My friends know me as a huge saver, so when the holiday season comes around, I'm always hesitant to buy new fashion items that I'll only wear to a handful of events. But I'm also a fashion girl, so it's against my nature to show up to a party in an outfit that's anything short of stylish. Luckily, I won't have to compromise this year thanks to Forever 21's selection of affordable and festive party attire. Sheer red dresses, fun metallic sets, and rhinestone-bedazzled tops are just some of the pieces I'm eyeing, and the best part is they're all under $50. (Yes, you read that right.) Take a look at the 16 holiday party finds that my bank account is thanking me for.

If someone asked me to describe my 2000s self with one thing, it would, without question, be Juicy Couture. I'd spend all my hard-earned allowance on discounted T-shirts and socks, and for the holidays or my birthday, I’d ask for anything from its tracksuits to its charm bracelets. The brand was so iconic that people worldwide, including Koleen Diaz (whose looks I stalk daily on social media), wanted to get their hands on the instantly recognizable pieces while growing up in the Philippines and Canada. "I never had the chance to wear an original tracksuit,” Diaz tells me. "I always saw them in movies and would try to imitate the style because I was so obsessed.”

Now, Diaz can enjoy the real thing since the label has made an epic comeback

by way of Forever 21. The super-cute collab is also available in plus sizes, juniors, and kids, so there's something for everyone. Plus, it’s more accessible than ever thanks to interest-free payments with Afterpay, so she’s taking full advantage and showing us how she’s planning to wear the popular 2000s brand with a cool 2021 twist. Let me preface her photos with this: The looks are seriously enviable.

Diaz, who says her personal style can't be put in one box, does admit that she'll always turn to color. "Whether it's color blocking or just having a simple pop, there will always be something," she says. So I can see why this matching tee and track pants combo was a no-brainer for her. "I love the baby blue—it makes me feel like I'm genuinely back in Y2K."

Paired with sneakers and some oversize sunnies to add to the nostalgic feel, Diaz is declaring this an outfit made for anything. "I could wear this if I needed to run some errands but still look cute and chic at the same time," she explains. And at the end of the day, that's all we can really hope for.

While everyone needs a staple outfit for running errands, with summer just around the corner, this shorts set has me eager for warm-weather activities. "I'm already planning to wear this outfit on a picnic with my friends," says Diaz. "You can never go wrong with terry cloth. It’s comfortable and soft and gives off early 2000s vibes." She's right—the fabric, ankle socks, bamboo earrings, and chunky sneakers make me feel like I'm right back at my best friend's house watching MTV and gossiping about celebs.

SHOP MORE JUICY COUTURE PIECES:

Don't forget: Forever 21 now takes Afterpay online and in-stores, so you can pay for all your cute new Juicy Couture pieces in four easy installments with zero interest.

There are few things I get more excited about than receiving an email with the subject line "Your order has shipped." Those four little words spark so much joy inside me. (That's normal, right?) What sparks even more joy, though, is when the order in question is full of affordable fashion items. Like many, I've been particularly conscious of the money allocated toward my wardrobe.

With keeping to a budget for spring shopping top of mind, I found myself scrolling every last page of Forever 21's website, knowing I'd find tons of affordable fashion items. It was tough, but I finally narrowed my list down to 30 chic spring pieces, including cardigans, accessories, denim, and more, all for under $30. Yes, $30—that was not a typo. (Plus, you can pay for your new favorites in four easy installments, without interest, using Afterpay.) Don't just take my word for it. See all of my great finds below.

Psst: Don't forget you can pay for everything you saw here in four easy installments (with absolutely no interest!) using Afterpay.

Whether you're looking at style pics of a celeb, influencer, or editor, there's one thing they'll always have in common: Their denim game will be on point. A true fashion-girl uniform isn't complete without a cute pair of jeans, IMO, so I'm always hunting for new pairs to add to my rotation. And most recently, I found that Forever 21 has some really good options (at really good prices). Skinny, straight-leg, baggy jeans, you name it, and they're all there and under $35. Want to see my favorites, plus the essential pieces I'm pairing them with? Keep scrolling.

Shop denim: 

Shop pieces to pair with denim:

Psst: You can pay for your new favorite jeans in four easy installments (with no interest!) using Afterpay.

I remember DMing a fitness guru a few years ago to get the details of her sports bra. When she told me she got it from Forever 21—for $13 no less—I actually couldn't believe it. Since then, my drawers have become full of its activewear from bras and leggings to tanks. I'm always checking the site for new things to add to my rotation (especially since I know it takes Afterpay). And let me tell you: This batch of new arrivals is insanely good, so I couldn't help but share. Keep scrolling for the items in my cart that will not only get you moving in the new year but will also have you looking cute while doing it.

Sports Bras

Leggings

Shorts

Jackets and Sweatshirts

Psst: Forever 21 now takes Afterpay, so you can pay for all your cute new activewear in four easy installments with zero interest. 

Since I like to buy clothes often (okay, that's probably the understatement of the year), I've had to dig deep for places where I can buy pieces that won't make me go totally broke. While I've found some good contenders, nothing has done it for me lately like Forever 21. It has all the on-trend, stylish pieces a fashion editor like myself could wish for—faux-leather puffers, second-skin tops, mock-croc bags, you name it. And the prices are unbeatable, so I never feel too bad when I add three, or even four, extra items to my cart from time to time. Want to see for yourself? Keep scrolling for the current gems I've found, each less than $46.

