Ahead, behold the under-$100 products we actually bought, used, came to rely on, and LOVE over the past 30+ days: from a new nail-strengthening cream to Amazon's adult baby blankets and one small bottle of very powerful coffee concentrate. Scroll on to web-window shop, feel seen, inspired, fatigued, or just connected across all the noise. Oh, and please don't be shy in the comment sections below — we thrive on hearing about the gems you've carted for under one hundo that have made these weird times feel just a smidge sunnier.
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.
Olive & June Nail Strengthener
"Despite winter being my favorite season (don’t @ me!), I’ll be the first to admit that the months of cold, dry weather have not been kind to my nails. I’ve tried various nail “masks” and am good about my cuticle care, but was still dealing with brittle, peeling nails when Olive & June’s new nail strengthener came into my life. It’s not like any other treatment I’ve tried before — you can use it nightly as an intensive regimen, or as a first step before polish. I’ve been using it for about two weeks (including under two manis) and am already seeing stronger, happier nails as a result." – Karina Hoshikawa, Beauty & Wellness Writer
Shop Olive & June
Olive & June Nail Strengthener, $, available at Olive & June
Amazon Classic French Beret
"At this point, you all know I’m obsessed with berets. I’ve added this light blue beauty to my line up and it’s already better than I could have ever hoped. Don’t sleep on this magical accessory in the perfect warm-weather hue!" – Chichi Offor, Associate Writer
Shop Amazon
JOYHY JOYHY Women's Solid Color Classic French Style Beret, $, available at Amazon
Jot Coffee Concentrate
"I moved into a new apartment this month which meant all of my appliances, including my beloved coffee maker, were packed away for many mornings. Even when my coffee machine was unpacked I didn't have the time to get the grounds together, find a filter, etc., so this coffee concentrate from Jot was my savior. I just turned my kettle on, poured the hot water into my cup, and BOOM I had coffee. It doesn't have the fullness of a regular brewed cup, but it has mega caffeine, a nice rich flavor, and is 10x faster than my coffee maker. I'm sure true coffee connoisseurs could do great things with stuff –– make fluffy lattes, flavor a cake, who knows." – Alexandra Polk, Lifestyle Writer
Shop Jot
Jot Ultra Coffee, $, available at Jot
Harper Wilde The Lounge
"I've been living in this newest bra debut from female-founded & run brasserie brand, Harper Wilde. It's so soft, supple, and stretchy that sometimes I forget I'm wearing it. The feel & fit of this seamless ribbed wonder I'd describe as if a scoop-style sports bra had a baby with a bralette made from your favorite worn-in t-shirt. Would I go running in it? Probably not. But, it's not called The Run for a reason. If you've been searching for the ideal lounge-around support for your ladies, this is IT." – Elizabeth Buxton, Editor
Shop Harper Wilde
Harper Wilde The Lounge, $, available at Harper Wilde
Amazon Reusable Neck Gel Ice Pack
"I’ve been dealing with a pinched nerve in my shoulder/neck for about a week now, and it’s truly taken over my whole life. I woke up the other night at 3 a.m. in pain and ordered this icepack to wear off and on during the day. Honestly, it’s pretty great. It stays in place, is HUGE, and molds to your neck and shoulders." – Kate Spencer, Creative & Updates Editor
Shop Amazon
AlierGo Reusable Neck Gel Ice Pack, $, available at Amazon
Baggu Puffy Glasses Sleeve
"Like the rest of North Brooklyn, I have a serious love affair with Baggu. From reusable, foldable totes to padded laptop cases, they can do no wrong in my book. My latest purchase: A cushioned case that the brand refers to as “a protective cloud for your glasses.” (*swoon*) At under $20, the price was right for a chic, functional home for my spare frames, and I was drawn like a moth to a flame by the gorgeous emerald hue." – Karina Hoshikawa, Beauty & Wellness Writer
Shop Baggu
Baggu Puffy Glasses Sleeve, $, available at Baggu
World Market Muted Shower Curtain
