Ahead, the under-$100 products we actually bought, used, and came to rely on over the past 30+ days: from a sassy Kermit The Frog pin to a salt scalp scrub with near-perfect-hair benefits and a pair of Amazon drawstring Bermuda shorts. Scroll on to web-window shop, feel seen, inspired, fatigued, or just connected — all emotions are valid. And be sure to holler out what you've carted for under one hundo that's made these stay-at-home days feel a little bit better.
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.
Columbia Lodge Sherpa Pull-Over
"I stumbled on this pullover while doing research for a fleece story — go figure! I loved the looks of it (plus the under-$100 price tag) so much that I ended up impulse-buying it despite the VERY salty customer feedback. Here's how I see it: negative reviews can actually help you make ultimately smarter shopping decisions. Just because something is wrong for one person, doesn't mean it will be for everyone else. Reviews on this here fleece complained that the fit was 'too cropped,' so I ordered a size up and it fits just right. It's very soft, layers over shirts comfortably, and looks delightfully retro (like I borrowed it from my mom in the 80s). While, yes, it is cropped, I personally don't mind a cropped fit in a pull-over style. To each their own." – Elizabeth Buxton, Market Editor
Shop Dick's Sporting Goods
Columbia Lodge Sherpa Full-Zip Sherpa Pullover, $, available at Dick's Sporting Goods
Stackers Black Mini Premium Stackable Jewelry Box
"I’ve always had my jewelry in random pouches hidden all over my room, so I thought it was time to finally keep my rings, necklaces, and bracelets all in one place and invest in a tidy looking jewelry box. This one from the container store is simple and made from vegan leather. It stacks and is super customizable so you can buy the tray configurations that work just right for you." – Kate Spencer, Deals & Updates Editor
Shop The Container Store
Stackers Mini Premium Stackable Jewelry Box, $, available at The Container Store
Urban Outfitters Gia Bucket Hat
"I'm having an obsession with all things fuzzy, furry, and shearling — maybe it's the yearning for comfort during odd times. I usually go for a classic beanie during the winter months but, upon waltzing into UO one day, I saw this cream-colored bucket hat and it instantly spoke to my neutral aesthetic. I tried it on, marched up to the register, and quickly purchased it (behind a glass partition). I've been wearing it almost every day." – Cortne Bonilla, Lifestyle Market Writer
Shop Urban Outfitters
Urban Outfitters Gia Bucket Hat, $, available at Urban Outfitters
Stasher 100% Silicone Reusable Storage Bags
"These bags are 100% silicone and a perfect alternative to a plastic baggie! As of late, I use the 4-pack I have to help organize my wasteland of a fridge, but they also can be great lunchboxes. If you're worried that they might spill, don't. These things practically vacuum seal your food in and it's very impressive." – Alexandra Polk, Deals Writer
Shop Stasher
Stasher Clear Silicone Reusable Storage Bags, $, available at Amazon
Brooklyn Candle Studio Woodsmoke Candle
"I’ve been on the hunt for a more wallet-friendly dupe of my favorite Feu de Bois candle. I found this one from Brooklyn Candle Studio that does the trick quite well! It’s not exactly the same scent, but it’s warm and woodsy and great for fall and winter without being obviously holiday." – Kate Spencer, Deals & Updates Editor
Shop Brooklyn Candle Studio
Brooklyn Candle Studio Woodsmoke Minimalist Candle, $, available at Brooklyn Candle Studio
Naturalizer Kelise Mary Jane Heel
"Mary Janes are no new concept, but I've newly found my subconscious haunted by a particular pair of black patent-leather MJs with a perfectly flared-block heel. The catch? They're stomach-turning levels of expensive. After performing the I-can't-afford-this-but-I-must-buy-it-but-no-I-can't-afford-it dance for a good amount of time, I decided to search elsewhere. Since this style of shoe is NOT a new concept, I turned the internet upside down for a just-as-chic alternative only in a much saner budget range — that's how I found these spot-on dupes for the crazy-priced pair. The block heel is a little less flared than I'd like but, for under-$50 on top of speedy Amazon-Prime delivery, I was more than thrilled with my final purchase decision. I plan to wear them paired with these (also-snagged-Amazon) ruffled white socks, jeans, and dresses through fall and winter." – Elizabeth Buxton, Market Editor