Clothing

Shoes & Handbags

There are times when I look at products online and think to myself, There's just no way they have the price right. In fact, that exact thought runs through my head every time I visit Forever 21's site. Like, come on—faux-shearling jackets for $18 and knit cardigans under $30? You just don't find deals like this very often. But I'm telling you, the site is a never-ending gold mine for it all. And if you don't believe me, I'm just going to leave you with the following 16 products…

Outerwear

Tops

Bottoms

Dresses

I don't want to jinx it, but it's been cloudy in Los Angeles for five consecutive days, which means it officially feels like fall outside. While I may not be completely ready to ditch all my short sleeves just yet, I'm so here for the cozy-chic outfits I've been wearing the last few days. My favorite sweater at the moment has to be my new super-soft number from Forever 21—the site is actually full of tons of comfy options right now. Want to see what I mean? Keep scrolling for cardigans, sweatshirts, fleece jackets, and more that you'll want to bundle up in this season.

Sweaters:

Jackets and Sweatshirts:

Honestly, I don't even want to talk about how much money I've been spending lately. For some naive reason, I thought I'd be saving my funds while staying at home, but that certainly has not been the case. Postmating food, ordering décor for my apartment, and renting movie after movie has not put my bank account in the best position.

So it probably comes as no surprise that I’ve been trying to take it easy with my shopping budget, hitting up places like Forever 21, where I know I won’t have to spend an entire paycheck for a few solid basics. I’m telling you, I’ve stocked my cart with everything from denim and cardigans to booties, all with under-$35 price tags. Keep scrolling to see for yourself.

It's rare to find stylish looks that don't break the bank these days. Why is it that any time I add more than two items to my cart, the total starts looking more like a phone number than an actual price?

That’s why I love shopping at Forever 21: The prices are so reasonable, I can put together a whole outfit without my credit card giving me a dirty look. To show you what I mean, I put together five looks that each cost less than half of a haircut in Los Angeles. (I know, it hurts.) Keep scrolling to find your next 'fit for fall.

Minidress + Booties

Biker Shorts + Sweatshirt + Baseball Hat

Wide-Leg Jeans + Ribbed Cardi

Sweater + Mom Jeans

Cardigan Set + Skinny Jeans

Up next: 4 Easy Outfit Combos I Have on Repeat This Season.

Since this has been a pretty low-key summer, I've been all about outfits I can easily throw on whenever I do go out. Prior to stay-at-home orders, I used to be into getting super dressed up, but now I'm always on the hunt for looks that don't require too much thought. Lately, it's a rotation of denim with a cute top and pair of sandals. And the one place I'm always looking to provide me with the cutest pieces to add into the mix? Forever 21. You can't beat the retailer's affordable pricing and on-trend items. Keep scrolling to shop the outfits I currently have on repeat.

Outfit 1: 

Outfit 2: 

Outfit 3: 

Outfit 4: 

Up next: I'm Currently Stocking Up on These 18 Under-$40 Summer Basics

I'll be honest: I'm not putting as much effort into my outfits these days. (Let's be real, I don't actually go anywhere besides the grocery store.) Occasionally, I'll throw on something a little different just to spice things up, but I mostly stick to the basic pieces that I feel best wearing: white tees, summery tanks, breezy dresses, and swimsuits. (What? Bedroom bikinis are trending on Instagram…) Since all these pieces have been on constant rotation during stay-at-home orders, I'm stocking up on them at my favorite affordable site, Forever 21. Here's what has caught my eye…

Breezy Dresses

White Tees

Summery Tops

Swimsuits

Up next: I Finally Gave In to the Biker-Shorts Trend and Found 11 Cool Ways to Style Them

As another week goes by with safer-at-home orders still in place, I can't help but think about all my plans that, unfortunately, got canceled this summer. Although my calendar was once filled with trips down the coast and snorkel adventures in Hawaii, I'm determined to find ways to make this summer feel "normal." And just because I'm not hopping on a plane to a new destination, it doesn't mean I'm not shopping for things that make me feel like I'm going somewhere exciting. In fact, I've turned to one of my favorite retailers, Forever 21, to load up on affordable bikinis, dresses, sunnies, and more that make me feel like I'm sipping a pina colada in the sand (even though it's really just in my parents' backyard). Curious to see what I added to my cart? Keep scrolling.

Clothing & Swimwear

Shoes & Accessories

Up next: 16 Under-$30 Summer Items I’m Excited to Eventually Wear Outside

If it's been a while since you shopped at a Forever 21, then you're in for a real treat. The classic affordable retailer has certainly proved its resilience over the years, and today, I'm here to show you just how good the product still is. After sifting through pages and pages on the retailer's site, I was somehow able to narrow down my favorite items to a solid 30. Between the trendy summer items, cute athleisurewear, and quality basics, I can assure you this took me quite some time. 

Forever 21 was always been good for the aforementioned items, and the shopping list below will prove that clearly, nothing has changed. In fact, these products are so good (and cheap, might we add) that I am predicting they will sell out at the speed of light. Keeping in mind both the world's current at-home lifestyle and the hopefulness we all have for more social days to come, I can assure you that the 30 Forever 21 items below will satisfy all of the sartorial needs you have at this exact moment and then some. 

