I don’t know about you, but I’m all for party season this year. Ordinarily, I tend to avoid overly loud or statement clothes but I’m intent on embracing party dressing in all its high-octane glory for 2022. With work dinners, drinks with friends and lots of reasons to celebrate on the horizon, I’ve been thinking about the sort of things I’d like to wear for all of the above, and I’ve come to the conclusion that sparkles are the answer.
Although it largely goes against my style DNA, I can’t help but be drawn to all the rhinestone-adorned pieces out there. Nué is one such brand that has put gemstones on the agenda—as is Saint Laurent, whose Swarovski-encrusted boots have caught the attention of everyone from Celine Dion to Hailey Bieber. However, if you’re like me and want to dip your toe in the sparkle trend without spending a small fortune, I suggest you turn your attention to Zara, for it has created the perfect sparkly party top… again.
Last year, Zara stole the show with an eye-catching crop top that took the internet by storm. This cult piece was a little bit ’90s in the best possible way, and reminded me of Naomi Campbell and Kate Moss’s iconic chain-mail dresses, but with a sleek bandeau silhouette and ultra-thin straps. Of course, the top sold out in record time (that’s Zara for you) but being the seasoned fashion editor I am, I had a hunch Zara would do the honourable thing and bring it back in a new guise for 2022. And this week, my premonition came true.
This year, Zara has reimagined the sell-out piece to have more glitz, more glamour, and more colour. The checkerboard motif feels undoubtedly current, though I reckon I’ll be styling it in the same way that India of The India Edit did last year. With a pair of jeans and an oversized black blazer, India showcased a way to wear rhinestones that strikes the formidable balance of being fancy without teetering on too much.
Last year, I missed out on the shiny Zara top, but this time, I’m not letting it pass me by. From this experience, I knew I had to share it with you before it sells out again.
Scroll on to shop Zara’s sparkly crop top. Then continue on to see my favourite sparkly buys from Zara and the rest of the high street.
Next Up: The Easy Outfit Formula Our Editors Plan on Wearing All Winter
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