Shop Amazon
Naturalizer Kelise Mary Jane Heel, $, available at Amazon
Patagonia Arbor Classic Pack
"While combing eBay for a past-season Patagonia outerwear for my 9-month-old, I happened across this seller, whose inventory boasts a slew of current-season NWOT swag from the premium outdoor retailer (that’s “new without tags,” for the uninitiated) at a fraction of the full retail. I snagged the last remaining baby bunting in my daughter’s size (for $99.96!) and it’s no longer online, but now I’m wondering if I should invest in the Arbor Backpack for over 50% off." – Emily Ruane, Fashion Market Writer
Shop eBay
Patagonia Arbor Classic Pack 25L, $, available at eBay
Kermit None Of My Business Enamel Pin
"Emily (R29 shopping team’s fashion whisperer) shared this in the team Slack one morning, and instantly, I knew I never needed something more. As R29’s resident lover of tea/#tea, the Kermit sipping tea meme has always resonated with me on a profound level. Like America’s favorite fuzzy frog, we love sipping hot brews ’round the clock; also like him, his indirect eye contact shows that he’s always one to rise above the drama; I’d like to think I’m the same in that sense." – Karina Hoshikawa, Beauty Market Writer
Shop Amazon
Balanced Co. Kermit None of My Business Enamel Pin, $, available at Amazon
Amazon Handmade Fringe Chiffon Ribbons
"I love a good bow-in-the-hair look during the holiday season (there's something very Samantha Parkington about it) — and, since the one I'd stolen off an unwrapped present last year finally frayed itself to death, I decided I'd better replenish my stock properly…with more decorative ribbons made for wrapping! After clicking through a hodgepodge of velvet options on Amazon, I somehow found myself face to screen with this swatch of frayed chiffon ribbons in an array of very delightful terracotta hues. Added it to cart and here I am, frayed-chiffon bow and all ready to take on the holidays. I was pretty surprised by the quality: these ribbons are veryyy silky-soft and look just as pictured, although they do fray a bit with wear-and-tear so I'd advise being gentle when fastening them up into your hair. I'd also imagine they'd make lovely gift ribbon, too, if you're not in hair." – Elizabeth Buxton, Market Editor
Shop Amazon
Ling's Moments Handmade Fringe Chiffon Ribbon, Cozy Terracotta, $, available at Amazon
Etsy Alpaca Hiking Socks
"Alpaca is a super-fiber! It’s simultaneously insulating and sweat-wicking, and it’s unbelievably soft and hypoallergenic — never itchy like wool can be. I went on a bender recently, combing Etsy for alpaca foot coverings for my entire family. (Scrolling through Etsy at midnight is pretty therapeutic — much better than social media, especially these past few days) I’m so excited to receive the pom-pom adorned baby booties I ordered for my daughter, along with the alpaca socks I grabbed for myself. The forest green and canyon clay colors will look tres chic against my patent leather Danskos. (Yes, I really do wear them all the time.)" – Emily Ruane, Fashion Market Writer
Shop UniquelyAlpacaVA
Uniquely Alpacas The Survival Sock, $, available at Etsy
Hydros Carbon Filter Water Bottle
"Let me tell you, this water bottle is made for people with selfish roommates that never refill the communal BRITA pitcher. Why? Because this cute 20oz bottle already has a carbon filter inside of it. At first, I thought it might filter slowly or take up too much room but it actually does neither. For only being $20, this bottle is my favorite." – Alexandra Polk, Deals Writer
Shop Hydros
Hydros 20oz Carbon Filter Water Bottle, $, available at Hydros
Columbia Lodge Sherpa Pull-Over
"In another testament to our team’s shopping acumen, I have to give full credit to Liz for influencing me to buy this extra-plush fleece. I am obsessed with the oatmeal and beige colorway, and while reviewers were not enthused by the cropped fit, I actually think that’s one of the best aspects of the design. Other key pointers: It’s unbelievably soft, and the zippered pocket is perfect for securely stashing keys and a credit card or two. I’m planning to wear it on repeat during an upcoming weekend trip in the Catskills, and personally am looking forward to living my best #cozycore life." – Karina Hoshikawa, Beauty Market Writer
