Forever21
Forever 21 Enters Beauty & Home Furnishings Market
What: Following the recent launches of a swimwear collection and plus-size line known as Faith 21 earlier this year, Forever 21 has decided to expand some more. The frugally-focused retailer has just announced plans to enter the beauty and home markets, by introducing Forever 21-branded makeup and housewares into its largest stores around the country later this year.
What WWD Says:
“According to a spokeswoman, beauty and home merchandise would be first rolled out to Forever 21’s largest stores, including 15 former Mervyn’s locations, before entering Forever 21’s XXI concept.”
What We Say: It’s one thing to pay $15 for a sweater that falls apart after one wash, but are customers really willing to shell out for bed sheets and comforter covers that may suffer the same fate? Unfortunately, the answer inevitable looks to be yes, since pretty much every bargain-based venture Forever 21 delves into somehow becomes a success. Nonetheless, we have to admit to being slightly excited that the company is finally coming out with its own brand of makeup, since we can’t seem to get enough of super-cheap eyeliners and lip glosses as of late.
Forever 21 Magazine In the Works?
What: It seems there’s no stopping Forever 21. After making plans to make its name in the world of home and beauty products, one of our favorite retailers also hinted at an upcoming magazine (via Twitter).
The Tweet:
“Ok tweeps: let’s say, hypothetically speaking, an F21 magazine is in the works. What content would you want to see in said hypothetical mag?”
What We Say: While most of the fashion biz is sinking, the sky’s the limit for Forever 21. Even though print’s going out of style, we’d totally read an F21 mag, especially if it had exclusive discounts and actually focused on real trends, rather than pushing its own merchandise.
So, whether or not you follow the store on Twitter, chime in here - would you subscribe, and if so, what would you expect to see and read?
Forever 21 Plus Size Line ‘Faith21’ Now Available Online
What: Forever 21’s new plus size line (finally), called Faith 21, is now available online at forever21.com
Why You Should Care: Previously, the pickins’ at the budget fav was slim to none for those who wear a size 12 or higher. Now sistas with a bit more back (and front) can score the same fashionable finds as our slimmer friends. The drawback? The selection is small and the cut is Junior Plus Size, meaning the fit is 1 to 2 sizes smaller than the size you wear at a store like Lane Bryant.
Some of Our Picks
1. Botanical Floral Chiffon Blouse, $19.90
2. Floral Stain Evening Dress, $27.80
3. Lace Trim Top, 17.80
4. Triple Block Knit Dress $22.80
Shop Faith21 online or Find a store near you
Paige Sargisson’s Jewelry, Forever 21 Copyright Saga, Chanel Iman’s Style, Bottega Veneta Spring
Whimsical, vintage looking, textural jewelry designs are Paige Sargisson’s forte - everyone from Jessica Alba, to Cameron Diaz are wearing these! Read more about her delightful designs and get 30% off via For The Love of Beauty.
The Cut has the latest on the Forever 21 copyright saga - their ability to copy designs could be in jeopardy forever. (We’re holding our breath to see how the jury decision will go…)
Bottega Veneta’s delicious woven leather bags are now in fantastic spring colors - tangerine crush, a rich magenta, a popping green and more. Check out Purse Blog’s run down on the purse community’s feedback.
Since Chanel was left out of Vogue’s fresh faces cover, we thought we’d have her grace our front page. Who What Wear breaks down Chanel Iman’s hot style - what would she wear, on a normal girl’s budget?
Forever21 to Launch Plus Size Line
Attention.. Attention…
Forever21 is launching a Plus Size line this May called “Faith 21”. The California based retailer, who probably read this article on wwd about how the plus size market is where the money is at, joins the likes of Anna Wintour in recognizing that those of us who “got back”, also “got cash”.. ..And you know, Forever21 only copies the trendiest of trends, so Plus Size is definitely “in”.
What Do You Think of This Trend?
How to Shop Forever 21
Sure, you love Forever21 as much as the next fashion obsessed, financially stressed woman, but the store can be utterly overwhelming. If you’ve got time to spare, shopping in store at Forever 21 can be a blast- racks, stacks, hooks and shelves filled with new fashions. But, if you’re strapped for time and find yourself puzzled as to how they fit so much into a single space, maybe you should try shopping at Forever21.com.
