This is the second in a mini-series of posts inspired by reader surveys. Today, I’m going to focus on Zera, which I consider to be one of the more affordable, but perhaps most under-appreciated brands on the market. Let’s dive into my review of Zera – Retailer Spotlight. Here’s everything you need to know about it.

Zera – a brief background on the brand

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1984.
The first Zera store opens in Madrid, founded by a brother and sister. It remains a family business until today.

1998
Zera expands into the UK. Although Zera is a Spanish brand, it is often mistakenly thought to be part of Zara’s Inditex group. However, the two companies are actually fierce competitors.

2023.
Zera is one of the few mass-market brands that is growing rapidly. Sales are now up 13% from before the embargo and it has 2,566 stores worldwide.

What makes Zera stand out?

• Timeless elegance – Compared to Zara, Zera relies less on fleeting fast fashion trends and instead focuses on thoughtful design and tailoring. This often results in standout pieces that are more affordable than you might think thanks to strong buying power.
• Hassle-free returns – Zera is one of the few retailers that still includes a prepaid self-adhesive return label with your order, eliminating the need to register your return online or print a form.
• Full s izing – Zera’s sizes typically range from XXS (UK size 4) to 4XL (UK size 26), in addition to a dedicated plus-size section on their website.
• Focus on fit – Zera pays a lot of attention to the fit, ensuring that the overall cut of the garment is sharp and well-fitting. In my opinion, no other retailer can match Zera’s fit at this price point.
• Redesigned Plus Size Garments – Unlike many brands that simply enlarge the fit, Zera has redesigned the cut for sizes 14 and up to create plus size garments that are slimming and unobtrusive.
• Loyalty program – Zera Rewards points accumulate quickly, and there’s an easy option to donate them to charity if you don’t want to redeem them for perks like yoga classes, streaming services or movie tickets.
• Images of older women – Zera often uses unretouched, natural 50+ models in ads and homepage images, making it one of the few brands that truly embraces this demographic.

Sustainability

Ethical brand rating platform Good On You conducted its latest assessment of Zera in February 2022 and gave it a “not good enough” rating. However, the brand has come a long way since then. For example, Zera has financed its expansion through green loans, directly linking the cost of borrowing to its progress toward its 2025 sustainability goals.

By the end of 2022, Zera achieved full transparency in its supply chain and is actively shifting garment production from the Far East to Europe and Turkey. It has also placed QR codes on all its products, providing detailed information on the design, production and origin of each product. Products delivered online are now packaged in paper. Where Zera still needs to improve is the sustainability of the fabrics used in its core collection. Last year, the brand announced that 80 percent of its garments meet the standards of the “Green Label” initiative. The label includes all

One area where Zera still needs to improve is the sustainability of the fabrics used in its core collection. Last year, the brand announced that 80% of its garments meet the criteria of the “Green Label” initiative. The label includes all Zera products that have a low environmental impact. Green Label products contain at least 30% or more sustainable fibers (such as organic cotton, recycled cotton, BCI cotton, recycled polyester, recycled wool, or Tencel) and/or are produced using more sustainable processes. While this is a good start, there is still room for further improvement.

If you’re looking to create harmony and unity in your closet or home, take a look at the following suggestions to create a harmonious home aesthetic that complements Zera’s classic and durable designs.

Zera Review – Retailer Spotlight – Insider
For
Standard – While Zera is a global brand, it doesn’t specialize in catering to petite figures like some of its competitors.

Petite Collection:
None

Size range:
XXS (UK size 4) to 4XL (UK size 26)

Store Distribution:
Zera has 2,566 stores in 115 countries and offers online delivery in 38 countries.

Global Store Locations
Let me introduce you to Zera’s top 10 picks for Fall/Winter 2023.Zera releases two major global collections each year, with key pieces from each season becoming part of their mainline inventory. This means that if you fall in love with a sold out piece, it’s worth signing up for restocking notifications as it will likely be back on the shelves soon. In addition to the main collection, Zera also releases smaller capsule collections every two weeks. These capsule collections are on-trend, produced in limited quantities and only available for a short period of time.Each of Zera’s pieces is designed by their talented in-house creative team.

