23 Affordable Products That Look Expensive
A tote bag people will ~swear~ is the Longchamp Le Pliage bag at first (and second, and third) glance — after all, it even folds up into a lil' compact rectangle just like it. It's the perfect bag to take along to the office, thanks to how sleek and professional it looks. Plus, it's large enough to fit a laptop, toiletry bag, and everything else you could possibly need.
Or an elevated laptop tote bag because you deserve to strut into work in style. It's roomy, super versatile, and the perfect alternative to the Béis Work Tote, for a lot less $$$. Some reviewers even say they like this one a lot better.
A high-waisted mini skirt that looks incredibly familiar (hello, Aritzia? Is that you?) and made with a satiny material that is sure to make you feel ~très chic~. This skirt comes in many different colors, so you can snag a bunch of 'em for the same price as a single name-brand one — and no one will even be able to tell the difference.
A simple, gorgeous tennis bracelet to add some ✨sparkle✨ to your wrist, but ya know, without costing you the down payment of a nice house in the suburbs. This elegant piece looks just like Swarovski, and reviewers say it doesn't tarnish, so it's bound to last you years. After all, diamonds may be a girl's best friend, but cubic zirconia is her lover.
A classic herringbone necklace so those strangers you pass by at Starbucks think you ~actually~ spent $13,000+ on a gold necklace. This is so close to the Tiffany HardWear version, literally no one will believe you were able to snag it for only $20.
A three-pack of vintage-inspired sunglasses to make you look like you dropped $$ on RayBans, but sans the crippling worry of accidentally dropping 'em. No need to fear losing these bad boys while lounging poolside at that fab resort you booked — these glasses are not only super cute but extremely affordable, so you can keep a backup pair (or two) for the days you misplace these at the tiki bar.
And oversized square sunglasses that will make your friends think you shelled out the big bucks for Bottega Veneta, when really all it cost you was the price of two meals at Chick-fil-A. Plus, you won't cry when you accidentally lose a pair or scratch them up at the beach, which, let's be honest, is more likely to happen than not.
A stylish fitness smartwatch because those expensive versions are not only a bit too pricey, but let's be honest, aren't even half as chic as these ones. They're water resistant, take calls and texts, monitor your sleep, AND have over 70 different activity modes for fitness tracking, including the ability to track your heart rate, steps, and calories for each workout.
A pair of classic white sneakers, so you don't need to drop a whole day's pay on a name brand, just so you can have a cute "go-to" shoe you'll find yourself reaching for day in and day out. They're comfy, they're sleek, and most importantly, they won't hurt your wallet.
A chain purse if you've always salivated over the thought of owning Gucci's Dionysus bag, but your bank account says ✨no.✨ This has the same chain style and front clasp, so literally no one will be able to tell the difference — don't worry, I won't spill your lil' secret.
Or a quilted purse that's really giving ✨Chanel.✨ It's luxurious, has quilt stitching (be still, my beating heart), three compartments, and looks super sophisticated. You'll find yourself reaching for this bag on every occasion. The best part? This bag won't cost you a whole month's rent.
A pair of stylish teardrop earrings so much cheaper than the (very) expensive Bottega Veneta ones that look exactly like them. These gold-plated earrings may look heavy, but reviewers swear they're lightweight and perfect for those with sensitive ears.
A midi corset dress to make you feel like you're a modern-day princess just taking a walk through the woods. It has a back cinch and a front tie, basically all the same features as the TikTok-famous House of CB Carmen dress (but you know, not $225) — your little heart will be aflutter at the sight of this cutesy dress.
A pair of slip-on loafer mules with the iconic gold clasp that'll have your friends swearingggg they're Gucci. Sophistication, meet an affordable price tag. Yeah, you def need these ASAP.
A faux pearl choker so dainty and elegant, Vivienne Westwood herself will be impressed by how ridiculously similar it looks to the real one. Snag one of these to add a bit of "ooh la la 🥂" to any 'fit you throw together.
