Zara's £70 chunky boots look *just* like this season's must-have £1,290 designer pair

Black chunky boots are here to stay and Zara's version is ticking all the right boxes

Influencers wearing Zara and The Row boots
(Image credit: Victoria Geneviève, Francesca Saffari)

Boots season is well and truly here, but finding the perfect style can be tricky—especially with so many new styles hitting the high street.

So if you're looking to add to your collection of the best winter boots you're going to want to listen up, as we've discovered a pair so similar to a certain designer must-have, it's tricky to even spot the difference. And it's all thanks to Zara. 

The high street hero is a destination for fuss-free dresses no matter the season (we all remember that viral spotted style circa 2019) but it's also the go-to when it comes to shoes, boots and basically everything your closet desires. 

Now, Zara has created a pair of boots that manage to tick off all the key style traits you could wish for this fall: chunky, wearable heel height, universally flattering ankle style, and they just so happen to look exactly like a pair from designer brand, The Row.


Leather Ankle Boots With Zip, £69.99 ($119) | Zara

Leather Ankle Boots With Zip, £69.99 ($119) | Zara

Ready to be worn with everything from midi dresses to jeans and cosy knit, these are the everyday boots to rely on. Currently available in all sizes (UK 3-9/ US 5-11) online, no doubt these much-loved boots will fly off the virtual and IRL shelves at record speed. Be quick, you don't want to miss out on this year's must-have boot. 

Founded by Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, the twins created The Row back in 2006 and everyone—including supermodel Rosie Huntington-Whiteley—is a fan of the minimalist brand.

So much so, people are willing to pay a whopping £1,290 ($1,490) to get their hands on a pair of the now-iconic zip-up stomper boots that have sold out and been restocked more times than we can count.

What we can count, though, is the difference between The Row's staple style and Zara's very similar pair. And it's the equivalent of a month's rent! 

Making an investment purchase is always a wise decision if you know you'll get lots of wear out of the item, and considering these boots do tick all the boxes, many of the most stylish people have made the leap. Including style influencer Francesca Saffari (above) who has worn her The Row boots on repeat with everything from Breton jumpers to jeans and a tee. 

Ready for a game of spot the difference? Fashion stylist Victoria Geneviève (below) has recently worn the Zara iteration with a gorgeous glossy midi dress, and we believe it's tricky to tell the difference from the Instagram shots. 

Proving how incredible this Zara style is, the best part is how versatile they are. Complimenting any outfit—from fancy frocks to staple separates—these go-with-everything chunky boots will update your look instantly.

Harriet Davey

Harriet Davey is a freelance fashion editor, writing and styling for titles including Vogue, Stylist, Grazia, Who What Wear, and woman&home. With over 10 years of experience in the industry, Harriet has a love for shopping but also a newfound interest in trying to be more sustainable. With a love for Scandi brands and an eye for key designer pieces to mix in with high street hero buys, Harriet specialises in shopping stories and buying guides that’ll make you feel excited about updating your wardrobe.