I think I've probably said this a million times, but I'm going to say it again, I love finding a good deal on clothes. Nine out of 10 times when someone asks me where I got my outfit, they never believe it. Now, I'm usually all about wearing high and low brands together, but since my online-shopping is soaring right now (I blame it on the "safer at home" order) I'm turning to retailers like Forever 21 to provide me with fashionable items that won't make my bank account hate me. Yes, the site is seriously filled with cute tops, dresses, skirts, shorts, and shoes that you would never believe are all under $30. Want to see for yourself? Keep scrolling for the summer pieces I can't wait to wear, even if I am stuck at home. 

Tops:

Dresses:

Bottoms:

Sandals:

Up next: The 2020 Trends WWW Readers Will Be Passing On (And 9 They're Trying Instead)

It's a tale as old as time: spending a lot of money on holiday dresses, only to wear them once. But this time around, I won't fall trap to this costly habit, because I'm buying my pieces from Forever 21. The trusty retailer has luxe, affordable products (I'm talking $10) that I'll want to wear beyond party season. (Plus, the items are so chic, they look way more expensive than they actually are.) Keep scrolling to see what I'm talking about. 

Shop now:

Up next: These Are the 4 Winter Fashion Staples I Can't Live Without

We're always extra excited when we get to share great fashion finds that also happen to be ultra affordable. The holiday season is no exception, with the latest items on our list being from Forever 21 (forget what you've heard, the retailer isn't going anywhere). There are endless amazing pieces that are perfect for holiday dressing and gifting, both in stores and online, and you definitely will want to snap them up during the retailer's big winter sale. Until November 27, you can find select items in stores for up to 40% off* (no, we're not kidding!), and the brand is even hosting giveaways in select stores this weekend. In the meantime, shop these 24 editor-approved styles online that all happen to be under $50. Thank us later.

AFFORDABLE ACCESSORIES

PARTY PIECES

GIFTS FOR YOUR GIRLFRIENDS

COLD-WEATHER KNITS

COZY OUTERWEAR

EVERYDAY BOTTOMS

*Valid from 11/21-11/27 at participating Forever 21 locations. See stores for details.

**Forever 21 stores are holding their own special in-store sweepstakes from 11/23-11/24. Check out the list of participating stores here. Each of these stores will conduct six drawings over two days and will each award up to $1260 in prizes to up to six lucky winners. Click here for rules. 

Despite my overflowing closet, there are few winter fashion staples that I'll just never stop buying. Like cute jackets for every sort of occasion, soft sweaters (of all lengths and styles), everyday boots, cold-weather accessories, and...I think you get my point. My closet is full. But I like to think of myself as a smart shopper, meaning I hit up stores like Forever 21 for essentials because, let's be real, it's just so affordable. And this time of year it's even more so, so yeah, I like to stock up. If you're in the same boat, here are the four products you can never have enough of (IMHO).

JACKETS

BOOTS

SWEATERS

COLD-WEATHER ACCESSORIES

Up next, Sunny Skies? Rain? Whatever the Forecast, I've Got the Outfit for You.

No matter how "stylish" or "different" you want to be, come fall, your uniform naturally resorts back to jeans and a cute sweater. Since repeating the same sweaters over and over can get a tad dreary, but spending all of your hard-earned money on lavish ones doesn't really make sense, I decided to fill you in on my little secret for taking those two qualms and meeting them in the middle. The key to scoring cute and cheap sweaters you can wear all season long is shopping at Forever 21.

Not sure if you heard, but Forever 21 is soon to be closing, so before it does, I highly suggest you stock up on the retailer's knitwear. Forever 21 is known for a lot of things, but I'd bet a lot of money you didn't really think to turn to it for expensive-looking cheap sweaters. From the chicest pearl-adorned cardigans to cozy oversized cable knits, the selection of cheap sweaters ahead is truly the best and will have you feeling comfortable and looking stylish this fall without breaking the bank.

The best part, however, is when the compliments start to roll in and people ask you where your sweater is from. The look on their faces when you say you got it for $18 is going to be priceless every time, trust me.

We're now well into autumn, which for much of the country means cozy sweaters, falling leaves, and warm cinnamon lattes. But for those of us on the West Coast, fall's arrival can be a bit confusing. Here in Los Angeles, the day's forecast might be a pleasant 85º or a crisp 60º—there's really no telling—meaning it's hard to decide when to break out those knee-high leather boots or that brand-new sherpa jacket.

The sartorial struggle is real… Luckily, whether you're bracing the NYC cold or in L.A. just trying to not sweat through your turtleneck (just me?), Forever 21 has you covered. Intrigued? Keep scrolling for four easy looks for whatever forecast you're dealing with. 

SUNNY AND 75º 

CLOUDY AND GREY 

ON AND OFF RAIN 

BRIGHT AND BRISK 

Up next, 23 Clothing Items That Actually Stand Up to Cold Weather, According to Reviews.

There's something so specific about a going-out look. It usually entails some sort of alluring detail like lace paneling or satin material, and it has the power to transform your vibe from daytime to after-hours instantly. As the world continues to open up, should you be comfortable with a night or two out on the town, we've assembled the shopping list to help you look the part.

Heading into fall you're bound to have an occasion or two when you'll be needing a going-out piece to slip into. Whether it's a friend's birthday, date night, or something on the more formal side, stocking up on autumnal going-out pieces is never a bad idea. That's why we took a poll on our Who What Wear Insiders Facebook group to find out the best affordable spots to shop for going-out items, and the results were delightfully helpful. Ahead, see the top 10 sites to go to next time you need a budget-friendly something for your soiree.

