There comes a time when our budgeting resolve prevails. A time when after paying off our monthly expenses, we're left with a little something extra in our checking accounts — which begs the question: to save or to shop? If you don't plan on squirreling away your extra March nut, then
join us in burrowing down a shopping rabbit hole into the
$100-and-under items worthy of a splurge ahead.
These available-for-a-Ben-Franklin picks have been vetted and approved as treat-yourself material by R29's most serious product enthusiasts (aka the Shopping team). Covering beauty to fashion and lifestyle categories, you'll find appearances from hyped Glossier goods, an unexpected pair of Levi's, actually tasty immune-support gummies, cute sustainable storage swaps, and the like. Scroll forth for the best bang-for-your-buck buys our editors are adding to cart this month.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
"I'm a sucker for gold jewelry, especially anything of the chunky-twisty variety. And even though Missoma is very much one of those 'of-the-moment' brands, its pieces straddle the line between trendy and timeless in a way that I love — these gold twisted minis are the perfect example of that, with a textural appeal that takes regular hoops from staples to statement-makers." – Amanda Randone, Fashion Market Writer
Missoma Gold Mini Tidal Hoops, $, available at Missoma
"I've been using this eye cream for about three years. It's one of the few beauty products that I consistently buy with my own hard-earned cash (yes we get a lot of freebies on the Shopping team but sadly this is not one of them!). It's not too thick, feels amazing on my sensitive, dry skin, doesn't leave any sort of residue, and I do notice it helps me with my deep under-eye circles. I'm bringing this product up because Malin + Goetz is now offering an amazing Advanced Care value set for $111 which I am likely investing in, but since I have yet to try the moisturizer, I'm here to sing the praises of my hero eye cream." – Marissa Rosenblum, Senior Shopping Director
Malin + Goetz Revitalizing Eye Cream, $, available at Malin + Goetz
"Let me preface this by saying that I didn’t start taking these for any Coronavirus-related reasons! (Wash your hands and sneeze into your elbows, people.) As much as I try to eat a healthy diet, sometimes I want an extra boost of vitamin C to help me fight office and/or subway-pole germs. These new Emergen-C gummies are SO tasty — unlike the powders, which no offense, why aren’t any of them good? — and provide 500mg of immune system-supporting vitamin C. I keep them at my desk so I remember to take them and, at just $10 per bottle, it’s an easy affordable-healthy habit to get behind." – Karina Hoshikawa, Beauty & Wellness Market Writer
Emergen-C Gummies, 500 mg Vitamin C/Serving, $, available at Walmart
"I love tie-dye — but, as much as I'd like to DIY it , some styles are beyond my expertise (aka t-shirts) to replicate the throwback trend on. Enter: this crepey midi skirt that I was beyond thrilled to stumble upon for under $100 on Need Supply . I've got big plans to pair it with everything from spring's transitional sock-and-sandal looks to summer's open-toed-clog or canvas-sneaker situations, and then back to combat boots in the fall." – Liz Buxton, Market Editor
Which We Want Marina Slip Skirt in Blue Tie Dye, $, available at Need Supply Co
"I am definitely obsessed with this sustainable sneaker company founded by two Brazilian industry execs just over a year ago. Cariuma's designs never go out of style, they using carbon-free shipping methods, and they work exclusively with ethical factories and clean tanneries. Plus, I can't find anything in my spring outfit lineup that doesn't look good with these high-tops." – Amanda Randone, Fashion Market Writer
Cariuma White Canvas, $, available at Cariuma
"I would've been first in line to scoff at dropping close to $100 on a VASE for FLOWERS (why not just use a damn mason jar?!) But, life changes you. And, in this case, it changed me into someone willing to spend $85 on this vision of blue-tinted glass molded into a reversible shape that is destined to cradle my droopy bodega tulips in tragic beauty FOREVER...*deep breathing* Plus, if you aren't into fresh blossoms, you can always use this piece of art to store everything from table fruit to bedside condoms or bathroom cotton balls." – Liz Buxton, Market Editor
Hay Bottoms Up Vase, $, available at Urban Outfitters
"My boss sent me a link to these Levi's with a message reading, 'I love these jeans but think they might look terrible on me. Would you ever?' I would, I did, and here's the 411 on the fit: very high-rise with extra breathing room in the band, snug on the bum, a puffy-sleeve-type taper on the legs, and a short (above-ankle-bone) crop on the hem. For reference, I also own a pair of the brand's iconic Wedgies and found this style to be MUCH more comfortable (and flattering) in the crotch area." – Liz Buxton, Market Editor