A spandex-blend slip maxi dress sure to be your go-to piece any time of year. It's a gorgeous and simple dress that you'll find yourself slipping on every time you have an event where you wanna feel ✨fancy. ✨ Plus, it's so incredibly similar to the popular Skims one, but affordable enough that you can actually buy one in every color.
Or a ribbed square-neck, long-sleeve maxi dress, also incredibly similar to the Skims version for a fraction of the price. It's soft, it's stretchy, and it's uber comfy, so you'll find yourself reaching for this piece almost every single day.
A cubic zirconia cuff that'll have strangers actually thinking you spent (wait, checks notes) $17,000 😱 on the Cartier Love Bracelet. Not only is it less than $12, but you don't need to screw it on — unlike the way too ridiculously expensive version.
And on that note, a cubic zirconia ring because you've always wanted the Cartier Love Ring to match, but not the price attached to it. It's simple, it's elegant, and it's pretty much guaranteed to never go out of style. Time to get one in every metal.
A classic pleated tennis skirt to make it look like you belong at a country club tennis court — no one's gotta know you're on a budget. Reviewers have compared these to Nike, Alo, and Aritzia. Hello, bougie!
A faux-leather belt that is sure to become the focal piece of your outfit. Is it actually Gucci? Perhaps not. But those buddies you meet weekly for brunch don't gotta know that.
A loungewear set for those of you who don't want to sacrifice comfort for style. You can lounge around confident in your fashionista status with a set that looks ridiculously similar to the Skims set the Kardashians are known to adore.
You, after calculating how much money you just saved:
The reviews used in this post have been edited for length and clarity.
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New York Post
39 minutes ago
- New York Post
Mogul featured in Forbes' ‘30 Under 30′ denied bonuses to workers while flaunting $5K Chanel rollerblades: report
A millennial mogul denied bonuses to her employees as her business imploded — even while she spent lavishly on items that included $5,000 Chanel rollerblades, according to a report. Daniella Pierson, who turned 30 last Monday, rose to prominence with a women-focused lifestyle newsletter, The Newsette, that she launched while attending Boston University in 2015. Her entrepreneurial hustle landed her on Forbes' '30 under 30' list of notable media figures in 2020 — helping her rub shoulders with A-lister Selena Gomez, pop singer Jewel and designer Diane Von Furstenberg, according to Forbes. 5 Daniella Pierson, once hailed by Forbes as one of America's richest self-made women, is facing claims she exaggerated her business success and lavishly spent on luxuries while denying employee bonuses. Getty Images The next year, investor Peter Rahal took a 1.25% stake in her budding media company at a valuation of $200 million. But Pierson's self-made image has become bruised by constant exaggerations that call into question her business acumen, according to more than a dozen sources who spoke to Forbes. She has admitted to using fake email accounts to make her one-woman startup look bigger, inflating subscriptions by double-counting readers and boasting that brands like Nike spent 'tens of millions' a year with her when no deal ever topped $1 million, the outlet reported. The report described Pierson as an effective self-promoter — earning a reputation as a rising star in women's entrepreneurship by cultivating celebrity friendships, landing magazine covers and touting her companies as booming successes. Behind the scenes, however, former colleagues and business records cited by Forbes suggest a pattern of overstatement, misrepresentation, and high-profile ventures that have either faltered or collapsed. Multiple ex-employees told Forbes that Pierson denied staff their annual bonuses and, minutes later, posted Instagram Stories flaunting new Chanel rollerblades and a marble kitchen remodel for her apartment in Soho— a jarring look for someone branding herself as a champion of women. 