That’s right people, it’s almost summertime! Break out the sandals, bikinis, and crop tops, because masks are coming off and we are all ready for a long frolic on the beach (or maybe just a margarita or two).

I’ve been spending a lot more time lately browsing stores like Target and Macy’s, hunting for deals (per usual), and scouting out new trends to share with you all! One of the best parts about working in the fashion industry (click here for my modeling posts), is seeing trends before they happen. And, it’s even more exciting to see them eventually pop up in stores around NYC.

While it may just sound like an excuse to shop more (maybe it is), doing fashion “research” has been SO helpful lately, as I’m able to share these trends with you guys, and hopefully help you all save a few bucks!

So…quick story time. My brother’s girlfriend is my current fashion icon. She’s only 21, but she’s always looking super trendy, and on top of all of the hottest looks of the moment. Best of all, most of the things she’s rocking are totally affordable. So, I took her advice and popped into a Target recently for the first time…ever. Without going into too much shameful detail, I walked out an hour later with multiple bags, feeling very, very poor.

ANYWAY–I decided to return a couple of things after trying them on at home (anyone else pissed that dressing rooms aren’t open yet?). So, I’m on my way to Target, and all of a sudden, I found myself in Forever 21. Don’t ask me how it happened, because I couldn’t tell you. I haven’t been in a Forever 21 in years, mostly because, well, I’m old. The good news is, I found a bunch of things that were so cute and so affordable, I had to post about it.

Aside from a few accessories and shoes (can never help myself), I walked out of Forever 21 with just tops. I might be kidding myself, but here is my reasoning: I have 3 or 4 pairs of go-to bottoms (jeans, denim shorts, skirts) that I absolutely LOVE that I can pretty much wear with anything. So buying 8 super cute, super trendy tops made sense to me…especially when they were all insanely affordable! Call me delusional, call me a shopping addict, call me too old to wear a crop top, but I’m more than happy with my purchases.

So, let’s get to it. Here are the 8 tops that I got at Forever 21 that are SUPER on trend for Summer 2021, and best of all, won’t break the bank. As long as you have a pair of white jeans or denim shorts, you’re all set to rotate these tops all summer long!

Happy shopping!!

NOTE (6/3/2021): Forever 21 is having a 60% off Flash Sale Right now!! (Sale prices are also listed below, so get it while the getting’s good!!)

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Caged Bodysuit, $15 (Flash Sale $6)

Because I have been a lingerie/bra model for years, I simply can’t go into a store without stumbling into the lingerie section to take a look. This was no different than when I was in Forever 21. Their lingerie section isn’t huge (at least not in the Herald Square location), but loungewear is so on trend right now (tie die joggers, matching sweatshirt/short sets, anything WFH-friendly) I was excited to see what they might have.

So, this top is technically “lingerie,” but you best believe I’ll be wearing it out in public. As a bustier gal, a high-neck is always a good look for me, and I’m always a sucker for some cutouts! Paired with high waisted shorts or jeans, this is a really trendy comfortable look for summer!

Shop The Trend:

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Bustier Top, $15

Lingerie like corsets and bustiers are so pretty…why not show them off? Bustier tops are back and trendy for spring and summer. This season, they’ve been simplified with a minimal faux underwire look that I’m absolutely loving. All the comfort with none of the discomfort of an actual underwire!

Shop The Trend:

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Halter Top, $13

The last time I wore a halter top was in high school and I’m pretty sure it was my mom’s from the ’80s. Either way, how freaking cute is this top? It’s so flattering and comfortable, and you can’t beat the $13 price tag. I’m tempted to go back and buy this in 12 different colors for summer. But for the time being, I’m excited to pair this white one with some colorful skirts and pants!

Shop The Trend:

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Split-Hem Tee, $15

While this top may look like I’m just asking for a nip slip, I couldn’t turn one corner in Forever 21 without seeing this trend. So…naturally, I had to try. It’s a trend that I’ve never seen before (which is pretty impressive considering all of the ’90s styles coming back hard right now) and it actually looks pretty cute on. I love that it’s a sexy twist on a basic, comfy t-shirt, and I’ll definitely be rocking it this summer. Maybe with a bra next time, just to play it safe.

Shop The Trend:

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Satin Cowl Cami, $15

Does this top remind anyone of the dresses we wore to our father-daughter dances in elementary school? No? Either way, I’m totally digging the cowl neck silk camis. This top looks so elegant and definitely looks like it costs more than $15. I got this top in black because I pictured it being perfect for a dinner or date night this summer!

Shop The Trend:

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Ruffled Smocked Top, $13

This may be my favorite top of the entire haul! I have so many neutral colors in my wardrobe, I decided to try out some pastels that were a little out of my comfort zone. I’m sooo glad that I did (anyone else notice that you get more compliments on colorful pieces?) and I’ve already worn this one a couple times. It paired perfectly with these trendy tie-dye shorts from Target! The ruffles are the perfect addition to a classic smock top to change it up a bit and add a girly touch for the spring and summer seasons.

Shop The Trend:

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Scarf Tube Top, $13

Yes, this deign is total Versace wannabe vibes, but I absolutely loved the colors, and it caught my eye right away. Because I have a larger bust, I’m a little too scared to wear actual scarves as tops. This top was the perfect solution to hop on the trend without worrying about a total wardrobe malfunction.

Shop The Trend:

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Crossover Halter Top, $15

While this kind of reminds me of the clubby crop tops I used to wear in college, I had to get on board with the crossover halter top trend. This is an understated version of the trend, but I’ve seen actual halter tops crossed in the front for a different look. This top is just another little spin on a simple cami, and I’m here for it.

Shop The Trend:

Check out my try-on reel video on Instagram, showing each of these tops in action!