#10: Revolve

Number 10 on the list—Revolve—is a reliable spot for discovering brands with pretty prints, alluring silhouettes, and sleek fabrics. Go here for a pretty camisole or splashy party dress.

#9: & Other Stories

If you're looking for a spot that has affordable statement pieces that feel unique, don't miss & Other Stories. Its selection tends to sell out quickly, so a weekly peruse is a good idea.

#8: Mango

Head here for trendy pieces that won't break the bank. 

#7: Urban Outfitters

Hit up Urban Outfitters if you want to add a playful element to your next night-out ensemble, like an animal-print skirt or puff-sleeve top.

#6: Amazon

This beloved easy-to-shop site never misses a beat when it comes to trending separates and accessories.

#5: Forever 21

An affordable, fun top or dress on your to-find list? Forever 21 should do the trick.

#4: Nordstrom Rack

There are few things as satisfying as finding your favorite brands discounted, which is why it's no surprise Nordstrom Rack made the list.

#3: ASOS

With its seemingly endless supply of stylish pieces, ASOS is always a reliable spot for affordable going-out items.

#2: H&M

It doesn't get much more classic than H&M. Don't miss new fall arrivals from the budget-friendly brand to restock your wardrobe.

#1: Zara

The retailer that received the most votes was, in fact, Zara. Next time you need a going-out piece consider paying a visit to this stylish, affordable mainstay.

Up next, going-out outfits that don't feel cliche.

This post was originally published on an earlier date and has since been updated. 

If I had the power to travel back to any fashion era, I'd send myself back to the '90s—no doubt about it. After all, I was born in the mid-'90s and thus never got the chance to fully experience everything the decade entailed. (You could say my style was more Michelle Tanner than Cher Horowitz.) That said, I always found inspiration in the grungy-chic looks I saw celebrities rocking in the pages of Tiger Beat, and I dreamed of the day when I'd be able to dress just like them.

The good news for my younger self (and 2019 me!) is that the '90s have been mounting a serious comeback, asserting their influence on collections across the high-low spectrum. In other words, this season, the more your outfit screams "Naomi Campbell circa 1995," the more stylish you look. Just take a glance at Forever 21's Indie Bloom collection—it's chock-full of plaid skirts, fuzzy tops (yes, fuzzy tops), and colorful hair clips that remind me of the ones I used to trade with my friends at recess.

Keep scrolling to see what I've been adding to my cart to keep up with this nostalgic trend.

Up next, Jennifer Aniston's Best Outfits That Prove She's Still the Queen of the '90s

By midsummer, wearing flowing, floral-print dresses and strappy sandals can start feeling pretty monotonous. It doesn't take long to start counting down the days until the return of sweater-and-ankle-boot weather, which can only mean one thing: style boredom has officially set in. If you're searching for fresh outfit ideas to carry you through the remaining weeks of the warmest months of the year, don't worry—we've got you covered.

We turned to some of the most stylish women we follow on Instagram—@walkinwonderland, @annelauremais, @kellyaugustineb, and @noore—for outfit inspiration and shopped out their looks with mall brands. (Think accessible shops like Madewell, Nordstrom, and even Forever 21.) Spanning an ensemble that'll motivate you to try the neon trend to an outfit that makes a compelling case for embracing tie-dye, these are the looks we're copying stat.

Scroll on to see the perfect summer outfits that are giving us life—and shop similar pieces to re-create the looks for yourself.

White Cotton Dress + Straw Hat + Naked Shoes

A simple cotton dress with a narrow-brimmed straw hat and naked shoes makes for the ideal summer outfit.

Tie-Dye Skirt + Tie-Front Shirt + Sporty Sandals

Another trend that's not going anywhere anytime soon? Tie-dye. If you have yet to try the print, trust us. It's not too late yet.

Crop Top + Neon Midi Skirt + Animal-Print Mules

The neon trend is still going strong this summer. Pair a midi skirt in a bright hue with animal-print mules for a laid-back look.

Floral-Print Jumpsuit + Gold Hoops + Strappy Sandals

A boldly printed jumpsuit is the perfect throw-on-and-go summer outfit. (Psst: We've already deemed florals one of the only prints that matter this season.)

Up next, 23 new summer dresses your friends will be begging to borrow.

As we recently pointed out in our spring trend report and coverage of chandelier dressing, crystals are one of the biggest trends in fashion and on Instagram right now. We’ve seen the dazzling detail in all forms from fringe jewelry and accessories like chain belts to clothing à la all of Christopher Kane’s collection and Amina Muaddi’s new footwear line. The trend isn’t going anywhere anytime soon, and I’m totally okay with that. Not only does the detail lend and sparkly touch to any outfit, but it also makes for an easy way to embrace a holiday-ready look. Today I’m sharing how I hopped on the crystal bandwagon for under $10, thanks to Forever 21’s super-affordable jewelry selection.

Although I once challenged myself to wear head-to-toe Forever 21 for a week straight, I’ll admit I had never shopped the fast-fashion site’s jewelry selection before. That all changed when I saw the below earrings in F21’s new-arrivals section and immediately purchased both styles. While it’s not uncommon for jewelry to look super cheesy from “cheap” sites, that’s not the case for these glitzy earrings. Since the look of the earrings already lends a costumey vibe with the oversize rhinestones and statement charms, these details actually make it easier for them to look more expensive. I’ve worn them several times and people are always shocked when I reveal that they are from Forever 21. The under-$10 sparklers are definitely some of the best finds in the site’s 39 pages' worth of accessories. Shop the inexpensive but very on-trend earrings below.