5 Pierson built a high-profile brand through celebrity connections and aggressive self-promotion. She is seen left with singer Jewel. Getty Images Former staff told Forbes that The Newsette's workforce is down to roughly a quarter of its peak, and revenue has dropped from the $40 million she claimed in 2021 to under $4 million in recent years. Pierson had followed the success of Newsette with the launch of Wondermind, a mental health startup she co-founded Gomez and the singer's mother, Mandy Teefey, in 2021. She was forced out of Wondermind last year after clashing with her co-CEO, according to the Forbes report. Pierson's own account of The Newsette's origins includes embellishment, Forbes reported. In a Stanford Graduate School of Business talk, she described creating fake email accounts to give the impression of a bigger staff and posing as an intern to recruit subscribers. Pierson also managed to leverage her personal ties with Furstenberg, her 'fairy godmother,' who introduced her to several connections at Amazon, including company founder Jeff Bezos. 'I have known Daniella for years. Her drive is impressive and I am fond of her. My relationship with her is more personal than business,' von Furstenberg told The Post. Pierson was able to parlay her newfound ties to Amazon into a marketing campaign in which the e-commerce giant featured female founders on its homepage to mark International Women's Day. 5 A screenshot of The Newsette's homepage, the women-focused lifestyle newsletter Pierson launched in 2015 that Forbes says inflated subscriber counts and brand deal values. Amazon also became one of the first and largest clients of Newland, Pierson's marketing agency, a partnership which earned The Newsette Media Group tens of millions in sales. By 2021, company sales totaled $34 million, according to internal documents — less than Pierson's repeated public claims but still the most it had ever made. That year, she secured investment from Rahal, founder of RXBar, who took a stake in her company without reportedly looking at its finances. The $200 million valuation translated into an estimated personal stake for Pierson worth nearly $170 million. When combined with her Wondermind shares and other assets, Forbes listed her as worth $220 million in 2021. Shortly after the deal, the company's main revenue source — Newland's marketing work for Amazon and Mattel — began to crumble. Both clients ended their relationships, and by the end of 2023, Newland had been shut down, though Pierson continued to present it as active, according to Forbes. Former staff told the publication that she also misrepresented the scale of brand deals, telling clients companies like Nike and Ulta Beauty were spending tens of millions of dollars annually when no single contract topped $1 million. Internal records from 2022 cited by Forbes show she overstated subscriber numbers as well. Last year, she claimed 1.3 million subscribers across three newsletters, without clarifying that many were duplicates. Media valuation expert Kevin Kamen reviewed The Newsette's latest figures and social reach for Forbes and estimated it is now worth 'no more than $12.2 million.' 5 Pierson, photographed during her rise as a media entrepreneur, allegedly overstated The Newsette's size and client spending to bolster her image. Getty Images At Wondermind, Pierson's co-leadership lasted about a year before she was pushed out, according to former staff. Two-thirds of the 15-person team were later laid off, Forbes reported. Ex-employees from both companies describe her management style as volatile, with frequent outbursts, micromanaging and public criticism of staff work, according to the Forbes report. Several recalled her denying annual bonuses shortly before posting on Instagram about luxury purchases. The Post has sought comment from Pierson, Gomez and Teefey. An Amazon spokesperson declined to comment. In 2023, Pierson nearly became part of an even bigger headline — the potential sale of Forbes Media. Luminar Technologies CEO Austin Russell led a bid to acquire the outlet, and Pierson was slated to join the board, according to Forbes. Investor calls during fundraising drew mixed reactions, with some participants questioning her involvement. 5 Pierson, 30, is reported to have denied bonuses before showcasing a $5,000 pair of Chanel rollerblades and a marble kitchen on Instagram. Getty Images She took charge of public relations, issuing a press release that announced an 'oversubscribed' deal and included a composite group photo positioning her at the center. The acquisition collapsed two months later, but Pierson continued to list herself online as a Forbes board member until her agency removed the claim this month, according to the report. As Forbes prepared to publish its investigation over the weekend, Pierson posted on Instagram accusing unnamed parties of a 'smear campaign' against her and her companies, vowing to continue investing 'millions of my own dollars into helping women.' Rahal now interacts with her ventures only sparingly. Earlier this year, he responded to one of her LinkedIn announcements with a single clown emoji.
