If you're a fan of Forever 21's trendy fashion but want to save money by sourcing directly from manufacturers, 1688 (Alibaba’s wholesale platform) is a great option. However, buying from 1688 as an international customer can be tricky. That's where Mulebuy, a China-based forward and reverse purchasing platform, comes in. This guide will walk you through the process of using Mulebuy to purchase Forever 21 items from 1688, and we’ll also reference a helpful external resource: this spreadsheet
Mulebuy is a trusted forwarding and purchasing agent
Forever 21 is a well-known fast-fashion brand, but it also contracts out much of its production to Chinese suppliers. Some of these suppliers sell identical or similar pieces on 1688 at fraction of the retail price. The problem? 1688 only sells wholesale, has no English interface, and doesn't ship internationally. Mulebuy makes the entire process simple!
1688 is a wholesale only platform, so you won’t see branded items clearly labeled "Forever 21." Instead, search for keywords alongside brand address terms like "韩版" (Korean style)"外贸原单" (export surplus). For verified store recommendations, check the linked spreadsheet, where I list suppliers that stock authentic Forever 21 items at lower costs.
Sign up for a free account on Mulebuy’s platform. They provide an English interface, unlike 1688. You’ll get a dedicated Chinese purchasing address
Once you’ve found the product you want on 1688:
For most countries, Mulebuy offers cheaper consolidated shipping. Expect longer transit times (2-4 weeks depending on location). They also handle customs paperwork to avoid import taxes whenever possible.
- Use the Spreadsheet: The spreadsheet linked here
- Bulk Discounts: If group-shopping, negotiate seller discounts (Mulebuy can assist in communication).
- Size Accuracy: Asian sizes differ—always confirm measurements!
Mulebuy helps bridge the gap between Forever 21’s manufacturing suppliers and international shoppers, letting you buy the same clothing without retail markup. Remember, while ordering blind from a wholesale retailer has risks, pairing it with verified suppliers (via the shared spreadsheet) and a reliable agent (Mulebuy) will optimize your results!