I applied in-person. The process took 4 days. I interviewed at Zara (New York, NY) in Nov 2014
Interview
Hiring process was fairly easy and fast. Handed in my application, got called for an interview the next day. Me and a couple of other potential candidates got interviewed by the general manager of the store, which didn't last more then 45 minutes.
I did mine at the corporate office. First interview - Fill out app, and interview. Then, wait 24-72 hours for email for final interview. Second interview - Quick 1-3 min interview with HR. If you were asked to stay, you got the job. Brief overview of the company and expectations. Then, you fill out paperwork.
Applied in store. Handed the application to the department manager right there along with resume. Got asked right as I handing in the application, "Why do you want to work for Zara?". Went home, got a call to schedule an interview for two days later. Went in for an interview (along with another candidate) with the Assistant Manager. Three questions were asked. The whole interview last less than 15 minutes and were told that we'll receive a call in a couple days. No call received.
In my opinion, that was not enough time to get to know the candidates. Sometimes, it's not the interviewee, but it just a bad interviewer.