30 Inexpensive Things From Forever 21 That’ll Make Your Outfits Look Impressively Upscale

1.

A plunging maxi dress with cutout sides that looks way more expensive than it actually is. The smocked waist makes sure it’ll fit you like a proverbial glove, while the flowy skirt is perfect for twirling.

2.

A vintage-style pendant necklace so you can get some antique appeal without needing to drop antique bucks. This gold-tone oval portrait pendant hangs off of a fancy-schmancy string of faux pearls for a quick yet classic accessory upgrade.

3.

A midi skirt with a mesh overlay dotted with faux gems, because who wouldn’t want to dance the night away in a skirt that looks like a starry sky? The midi skirt beneath the mesh is comfy knit, while the floaty overlay and bits of sparkle give the piece some truly heart-stopping pizzazz.

4.

Some tie-strap cargo pants that are unexpectedly glamorous and they bring a little utilitarian chic to whatever you pair them with. Plus, with a self-tie belt and ankle straps – and, of course, those all-important cargo pockets – you can be sure that wardrobe malfunctions and lost items alike will be things of the past.

5.

A trumpet-sleeve top so cute, you’ll want to base your entire spring wardrobe around it. The clean lines of the square-cut neckline and back contrast beautifully with the gentle ruffles at the wrists, elbows, and hem – and with that adorable smocked bodice, this whole piece is just screaming, “WEAR ME TO A PICNIC!”

6.

A structured, faux leather satchel, because nothing telegraphs swanky smartness like a neat place to keep all your stuff. This one closes with a zipper at the top, ensuring your belongings stay exactly where you put them – and it’s versatile, to boot: You can carry it as a handbag using its top handles, or wear it as a cross-body thanks to the chain shoulder strap – whichever you prefer.

7.

A longline, floral top that’ll literally float through the spring and summer with you. The ruffles at the neckline give it so much visual interest; it also has a tie closure in the front, so you can wear it either open or closed, depending on your mood.

8.

A red polka-dotted mini dress perfect for breezy spring temperatures. The sleeves are delightfully airy, while the ruffle detailing at the surplice neckline, the wrists of the trumpet sleeves, and the hem seem as if they’ll just float away. Oh, but don’t forget the plunging V-neck at the back – it adds a little ~scandal~ to this otherwise sweet confection of a dress.

9.

An eye-catching pair of rhinestone duster earrings, so you can make a statement, even if you keep the rest of your ~lewk~ understated. These sparkly earrings feature a rhinestone-studded, silver-toned box chain that’s been twisted into a neat little knot – and if you’re not wild about the way lots of chain earrings thread through your holes, these ones fasten with a simple post-back closure instead.

10.

A plaid, open-front cape that’ll help you make the transition between winter and spring weather. The black-and-tan pattern has major OG Samantha-Parkington-from-American-Girl vibes, while the buckle at the neck and the arm slashes in the front keep everything in place. Bonus: There are even pockets.

11.

A floral crop top with ruffle detailing, because nothing helps zhuzh up your look like a little bit of frill. Also, whoever says cold shoulder styles have gone the way of the dinosaur is lying, because they work beautifully on this pick.

12.

A glitzy faux pearl bobby pin set so you can dress up your locks without needing to do a ton of work. This trio isn’t made up of normal bobby pins; they’re ~fancy~, with clusters of pearls and two little butterfly charms. Just slip one into your hair and you’re good to go!

13.

A black romper with a big, allover red-and-pink floral print that’s legit the perfect one-and-done outfit. This short-sleeved number has a self-tie waist (no additional belt required!) and a surplice neckline. With its easy drape, it all comes together into a supremely put-together outfit with minimal fuss. Also: Pockets! Pockets for days!

14.

A shiny satin flounce cami that adds a touch of glam to any ensemble. With a simple bow at the point of its V-shaped neckline, it’s got just enough going on to take it from “eh” to “stunning!” without going too far – and the adjustable straps make it easy-peasy to wear, too.

15.

A faux leather mini skirt with ruffle trim, because ruffles are clearly ~in~ right now, and the leather look never goes out of style. The wraparound design keeps this pick streamlined: No excessive frills here; just pure cool factor.

16.