New York Post
3 hours ago
- New York Post
How the Shark FlexStyle has me skipping those trendy $25 blowouts: My review
New York Post may be compensated and/or receive an affiliate commission if you click or buy through our links. Featured pricing is subject to change. If there's one thing I know inside and out, it's beauty tools. My bathroom counter has seen more blow dryers, straighteners, diffusers, and curling gadgets than a salon during prom season. From $20 drugstore dryers to high-end unicorns that cost more than rent (hi, Dyson), I've tested them all. So, when I got my hands on the Shark FlexStyle air styling and drying system, I knew it was time to put this internet-famous multitasker to the ultimate test. Could it be the real deal, or just another overhyped beauty gizmo with a cute name and big promises? Now, before you ask: Yes, I've read all the Shark FlexStyle reviews. Yes, I've watched the TikToks. And yes, I've even written a full review comparing the Shark Flexstyle versus the Dyson Airwrap. That's why I'm going to get real about the Shark FlexStyle and if it's worth the investment — right now, right here. Advertisement Let's talk about the $25 blowout trend that's been all over TikTok. You know, the one where everyone's skipping Starbucks for a week just to get a professional-style blowout that somehow looks effortless and costs less than a mani. It's cute, it's fun, it's addictive — but if you're booking weekly appointments, that math adds up fast. That's where the Shark FlexStyle comes in to save your hair and your wallet. With the right Shark FlexStyle attachments (hello, oval brush and concentrator nozzle), you can recreate that salon-finish look right at home, minus the awkward small talk and the tip math. It gives you the bouncy, glossy, 'I have my life together' vibe of a professional blowout without having to leave your house or put on real pants. Honestly? The FlexStyle might just be the most economical beauty hack of the year. I tested the Shark FlexStyle diffuser on my natural wavy curls (hello, volume!), tried every attachment like my life depended on it, and even looked up how to clean the Shark FlexStyle so it doesn't turn into a lint graveyard. And don't worry, I'll spill everything you need to know, from pros and cons to tips for getting the best results, and yes, even if it qualifies as a true Shark FlexStyle dupe for the Dyson. So grab a coffee (or maybe your deep conditioner) and settle in. I'm about to give you the full scoop on the Shark FlexStyle. What makes the Shark Flexstyle different? First things first: this isn't just a Shark FlexStyle hair dryer. It's a full-blown transformation station for your hair. Think: blow dryer meets curling wand meets round brush meets diffuser…and then they all go to therapy and get along. Amazon Pros: Significantly more affordable than the Dyson Airwrap Comparable styling versatility to the Dyson Airwrap Lighter and easier to maneuver than the Dyson Airwrap Cons: Louder, with a high-pitched noise, compared to the Dyson Airwrap, though not a dealbreaker Not as powerful heat retention and speed settings, yet yields an extremely similar result The Shark FlexStyle attachments are designed to tackle everything from flat roots to frizzy curls to that one stubborn section that never wants to cooperate. Whether you're going full glam or just trying to fake a good hair day before a Zoom call, this little tool comes locked and loaded. And can we talk about the packaging for a sec? The Shark FlexStyle case is chic, functional and not just something I immediately throw under the sink. It's giving luxury, without the guilt. Plus, I snagged mine during an Amazon sale, which made unboxing it feel even sweeter. Because let's be honest: no one hates a deal, especially when you're getting salon-worthy results at a fraction of the price of that other Brand. Attachments: 2 Auto-Wrap Curlers (left and right), 1 Curl-Defining Diffuser, 1 Styling Concentrator (rotatable), 1 Oval Brush, 1 Paddle Brush, Storage/Carry Case | Wattage: 1,300 watts | Number of Settings: 3 adjustable levels | Cool Shot Button: Yes My Review Before and after using the Shark FlexStyle. Victoria Giardina When I first got my hands on the Shark FlexStyle, I wasn't expecting to love it as much as I do. I originally bought it as a more affordable alternative to the Dyson Airwrap, which I'd been using but, truthfully, wanted to compare both in a final verdict showdown. Shark's version is still an investment, don't get me wrong, but it comes in at almost half the cost of Dyson's and — surprisingly — doesn't feel like a compromise. From unboxing to the first styling session, it felt sleek, intuitive and powerful without being overwhelming. One of the things I really appreciate is the design. It's got a smart twist feature that lets you go from a traditional hair dryer to a styling wand with just a click. That flexibility (hence the name 'FlexStyle') means you can switch between drying and styling without juggling multiple tools. It's lightweight (around 1.5 pounds) and the controls are simple: three heat settings, three airflow settings and a cool shot. I also like that it doesn't get so hot that it fries your hair, which was a problem I had with older hair tools. Let's talk attachments because that's where the FlexStyle really shines. Mine came with five: two auto-wrap curlers (one for each direction), a paddle