Zara

If you like it and it fits well, and you are worried about people seeing the inside label and knowing it is a Zara, then just unpick the inside label. Personally I have more self confidence than that - hell, my suits say Dung inside them On to a little Zarappreciation - I just bought some Zara boots - kinda Blundstone styled - highly recommended. Look good, and are the most comfortable non-sneakers Ive ever owned.

Costume National?

H&M is almost universally mentioned in the same sentence as Zara. I've never been to Zara, but I'm guessing it's pretty similar.

Zara cuts are generally slimmer and more contemporary than many mass market retailers like GAP, Banana, J.Crew, etc. The company also closely follows the trends in both mens and womenswear. That being said, fabrics are very mediocre, and construction has taken a downhill turn since moving from Spain to Mexico/China in the past two or three years. I have two Zara shirts from 2001-2002 that are decent, but I would definitely hesitate to make a large purchase like suitings or shoes.

I have two pairs of Zara shoes, made in Italy and Portugal, that for their price (20 and 35 dollars on ebay and on sale), are quite nice. No real quality problems and I have worn them a fair bit.

I have a Zara overcoat which is one of my favorite pieces of outerwear. It is made in Romania. However, the shirts and suits seemed a little bit shoddy in fabric and construction. In general hit and miss, but Zara really stands out as the only chain that offers clothing that is really slim fitting. I would say that overall it is a step-up from H&M, too.

It's interesting that, despite having production here in China, you do not see very many zara overproduced items or fakes. Zara stands out in this regard since Ralph Lauren, Banana Republic, Gap, and Abercrombie are everywhere.

The first Zara in Beijing is opening up next month. I believe that I have scored an invite for the party.

If you want suits at this price that are more "exclusive" (tailored for you) and have the same fashion-forward look but made of far better, English fabric and with top-notch construction, come to Beijing. It is Beijing's "moment" in history now anyway, so it's worth the trip.

If you like being exclusive then I don't know why you are shopping at Zara.

Most "niche" stores' (Atelier, etc.) suits are going to cost much more than $1000. Their eyeglass frames are probably going to cost about that.

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