First Zara store opens in WA… with the usual fanfare, of course

When a Zara boutique opens, it’s not just the launch of a new fashion store, but a major event for diehard fashionistas. And it’s not just women who wait with bated breath for Zara to open shop locally, with more men now cottoning on to the Zara phenomenon.

So what’s so phenomenal about the Zara label? Well, it’s super-stylish for a start – sitting somewhere between prêt-à-porter and “that tailored look”, but without the hefty price tag. Fabrics used are of decent quality, ‘breathable’ and comfortable. And the label updates its collections with more seasons than most.

Zara stores are amazingly laid-out. Indeed, some shoppers find themselves browsing for hours since the stores are so big. You’ll usually find womenswear downstairs and menswear upstairs, with a kids section somewhere off to the side.

All these sections, in fact, are part of the brand-spanking new Zara store that opened this week in Garden City, Booragoon. Just 15 minutes from Perth’s CBD, Booragoon is already home to a plethora of boutiques including Flannel, Flower, Colette, Country Road, Gaz Man, G-Star, Morrison and Kookai. But never has there been more hype than when it was announced that the big Z would be taking up two huge stories that make up 1,300 square metres.

Since its arrival in Australia in April 11, Zara now has ten stores across Australia, this being the first in WA. A second store is planned to open in the city later in the year.  Antonino Tati

Zara, Garden City, Booragoon is open from 9am weekdays, and 11am Sundays.