brush, an oval brush and a concentrator nozzle. If you have curly or coily hair, there's also a diffuser option in other bundles. The curlers are super similar to Dyson's; they use that same Coanda effect to attract and wrap hair around the barrel without clamping or burning. And they work well, especially on slightly damp hair. I found the paddle brush great for smoothing, and the oval brush gives some legit volume at the roots, kind of like a blowout. Now, how does it compare to the Dyson Airwrap? I've used both, and while the Dyson might win slightly on luxury feel and airflow smoothness, the Shark FlexStyle holds its own. The curls lasted just as long for me with both tools, and Shark even lets you manually change curl direction with two barrels — something Dyson didn't do until its newer model. Also, the Shark has more customizable bundles, so you can choose what fits your hair type instead of buying extra attachments you'll never use. Where I really noticed the difference was in the drying speed. The Shark is powerful and dries hair fast without getting too hot. If your hair is thick or takes ages to dry, you'll appreciate that. And even though it's powerful, it doesn't feel like a jet engine blasting your face, which is a plus. I also noticed my hair had noticeably less frizz and felt smoother after using the Shark, especially with the paddle brush. How to Clean the Shark FlexStyle With so many household chores, cleaning your hair tools may be the last item on your radar. However, it's part of maintenance (and good for your hair), and I find it incredibly easy to care for. To clean my Shark FlexStyle, I always start by unplugging it and letting it cool down completely. Safety first. Once it's cool, I detach all the attachments — whether I've used the styling concentrator, diffuser or round brush. I wipe down each piece with a soft, damp cloth to remove any product buildup or dust. If there's hair caught in the bristles of the brushes, I carefully pull it out using my fingers or a small comb. For the main body of the device, I use a dry microfiber cloth to gently clean the surface, making sure not to get any moisture near the electrical components. One thing I never forget is checking the filter. At the base of the handle, there's a filter cover that easily twists off. I remove it and gently tap out any lint or dust, then use a soft brush (sometimes even an old toothbrush) to clean the filter mesh. If it's really dirty, I'll rinse it with cool water and let it dry completely before putting it back. Once everything's clean and dry, I reassemble the device and store it in a safe, dry place. Keeping it clean not only makes it last longer, but it also helps maintain airflow and styling performance. The Final Verdict As someone with Goldilocks-level hair that's not too fine, nor too thick, the FlexStyle has become my go-to tool. But I've seen friends with thick, curly hair use it with the diffuser and paddle brush and get great results too. It's especially great if you want salon-style looks at home without spending a fortune or exposing your hair to extreme heat. Plus, for travelers, it's compact enough to throw in a carry-on, which I totally did on my last trip. Overall, I'd recommend the Shark FlexStyle to anyone who wants a versatile, high-performing hair tool without the Dyson price tag. It's not just a lookalike; it's a solid contender in its own right. Curling, smoothing, volumizing — it shows up, and shows up well. Even if I just need a fast, gentle blow-dry, this little multitasker really delivers. Honestly, I reach for it almost every time I do my hair now, and my old flat iron and curling wand are officially collecting dust. How I Tested Victoria Giardina Here's an overview of how I tested the Shark FlexStyle: Performance: I evaluated how effectively the Shark FlexStyle dried and styled hair compared to other hair tools that have been in my rotation. I evaluated how effectively the Shark FlexStyle dried and styled hair compared to other hair tools that have been in my rotation. Heat Control: I tested the consistency and safety of temperature settings to prevent hair damage. I tested the consistency and safety of temperature settings to prevent hair damage. Ergonomics: I assessed the weight, grip and ease of handling during use. I assessed the weight, grip and ease of handling during use. Noise Level: I measured the sound output to determine if the device operated quietly. I measured the sound output to determine if the device operated quietly. Durability: I checked the build quality and longevity after repeated use. This article was written by Victoria Giardina, New York Post Commerce Journalist & Content Strategist, who has spent countless hours researching, testing hundreds of products and comparing the latest makeup, skincare, hair and beauty items and trends to determine what's truly worth your hard-earned cash. She evaluates formulas, textures, ingredients and more, in addition to consulting medical and industry experts. Some of Victoria's latest conquests include testing the best vitamin C serums on the market, and a rinse-and-repeat review of the best shampoos of 2025. Victoria, who received a beauty industry essentials certification from the Fashion Institute of Technology, has been creating shopping guides for the New York Post since 2021 and previously held positions at Insider Reviews and CNN Underscored.