A variety set of faux gem earrings so you can add a bit of sparkle to any look you want. With a mix of rhinestone and pearl options in gold-tone settings, there’s a little something here for every fancy occasion (even if these days, “fancy” is drinking wine out of your nicest wine glass while sitting on your couch instead of out of a coffee mug). Nine pairs are included, most of which are either small or straight-up studs, in case you like your luxury in small doses.

17.

A simple-yet-elegant puff sleeve crop top that’ll take you into summer and beyond with ease. When temperatures soar, there’s nothing better than a little venting to keep you cool – and the vented back with self-tie closures in this gracefully understated piece get the job done with aplomb.

18.

A pair of striped twill shorts with major coastal vibes. The waist is both elasticized and drawstring, so you know they’re going to be comfortable – but thanks to the cuffed hem, they still look neat and put together, in that casual yet fancy, “I just had champagne on a boat” sort of way. (Yes, even if any champagne you’re drinking these days is enjoyed from the comfort of your own home).

19.

A sophisticated crop top and pants set, because being comfortable and being glamorous do not have to be mutually exclusive. This two-piece set is knit, but has a shiny, satin-like finish; also, the three-quarter sleeves are dolman-style (that is, *the best* style), and the wide-leg pants have a flowing overlay that ties at the front, making this seemingly simple set anything but boring.

20.

An off-the-shoulder sweater with ribbed trim so you can be ready for the unpredictable weather that sometimes plagues the springtime (and also because the off-season is a great time to stock up on staples for next year). This simple, yet snazzy pick features a fold-over neckline that reviewers swear pretty much defies gravity.

21.

A basket-woven, hexagon-shaped cross-body bag that’ll add some rustic, yet refined charm to any outfit. The structured body, high-shine push-lock closure, and chain shoulder strap help this cute little bag look polished, while the basket material itself gives it a little pastoral appeal.

22.

A wide-leg, floral print cami jumpsuit you can do way more than just jump around in (get it?). The floral print here is small and dainty, rather than huge and abstract – perfect for a piece with flowy, gauzy legs that look like they’ve come here straight from the ’70s to up your retro game.

23.

A faux leather moto jacket, because you deserve to look as badass as you actually are. With all the hallmarks of a classic moto piece – the silhouette, the notched collar, the asymmetrical zip closure – the look basically speaks for itself.

24.

A rose-gold-and-marble-look iPhone case that turns your favorite piece of tech into an accessory all on its own. Sized for iPhone models 6, 6s, 7, and 8, this sleek case features a contrasting chevron design that’s as Instagram-worthy as the rest of your look.

25.

Some fluttery, split-leg pants, so you can be fancy and cool at the same time – and by “cool,” I mean temperature (although it also certainly works in the “hip and on-trend” sense, too). The high slits and breezy draping will look fab on your legs while also allowing for plenty of airflow to help you avoid feeling too hot during the warmer seasons.

26.

A white, floral print flounce cami with a cute little keyhole at the neck that’s just too adorable. The delicate, pink-and-yellow print adds a splash of color, and thanks to the smocked waist and flounce hem, this wardrobe essential is anything but basic.

27.

A delicate faux pearl chain necklace, because adding some shine to your ensemble can really pull the whole look together. The lobster clasp for this one also makes it easy-on, easy-off.

28.

A show-stopping, sleeveless, pleated chiffon top with a high neck and swing fit that’ll be the life of any party – even a party where you are sitting on the couch in front of your computer, Zooming with all of your friends who are also sitting on their couches in front of their own computers. It’s a bit sheer, so some reviewers recommend wearing a cami underneath if that’s not your jam – or just rock it as is. Your call!

29.

Some pleated palazzo pants, because a) palazzo pants are finally back in style after many years in exile, and b) that is an *excellent* thing, indeed. The high-rise waist gives these floaty trousers a bit of structure –and although the phrase “lettuce-edge trim” may not sound super appealing, it looks gorgeous, giving the legs a delicate, slightly flounced look without going full-on ruffles.

30.

And a faux straw buckled fedora you’ll want to wear all the time, because nothing finishes off a look like a good topper. This one is perfect for summer, offering a bit of shade and a lightweight, floppy design. The buckle at the back of the faux leather band is just ~chef’s kiss~.