Shop options over $10:

As Who What Wear’s bookings director, it’s my job to stay on top of who and what is going to be big in entertainment. Part of that means watching a lot of film and television—I mean a lot a lot—but real talk: I’m picky about my TV lineup. Between my steadfast drama favorites (Game of Thrones and This Is Us), regular Netflix binges (Stranger Things and Chef’s Table), and guilty pleasures (Riverdale and The Bachelor), I have little room for new additions to my queue. But this season is different. With an exciting crop of talent popping up in new and returning shows, there are plenty of reasons to expand my must-watch list.

Particularly of note are the five special ladies below. From the intriguing new series regular on This Is Us to an HBO scene stealer, these women are the reason we’re tuning in this fall. Keep reading to meet the fresh faces on our radar as they talk about their latest projects and share the fashion items they can’t live without this season.

WHO: Elizabeth Lail (@elizaboon)

WHAT: Lifetime knows a thing or two about constructing a juicy thriller, and the network have an exciting one on its hands this season with the new series You, a story about a bookstore manager, played by Gossip Girl’s Penn Badgley, whose obsession with an inspiring writer takes a sinister turn. While it’s hard not to be charmed by Badgley’s devilish grin, we’ve spotted a star on the rise in the show’s other lead, Elizabeth Lail. Only two episodes in, we can already confirm her performance is scary good.

Audiences will love You because…“It’s like a good book you can’t put down.”

The most surprising trait my character Guinevere Beck and I share is… “We both wear clothes and shoes until they are falling apart. And we both cry in our bathrooms.” 

The most memorable moment from the set of You was… “When one of our incredible directors, Vic Mahoney, whispered in my ear, ‘You’re asking for him to love you.’ I was so moved and reminded that Beck really is seeking love for herself from others. It changed my performance and deepened my empathy for Beck.”

One invaluable thing I’ve done to prepare for a role this year is… “Listen to music. It sounds so simple, but I always tend to find my character’s heartbeat in a song.”

The best piece of advice I’ve ever received from a castmate was… “Stay in your lane. You can’t compare your actors journey to others’. Turns out that’s true in all areas of life.”

My favorite outfit I ever wore on set would have to be… “Guinevere Beck in Joe’s Nirvana T-shirt. I still wear it today.”

However, if you catch me on an off-duty day, chances are I’m wearing… “A cozy sweater and scarf. Scarves are one of my favorite accessories (or security blanket).”

My style icons are… “The Hepburns—Audrey and Katharine.”

My fall wardrobe you’ll not be complete without these three pieces…

WHO: Luna Blaise (@lunablaise)

WHAT: If you were paying close attention to the New York Fashion Week party scene, you might have noticed a new starlet stealing the spotlight in a handful of noteworthy looks. That was Luna Blaise, star of NBC’s new show Manifest. Blaise plays Olive Stone, who is faced with a shocking new reality when a flight carrying her father, twin brother, and aunt returns home miraculously after being reported missing for five years. We can’t resist a good, edge-of-your-seat mystery—or fashion star in the making!

Audiences will love Manifest because… “The show is a sci-fi mystery filled with so many different elements, and you will never get bored watching it. You will always be on the edge of your seat with all the twists and turns.”

The thing I enjoy most about portraying Olive Stone in Manifest is… “Having the opportunity to share her extraordinary story and the challenge of bringing her complexity and vulnerability to life on screen. As an everyday teenager discovering who she is day to day, she is completely relatable. However, what gives Olive that extra edge are the many layers to her character alongside unforeseen supernatural circumstances.”

The most memorable moment from the set of Manifest was… “During the pilot, I was scheduled to shoot a soccer scene on location with my onscreen TV dad Josh Dallas. However, due to weather, we had to cancel a couple of times. When we finally shot the scene, it was so worth it because the backdrop was this exquisite view of the Manhattan skyline. It was so worth the wait.”

One invaluable thing I’ve done to prepare for a role this year is… “A different approach to connecting and bringing out something surprising in the audition that is specifically chosen for that character. Sometimes it’s super subtle, and other times it’s extra. When I auditioned for Olive, I chose to wear zero makeup, and I also wore my hair natural. I wanted her inner confidence to be recognized and not be distracted by external obstacles.”

The best piece of advice I ever received from a castmate was… “To always be yourself and never change for anyone or anything. Trust your instincts and always remember where you came from.”

My favorite outfit I ever wore on set would have to be… “Every year on Fresh Off the we would do a Halloween episode, and the costumes were incredible. Season four, my costume was Poison Ivy. I wore a long red wig and a super-cool green catsuit. For sure one of my favorites.”

However, if you catch me on an off-duty day, chances are I’m wearing… “100% sweatpants and a hoodie.”

My Instagram dos and don’ts are… “Do always show your true personality, and don’t engage in the negative.”

My fall wardrobe would not be complete without these three pieces… “Since this fall I am living on the East Coast I am excited to buy a super-chic winter coat, the perfect black boots, and a winter bucket hat.”