Levi's Balloon Leg Jeans, $, available at Shopbop
"Supergoop!'s latest coveted drop, Glowscreen, is an SPF 40 chemical formula (side note: I only wear mineral, so that’s another indication of how much I love it) that is disguised as a shimmery peach-tinted lotion. In look and feel, it reminds me of my all-time favorite drugstore beauty good, L’Oréal's Glotion (which people slept on big time, IMO) — except, Glowscreen shields your skin from UV rays. At a recent event, Supergoop founder Holly Thaggard likened it to a 'candlelit glow' in a bottle. Summer may be months away, but I’m already counting down to when I can wear this on my 'no-makeup' days." – Karina Hoshikawa, Beauty & Wellness Market Writer
Supergoop! Glowscreen Sunscreen SPF 40, $, available at Sephora
"I’m all for a good sustainability swap . But, ever since weaning myself off plastic bags, I haven’t quite figured out the easiest way to bring my chopped carrots, sandwiches, and (home-made) cookies to the office — until Stasher. These reusable silicone bags are easy to clean, durable, and completely plastic-free. Although $12 per one sandwich-size bag feels steep when you can get an entire 100-count of Ziplocs for $4, it's ultimately money well spent in keeping single-use bags out of landfills. Plus, as an added bonus, you can apparently cook sous vide with these things! I haven’t tried that yet, but stay tuned." – Karina Hoshikawa, Beauty & Wellness Market Writer
Stasher 100% Silicone Reusable Food Bag, Sandwich Storage Size,, $, available at Amazon
"I may be late, but after silently watching the return of beaded daisy chokers from the sidelines I am finally ready to get in the game. EF Handmade Jewelry's Etsy shop is a treasure chest for mix-and-match flower chain sets — that I feel moved to layer with the rest of my necklace gang on all the warm-weather days to come." – Liz Buxton, Market Editor
EFHANDMADEJEWELRY Beaded Daisy Choker, $, available at Etsy
"Ever since I enlisted the help of fellow R29 staffers to model and share their thoughts on Glossier’s new Skywash matte eyeshadows , I’ve been obsessed with the liquid-to-powder stuff. While certain shades were admittedly sheerer than others, I still love the product for its buildable abilities and the fact that it’s so easy to apply (just dot and blend!) If you’ve been intimidated by powders or blockbuster eyeshadow palettes in the past, try picking up a Skywash shade (or two) as an easy way to start playing with color." – Karina Hoshikawa, Beauty & Wellness Market Writer
Glossier Skywash in Terra, $, available at Glossier
"Darn, H&M really screwed the pooch by not showing these pants on a model because they are so cute and versatile. Their recent collab with luxe activewear line P.E Nation is partially recycled (alright, H&M you're making moves) and has a tight selection of winning pieces like these pants. The bottoms of the ankles zip up in the front and they're made with thick scuba fabric that I think would serve better with boots or sneakers out at night or at the office (if you work at a casual place like Refinery!) than at the gym. They're really so good." – Marissa Rosenblum, Senior Shopping Director
P.E Nation x H&M Ankle-length Scuba Leggings, $, available at H&M
"Meet the ultimate lazy girl's solution to nail-polish removal. If you love a fresh manicure but hate when it chips almost as much as you hate removing it entirely, this product is definitely for you. It's quick, effective, and doesn't create a mess. Just be sure to wash your hands and moisturize afterward to keep your nails smooth." – Amanda Randone, Fashion Market Writer
Sally Hansen Kwik Off Moisturizing Nail Polish Remover, $, available at Amazon
"After featuring this beauty as part of our ultimate tote roundup , I felt compelled to own it on. Having yet to partake in the whole '90s beaded-bag trend — for fear of it becoming a short-lived fad (and winding up stuck with a neon fruit purse for all eternity) — this faded wooden style caught my eye as having a much subtler, more classic '70s vibe made to last." – Liz Buxton, Market Editor
& Other Stories Rainbow Wooden Beaded Tote Bag, $, available at & Other Stories
"I've been making small changes around the house to eliminate unnecessary waste and single-use plastics, and this by far has been one of my favorite product swaps. Instead of opting for plastic-wrapping my left-overs, I've been using these reusable food wraps that are handcrafted in Vermont. Better for me, better for the planet." – Amanda Randone, Fashion Market Writer
Bee's Wrap Eco-Friendly Reusable Beeswax Food Wraps, 3-Pack, $, available at Amazon
"Don't tell the Shopping team but I just bought this bracelet for all of us. At the end of the day, to the dismay of the R29ers who work around us, we lovingly shriek byeeeee to each other. It's a sign-off that needs to celebrated via matching work friendship bracelets." – Marissa Rosenblum, Senior Shopping Director
