Love Zara? These 13 Homegrown Brands That Are Just As Good

If Zara went on a permanent holiday to Goa, this is what we imagine the store would look like. Urban Suburban's designs are cool, effortless, and so chic that it's hard not ordering one of everything (just like the struggle at Zara.) Their collection includes breezy jumpsuits and dresses, flowing skirts — perfect holiday attire whether you're going on one or just pretending.

Price: Starting at INR 1,899

Z-names aside, Zachi is our go-to for stuff that I'd typically find at Zara; they've got all the coolest new trends and silhouettes but without the Zara price tag. We love their crop tops and midi skirts that can be styled a million ways but also check out their casual tees or dresses if you're feeling fancy.

Price: Starting at INR 1,140

We liked Why So Blue the moment we saw it. Not only because of the subtle colours that they offer but also because everything you see in their catalog is responsibly made. Mostly made from cotton (bound to be comfortable), their designs are fresh, comfortable, and handmade. The makers handpick all the materials, right from the thread and fabrics to the buttons, to ensure that each item has a story to tell.

Price: Starting at INR 1,500

Zara plays a lot with their silhouettes — whether it's adding a peplum lining or balloon sleeves, which is what you'll find at Swish Boss also. From the looks of it, their collection of tops, shirts, and dresses look comfortable, stylish, and unique. Any item you pick is good enough for a party or for formal events.

Price: Starts at INR 1,650

When you're on the search for denims that aren't as expensive as Levi's, you'll go to Zara. But where do you go when you're looking for something not as expensive as Zara, and is homegrown and good quality? Let me guide you to The Pigment Edit that does denim apparel that I could totally picture Kendall Jenner in because double-denim is trending big time. 

Price: Starting at INR 1,350

Pro-Tip: While we're on the topic of denims, here's the ultimate guide to buying the perfect pair of jeans!

Raise your hand if you've added random accessories to your shopping bag just so you don't have to pay for shipping at Zara (I'll raise both hands.) Zara has really chic gold jewellery that's all the rage, especially their chain link necklaces. Klissaa, though, has my heart for doing the most incredible layered gold jewellery at more affordable rates than Zara.

Price: Starting at INR 899

Venture into the professional, boss babe side of Zara and you'll find a ton of sleek and clean silhouettes (and painful price tags.) Luckily, Gaima Label is sans-pain when it comes to pricing; their trousers, shirts and sets are available in neutral colours that can be worn together or as separates, dressed up or down and doesn't this top remind you so much of Bridgerton (I burn for this top, guys).

Price: Starting at INR 1,190

Pro-Tip: For more formal wear, check out this list. 

We've got a bunch of basic graphic tees from Zara that we wear all the time, whether it's with jeans or under a jacket or sometimes even to sleep, they're that comfy. The Souled Store has graphic t-shirts similar to the ones you'll find at Zara with inspirational quotes and sayings that aren't OTT.

Pro-Tip: Being the overachievers that we are, we made a list of alternatives to The Souled Store too, check it out here. And for some simple basics with high quality here are the best alternatives to Uniqlo.

If you want to look like you’re a fashionista, who is on the ball when it comes to trends - international and Indian, then Alter Ego is the ideal brand for you to shop from. The apparel ranges from co-ord sets and tropical printed dresses, which are both hot off the runways at the moment, plus bandeau dresses, maxi ones and jumpsuits too.  

Price: Starting at INR 1,690

Twenty Dresses has an extensive range of women's apparel that's suited for pretty much every occasion — from everyday essentials, vacations, parties, evening wear, brunches, and more, they have a huge collection that is chic, contemporary, and effortlessly stylish. Expect apparel that instantly dresses you up, and highlights that you've made an effort (without actually making the effort). From what we could check, they use a large variety of materials — cotton, chiffon, crepe, sequins, polyester — so you can find what's comfortable and looks good for you. Apart from clothing, they have diversified to trendy footwear and chic accessories.

Price: Starting at INR 595

Attic Salt is all about affordable luxury. Their collection is apt for partywear, offering modern western wear made by local artisans. What we like is that a lot of their dresses have really interesting silhouettes like capes, flares, and ruffles. Their lowkey extra sequinned tops and skirts are great for every night out ever! A shoutout to their sizing options, starting from XS going up to 5XL.

Price: Starting at INR 790

Co-ords, dresses, tops and bottoms largely rule what this brand has to offer. We found that most of their clothing was made from lycra — can stretch five to eight times its usual size, polyester (lightweight and durable), and cotton. What we liked is that they have a good balance of prints and solids. While the claim to be inclusive we were a little disappointed to see that their sizing was pretty generic starting at XS going up to only L or XL.

Price: Starting at INR 590

RSVP by Nykaa Fashion has over 500 articles in the categories of western wear, footwear, and bags. They have dresses, tops, co-ord sets, gowns, jackets, skirts and more in Zara like effortless chic high fashion designs, even their prints match Zara's vibe.  This green chain bag is an exact replica of the Zara one, and even these transparent strappy heels.

Price: Starting at INR 2495

Now that your clothes, shoes and accessories are sorted, check out these best-selling bags under INR 1K that you'll definitely need to complete your look. 

PS: Check out more brand alternatives here.