Dressed Up With Forever 21

I used to be the biggest Forever 21 fan. There was something so exciting about walking into their overcrowded store—clothing randomly strewn about, aisles of trends to get lost in. Shopping there was always an overwhelming experience and yet it truly shaped my teenage shopping addiction.

In all honesty, it’s been ages since I’ve shopped there. But, after a quick scour of their website I realized that they’ve stepped up their game significantly. Needless to say, I found myself placing a huge order full of denim, basics, and a few dressier pieces to see if they still lived up to their hype. I have to admit, I was pleasantly surprised by many of their pieces and am styling a few of the “dressier” items for you today!

The Classic Turtleneck 

I’ve got every color and silhouette under the sun, and yet I’m still always on the hunt for a good turtleneck sweater. They are truly my comfort piece and I find myself reaching for one regardless of the occasion. This cute Forever 21 sweater caught my eye almost instantly—it comes in nine colors and is under $20. I mean come on; it doesn’t get much better than that!

Plus, the cut of this sweater is so professional. It hits just above the waistline, front tucking beautifully into a pair of jeans. The neckline is just the right amount of chunky and it’s got sleeves that balloon out just a tad for an unexpected flare. I could not love the fit of this more—it’s the perfect sweater for business casual attire.

Of course, I’m keeping things pretty basic and slipping into a pair of black skinny jeans. These have a raw hem that pairs perfectly with a pair of chunky heeled booties. I reach for this Chinese Laundry pair like crazy. Not only are they super comfortable but they are the perfect in-between of casual and dressy. I’m popping on my every day gold jewelry to complete the look!

Outfit Details— sweater: Forever 21, jeans: Express, boots: Chinese Laundry, belt: SheIn, earrings: SheIn, rings: Ana Luisa, watch: Fossil

The Leather Mini 

Agh, I’ve never met a pleather piece I didn’t like! Whether it be a pair of leggings, a jacket, or a paper bag skirt I truly cannot get enough of this material. It’s just the right mix of classy and sassy, leaving you best dressed in and out of the office. I grabbed this mini skirt in the nude and it’s the perfect neutral for the winter. I decided to keep my legs bare and slip into sock booties but tights work too for a little extra coverage.

This black turtleneck bodysuit is the glue to my winter wardrobe. Not a week goes by that you don’t see me styling this baby—seriously! It’s so easy to dress up and down and is essential for layering. If you’re headed into the office, throw over a blazer to elevate the look and leave you feeling as polished as ever.

Outfit Details— turtleneck: SheIn, skirt: Forever 21, boots: Pretty Little Thing, earrings: SheIn, necklace: The Silver Heron, rings: Ana Luisa, bracelets: Ana Luisa

The Little Black Swing Dress

Regardless of where I’m headed, if I’m stuck on an outfit I always go back to my ole faithful. You truly can never go wrong with a little black dress. I have a gazillion in my closet and yet am always looking to add more. Which is why when I saw this babydoll dress I had to grab it. The billowy peasant sleeves help give this shapeless dress some life. It’s also got a cute tie along the back to spice things up.

Screw ~function~; I wear tights because they make me feel like the powerful, independent woman I am. Although I will admit, the added warmth is definitely appreciated throughout these cold Ohio days. To keep this look winter approved yet still fancy, I’m slipping into my all-time favorite boots.

These two-toned shoes from SheIn are my absolute favorite right now. The mix of nude and black makes these incredibly versatile, not to mention the two-inch heel is super sleek and easy to walk in. I popped on a nude crossbody to fit all the essentials and tie the look together. This outfit is too cute to wait for “the right time” to wear—I’m slipping this on tomorrow just for the heck of it, lol.

Outfit Details— dress: Forever 21, tights: SheIn, boots: SheIn, purse: SheIn, earrings: SheIn, necklace: The Silver Heron, rings: Ana Luisa, bracelets: Ana Luisa

Like what you see? Read all about my casual winter wardrobe essentials here for more Forever 21 pieces + style inspiration! It looks like my Forever 21 days are back and better than ever—I have no doubt I’ll be placing another order soon. Do you still shop there?! If so, let me know what your favorite pieces are so I can sang a few for my next haul. I always love hearing your recommendations. Anywho, happy weekend!

With love, McKenz

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