"Finding an aesthetically pleasing shower curtain that doesn't cost an exorbitant amount or feel like a piece of printer paper is oddly cumbersome. I snagged this one from World Market (for under $30!) and I'm obsessed with how it's covered in rainbows but has muted hues so it doesn't overwhelm my itty bitty bathroom. It has a cloth-like texture and is 100% cotton which makes it flow nicely over the tub. I definitely recommend getting a liner as well for the ultimate cute shower experience." – Alexandra Polk, Lifestyle Writer
Shop World Market
Cost Plus World Market Muted Rainbow Shower Curtain, $, available at Cost Plus World Market
Tower 28 Power Duo Lip + Cheek Set
"Tower 28 may be one of my all-time favorites in the clean-beauty game — especially where dewy complexions are concerned. Already a mega-fan of the brand's tinted balms & cream bronzers (they just do it right), I was amped up to try out its newest power duo (pictured here). My cheeks are showcasing the warm-terracotta flush of its Power Hour shade, and my lips are glossed with its rosy-brown Cashew tube. Although I'm not usually a gloss gal, Tower 28's Jelly formulas are anything but sticky — the finish is light, smooth, and surprisingly moisturizing. Both products are incredibly buildable, whether you're looking to go all out for a made-up look or just want to add a touch of dreamy color. I'm sensing this set is about to be my go-to summer sheen." – Elizabeth Buxton, Editor
Shop Tower 28
Shop Sephora
Tower 28 Power Duo Lip + Cheek Set, $, available at Tower 28
Baublebar Alidia Ring
"These rings had me feeling quite glam this month. They're the perfect amount chunky–– just small enough so it's not bothersome, but rest assured they will be seen sparkling in the light from a mile away. So far each ring has survived multiple hand washes, the occasional scrape, and a few accidental drops. They come in all kinds of colors and to be honest I would like another one." – Alexandra Polk, Lifestyle Writer
Shop Baublebar
BaubleBar Mini Alidia Cubic Zirconia Ring, $, available at BaubleBar
Brooklinen Super-Plush Bath Towels
"There's nothing like moving to make you realize how incredibly gross your previous home's towels were. Quality post-bath-and-shower threads, like Brooklinen's, are a worthy investment — especially when they look this good, are made of 100% OEKO-TEX-certified Turkish cotton, and can double as bathroom decor (instead of ratty eyesores). These things really are ridiculously plush, as their super name would suggest." – Elizabeth Buxton, Editor
Shop Brooklinen
Brooklinen Super-Plush Bath Towels, $, available at Brooklinen
Everlane The Fatigue Barrel Pant
"I love wearing lightweight pants in the warmer months and I've been looking for a black pair, so when I saw Everlane drop these new barrel pants made of cotton and linen, I picked them right up. I was pleasantly surprised that they fit perfectly, no cuff rolling or hemming required!" – Kate Spencer, Creative & Updates Editor
Shop Everlane
Everlane The Fatigue Barrel Pant, $, available at Everlane
Amazon 100% Cotton-Muslin Blanket
"Marissa Rosenblum made me do it, and her phone demon made her do it; Amazon's hidden land of cotton-muslin coverlets, aka adult baby blankets, was a shopping siren song I've not lived to regret succumbing to. In fact, I've already purchased another one of these 4-layer 100% cotton-muslin beauties in a soft dove gray (the one pictured is the blue-gray colorway). I plan to throw my adult baby blankie #2 over my couch as a very soft and swaddl-y cover for when I feel like snacking or drinking red wine while lounging." – Elizabeth Buxton, Editor
Shop Amazon
Susan Craft Shop Linen Instax Mini Album
"In keeping with a recent obsession with my re-animated Fujifilm Instax camera, I just purchased this photo album on Etsy that’s designed for the camera’s credit card-sized images. It did take a minute to get here, but now that it’s arrived I’m already going to need another one for the five million photos I have taken in the past few months. (I’m exaggerating, but it feels that way.) I love the high-quality fabric binding and the oblong shape of the album — plus, the photo slots are just the right size for the miniature instant pics, but are cut with enough room that I feel like I’ll be able to move them around easily without messing up the pages too much." – Emily Ruane, Fashion Writer
Shop Etsy
Susan Craft Shop Fujifilm Instax Mini Album, $, available at Etsy
RAID Wide-Fit Liza Chunky Chelsea Boots
