The Forever 21 Items I'm Buying to Look Like an Italian Girl

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.

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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.

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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.

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