Floral Dress from the Zara Lookbook

Zara, the fashion forward clothing line, opened in Johannesburg, South Africa on 11/11/11. The brand, which features collections for men, women, and children is now available in 80 different countries around the world. 

The store has been opened in the Sandton City Shopping Center and spreads over more than 2700 square meters, making it one of Zara's largest locations. The brand introduces a new type of style and clothing store to South Africa. "Their use of different materials and manufactures brings to the shopper an alternate choice," said Mel Urdang, the director at Liberty Properties, owner of the Sandton City Shopping Center.

Zara has a wide range of clothing items to choose from. It features everything from bright jeans and floral prints to tailored blazers and leather bags.  The store has something for everyone, and with its quick turn around of merchandise, shoppers will always find something new to try on. 

The store launch, which was two days before the public opening, was a huge success.  Guests included prominent fashion bloggers and representatives from ELLE Magazine. 

Since the South African store is not a franchise, prices will be fairly reasonable.  Most likely, the location will be a huge success.  This predication would mean local retailers will face more competition.  But Urdang said this may be a good thing because it will "give local players the extra nudge and push." 

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