I just dedicated 4 hours to visiting the largest Zara in Spain—here are the items I felt compelled to purchase right away.

      Is there anything more enjoyable than shopping in Europe? I doubt it. The VAT refunds, unmatched variety, and the simple pleasure of casually (or, in my case, enthusiastically) using my credit card for a new pair of shoes, a handbag, or clothing really excite me. When my parents announced they were relocating to Spain a few years back, shopping in Europe became a competitive pursuit for me, and I felt like I was winning the gold medal each time. There's nothing quite like exploring local brands while I'm in Madrid. While I adore names like Flabelus, Paloma Wool, and Gimaguas, my secret fascination with visiting Zara daily during my parents' visits is something that truly deserves more attention.

      Since my parents reside in the center of the city, the chances to indulge at Zara seem endless. Each time my international flight lands, I typically head home, freshen up, and make my way to Madrid's flagship Zara in Plaza de España, located at the end of the bustling Gran Via (where, unsurprisingly, there’s also another Zara I frequent). Nevertheless, the Plaza de España location is my favorite.

      **In-Store Experience**

      Recently, the 41,064-square-foot store was recognized as the largest Zara worldwide and still retains the title for Spain. As a brand based in Spain, Zara’s Plaza de España store serves as its primary commercial hub in the capital. It boasts spacious fitting rooms, three shopping floors, and multiple dedicated sections for new campaigns, beauty products, home goods, premium ZW Collection items, and a smooth checkout process. Being the largest Zara in Spain also means it stocks (almost) everything available online. As a plus-size, trend-savvy shopper, I’ve found that Plaza de España is the only Zara where I can consistently find items in my size without the hassle of searching smaller, tourist-filled branches.

      Despite being in one of Madrid’s most popular tourist spots, the store's vast size ensures you’re not constantly bumping into others or scrambling for fitting rooms. That’s a definite plus for me!

      **Zara Home**

      There’s even a Zara Home within the Plaza de España location, which is uncommon in Madrid. Since there are no dedicated Zara Home stores in New York, I often spend my time browsing and taking photos for inspiration for my small NYC apartment.

      **Fitting Room Experience**

      Most importantly, I shop at Zara as if it were my occupation—because, honestly, it somewhat is. During my summer visit to Spain, I knew I needed to document some of the best finds at the country’s largest Zara. Equipped with my trusty iPhone, a large bag full of clothes, and comfortable footwear, I spent nearly 45 minutes in the fitting room trying on at least 25 different items.

      Although there were many pieces I wished I could buy, my suitcase had its limits. Below are some of the standout Zara pieces I hurried to try and purchase, featuring flowy midi dresses, linen pants, and stylish butter-yellow tops.

      **Flowy Elastic Midi Dress**

      This was a last-minute addition to my fitting room selection, and I’m so glad I picked it. The dress is incredibly lightweight and flowy—ideal for those 95-degree days spent wandering around Madrid in espadrilles. Typically, I wear an XL, but I opted for a large, and it fits just right (if not a bit oversized—in the best way).

      **Flowy Midi Dress**

      Can you tell I have a preference for flowy dresses? They’re perfect for combating the extreme heat that Madrid experiences in June, July, and August. If you’re searching for something eye-catching, I’d recommend looking elsewhere as this one embodies minimal luxury. It’s the quintessential throw-on-and-go dress that you can slip into effortlessly, even on your laziest summer days. For me, that epitomizes comfort fashion, and I couldn't be more into it.

      **Striped Poplin Shirt**

      You might think I’m crazy, but I adore Zara’s tailoring. While the Spanish brand is well-known for its trendy items and great accessories, the classics remain unbeatable in my eyes. I already have several of Zara’s classic button-down poplin shirts, so I suspected this pink striped version would be a hit. Spoiler alert: It was so fabulous that I’m wearing it as I write this.

      **Halter Top and Linen Pants**

      Lastly, this lovely outfit is a quintessential Madrid-girl look. The butter-yellow halter top is stunning, and when paired with these airy white linen pleated pants, it’s a match made in fashion heaven. If you have a fuller bust, I’d suggest sizing up for the halter, but the pants are a bit loose (which I don’t mind!).

      **Shop Zara Summer Items**

      - Zara Satin Effect Tube Top

      - Zara Rubberized Effect Kitten Heel Mules

      - Zara Circular Leather Belt

      - Zara Pearlescent Applique Bag