When I hear that my most beloved retailer has launched into it's annual mass sale it initiates a range of emotions; excitement, anticipation, lust, then on entering the realms of purchasable clothes those evolve into mild panic, frustration, fatigue, disappointment, empty glory, and eventually bitterness, for Zara is a label that never ceases to surprise me. It regularly produces such inspired pieces of quality and tailoring and yet at times churns out complete and utter duds.
The prospect of a sale brings with it the promise of picking up genuine gems at a fraction of their already reasonable price tag. From rummaging through an overflowing accessories box during their last sale I found one beautiful indigo suede leather wallet with gold zip from £75 cut to £15.99. It is one of those items that I am constantly asked where it came from, because not only are many Zara pieces so classic, but I love the way that their clothes and accessories don't lend themselves so unambiguously to advertising. It is always difficult to spot a typically 'Zara' outfit, unlike something from Topshop or New Look, which both have a style and branding akin to a Queen song - unmistakable.
However, I am uninspired. My last physical tour of the Knightsbridge branch opened up a very real world of sequinned blazers/mini-skirts/leggings, lurex bat-wing t-shirts, delicately gold-threaded scarves, chain-mail vests, gilt & silver embroidered waistcoats and boleros, lovingly embroidered lace and silk and chiffon, which, while I was spending my birthday gift card the woman next to me at the counter was buying most of. I'd, by this point, made my bed with my safe work-wardrobe additions, but I thought there was still hope come the exciting news of sale time. The problem I have today is the growing disappointment as I click around the still fresh UK website at their virtual sale with it's lack of sparkly things.
Next Time
Think 'Statement Piece'. Be BOLD or forever stay in the fashion shadows.
NB Matthew Williamson Sample Sale on TODAY