"I’ve been looking for affordable chunky Chelsea boots for a while that was actually comfy. Although, I can wear averaged sized shoes, sometimes I get wide-foot shoes for extra comfort because boots especially can be pretty uncomfy. These fit really nicely and were instantly comfortable. There was little to no time needed to break them in and they go with so much. The chunky sole also makes them a lot more fun than a regular pair of Chelsea boots. " – Chichi Offor, Associate Writer
Shop ASOS
Raid RAID Wide Fit Liza chunky chelsea boots in black, $, available at ASOS
Arthur Elrod: Desert Modern Design by Adele Cygelman
"To be fair, this has not arrived yet, BUT. I am quivering with excitement to receive this monograph on mid-century Palm Springs-based interior designer Arthur Elrod. I’m preparing to move soon, and I came across the iconic designer’s work while deep in a Pinterest k-hole researching 1960s home decor. Orangina-hued sectional sofa, here I come!" – Emily Ruane, Fashion Writer
Shop Amazon
Gibbs Smith Arthur Elrod: Desert Modern Design, $, available at Amazon
Project 62 Over The Mantle Mirror
"I just moved! And so many of my recent purchases (and most of my paychecks) have been going towards homey things — like this delightfully arched mirror that I snagged off Target for $60. Mirrors aren't cheap, and this one looks much more expensive than it actually is. Plus, it's well-sized and arrived the same week I carted it! (ICYWW: my dining chairs AND light fixtures are also from Target — someone please stop me.)" – Elizabeth Buxton, Editor
Shop Target
Project 62 36" x 24" Over the Mantel Mirror Natural MDF Back, $, available at Target
Amazon Laptop Stand
"This was another pain-induced purchase. I’ve been working from my laptop (like so many others) and I think the constant crouching and looking downward has contributed to my neck/shoulder situation. I bought these little feet that stick onto the bottom of your laptop to tilt it in more of an ergonomic way. The nice thing is they fold under when you want your laptop to lay flat again." – Kate Spencer, Creative & Updates Editor
Shop Amazon
Lopww Reusable 3M Adhesive Laptop Stand, $, available at Amazon
Mustela Multi-Sensory Bubble Bath
"Bathtime with my 14-month old daughter has gotten a little… contentious, as routines with toddlers often do. My husband actually had the brilliant idea to use a bubble bath to create a spa-like environment and hopefully entice her into enjoying a chill moment in the tub, and, of course, we made a beeline for the Mustela section of Target because it’s our favorite brand for baby stuff — their products are phthalate- and paraben-free and hypoallergenic. This bubble bath is sublime and does not shirk in the froth department, and I have been known to use it myself. And the best part? My daughter REALLY likes bathtime now. Win-win!" – Emily Ruane, Fashion Writer
Shop Target
Mustela Baby Bubble Bath, $, available at Target
Everlane The Way-High Skinny Jean
"Earlier this spring, skinny jeans were declared dead according to taste-making youths. While I’ll admit that my denim collection includes a comprehensive range of kick-flares, boyfriend, and straight styles, I always had a soft spot for the ’00s iconic style. Whether dyed black for a cigarette pant-lite effect or in dark indigo, the skinny has always been a comfort zone for petite gals such as myself. I can’t remember the last time I got a new pair of skinny jeans, but leave it to Everlane to change that with its new drop. The too-low rise beloved by the hot young things of my teen years has been traded in for a Gen Z-friendly sky-high rise, and the soft denim is surprisingly comfortable. 10/10 would recommend." – Karina Hoshikawa, Beauty & Wellness Writer
Shop Everlane
Everlane The Way-High Skinny Jean, $, available at Everlane
Olive & June Besties Nail Polish
"I gotta be honest, this type of emerald green is usually not my preferred nail color, but I tried it recently at the behest of our beauty editor Karina Hoshikawa and I was pleasantly surprised at how much I liked it. This (at-home) paint job is fresh, but I know from previous forays into the world of Olive & June that it’s got staying power. Plus, the LA brand’s long-wearing nail varnish is “7-free” — meaning it doesn’t contain any of common nail polish toxins, including toluene, dibutyl phthalate, formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, camphor, ethyl tosylamide, and xylene." – Emily Ruane, Fashion Writer
Shop Olive & June
Olive & June Besties Nail Polish, $, available at Olive & June
Koi Footwear Nettie Cow Print Mary Janes
