zara - don't think that I haven't looked into that option

NO ONE can touch them in that market - and they don't ever advertise. They believe that their navy and white paper shopping bag says it all. Which it does.

I have been shopping at Zara since the early 90's. One of my very favourite retailers on earth! More so than H&M, although when I was younger, I shopped at H&M a lot. I will always shop at Zara. The beauty of it is, that you can shop there as a 15 year old and 80 year old.

Spain leads mainstream, stylish, aspirational and affordable fashion - hands down and no contest,

Okay. I think its obvious that I am a HUGE Zara fan.

12 years ago

Kafe

Active Member

Is Zara part of Massimo Dutti? I have a few Massimo Dutti items I really like.

12 years ago

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Zara is part of a holding Company called Inditex (spelling?). Zara is by far their biggest and most successful chain. Massimo Dutti is part of Inditex. Different merchandise and target market. More classic and less trendy.

12 years ago

DressLover

Veteran

For me, the best way to put a tagline on Zara is fast fashion for the woman who loves high end design and fabrications. This doesn't mean you have to be a designer clothes horse or a label aficionado to purchase the brand. It just simply means if you admire the design and creativity of the runway, but don't want the price tag, Zara is where to go.

Granted Zara will not have the exact fabrics, construction, tailoring, and detailing as high end brands, but you will get a much more of that feel than you will with H&M, F21, and the like.

12 years ago

bella

(website)

Veteran

Your spelling is correct Angie. Inditex is the mother group for Zara, which in addition to Massimo Dutti, is home to Bershka, Stradivarius, and Pull &Bear, for those who are familiar with these European brands.

12 years ago

rute

Veteran

This I know! I'm a Zara client for long time!
For me H&M runs bigger.
I prefer Zara quality: Zara fabrics are better than H&M, Zara fit it's better for me either but don't expect high quality.
For higher quality Massimo Dutti and Uterqüe (both from inditex).
The only complaint I have with zara is that the .. I don't know how to say in English.. the sew is not very good, I have to take the piece to a tailor to sew again buttons and hems, because they may fall!

12 years ago

catgirl

Veteran

Thanks everyone!

Angie, I have only been in Zara once, years ago, in Vancouver. I loved it but only had time for a brief peek. Torture!

So I went ahead and ordered some stuff to try - they have free shipping and it's worth it to find a stylish brand that works for me. ASOS is fun but so hit or miss.

We don't have an H & M but so many people mention it, I was curious to know the difference.

12 years ago

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