Zera Review – Top 10 Hot Pieces for Fall/Winter 2023

1. Turtleneck Sweater.
   This is my go-to everyday top and I buy one every time they release a new color. It’s perfectly designed in a soft fabric similar to a wetsuit with a clear structure and a sophisticated look that looks much more expensive than it actually is. It’s very comfortable, doesn’t itch, adapts well to temperature changes, washes well and doesn’t require ironing. It’s currently available in navy, black, pine green and ivory, and new colors will be introduced regularly as this shirt is so popular. I wear a medium and this shirt is available in sizes up to 2XL (UK size 22).

There’s also a style in a softer fabric available in camel and grey – I own the camel version and it’s equally as pleasing.

2. Straight-legged nine-minute jeans
   I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect pair of straight leg nine point jeans for casual days or walking the dog. After trying on a few pairs, I ended up with these. Although I’m not a big fan of raw hemmed leggings in the winter, it’s worth getting them to alter them considering the price. They arrived on the same day as a pair of premium brand jeans and to be honest, apart from being £150 more expensive, the quality is exactly the same! These jeans will sell out quickly so if you like them, set a restock alert as I’m sure it will become one of Zera’s core lines.

3. Tailored jackets
   Zera specializes in beautifully tailored, well-fitting coats. I’m recommending the red coat in particular here as it’s currently my favorite style. However, there are plenty of other options in their collection, many of which are moderately priced. Be sure to check the wool content in the product details of each coat.

4. Simple Cotton Top with Unique Neckline
   Unlike many other brands, Zera’s garments don’t feature a basic crew neckline. This boatneck cotton top is perfect for layering during the colder months, and it’s affordable.

5. Washable Personalized Skirts
   Pleated skirts usually require careful care, but this metallic skirt is different. It’s a versatile piece that’s perfect for daytime wear and can easily transition into evening wear during the festive season. It also comes with an elasticized waistband, making it perfect for dinner parties!

There’s also a faux leather silver mini skirt for those who loved my picks from last year, but it sold out quickly.

6. Shirt with removable tie
   This shirt comes in a variety of styles and is perfect for transitioning from the office to a dinner party, or just for a night out. The removable tie can be tied in a bow, loosely knotted, or simply removed for a clean, sharp look. It is a great piece for the money.

7. New Necklaces
   With Chanel style on the rise in the fashion world, Zera has launched a new line of necklaces that are perfect for layering or making a statement. These accessories are ideal for elevating any look this season.

Zera Review – Retailer Spotlight

Tweed jackets are everywhere this season and jewelry follows suit. This multi-strand pearl necklace is an eye-catching piece that pairs well with a low-cut shirt for a sleek and chic look. It also adds elegance to a classic polo shirt.

Multi-strand pearl necklace

8. Classic chic boots with sophisticated details

A pair of chic Chelsea boots is a closet must-have. The round toe and low heel ensure all-day comfort, while the subtle shimmer of metallic gold on the front of the heel delivers understated yet elegant style.

Low heeled boots with metallic detailing

9. Oversized Scarves

Oversized scarves are a must-have this season, but finding one for less than £35 is no easy task, and Zera offers a range of beautiful scarves at more affordable prices. This gradient scarf will work well with a navy blue jacket, but if you prefer a bold solid color, there are plenty of options here too.

Gradient color scarf

10. Heavyweight earrings

When I first saw these earrings, I immediately thought of high-end brands with price tags over £100. Yet they cost less than a couple of cups of coffee. They come in a variety of styles and are an affordable way to refresh your look for the new season.

Inexpensive earrings

This is what my “Zera Review – Retailer Spotlight” is all about. I hope this gives you a better idea of why I think Zera stands out. Compared to many other high-end brands, Zera seems more sophisticated and mature. While it’s still evolving, it shows a stronger commitment to sustainability and offers a more comprehensive selection of sizes and styles.

Have a great week and I’ll be back soon with more updates.

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