UO Bye Beaded Bracelet, $, available at Urban Outfitters
"Confession: I do not buy expensive everyday shoes. As much as I'd love to own pairs on pairs of designer kicks, the truth is that the few pairs I've splurged on end up defeated from trudging through harsh city streets. After itching to get in on the combat-boot train this season (and spending an embarrassing amount of time searching for the perfect style at the perfect price), I was striking out with dream styles that were too pricey or cheaper styles that were too chunky — until I found this ASOS pair. They were the perfect mix of feminine with an edge, a heel that was high enough, and just the right amount of chunk. I wasn't thrilled about the buckles, but at $25 they were a low enough investment that I pulled the order trigger anyway. And? I'm wearing them now with #noregrets." – Liz Buxton, Market Editor
ASOS DESIGN Rouge chunky lace up buckle ankle boots, $, available at ASOS
"I've managed to keep my skin in pretty good shape thanks to a consistent routine and Spironolactone to keep my hormonal acne at bay. That said, I still get the occasional breakout if I have too much dairy or sweets, and for those moments, Hero Cosmetics' new microprint acne patches have been a saving grace. They're a bit larger than most hydrocolloid patches (which I like, since it covers more surface area), and the tiny points allow for the salicylic acid to really get into the pimple and heal it from the inside out for visible better results by morning." – Karina Hoshikawa, Beauty & Wellness Market Writer
Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Micropoint For Blemishes, $, available at Urban Outfitters
First, it was Jared Leto and Harry Styles accessorizing with a string of pearls, then I saw it on our fashion team members Gabrielle Korn and Eliza Huber , but when our social media editor Hannah Buillion posted a selfie wearing a pearl necklace, I finally gave into my case of The Wants and purchased the freshwater strand from Baublebar. I plan on layering it with my everyday fine jewelry and possibly a silver chain. – Marissa Rosenblum, Senior Shopping Director
BaubleBar Lacey Pearl Statement Necklace, $, available at BaubleBar
"I never thought I’d put a bridal gown into an under-$100 roundup, but such is the magic of Lulus. The brand is a go-to for affordable wedding gear — whether you’re in the bridal party or walking down the aisle — and they just added plus sizes to a number of their best-selling nuptial-friendly silhouettes. My pick? This simple-but-sensuous, cold-shoulder wrap dress that's perfect for a casual wedding or a coterie of free-spirited bridesmaids." – Emily Ruane, Fashion Market Writer
Lulus Easy Listening Blush Cold-Shoulder Wrap Maxi Dress, $, available at Lulus
"When I was younger, my parents let me 'design' our family tablescape on special occasions using an antique glass collection inherited from my grandparents. Ever since then, I've been somewhat obsessed with exclusively drinking from and entertaining with mismatched glassware — it just makes everything, no matter the occasion, a little more magical. Since I no longer live at home and have my grandparent's repertoire to work with, I've taken to Etsy for its vibrant vintage selection . (I'll be serving Oscar's-party refreshments from these treasures later this weekend.)" – Liz Buxton, Market Editor
simplychi Mismatched Collection Of Glasses (Set of 6), $, available at Etsy
"I am a cookie monster. But, since taking a rough break from dairy, gluten, and added sugars due to longtime stomach issues, I've not been able to consume my weekly (aka nightly) quota. On my hunt for a dietary-restriction-friendly replacement that didn't taste like laboratory cardboard, I came across these absolutely stunning morsels — that, admittedly, looked too good to be true. But, they weren't. I am here to attest that these cookies actually look and taste as amazing as that photo suggests. Just ran out and will be ordering more, highly recommend to my fellow cookie monsters out there." – Liz Buxton, Market Editor
The YES Bar Dark Chocolate Chip - (6 Count), $, available at Amazon
"Now, Girlfriend Collective’s beloved Paloma sports bra — a longline, torso-hugging style that walks that sought-after fine line between bra and crop top — isn’t exactly new. In fact, it's such a best-seller that it was completely sold out prior to last month's re-stock. What is new this month is a fresh drop with brand-new colors that I'm eyeing to add to my workout wardrobe. Do not delay, folks — colors are already starting to sell out again." – Emily Ruane, Fashion Market Writer
Girlfriend Collective Paloma Bra, $, available at Girlfriend Collective