Here’s some tips for shopping both in-store and online at Forever21:
Know Before You Go. One thing is true of all things Forever 21- quantity reigns high over quality. You can get ten tops for about 100 bucks if you try hard enough- but don’t expect them to last forever. One of the biggest problems with low quality items is finding a good fit. Always, always, try everything on when shopping at Forever 21. When shopping online at Forever21.com, any returns will cost you big time (see the wretched return policy below). Therefore, it is absolutely crucial to know your body and what clothing styles work well for you before making any purchases.
Understand the Brands. Forever 21 has expanded their line of trend-friendly low-cost clothes to include Heritage 1981 and Twelve by Twelve brands. Looking for something a little more casual? Heritage 1981 channels casual wear with a homely retro feel, sort of like a cheap Urban Outfitters. Twelve by Twelve, the higher priced brand available only in select stores and online, is a bit more fashion forward with designs heavily influenced by the runways.
Be Sure to Snoop on Sale Items. It doesn’t hurt to check out the Forever21 sale bins. When shopping online, the sale link in the upper right-hand corner will take you to a large listing of the recently reduced.
Accessorize Your World. One of the best things about Forever 21 is the sparkling accessories section, with scarves, hats, bags, wallets, clutches, belts, jewelry, etc, etc, etc- you can find it all at F21. The store also has a shoe section, think a more fashion forward Payless, with prices around the $25 mark.
A Shout-Out for Outerwear. Though winter is nearly past us (thank goodness), Forever 21 is a great place for on trend outerwear at low prices. Coats, jackets and blazers in every style, pattern and color. While, the coats aren’t really warm and probably won’t last into next season, the low price allows you to get your full cost per wear.
The Return Policy. If there was one “catch” to shopping at Forever 21, this would definitely be it. The return policy. Scratch that. The exchange policy. Forever 21 doesn’t allow in-store returns. Period. Have you ever tried to physically return something at Forever 21? The salespeople are ruthless. Instead, Forever 21 offers exchanges only within 30 days of purchase for most items (emphasis on most). Gift cards, cosmetics and jewelry items are all final sale all the time, in store or online. Which is why we advise shopping online, because you do have the option for a return- but must foot the shipping fee. Otherwise, exchanges for online purchases can be made at any Forever 21 or sister store. The lesson to be learned here? Check, double-check, triple-check your cart before cashing out.
For Style Inspiration, Shop By… Take an e-shopping short-cut with the Forever21.com Shop by Outfit and Shop by Trend options. A great wardrobe starts with an initial inspiration- and there’s no need to spend much moola on fashion mags to find it. Click on either of the Shop By links to find items that fit in with the season’s trends. Pick and choose from the pieces you love- just don’t fall into a trap of needing it all. Forever 21 does a good job with their visual merchandising. Keep an eye on those dressed to impress mannequins for that extra boost in inspiration.
Shop the Daily 21. Click on the Daily 21 Specials tab on the Forever 21 homepage for 20% off 21 different items every day. Just a reminder- the prices at Forever 21 are already pretty cheap, so, 20% won’t seem like a major discount on a $9.98 shirt, but a penny saved is a penny earned, making the Daily 21 worth a peek.
Subscribe to Save. Sign up for the Forever 21 online newsletter to have discounts delivered to your inbox. Click on Subscribe Now for simple set-up and choose to include Forever 21, Heritage1981 and/or Twelve by Twelve.
Guess The Price of These Jeans?
Answer After the Jump
Answer: These dark rinse, skinny jeans are $12.50 at forever21.com. So score a pair of jeans for less than the price of lunch.
Cheap Fall Boots
What: Cheap boots for fall (we’re talking under $35 per pair)
What We Say: Boots are a fall and winter classic, and while the bootie is certainly hot right now, a more traditional boot style will easily take you through this style season and many more to come. You can wear them for both work and play, and they’re also a little warmer than other footwear options, meaning that they’ve got the advantage of both form and function—which, as purveryors of value, we love. In the interest of economic survival, we believe that if your going to spend your money on fashion updates this season it’s especially important to pick and choose things that will give you the most for your money. Oh, and proper care will extend the life of your boots (and all shoes) as well . . .