"I celebrated my 26 birthday in March and my baby sister gifted me these magical, platform mary janes from Koi Footwear! I’m absolutely obsessed with them. Cow print is an unexpected neutral. Not only do these shoes go with so many outfits, but they also come in many colors in a wide variety of sizes." – Chichi Offor, Associate Writer
Shop Koi Footwear
Koi Footwear Nettie Cow Print Mary Janes, $, available at Koi Footwear
Tazo Skinny Latte Chai Black Tea
"Iced chai lattes used to be my go-to order at the (now permanently closed) coffee spot near the R29 offices. While there’s no shortage of equally good cafes near my Brooklyn abode, I’ve mastered the art of chai lattes at home, and all thanks to this delicious Tazo concentrate. You can play around with the milk-to-concentrate ratio depending on how strong you like it, and if you really want to get wild, add a shot of espresso (or cold brew concentrate if you don’t have an espresso machine) for an extra kick." – Karina Hoshikawa, Beauty & Wellness Writer
Shop Target
Tazo Skinny Latte Chai Black Tea, $, available at Target
Feals CBD Extract
Last Month's Top MVP:
"Not all hemp-derived CBD products are created equal but many people still find and favor quality brands that haven't yet been evaluated or approved by the FDA. I can now count myself among them in swearing by one for helping me to sleep solidly through the night. If you haven't heard of feals, it's a membership-based CBD subscription where, prior to signing up, you can sample extract flights in order to discover which strength works best with your body. Its product is hand-harvested by farmers in Colorado and Oregon using organic farming practices and only contains full-spectrum hemp and USDA certified organic MCT oil (nothin' else). Pretty nifty. Since I've dabbled in CBD, I went with the mid-level 1200-MG — but, the under-$100 600-MG is great for beginners. The first night I tried it, I went a bit overboard and took down a full-dropper. This resulted in me waking up after 12 hours of sleep not knowing what day it was. So, the next night, I actually paid attention to the measurement markers on the dropper and took about a third of what I had before. This equaled a still-as-sound slumber session sans any groggy morning-after effects. I woke up feeling fresh and wellrested — which is a rarity for me! It's also worth noting that I usually take a third of the dropper 30 minutes before getting into bed and it hits me pretty quickly." – Elizabeth Buxton, Editor
Shop Feals
Feals CBD Extract, 600 MG, $, available at Feals
New Balance Sola Sleek Classic Running Shoe
Last Month's Top MVP:
"This one is for my fellow plain white/cream sneaker collectors. I bought these this month because I've worn my Reeboks down to the bone and needed a new go-to. They are super comfortable and give off a 90s dad walking around Disneyland vibe that unfortunately goes with everything else in my wardrobe (hence the 90s Instagram filter I used for my pic). The wondrous Nordstrom Rack price tag sold me and I will say, they are fab. I also recommend going half a size up!" – Alexandra Polk, Lifestyle Writer
Shop Nordstrom Rack
New Balance Sola Sleek Classic Running Shoe, $, available at Nordstrom Rack
Emily Deakin Designs Hermana Solo Ring
Last Month's Top MVP:
"I bought this unisex bronze ring after adding it to a Valentine’s Day round-up — it’s carved completely by hand, without a mold, so no two are exactly alike. It took a while to get here because it was coming from Spain, but I put it on as soon as it arrived and have not taken it off. It stacks so perfectly with my other gold rings and blends right in thanks to the warm color. (Brass can be really yellow, but this ring is bronze and boasts a rosy under-glow.) On the subject of brass and bronze — as a longtime wearer of both of these metals I know that they can both tarnish easily and stain the skin. Not so with this ring! There is sometimes a faint dark mark on my skin when I wake up in the morning but for the most part, it has remained totally tarnish-free." – Emily Ruane, Fashion Writer
Shop Etsy
Emily Deakin Design Hermana Ring, $, available at Etsy
Marcoon Sewing Kit
Last Month's Top MVP:
"I'm no seamstress but, when the button fell off of my beloved faux leather pants, I decided now's the perfect time to learn some basics. I watched this YouTube video and sewed my button back on my pants with this awesome sewing kit." – Chichi Offor, Associate Writer
