11 Inexpensive Clothes From Forever 21 That Don’t Look Cheap AF

So, something has happened relatively recently that has sort of shocked me: Forever 21 actually sells clothes now that don't look like they'll be torn and out of style in two weeks.

I have a lot of critique of Forever 21, from the quality of the clothes to who makes the clothes, but one of the pettier ones was that, frankly, a lot of the clothes were so cloyingly trendy that they'd end up unworn after a few months of wear. Now they have a lot more pieces that are, basically, timeless. Tops that don't have unnecessary cut outs, peplums, or other embellishments? Pants that aren't just $15 super skinny jeans? Dresses that actually look like they'll make it through more than two washes? What's going on?

Sure, I'll always have my Forever 21 skepticism, but I'm really loving all the clothes there that don't really look like they're from Forever 21, but somewhere a little more chic instead. Here are 11 examples that you might want to check out the next time you're shopping.

1. Chunky Knit Dolman Cardigan

Let's be real, you can cop a comparable sweater at Urban Outfitters. The only difference is that it'll be at least twice as much at Urban under the guise of being better quality...when it probably isn't. This cardigan also has a ton of great reviews with folks claiming that it is ultra comfy and easy to wear with just about anything. I'm sure it especially looks good with a pair of blue jeans; skinny, flared, cropped, whichever, it'll look rad.

2. Cuffed Woven Trousers

All to often, any pants that aren't denim at stores like Forever 21 feel like imposter sweatpants and look like they have no weight to them at the same time. Basically, structureless and bland. These trousers stand apart. Sometimes, you just want to wear pants that aren't jeans; these are the pants that answer that call without looking like an afterthought.

3. Faux Leather A-Line Skirt

This looks like something you'd spend about $50 on at Zara, but it's a fraction of the price at Forever 21 and still looks killer. It comes in hunter green or black and would look really great with a sharp pair of boots. Consider pairing with a turtleneck and a leather jacket for a dark and sophisticated look.

4. Houndstooth Patterned Duster Long Coats for Women

Yo, how tailored and amazing does this coat look? Seriously, it looks like something straight out of a London Fog ad. You could get something that looks almost exactly like this at a fancy designer or department store for well over $100. Or, you could get a cheaper version that's still great quality--it's even lined!--at Forever 21 for less than $40. The choice is yours.

5. Zippered Boxy Top

This top is simple, cute, and doesn't look like it'll fall apart after one wash. Tuck into your favorite jeans or rock with skirts of any length. This top is truly versatile.

6. Button Front Corduroy Skirt

This is probably one of the only items on this roundup that is actually pretty trendy. Yes, the '70s are back, which means corduroy button up skirts are too, bringing in a retro flare to an everyday garment. But for a trendy item, it's pretty wearable with all sorts of different looks. A button up skirt can easily become a closet staple that you'll go to every fall to come!

7. Self-Tie Bow Blouse

If your style swings pretty quirky with a hint of retro, as if Zooey Dechanel is your style inspo, then you'll love this blouse. It has just enough whimsy to be worn casually or with a bit more fanciness. But for the record, it looks great with a mini skirt or a pair of wide leg trouser shorts.

8. Distressed Boyfriend Jeans

I'm very picky about jeans, especially since most of them look like they'll rip at the crotch if you bend the wrong way if they don't cut off your blood circulation first. But these distressed boyfriend jeans are sturdy and 100 percent cotton. They won't fall apart and they'll look great paired with your t-shirt and a pair of tennis shoes.

9. Layered Textured Dress

Sure, this dress looks pretty sophisticated, which is great if your style is pretty refined. If it's not, don't hesitate to inject some fun into this dress by wearing some quirky tights or funky shoes.

10. Plus Size Topstitched Faux Leather Jacket

Y'all, it is so hard to find faux leather jackets for women that doesn't ooze cheap and flimsy. This is probably the closest thing at Forever 21 that is faux, cheap, and still looks good.

11. V-Neck Wide Leg Jumpsuit

Va va voom! I could easily see this jumpsuit being super expensive elsewhere. But you can cop this for less than $35 at Forever 21. This is great for a formal look, but if you want to transition it to something more casual, just rock a long sleeved mesh top or turtleneck underneath.