WHO: Dominique Fishback (@domfishback)

WHAT: With back-to-back-to-back 2018 projects, Dominique Fishback’s ascent to stardom shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon. While you can catch the actress and playwright in theaters next month with the highly anticipated YA adaptation of The Hate U Give, we’re most excited for the Brooklyn native’s return as scene-stealing sex worker Darlene on HBO’s The Deuce. The drama series about the rise of the adult film industry in the ’70s is back for a second season, and between the visual feast of the glamorous costumes and NYC backdrop and Darlene’s whip-smart dialogue, it’s a winner in our books. If you’re not already watching, you have five days to catch up, and trust me: It will be five days well spent!

The one thing I can reveal about Darlene going into season two of The Deuce is that… “Darlene is finally going to start taking actions into her own hands, evaluating the consequences of the decisions she’s made, and really considering what a future for herself could look like.”

The thing I love most about portraying Darlene is… “All of the light she still brings into a room in spite of the darkness surrounding her and the Times Square she is living in.”

The most surprising trait my character and I share is… “Our tendency to smile a lot, but also our love for books! Darlene is an avid reader of the great American novels, and I love how-to books, mostly books on writing, acting, financial independence, art, directing, the foster care system, history, especially African American history, to name a few. I even have my own mini library that I have alphabetized by author and title. I think Darlene would love that!”

The most memorable moment from the season two set of The Deuce was… “When I was in a scene with two other actresses and Gbenga Akinnagbe, who plays Larry Brown. One camera was on him filming his coverage, and another on me for reaction shots. There was a lot of choreography and moving pieces in this scene. Gbenga is really into the actions, giving it his all, when his wig goes flying off. What made it even funnier was that he didn’t realize it was off, and he kept going. I tried so hard not to laugh because I didn’t want to ruin the shot, but then I thought the footage wasn’t usable anyway, so I let out the biggest laugh. Now that I think about it, though, it was two separate shots, so mine would’ve been usable regardless. Oops!”

One invaluable thing I’ve done to prepare for a role this year was… “Letting go and trusting that I already had all the things inside of me that I needed to bring the character to life. Knowing my lines, showing up, and just being present were actually the best things for the scene. Sometimes having to prepare a different way is scary, but if your mind and body are not allowing you to do things the way, you always have then you have to respect your instrument enough to make a change.”

The best piece of advice I ever received from a castmate was… “To not worry if a director isn’t giving you direction. If you weren’t giving a creator what they wanted, you would know.”

The accounts I love to follow on Instagram are… “Will Smith because he’s always up for a challenge and keeps things funny! The Rock because he’s the most electrifying man in the world with a smile and heart to match. And Lena Waithe, because she is creating work for herself and for other artists of color. There’s always a new post about a project of hers in the works. I want to collaborate with her one day, so it’s nice to see the chances keep growing. She is making the most of her opportunities, and that’s what I aim to do as well.”

My favorite outfit I ever wore on set would have to be… “Honestly, Darlene’s wardrobe this season is so fly I really can’t choose. I often said on set that HBO should make a Darling Darlene clothing line.”

However, if you catch me on an off-duty day, chances are I’m wearing… “A crop top, my Sundance 2018 hat, some jeans or basketball shorts, and a T shirt—very incognito.”

My fall wardrobe would not be complete without these three pieces…

WHO: Sarah Bolger (@sarahbolger)

WHAT: Among a testosterone-filled cast, Sarah Bolger holds her own (and is a standout) as Emily Thomas in Mayans MC, FX’s follow-up to the popular biker series Sons of Anarchy. While the opportunity to play a strong and dynamic character was appealing to Bolger, the role was not without its challenges. The Irish actress had to not only master an American accent but also learn Spanish for the part.

Audiences will love Mayans MC because… “We have some of the most intricate, dark, and beautifully written characters on TV. These are characters who audiences will cry with, fight for, and love just as much as we’ve loved playing them.”

The thing I enjoy most about portraying Emily Thomas in Mayans MC is… “Firstly, it’s been a joy—and a welcomed challenge—to learn and act in a second language. Secondly, I get to live vicariously through this woman. Emily is powerful, has a thick skin—she’s a shot-caller. We get to see directly how she’s changed from a young girl to the woman she is when we meet her in the pilot. She’s dealt with such pain and loss in her youth she’s had to woman up at such an early age. No one makes decisions for this woman. Nothing gets past Emily Thomas.”

The most surprising traits my character and I share are… “Pragmatism and stubbornness. We’re so different in many ways: Emily Thomas is a mother; Miguel is her husband. She’s made harder choices in her life than I’ve probably ever had to make in my own. But we’re both as stubborn as they come.”

The most memorable moment from the set of Mayans MC was… “The final table read for episode 10 had us all—actors, producers, directors, and writers—in a full minute’s applause. We are like children—us actors—waiting for the next script to come out, waiting for the next volume of our story. We all felt real emotional saying the final words of our season one.”

One invaluable thing I’ve done to prepare for a role this year is… "Obviously, taking Spanish lessons has been a huge part of my process for Emily Thomas. She grew up with EZ Reyes, her childhood sweetheart, so she speaks colloquially. Every day has involved lessons, rehearsals, or homework, which I absolutely loved. Learning a second language is genuinely a dream come true, and the fact that I get to do it for my art makes it all the more thrilling.”

The best piece of advice I ever received from a castmate was… “Just watching Edward James Olmos on set was a master class all by itself. He’s a legend in the flesh and such a gentleman.”