Elle
4 hours ago
- Elle
The Lowdown On Skims' First Foray Into Beauty – Shapewear For Your Face
Just a few weeks ago, Kim Kardashian walked Demna's final couture show for Balenciaga as a modern-day Elizabeth Taylor, draped in a faux-fur coat and nude slip. Alongside her was Isabelle Huppert in a chin-cupping turtleneck, reflecting a vision of New Hollywood where cosmetic materials are seamlessly integrated with couture. And last week, Kardashian pushed the boundaries of fashionable shapewear one step further, launching a Skims sculpting face wrap. The Seamless Sculpt Face Wrap is said to boast 'signature sculpting fabric' and 'collagen yarns for ultra-soft jaw support.' Priced at £52, the wrap comes in two colours—clay and cocoa—and is already sold out. The new Skims shapewear seems to resemble the type of wrappings that patients use for post-operations care from procedures like facelifts and looks similar to the 'compression' garments that some TikTokers have taken to wearing to bed, for purported 'jaw slimming' benefits. Concerningly, the Sculpt Face Wrap even looks like it could be part of the 'morning shed,' a social media phenomenon that took over last summer, in which women showcased the removal of extreme and often excessive nighttime-only beauty items like mouth tape, overnight collagen masks, and sculpting chin straps. Popping out of the house to run errands in under-eye patches and athleisure is already the norm, and the brand's foray into shapewear-meets-beauty feels like an extension of today's culture. 20 years have passed since Steven Meisel's 'Makeover Madness' editorial spread, in which Linda Evangelista sported post-op finery, and nearly the entire conversation surrounding the relationship between style and cosmetics has vastly changed. From its inception, Skims seemed to strike gold. Its Kardashian-founded origins, It-kid-of-the-moment-filled campaigns, and relatively accessible pricing flooded the shapewear market, and no other brand has come close since. In six short years, the company, which was co-launched by Jens and Emma Grede, has reached a £2.9 billion valuation, opened a 5th Avenue flagship in Manhattan, and collaborated with brands, including Swarovski, Fendi, The North Face, Dolce and Gabbana, and Roberto Cavalli. A pending co-branded line with Nike - announced in February - is on the way (the website currently says 'coming soon'). In June, TikTok user Rachel Leary took to the app to ask what breast augmentation Kylie Jenner had undergone. Jenner saw the video and shocked everyone by answering explicitly in the comments: '445 cc, moderate profile, half under the muscle!!! Silicone!!! Garth Fisher!!! Hope this helps lol.' Kris Jenner quickly followed suit, also commenting on Dr. Fisher's Instagram, endorsing the surgeon with glowing words, adding, 'You did my first facelift in 2011… 14 years ago!!!' Skims' ubiquity, which is naturally enhanced by the family's continued relevance in pop culture, is its biggest power. The wrap could mark the first of the label's beauty expansion, since Skims acquired Kardashian's beauty company, Skkn by Kim, earlier this year, combining it all under one brand—and it could signal a shift in the way that these products are incorporated into the wider brand. ELLE Collective is a new community of fashion, beauty and culture lovers. For access to exclusive content, events, inspiring advice from our Editors and industry experts, as well the opportunity to meet designers, thought-leaders and stylists, become a member today HERE. Alexandra Hildreth is the Fashion News Editor at ELLE. She is fascinated by style trends, industry news, shake-ups, and The Real Housewives. Previously, she attended the University of St Andrews in Scotland. Following graduation, she moved back to New York City and worked as a freelance journalist and producer.