Our Picks:
Women’s Faux Suede Knee Hi Boots, $34.99, Old Navy
Steve Madden Women’s Olean Boot, on sale $30, Famous Footwear
Midcalf Scrunch Boot, on sale $25, Newport News
Brianna Boot, $32.80, Forever21
Revisiting the Little Black Dress
“THESE PRODUCTS ARE NO LONGER BEING SOLD”
What: The classic Little Black Dress as your budget go-to piece for fall/winter 08.
Why: If you need your fashion dollars to stretch even further than usual right now, it’s time to revisit that old standby, the Little Black Dress (or LBD). If you don’t already have one (and instead give into temptation each season to purchase a new, trendy, here-now-gone-tomorrow dress) we have some advice for you—get one. It may not be the most exciting option, but it is the most versatile, and with the right accessories? It’ll take you from function to function through the holiday season, in great style and without breaking the bank. Fortunately, black is in this season, and you’ll find everything from a simple sheath to some edgier options, as well as pieces that can go from casual to dressy. And as every good budget fashionista knows, value and versatility are the keys to being truly well dressed.
We’ve picked a few options (for under $50 each) that should take you through the season; just add a big clutch, a pair of peep toe pumps, and a statement piece of jewelry (maybe a chunky necklace or a metallic cuff bracelet) and go.
Knee Length Basic Dress, $19.90, Forever21
Isaac Mizrahi for Target Embroidered Lace Dress, $39.99, Target.
Isaac Mizrahi for Target Envelope Back Dress, $49.99, Target.
Mock Neck Ponte Knit Dress, $39, Newport News
Plus size: Cachet Matte Jersey Dress, $49.90, Nordstrom
Women’s Plus Notch-Front Dress, $32.50, Old Navy
Budget Handbags
“SOME PRODUCTS ARE NO LONGER BEING SOLD”
What: Handbags updates for fall that won’t require a federal bailout for your bank account.
What We Say: Right now, the word “budget” has new meaning for many of us, in light of the current state of the economy. That doesn’t stop the fashion world, however, from dangling the season’s new handbag trends (among others) tantilizingly in front of us. A handbag, of course, is something we might normally suggest you could invest a little more in, but if your cash is limited and your wardrobe could use a quick and inexpensive boost, we’re thinking that a very budget version (under 20 bucks) of one of the season’s hot styles is just the thing to a) boost your mood, b) boost your style quotient, and c) keep you solvent for another week or two.
The Clutch
For at least a couple of seasons now, the clutch has been the handbag to have. This fall is no different, and texture and color are key. We like:
City Style Snake Clutch, in 6 colors, $16.95, New York & Company
Alexis Reptile Clutch, $18.80, Forever 21
Filond Croc Print Clutch, on sale $9.98, Aldo
Mossimo Embossed Clutch, purple, $16.99, Target
The Satchel
Satchels are kind of a happy medium between a traditional structured shoulder bag and the big roomy hobos we see everywhere. Color and shine keep the look modern, and chain detail is big for fall as well. We like:
Xhilaration Ombre Satchel, $16.99, Target
Limited Edition Satchel, on sale $19.99, Target
Belted Satchel, $19.99, Charlotte Russe
The Postal/Messenger/Crossbody Bag
Need a bag that’s both form and function? You’ll find the postal/messenger/crossbody bag (yes, it’s a broad category) to be stylish and useful, and modern, as long as you keep the color-texture-shine mantra in mind. We like:
City Style Crinkle Messenger, on sale $14.97, New York & Company
Xhilaration Crossbody Bag, $12.99, Target
City Style Crossover Logo, on sale $13.97, New York & Company
Women’s Fall Coat Trends
Fall is the time to set aside that bathing suit (which many of us are not that sorry to see go) and start thinking about outerwear to fend of the impending chill. If last year’s coat needs to be retired, or if you just need something new to help you face all that cold weather ahead, there are plenty of budget options you can pick up now. Some of our fave outerwear trends for the season, and where to get them for less:
The Peacoat: We love the peacoat because it’s a classic that will last and last. Go for traditional navy, camel or black for a timeless version, or update with a hot color like red or a short cut to make it current.