Shop Dick's Sporting Goods
Columbia Lodge Sherpa Full-Zip Sherpa Pullover, $, available at Dick's Sporting Goods
Brandless Charcoal Face Mask
"If you have allergy-prone skin, as I do, then you know how difficult it is to navigate the wild-wild world of beauty. Brandless crafts up products without all the added ugh, and this charcoal mask works wonders. Fragrance-free, it contains natural jojoba and apricot seed oils that nourish and detoxes my skin without breaking it out." – Cortne Bonilla, Lifestyle Market Writer
Shop Brandless
Brandless Charcoal Mask, $, available at Brandless
Amazon Tripod Ring Light
"It is embarrassing, but I do have a full blow ring light and tripod combo set up in my studio apartment. It was a gift and I thought I wouldn't use it, but I actually bust it out every time I need to do my makeup. If your living space has terrible lighting like mine and you have to pray that your make-up is the right shade when you leave the house, I would 100% recommend buying this light. (P.S. It's also quite comical taking photos of yourself with a remote control.)" – Alexandra Polk, Deals Writer
Shop Amazon
sensyne 10'' Ring Light with 50'' Extendable Tripod Stand, $, available at Amazon
Quince Mongolian Shrunken Cashmere Sweatshirt
"As someone who prefers to spend under-$100 on sweaters, I do not own a lot of cashmere. If you can believe it, which I couldn't, this beautiful 100% Mongolian cashmere sweater only costs $59. The brand, Quince, pulls off such sorcery through its DTC-business model of cutting out middlemen and directly managing all of its wares' production elements (from creation to packaging and transportation). This fabric is indeed SUPER soft and does not disappoint in feeling very luxe. I also love how the shrunken fit adds a bit of a sporty-90s vibe to an otherwise preppy wardrobe staple. I was worried that it might pill very quickly/easily over time — but, at this point, I've worn it a LOT (in bed, on the couch, in a car, while eating very crumby snacks) and can confirm that it miraculously has done no such thing. It comes in other colorways and, IMO, would make for major crowd-pleasing gift material." – Elizabeth Buxton, Market Editor
Shop Quince
Quince Mongolian Shrunken Cashmere Sweatshirt, $, available at Quince
Martha Stewart CBD Meyer Lemon Oil Drops
"You heard it here first, but Martha’s out here changing the CBD game. In addition to coming in actually good flavors (the Meyer lemon one is my favorite, but there’s also blood orange and flavorless options), the quality is on par with same-sized bottles that go for double, if not more, in price. My favorite way to incorporate it into my wellness routine is by adding 1-2 droppers into my morning tea — a tip that even Martha approved of when I shared it on a recent Zoom call with the OG lifestyle influencer." – Karina Hoshikawa, Beauty Market Writer
Shop Canopy
Martha Stewart CBD Meyer Lemon Oil Drops, $, available at Canopy
Amazon Jersey Bermuda Shorts With Drawstring
"At the end of Prime Day, I was bleary-eyed from days of deal-hunting and ready to throw in the towel — but not before I pulled the trigger on something blessed with that special, once-a-year discount. I stumbled across these shorts in a story written by our contributor Ray Lowe and knew I’d found The One — and, thanks to my sale-induced delirium, I was going to buy two pairs, god damn it! I’m really happy I did — these shorts are perfect for indoor wear, but I won’t feel weird pairing them with a button-down shirt or a nicer sweater for running errands." – Emily Ruane, Fashion Market Writer
Shop Amazon
XinYangNi Jersey Bermuda Shorts with Drawstring, $, available at Amazon
Playa California Salt Scalp Scrub Shampoo