My favorite outfit I ever wore on set would have to be… “I wore a pair of leopard-print So Kate Christian Louboutins in the first two episodes of Mayans MC. After 12 hours and, yes, slightly sore feet, I still didn’t want to take them off.”

However, if you catch me on an off-duty day, chances are I’m wearing… “Black high-waisted jeans, ankle boots, and a belt are always my uniform. Three-quarter jackets, too, even in 100-degree heat.”

My fall wardrobe would not be complete without these three pieces…

net-a-porter.com

WHO: Melanie Liburd (@melanieliburd)

WHAT: After the emotional rollercoaster that was season two of This Is Us, a budding love story is exactly what we need. Enter Melanie Liburd. The British actress has been promoted to series regular on the hit show, playing Zoe, Beth’s cousin and Kevin’s girlfriend. While Liburd can’t reveal too much about her character or the relationship—you’ll have to tune in to the premiere September 25th!—she did share her fall shopping list with us, which is certainly a win.

The one thing I can reveal about my character on This Is Usis…“Zoe is a documentary maker and humanitarian who loves to travel.”

The thing I love most about portraying Zoe in This Is Us is… “her complexities, courageousness, and passion for everything she does. She continues to surprise me.”

The most surprising trait my character and I share is…“we’re both free spirits who don’t take life too seriously.”

The most memorable moment from the set of This Is Us was…“meeting the rest of the cast on my first day. I was so nervous and they were all so kind and welcoming to me. It really is a dream job!”

One invaluable thing I’ve done to prepare for a role this year…“is working with my incredible dialect coach Jerome Butler. We’ve been working on a slight East Coast accent to sound more like Zoe’s cousin Beth, played by Susan Kelechi Watson. They grew up together after Zoe’s mom abandoned her at Beth’s house when she was eight years old.”

The best piece of advice I ever received from a castmate was… “learn the power of no, be patient, and never stop working on your craft.”

My favorite outfit I ever wore on set would have to be…“the Red Priestesses costume in Game of Thrones. It was made of beautiful heavy vintage silks and was about 100 years old. I felt magnificent wearing it. Zoe also has an incredible boho-chic style. Our head of costume Hala does such a wonderful job of mixing high street, designer, and vintage finds together seamlessly.”

However, if you catch me on an off-duty day, chances are I’m wearing…”high-waisted jeans, a vintage T-shirt, and black boots. I also live in jumpsuits and love that they’re so easy to dress up or down.”

The British girl fashion staple I can’t quit is…“a tweed blazer with a vintage scarf thrown around my neck. And on grey days I love a red lip.”

My fall wardrobe would not be complete without these three pieces…

For even more celebrity and entertainment coverage, be sure to check out our September cover story and It Girl, It Brand series.

We've said it once and we'll say it again—we love Forever 21, but sifting through the endless amounts of product is a nightmare. The good thing about the site is that there's a little something for everyone, but since we know you're not everyone, we found the products that are for you. To get even more granular, we chose the best fall products since you're probably gearing up for the shift of the season anyway.

When we say we went through probably 50-plus pages of Forever 21 products to choose the 28 items ahead, we mean we literally clicked through 50-plus pages of product. And that's a fact. Shop the best dresses, coats, pants, accessories, and more found at Forever 21 below. Hopefully, the selections here will have you resting easy as you prepare your wardrobes for the chilly temperatures to come.

Dresses

Handbags

Tops

Shoes

Outerwear

Sunglasses

Pants

Jewelry

Next up, shop all the fall trends I'm buying because of Instagram.

If you've ever wanted to replicate the easygoing style that true Californians have perfected, chances are you've stumbled upon the store Brandy Melville. Filled with basic staples and trendy pieces alike, this store with more-than-friendly prices has been a crowd favorite for quite some time now. But if you're looking for other stores that will do just the trick, we have eight stores that hit the same mark. The stores ahead carry the same wide array of cool dresses, crop tops, skirts, and high-waisted denim that will fulfill your West Coast needs and dreams. Read on.

1. Storets

If you want everyday styles similar to Brandy Melville's, check out Storets. With the same uncomplicated styles and prices, it's hard not to put two and two together.

2. Bershka

It's time to stop sleeping on Zara's sister store, Bershka. Here, you can find the same on-trend styles you love from the Spanish company mixed with the basics you go back for at Brandy Melville. Please note that since it's geared toward a younger consumer, the sizes run a bit small.

3. Pull&Bear

Pull&Bear is another store popular among teens. Known for its on-trend pieces and budget-friendly prices, just like Brandy Melville, you can find complete fashion-forward looks without breaking the bank.

4. Forever 21

Oh, Forever 21. You keep us coming back to your store no matter our age. And who can blame us? Just like the other sites on this list, F21 is known to be a good go-to place for quick and trendy last-minute finds.

5. Miss Selfridge

This UK-based store is known for its cute and charming everyday pieces that work with any budget. From ditsy floral dresses to minimalist tank tops, you can find plenty of Brandy Melville–esque pieces that will go with all your outfits.

6. H&M

H&M is one of the best online fashion stores for affordable pieces that are trend-forward. It also has a vast offering of cute basics, and as new items are added all the time, you can always count on this store to keep up with the trendy styles of the season.

7. Urban Outfitters

If you want your closet to be reminiscent of the '90s, check out Urban Outfitters. The same throwback fashion you find at Brandy Melville, you can find here. Just be warned: UO prices tend to run a bit higher than Brandy's.