Women’s Short Peacoat, $69.50, Old Navy
Hydraulic Peacoat with Epaulets, on sale $93.75, Macy’s
Merona Swing Peacoat in Plaid, $49.99, Target
The Swing Coat: The swing coat has been coming on strong for the last year or so as a jacket and outerwear option, and we like how flattering the silouette is to just about everyone. Just be sure to keep the bottom half lean when you wear it, lest you look like a large bell rather than the super chic woman you really are.
Women’s Pique Wool Blend Coat, $89, Old Navy
Wool Swing Coat, $109, Newport News
The Leather Jacket: The leather jacket is another classic, but the most modern way to wear it is in a short, close fitting cut or in a sleek belted trench (no bulky shapeless overcoats this year, please).
a.n.a Faux Leather 4-Pocket Scuba Jacket, on sale $89.99, JC Penney
Leather Trench Coat, on sale $80, Newport News
The Trench Coat: The trench is another classic we’re always talking about here at TBF—we love how it’s updated right now with color and modern details, like the berry trench and banded bottom versions here, which are great for dressier occasions.
Mossimo Black Satin Trench, $39.99, Target
Fashion Trend: Houndstooth Print
Though traditional plaid has been heralded as the pattern for fall, we’re seeing more and more houndstooth and quite frankly, we’re feeling more warm and fuzzy about that trend—there’s something both modern and classic about it, which is an ideal combination for those of us over, say, 21 who would like to participate. Our advice? Pick one piece and keep the rest of the outfit clean and neutral—houndstooth is bold enough to be the sole focal point. Also, if you’re petite, a houndstooth dress might be more than you can pull off—consider a pencil skirt, or a houndstooth accessory, like a handbag or scarf, to keep from being overwhelmed.
Love it? Our picks for getting on the houndstooth bandwagon, for less:
Digital Houndstooth Chiffon Top, $17.80, Forever 21 (we like this choice if you’re looking for a very unstuffy, modern take on houndstooth . . . pair it with a black pencil skirt and pumps)
Houndstooth Belted Dress, $25.50, Wet Seal (you don’t need to add much when wearing this much houndstooth—black flats and a black bag might just be enough—and maybe a fat colored bangle or two to mix it up)
Cropped Houndstooth Jacket, $49, Newport News (this is a great option if you want a versatile piece to pump up your basics—wear with a jewel-toned top and black trousers)
Capsleeve Houndstooth Top, $39, Banana Republic (super cute and super modern with trousers, a skirt, or even denim)
Houndstooth Cadet Hat and Wrap, $9.99, Payless (this is a great deal for two houndstooth pieces—but we’re thinking wearing them separately will give you the most bang for your buck).
Alice+Olivia for Payless Morton Mary Jane Wedge, $38, Payless (these probably won’t hold up style-wise through more than a season or two, but they’d be totally fun to wear in the meantime)
Fall Fashion Trend: Feather Accessories
“SOME PRODUCTS ARE NO LONGER BEING SOLD”
We’ve already commented on the proliferation of fringe, and now for a related embellishment—feathers. We could employ all kinds of bird and feather puns, but we’ll reserve them for another day; instead, we’ll just say that we like the bohemian edge that the feathered look gives us, and it’s very budget friendly as well—there’s no need to wear more accessories when we’ve got feather earrings on. Some of these are soft looks, and some are more edgy (like the Asos pendant necklace)—meaning there’s something for everyone:
Feather & Chain Earrings, Forever 21, $4.80.
Charming Feather Cluster Necklace, Urban Outfitters, $18.00.
Feather Dangle earrings, claires.com, $8.50.
ASOS Large Feather Pendant Necklace, $18.60.
ASOS Large Enamel Feather Brooch, $14.88.