"One positive to quarantine and WFH life is that I've been able to train my hair to be washed only once a week (OK, twice maximum!). Since the days I'm not washing it are filled with both dry shampoo and workout-drenching sweat, I wanted a product that was really going to detox and clarify when I finally give it a rinse. Enter: Playa's new scalp scrub made from California sea salt and tea tree oil. I wasn't sure how this was going to work when I first plopped a scoop of it onto my head (the stuff is gritty), but after taking the recommended 30 seconds to really massage it in (with a little added water from the showerhead when things felt too dry) it finally worked itself up into a nice lather that I was able to coat my whole head with. After the salt flakes dissolved onto my scalp, I gave it a good thorough rinse out, followed up with a moisturizing hair mask, and then styled my hair as usual. I'm not exaggerating when I say that my hair looked GOOD — by far the best I'd seen it look in years (my mother agreed). Whether I owe that to washing it less or this miraculously build-up-zapping and scalp-purifying scrub, who can say. Regardless, I definitely look forward to my weekly shower-spa date with this little tub of Cali salt and cooling tea-tree oil." – Elizabeth Buxton, Market Editor
Shop Playa
Playa California Salt Scalp Scrub Shampoo, $, available at Sephora
Fellow Carter Everywhere Mug
"This little travel mug from Fellow is both minimal, modern, and functional. I take it with me on dog walks, park dates, and into my backyard to catch the last few rays of sunshine. I take forever to finish a full cup of coffee (despite drinking multiple per day) and this little mug keeps my lattes warm for hours on end." – Cortne Bonilla, Lifestyle Market Writer
Shop Fellow
Fellow Carter Everywhere Mug, $, available at Fellow
Beats Flex All-Day Wireless In-Ear Earphones
"This might be an unpopular opinion, but I truly do not love AirPods. They seem really easy to lose (that is if they don’t fall out of my ears and get run over by an oncoming car), and I don’t love the idea of having to charge them every night. After making do with my under-$20 wireless headphones that I found on Amazon, I decided to upgrade and treat myself to Beats’ new entry-level model. This, again, might be another unpopular opinion, but I personally like having a corded style to drape around my neck when not in use, and the battery life on these lasts long enough for me to charge them once every other week." – Karina Hoshikawa, Beauty Market Writer
Shop Adorama
Beats by Dr. Dre Beats Flex All-Day Wireless In-Ear Earphones, $, available at Adorama
Allbirds TrinoXO Tee
"OK, I know that $48 is a little steep for a t-shirt, but since this story is about the most valuable products, you CAN believe the hype surrounding Allbirds’ new tee. We reviewed all the eco-friendly brand’s newly-launched apparel a few weeks back, and while the whole collection is seriously sustainable and super high-performing, we were all collectively wowed by the t-shirt (myself included). Rendered in a blend of merino wool, tree fiber, and actual crustacean shells (!) the tee is lightweight, blissfully soft, and odor-reducing. The boxy cut is very sophisticated, so it feels much more elevated than your average Hanes layer. Highly recommend this one, especially as a gift — it’s the kind of thing someone wouldn’t necessarily buy for themselves but would be thrilled to receive." – Emily Ruane, Fashion Market Writer
Shop Allbirds
Allbirds TrinoXO Tee, $, available at Allbirds
Caudalie Vinopure Natural Salicylic Acid Pore Minimizing Toner
"As we all know, maskne is real, and after trying everything from home extractions (don’t recommend) to wearing pimple patches under my mask (a yes from me!), I came across a viral IG reel that has worked like a charm: Spraying your mask with a salicylic acid toner before putting it on. So genius, yet so simple: The idea behind the hack is to treat the inside of your mask (aka the part that’s in contact with your skin) with ingredients that kill acne-causing bacteria, effectively stopping breakouts in their tracks. While you can use any kind of salicylic acid toner, my favorite is the Caudalie Vinopure one since it’s mild enough to not be irritating, but has dramatically reduced the pesky zits cropping up on my chin and jawline. At $28, it’s more than what you’ll pay at the drugstore, but the 6.7oz bottle will last you a long time." – Karina Hoshikawa, Beauty Market Writer
Shop Caudalie
Caudalie Vinopure Natural Salicylic Acid Pore Minimizing Toner, $, available at Sephora