Shop Amazon
Marcoon Sewing Kit, $, available at Amazon
Aerie Fleece-Of-Mind Cropped Polo Sweatshirt & High-Waited Short
Last Month's Top MVP:
"I was getting super hot in my apartment wearing a full matching sweatsuit, so I picked up this shorts version from Aerie. The price point is great, it’s super soft, and will be an A+ spring WFH lewk." – Kate Spencer, Creative & Updates Editor
Shop Aerie
Shop Aerie
Aerie Fleece-Of-Mind Cropped Polo Sweatshirt, $, available at AE
Aerie Fleece-Of-Mind High Waisted Short, $, available at AE
Farmacy Honey Grail Ultra-Hydrating Face Oil
Last Month's Top MVP:
"I have sensitive skin (eczema-prone, easily flushed, struggled with perioral dermatitis for five years) — so when I find a product that actually harmonizes with my complexion instead of traumatizing it, it's a good day. I'd had Farmacy's all-natural skincare on my radar but had yet to actually try any of its premium products until Honey Grail. And, it's just as divine as its clever name suggests. It's pretty spot-on described as a "fast-absorbing, antioxidant-rich face oil for ultimate hydration and glow!" The little bottle features a serum-like dropper that dispenses a luxe oil that feels and smells like a lightweight version of honey — likely due to the fact that it's made with real honey, along with sea buckthorn and a five-flower oil blend (including omegas, vitamins, and amino acids). Since I've been using it in the mornings after splashing my face with cool water, I've noticed improvements; my complexion feels plumper, smoother, brighter, and, most importantly, soothed! A little goes a long way and I've got plans to lean on this product as a sensitive-winter-skin holy grail (or, should I say honey grail?)." – Elizabeth Buxton, Editor
Shop Farmacy
Farmacy Honey Grail, $, available at Farmacy
Laundry Day Tanjun Pipe
"Even if you don't subscribe to the ~let's blaze~ lifestyle, Laundry Day's glass Tanjun Pipe can serve just as well as delightful desk decor or a groovy gift for a groovy friend. (I've seen Instagram evidence of it being used as a bud vase.) The female-founded brand behind this staircase-shaped fellow offers a whole happy collection of design-forward smokeware and unique home accessories; imagine everything from golden shell-shaped herb grinders to candy-colored ashtrays and puffy cloud candles. Laundry Day's on an aesthetically-pleasing mission to reframe the visual narrative around cannabis use — and I'm digging it." – Elizabeth Buxton, Editor
Shop Laundry Day
Laundry Day Tanjun Pipe, $, available at Laundry Day
Basic Concepts Tongue Scraper
Last Month's Top MVP:
"Some people do not subscribe to this lifestyle, but I am a big fan of tongue scrapers. This pack of two is a total MVP because the stainless steel makes it easy to clean, the shape is perfect, and it honestly just gets the job done. Also, sustainability! I'd much rather clean a tongue scraper and reuse it rather than throwing away plastic ones every night and day. Twas' a good ten dollar investment." – Alexandra Polk, Deals Writer
Shop Amazon
BASIC CONCEPTS Tongue Scraper (2 Pack), $, available at Amazon
Sam Edelman Lior Loafer
Last Month's Top MVP:
"My wardrobe almost exclusively consists of shades of white, grey, and black, so I try to incorporate color in my accessories and makeup. It’s widely known among friends, family, and the R29 Shopping Team that forest green is my signature color, so when I stumbled upon these croc-leather loafers, it was as if time stood still. I’d been in the market for cute, versatile loafers I could wear with everything (but would also upgrade any ’fit), and these Sam Edelman ones were deliciously marked down during Nordstrom’s post-holiday sale. I have very smol feet and am usually in between a 5 and 5.5, but according to reviews, the style tends to run ever so slightly large. I got the 5’s and they fit like a dream — no breaking in period required." – Karina Hoshikawa, Beauty & Wellness Writer
Shop Nordstrom
Sam Edelman Lior Loafer, $, available at Nordstrom
Quince Mongolian Shrunken Cashmere Sweatshirt
Last Month's Top MVP:
"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 MTC-business model of cutting out the 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 (I'm wearing a size small here) 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
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