New York City Fashion Week Spring 2009: Jordache
What: Jordache Runway Show, Metropolitan Pavilion, New York City Fashion Week, Spring 2009
The Lowdown: Color and frivolity were the keys to this collection, and the crowd was loving it. While Jordache has lost some of its popularity over the decades, they honored their legacy by clothing each model in a pair of their iconic-label jeans. Washes ranged from very dark to old-school blue to bleach white, and they were all skinny and tight. The high-waisted jean was just one aspect of the retro mood of the collection. Tie-dye, metallic body suits, short shorts, jumpers and a model who flashed the Peace sign all evoked the mood of the seventies. Jordache’s emblem, the horse, was emblazoned in Swarovski crystals across several off-the-shoulder shirts which were paired with the skinny jean of 2008. The hot pink, purple, silver, gold, cyan, and fuchsia colors put the crowd in a flower power mood. We weren’t in love with the back pocket embellishments nor the tiny metallic body suits, but this collection pleased us greatly. Unlike many other shows this week, accessories were plentiful—long, silver chain necklaces, pocket chains and a few cuff bracelets accented the clothing.
Budget Solution: Our favorite budget store when we want to look bohemian and laidback? Urban Outfitters. This loose-fitting fuchsia racerback tank would look at home in the seventies, while this high-waisted jean hearkens back to an era when low-rise denim did not exist. If you’d like to pump up your outfit with just a bit of tie-dye, consider this tie-dye scarf from Charlotte Russe. The jumpers in the collection were a bit iffy, but never say never—here’s one from Forever 21 that fits our budgets nicely.
Image courtesy of our friend’s personal photographs
New York City Fashion Week Spring 2009: Cynthia Steffe
What: Cynthia Steffe Runway Show, Salon, New York City Fashion Week Spring 09
The Lowdown: Pure white, pure clear colors (red, blue, green), and just enough balance of Spring’s favorite new neutral—black—made the Cynthia Steffe show a favorite of ours, even if some of the elements are things we’ve seen repeatedly over the last couple of days. The pocketed skirts, for example, and the cinched waists, and the bustier detailing, and the filmy ruffles. Which might seem redundant at this point if we didn’t pretty much love them all. So other than color choice, what stood out on the Cynthia Steffe runway? Lots and lots of flirty chic florals (red and white, in particular, and blue and white, for clean grown-up versions). The accessories, when there were any, were curious, however—dramatic yes, but we’re thinking that black sequined visors and black fingerless gloves probably won’t make it into most women’s spring rotation this time around . . .
Budget Solution: First, if you picked up a red and white floral dress this summer (as there were a few cute budget versions around, like this dress at Forever21 for just $24.80) keep it handy—it’ll be spot on for Spring 09. Likewise, those black patent belts from last fall and this fall will be put to good use, on said floral dresses in particular. Look now at Target for versions ranging from skinny to wide —all will work beautifully.
image courtesy of Coutorture.com
New York City Fashion Week Spring 09: DKNY
What: DKNY Runway Show, Tent at Bryant Park, New York City Fashion Week Spring 09
The Lowdown: For Spring, DKNY is giving us easy shapes and a typically urban vibe painted with bold pinks, lime greens, and clear blues against backdrops of taupe, navy blue and, yes, black—with a little denim thrown in for good measure. Strong structure up top and lots of leg found their way to the runway, accented with more thin horizontal stripes (like we saw with Charlotte Ronson) and necklines were highlighted with thin fringed scarves and long swingy chains. The details? Drawstrings (some on anorak style jackets) and big bows (used sparingly and on just the right scale), adding to the 80s-but-updated feel of the collection on the whole . . .
