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When you’re a babe on a budget trying to build a killer wardrobe, resorting to fast fashion stores like Forever 21 becomes entirely necessary. It’s an easy way to wear the same trends we’ve seen on the runways for less. The only problem? As they say, you get what you pay for – and sometimes, it can be hard to make the $20 dress look on par with the $200 one. But fear not – use these tips and tricks when shopping at and wearing Forever 21 and nobody will be able to spot the difference.
1. Befriend your tailor
Even the cheapest of dresses from Forever 21 can look hundreds of dollars more expensive simply by taking them to the tailor. Oftentimes, the reason Forever 21 ends up actually looking like Forever 21 is simply because a piece is ill-fitting. Having a piece tailored to your unique shape will work wonders.
2. Pair with expensive accessories
When you wear expensive accessories, like a really killer bag or shoe with F21 finds, it automatically upgrades the look. Plus, it’s much more economical to buy a pair of shoes or a bag that you can wear several days of the week, paired with cheaper clothing that you’ll only wear once every week or two weeks.
3. Buy it in black
Not only is black insanely flattering, but the color somehow always manages to make anything and everything look more luxe. If you’re at Forever 21 and have the choice between another color and black, always choose the latter.
4. Swap out buttons
Sometimes, it’s the little details that matter most, and a Forever 21 blazer can instantly look more expensive if you simply swap the buttons. Check fabric stores or online for higher quality buttons than the plastic ones that come on F21 pieces. No need to sew them yourself – most dry cleaners will do it for cheap.
5. Be on the lookout for ‘Love 21’
Forever 21’s contemporary section, called Love 21, is aimed at an older age group than the rest of the store’s clothes, and the pieces usually end up looking a little more upscale. Most Forever 21 sections have specific Love 21 sections, but you can also shop the collection online.
6. Invest in a steamer
The easiest fix for any Forever 21, or fast fashion piece in general, is to steam it. Weird wrinkles and bulges in fabric are what make Forever 21 look cheap in the first place – you’d be surprised what a difference 30 seconds with a steamer can make.
7. Avoid faux suede
When hitting up F21 just say neaux (ha, see what we did there) to faux suede. While textiles like leather or wool are easy to fake, it’s pretty impossible to recreate suede (in a way that doesn’t look cheap) at a Forever 21-friendly price. Invest in the real thing, or a better replica from a slightly pricier brand. You’ll be glad you did – trust us.
For more style tips and tricks, check out: How To Wear Cheap Earrings Without Irritating Your Ear Holes and This Is The Most Flattering Bikini Bottom
[Photo: Shutterstock]