"Consider this a friendly reminder that sunscreen is something you shouldn't just wear in the summer! During a recent ski trip to Wyoming, I made sure to shield my skin while on the slopes with the derm-beloved EltaMD sunscreen. It's decently hydrating without being greasy (which my skin appreciated while being exposed to the dry mountain air), and the SPF 40 mineral protection warded off rays so I could shred to my heart's content (and by "shred," I mean, make it safely down a double blue)." – Karina Hoshikawa, Beauty & Wellness Market Writer
EltaMD UV Daily Broad-Spectrum SPF 40, $, available at DermStore
"Getting dressed during the winter sucks — my daily looks have become a predictable rotation of cropped wide-leg pants, chunky sweaters, and ankle boots. So, I've been trying to shake things up by upgrading my sock game. Enter: this under-$10, scalloped-ankle pack that added just the fresh, polished, and feminine touch my winter assembles (and bare ankles) needed. I've been pairing them with everything from my usual ankle boots to the untapped potential likes of loafers, open-toed heels, back-less clogs, and beyond." – Liz Buxton, Market Editor
HUE Scalloped Pointelle Sock (Pack of 3), $, available at Amazon
"I know it's hyperbolic, but some days, I swear the office air at R29 HQ rivals that of the Sahara. By 2 p.m., my eyes start to get red and my face feels like it's been eons since a drop of moisturizer has graced my skin. After years of being a total skeptic, I caved and fired up this mini humidifier in the hopes that it would create a non-arid environment at my desk. To say that the game has been changed is an understatement: I'm misting less and less, and my contacts no longer feel like they're about to fall out of my eyes. Plus, adding a couple of drops of essential oil creates a zen-like atmosphere even when I'm on deadline." – Karina Hoshikawa, Beauty & Wellness Market Writer
NovoLido Mini Portable Humidifier with 7 LED Lights, 400ml Small, $, available at Amazon
"Whenever I'm asked 'where's that from?' nine times out of ten the answer is Mango . It may be more in 'fast-fashion' shopping lane, but I truly put thought and value into each of my purchases from the brand — and never cycle through a piece for only one season. My secret is doing a deep dive into the site's monthly sale stock (it's mega) for quality goods (like my all-time favorite sweater here) that won't go out of style rotation with a little TLC." – Liz Buxton, Market Editor
Mango Oversize knit sweater, $, available at Mango
"Anyone who knows me knows that I'm a Tea Person through and through: I start my day off with a cup of matcha and wrap things up with a few mugs of herbal tea to help me wind down and get ready for bed. This assortment of caffeine-free loose leaf tea (which is currently on sale!) has been my favorite PM self-care treat, and I can't even choose a favorite among the five flavors because they're all that good." – Karina Hoshikawa, Beauty & Wellness Market Writer
DavidsTea Daily Ritual Loose Leaf Tea Kit, $, available at DavidsTea
"I'm kind of a fiend for Cara Cara — the LA-based off-price retailer that’s like a T. J. Maxx for all of the indie brands I covet. They just got a new drop of duds from brands like Rachel Antonoff, Samantha Pleet, and Baggu — plus, a few very wearable blouses and dresses from London-based Ghospell that I plan to buy now and wear well into spring." – Emily Ruane, Fashion Market Writer
Ghospell Rosie Ruffle Collar Blouse, $, available at Cara Cara
"On my never-ending quest to keep a plant alive and combat the seasonal scaries inside my dark apartment, I purchased a luminous hanging succulent known as the 'string of pearls.' Because this delicate beauty comes conveniently potted in a chic hanging planter, I was able to elevate it to more optimal sunlight-catching heights. Here's hoping it survives the winter..." – Liz Buxton, Market Editor
Plants.com String of Pearls Hanging Succulent Plant, $, available at Plants.com
"These leggings from Alo's new collection are a splurge, but I've literally never felt anything more comfortable grace my body. Ever. The mesh stripes at the knee and ribbed cream detail at the legs give a cool, sporty vibe, and they're stretchy and soft as can be, which comes in handy when I'm hanging upside down during my Sunday afternoon aerial yoga class." – Karina Hoshikawa, Beauty & Wellness Market Writer
Alo Yoga 7/8 Player Legging, $, available at Alo Yoga
"The squared-off exterior of this faux-leather tote may look a little familiar to some high-fashion enthusiasts, but I couldn‘t resist a chance to buy into the quilted leather trend for a mere $52. Aside from its aspirational exterior, this roomy tote caught my eye simply for its high capacity and work-ready elegance." – Emily Ruane, Fashion Market Writer
Topshop Riley Quilted Faux Leather Tote, $, available at Nordstrom
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