Let’s be honest: scroll Zara’s new arrivals section Online isn’t always the easiest way to determine which pieces are worth purchasing. Personally, I need to see and touch pieces IRL to determine which items are worth adding to my carefully curated wardrobe. Colder weather that means bigger pieces, which means less space in my wardrobe; each object must deserve its sustenance.

With this in mind I ventured to my local Zara in search of some fall fashion piecesand even braved the line in the fitting room to give you a try-on and review. I’ll spare you the duds and stick to the good stuff, which is easy, because Zara is really killing it right now. From Christmas party choices has cold weather layers to accessories to brighten up even the simplest basics, everything below is my publisher’s stamp of approval. And yes, I made sure to include some big trends of the moment, from oxblood red to leopard print and more.

Below, check out the 15 best Zara arrivals you won’t regret, starting at $30.

Anorak knitted down jacket

Something about a cable knit puffer jacket gives me serious après-ski vibes, even if I just wear mine to the office and back. I’ve noticed high-end retailers selling similar inhalers for a pretty penny, but this one gets the job done for just over $100. Plus, it did a great job of keeping me warm. Now all I have to do is book a trip to a ski chalet to give this piece the moment it deserves.

Checked pleated skirt ZW Collection

I’ve never met a midi skirt I didn’t like, but I’ve only met a few that I really, really like. And this one ticks all my boxes! It features a concealed zip fastening and alternating abstract check prints divided by box pleats (the pleating is SO trend of the moment). The black and cream combination makes this the ultimate skirt to pair with any neutral tones to add a pop of pattern. I would really love it with a chunky knit and tall pointed toe boots (but it also looks great here with Zara’s soft pocket jacket).

Gold mesh slip dress

Zara really excels at party wear: think fun, glitzy pieces that are perfect for the holiday party season, but perhaps not wearable enough to make a major investment. This sparkly gold halter style is sure to turn heads for any festivities this season, and I was shocked to find that it costs less than $100. Wear it with an oversized black blazer and ditch it when you arrive at the party for a glamorous reveal.

Floral knit cardigan

The easiest way to breathe new life into your wardrobe is to incorporate pops of red. It’s the equivalent of adding a red lip to simple makeup: instantly more exciting. Any simple red knit will do, but I’m personally drawn to this button-front cardigan with fun floral appliques. The rosette trend hasn’t died with the end of summer, so it’s safe to say you won’t be sick of this look anytime soon.

Fringed clutch

Okay, this is your reminder not to sleep on Zara when dressing and accessorizing for an occasion. Their evening bags are seriously underrated, and this clutch is proof. Yes, it’s the perfect thing to spice up that dress for your next Christmas party, but I’m here to say that this bag is versatile enough to dress up. And down. Imagine it worn with leather pants and a very chunky turtleneck sweater. Additionally, it has a removable strap to put on your shoulder.

Animal print faux fur coat

Zara has been killing the outerwear game this season, but I think this coat might be their best piece yet. I believe there are “good” leopard prints and “bad” leopard prints, and this cool-toned gray option is definitely a good one. Not to mention it’s a little different from the typical brown iterations I’ve seen at so many other retailers, which makes it more special. I recommend sizing up for a looser fit, especially if you plan to wear looser knits underneath (Psst, there are a matching top.)

Metal bracelets, pack of 2

Trust me, this is one of those buy once, wear a thousand times and wonder how you ever lived without them. Chunky gold bracelets look great with anything tight, frilly, or fuzzy for the holidays, but they’re also a great option to slip over your favorite fitted black turtleneck to completely elevate your everyday outfit. If you have a pair of chunky gold hoop earrings that will never fail you, consider this the bracelet equivalent.

Jacket with soft pockets

Cropped jackets that can be worn closed as tops or unbuttoned as layering pieces have been a major trend this season, and this is definitely one of the most versatile iterations I’ve come across. I tried charcoal gray (IMO, dark gray is SO luxury), but this piece is also available in black, beige and sand. This is a particularly great item to pack for holiday travel, as the ability to wear it as a top or jacket means maximum styling possibilities without overloading your suitcase.

Combined running shoes

I was once a girl who would never dream of wearing sneakers anywhere other than the gym. Now they are a key piece in my wardrobe for everyday style, especially when they have a unique touch. This particular pair—in oxblood, the It color of the season—features a mixed-material exterior that looks seriously premium. It’s safe to say that this will certainly be the case not I will soon see the inside of a gym.

Asymmetrical soft cape

I know it might not seem like the most exciting purchase, but a cape or poncho like this is key to elevating your simplest winter look; It’s all about the silhouette. Throwing it over a plain black top and jeans will instantly create a look beyond your everyday basics. I was attracted to the heather beige color, but it also comes in dark gray and brown.

Studded shoulder bag

Domed studs are all the rage right now, and this bag is a great way to try the trend without investing too much. Dare I say, it gives major Chloe vibes? The adjustable strap allows for multiple ways to wear it (we love the versatility!) and the gold ring hardware is practically an invitation to snag bag charms and personalize it to your liking.

Animal Print Faux Fur Hat

I’m all for fun cold weather accessories, and this hat is a big win in my book. I’m always drawn to this shape, but for some reason the fit ends up being a little off, whether the hat itself is too deep or the fluff is just too much. I found this one exceptionally flattering and fun. I’ll pair it with all-black looks to give a “wild” touch to my winter wardrobe.

Draped knit top with pompom and applique

Friends, I finally found it: the perfect top for going out in winter. I prefer a long-sleeved black shirt for easy nighttime styling, but I like to find styles with a little extra oomph to keep things interesting. It’s all about the details, and the ruched details at the center and sides of this top really elevate the look. The touch of silver hardware is particularly high-end: pair it with chunky silver earrings and the look is complete.

Animal Print Faux Fur Overshirt

NOW, This is one of those items that seems more expensive than it is. The faux pony finish on this cabin situation makes it look truly luxurious IRL. In fact, if I had to choose just one leopard piece from my entire trial collection (don’t make me choose!), I think it would be my favorite. I would wear with a black micro mini and Fran Fine tights from The nannyor even with black leggings and riding boots for a funky equestrian vibe.

Studded leather belt belt

Can I share one of my biggest style secrets with you? Belts don’t have to cost a lot of money to look amazing. In fact, I’ve amassed quite a collection of Zara belts over the years – and this is the most recent. I plan to use it to cinch in some of my looser-fitting sweater dresses, and maybe even belt some of my outerwear for a change of look. If burgundy seems too bold for you, you can also hang it in a more classic beige faux-snake pattern.