Cole Haan Odette Driverina Flat
Last Month's Top MVP:
"I've said it before and I'll say it again: these shoes are good. Cole Haan's not-quite-a-loafer loafer — or, as I like to think of it, baby of a stretchy-backed ballet flat and classic driving shoe — have been on sale for just under 50 bucks for what's seemed like forever with ample sizing stock to boot (so cart them while you still can!!). I purchased these beauties in both the black and brown styles and did not live to regret it: they run true to size, are very comfortable with a slipper-like fit for inside wear yet enough sole structure to still be durable for outside, and they look *chefs kiss*. At this point, my outfit plans have come to fruition and I have indeed worn them with everything from straight-up PJs to wide-legs jeans (pictured here) and chunky knit sweaters." – Elizabeth Buxton, Market Editor
Shop Cole Haan
Cole Haan Odette Driverina Braided Flat, $, available at Cole Haan
Space Mask
Last Month's Top MVP:
"Now that I've had about six months to get acquainted with an accessory I've never considered before 2020, I can report that I have found the one. The elusive face mask that can be worn for long periods of time that doesn't make me feel like I am going drown in a heavy mist of my own breath. And it's not flimsy either! The Space Mask (cue: 2001: A Space Odyssey theme song) uses impressive-sounding (and feeling) nanotechnology for its tightly woven filters and is made of three layers including an antibacterial filter, soft cotton, and another nano filter. It's CDC-approved and comes in three sizes (the size small fit my tiny peanut head — hurrah!). But back to the main event, no sweaty face." – Marissa Rosenblum, Shopping Director
Shop Space Mask
Space Mask Space Mask, $, available at Space Mask
Everlane Cotton Crew
Last Month's Top MVP:
"ICYMI, Everlane’s hiding-in-plain-sight sale section is a gold mine of treasures. My most recent conquest: its fan-fave crewneck sweater in deliciously soft cotton, which is 30% off for a limited time. I love the slightly cropped, boxy fit, and the fact that it’s not too heavy for this transitional weather. I went for the muted pistachio colorway (swoon!), but am seriously debating snapping up my size in the other available hues while it’s at a palatable under-$40 price point. (You can never have too many black sweaters, right?)" – Karina Hoshikawa, Beauty Market Writer
Shop Everlane
Everlane The Soft Cotton Crew - Heathered Spearmint, $, available at Everlane
Bottled Joy Hydration Motivation Bottle
Last Month's Top MVP:
"Even as a vegan, I'm terrible at consuming enough water during the day. I know, I know; grow up already. I've never been a big water drinker (perhaps because I'm always sipping coffee) but this bottle has changed my life this month. Not only is it easy to tote around the apartment, but it's also detailed with time frames and motivational words to encourage proper hydration. I've never downed so much water in my life." – Cortne Bonilla, Lifestyle Market Writer
Shop Amazon
BOTTLED JOY Half Gallon Water Bottle with Straw Lid, BPA Free 75oz, $, available at Amazon
UNIQLO U Men's Fleece Shirt Jacket
Last Month's Top MVP:
"I am a big Uniqlo fan, especially when the weather starts turning and you can feel the fall (and impending doom of winter) starting to creep in. When I saw the new Uniqlo U collection drop the other week, I immediately bought this men's shirt jacket in an XXS. It's the perfect oversized 'shacket' for this weather transition and the brown color is just right." – Kate Spencer, Deals & Updates Editor
Shop Uniqlo
Uniqlo MEN U FLEECE LONG-SLEEVE SHIRT JACKET, $, available at Uniqlo
9-Pack Of Satin Scrunchies
Last Month's Top MVP:
"I usually wear my natural hair in a big puff puff on top of my head every day for work, and at the end of the day, I'm too lazy to carefully free it from a normal hair tie. With these, I can just rip them out of my hair and it leaves absolutely no damage. It's great. These scrunchies also lessen the puff-puff headache I get when I wear my hair up for hours on end which, despite my hair dresser's disapproval, I do all the time." – Alexandra Polk, Deals Writer
Shop Amazon
FANNI SHOP Satin Scrunchies (Pack of 9), $, available at Amazon
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