Budget Solutions: The focus on black will make it easy to transition into these trends from winter, meaning from a budget standpoint (assuming you have a black jacket or, say, a short black skirt) you’ll really just need to worry about adding the pops of neon color and stripes if you want to stay on the urban DKNY trend . . . and Forever21 will probably be the place to do that. Hit up Claire’s for some long chain necklaces now, as well and for the scarves? Keep Urban Outfitters in mind as the season draws near. . .
image courtesy of Coutorture.com
New York City Fashion Week Spring 09: Rosa Cha
What: Rosa Cha, The Tent at Bryant Park, New York City Fashion Week Spring 09
The Lowdown: Rosa Cha wants us to look hot hot hot on the beach next summer, unveiling a glam swimsuit line sure to be a hit with fashionistas on every shore. The color palate was simple (red, white, green, brown – oh so Brazil), but the shapes screamed for attention. Bright and bold details like Swarovski crystallized necklines, monster sized gold earrings, and cutouts front and back upped the heat factor. Sheer cover-ups trailing to the floor provided some options for those not willing to let it all hang out.
Budget Solutions: Prints were nearly nonexistent in this collection, meaning we don’t have to suffer waiting for imitations from our fave budget retailers. Instead we can work with trusty solids, giving us a beautiful blank canvas to fool around with daring accessories. Stock up on big gold bangles and earrings from your local Forever 21, add a loose long-sleeved top for some lightweight coverage, and get ready to show those beach bums how its done.
image courtesy of Coutorture.com
What to Buy Fall 2008: Forever 21
Ah, Forever 21. High quality? Not so much. On trend and super affordable? Definitely. Which is why we wouldn’t suggest you purchase your entire wardrobe there, but when it comes to fun trendy pieces that you don’t want to invest your life savings in just to have them go out of style next week? Perfect. Here’s what we’ve got our eye on at Forever 21 for fall:
Fashion Trend Alert: Checkers
Checkers and gingham have been updated with bright colors and modern cuts—meaning they’re no longer relegated to the farm. The trends been spotted on Reese Witherspoon, Ashlee Simpson and Lauren Conrad, and we have to say, they all look pretty cute and comfortable in their loose, button-down shirts and jeans. The bright color trend of the summer, of course, is translated to the checker trend, but you can go with the classic black and white if you want to keep it traditional. You can wear the checkered shirt with jeans like Reese, or other bottoms like skirts, twill pants, and even khakis. Checkers don’t have to be relegated to tops though—we like it on dresses, purses, socks, and more. Just make sure to limit your checkers to one piece, or you’ll look like the tiled floor of a 1950’s diner.
Rock Steady Checker Picnic Halter Top dress, via styledetox.com, $49.99. This pink and white dress is a blast from the past, complete with a full skirt and a smart collar.
GAP sleeveless checkered ruffle top,, $34.99. The pattern on this shirt is more subtle, since the ruffles already add a sweet embellishment.
GAP checkered popover dress, $58.00. We’d throw this on every day if it wasn’t a fashion faux pas—we can pair it with all sorts of accessories!
The checkered racerback tank from Forever 21 ($9.80) channels the rockstar vibe that checkers can sometimes give.
We’ve written about the popularity of scarves already—“check” this one out from Urban Outfitters, $24.00. It’s in the men’s section, but who will know? Wrap it around your neck, your head, or loop it through your purse.
This checkered canvas tote comes in pink, green, or black. If you’re a fashionista who takes baby steps into a trend, check out this bag, since the pattern isn’t as intense. $38.95.
Fashion Trend: Open Front Cardigans
“THESE PRODUCTS ARE NO LONGER BEING SOLD”
What: Drapey, open front cardigans as an alternative to the jacket or traditional cardigan
What We Say: Because it’s feminine and interesting, we like it—however, we have some reservations. 1. Too much draping could add a whole lot of bulk where you don’t want it. 2. All that extra fabric in front could get in the way if you are, say, doing anything other than posing for a catalogue photo shoot. We wouldn’t recommend cooking in it . . . 3. It will probably look dated in about two months. Okay, having said all that—we still like it, we’re just not going to invest a lot of cash into the trend. And we don’t want you to either, so we’ve tracked down a few very budget options, so you can have fun with the look, layering it over the standby basics you’ve already got in your closet, with no regrets.
Linette Open Front Cardigan, $19.80, Forever21
Women’s Drape Front Cardigan, $19.50, Old Navy.
Isaac Mizrahi for Target Drape Front Merino Cardigan, $39.99, Target.
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