8. ASOS Design

ASOS is one of the biggest online fashion retailers that cater to all age groups. The trendy website sells a vast array of everything from basic tees to cool denim skirts, all at an affordable price point comparable to Brandy Melville's.

We all have style icons, and there's absolutely nothing wrong with that. In fact, if you don't have a style icon, I recommend you find one ASAP. The reason I'm so keen on such fashion role models is so that whenever you find yourself in a wardrobe slump, you have a handful of girls you admire to turn to for inspiration. You know what they say—imitation is the best form of flattery, and this summer, I'm imitating as many Italian girls as possible.

Since most Italian-girl style can ring in at a pretty penny, I've done some research to see what I can find that's a bit more within my price range. Where do I typically sprint to when I want to shop but don't want to break the bank? Forever 21, of course. After collecting a few of my Italian-girl summer inspo pics, I dug through the endless pages of products at Forever 21 and came out with a wardrobe I think you'll be pretty pleased with. Shop the Italian-girl looks I'm trying to re-create this summer within the confines of the affordable retailer.

Printed Dresses and Flat Sandals

Re-creating this exact scene would be ideal, but in the meantime, I'll be buying as many printed dress–and–flat sandal combinations as humanly possible. Maybe I'll even throw a few lemons into an Instagram of the outfit to fully fake my Italian-girl lifestyle.

Get the look

Naked Swimsuits

The naked swimsuit trend is one we Who What Wear editors can't get enough of. Once I saw my Italian-girl idol, Giorgia, sporting one, my obsession was further confirmed. Luckily, Forever 21 has tons of great options that ring in at a fraction of the price.

Get the look

Earthy Tones

Italian girls have taught me that when in doubt, go tonal. There's nothing quite as chic as a white cotton tee or tank, beige trousers, and simple accessories.

Sporty Separates 

Patricia Manfield is a style icon if I've ever seen one. She constantly pushes boundaries when it comes to fashion, and that's how I want to live too. It might take me a little longer, but her sportier looks are some of my favorites, and it's time I start re-creating my favorite looks.

Get the look

Want more naked swimsuits? Check out all the ones under $30 hiding at Forever 21 right now.

As soon as the barely there sunglasses trend gained momentum, we must admit that we couldn't help but wonder if we were going to regret this blast from the past accessory sooner rather than later. Yet as we kept seeing them on our Instagram feed (aka on Bella Hadid and friends), they have grown on us.

Just like any other statement piece, the practicality of said accessory is slightly in question, but the end result of vamping up any outfit is loud and clear. We can totally understand if you're still unsure of committing 100%. That's why, instead of investing on a pair you may grow tired of quickly, we've rounded up 15 affordable small sunglasses you can style as you wish without the guilt of overspending.

Your bank account will surely thank you.

Opening Image: @lottaliinalove

My co-worker, Michelle Scanga, recently went on a lush vacation to Hawaii and took some of the most incredible Instagrams along the way. One in particular that stood out to me was the golden knotted naked swimsuit pic above. In case you aren't aware of the "naked" swimsuit trend, it is simply a rise in the popularity of nude-colored swimsuits coming in all different styles. In an effort to stay on budget this summer, instead of instantly buying the suit she wore, I decided to do some investigating of my own and discovered that Forever 21 has a ton of options serving those of us who are on the hunt for the perfect naked swimsuit for half the price.

Hiding in the depths of the hundreds of pages of product at Forever 21 sits nude swimwear of all kinds. From one-pieces to string bikinis, high-rise briefs to metallic sheen fabrics, I am officially convinced that Forever 21 is the best one-stop shop for naked swimwear this season. Oh, and did I mention each suit is under $30? Yeah, that too. Go on to shop my favorite versions of the trend available at this affordable retailer. Nude sunbathing is just a checkout away.

Next up, striped swimsuits that will still be cool next summer and the summer after that.

It’s no secret Forever 21 makes quite a few appearances in my wardrobe, as I’ve shared in the past. I once wore head-to-toe Forever 21 for a week straight and recently shared why I refuse to give up my “F21 fix.” For many savvy shoppers, sprinkling in fast-fashion items is an easy and affordable way to update your style for the new season. Today I’m adding to my F21 diary and sharing some of the items I recently picked up from the budget-friendly store and showing you how I styled the under $35 items.

From cute little white tops to simple summer dresses, the summer selection at Forever 21 is particularly good at the fast-fashion brand right now. Whether you’re looking for a quick outfit to wear this weekend or a selection of clothes to freshen your closet, these are the affordable summer clothes that look the best IRL. (I have the photo proof below.) And don’t forget to show us how you’re styling your new F21 summer items using the hashtag #WhoWhatWearing on Instagram.

Shop more Forever 21 items I'm eyeing below:

I've never really considered myself a "secret shopper" until I started discovering absurdly great product at Forever 21. You know that feeling when you get so excited about something and want to tell everyone but quickly realise you should probably tell no one? That's how I felt while frantically adding the below Forever 21 items to my shopping cart. Selfishly, I wanted all the best affordable items to myself, but I figured that if I had to let anyone in on this little secret, I'd want it to be you.

Ahead, shop along with me as I so kindly share my incredible (if I do say so myself) must-haves hiding at Forever 21. After a lot of scrolling, a million open tabs, and about seven edits later, I finally narrowed down my favourite seasonal finds into a tidy little list. If I were you, I'd keep your favourites on the down-low before everyone else catches wind of these on-trend finds.