Latest news with #AmberyVanilla
Business Insider
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Business Insider
We tried a fragrance brand that makes affordable dupes for luxury labels like Dior, YSL, and Baccarat, and we couldn't tell the difference
While luxury brand perfumes and colognes are certainly of a higher quality than the watered-down body mists of our youth, high-end fragrances are often marked up astronomically. Alongside quality ingredient costs, you also end up paying for the brand name, packaging, and the extravagance associated with it. Thankfully (because we don't like paying full price either), we discovered Dossier — a New York-based fragrance brand founded in 2018 that specializes in recreating popular high-end fragrances at an accessible price point. All of Dossier's perfumes are vegan, cruelty-free, and sustainably produced. Starting at just $29, you'll find scents inspired by brands like YSL, Le Labo, Baccarat, Chanel, Gucci, Tom Ford, Maison Margiela, and many more. Dossier Floral Lavender This perfume, inspired by YSL's Libre, opens on a sunny mandarine, neroli, and orange blossom accord and then evolves with warm notes of jasmine and vanilla. Check price at Walmart Check price at Dossier The verdict on Dossier Three members of the Reviews team tested a variety of Dossier fragrances next to their luxury counterparts, and we unanimously agreed that the perfumes were spot on. Even our loved ones, who are familiar with the fragrances we wear regularly, couldn't tell the difference. Here's what we tested: Dior Sauvage vs. Dossier Aromatic Star Anise Amir Ismael/Insider One of the most significant benefits of shopping at Dossier is getting your favorite scents for far less than the authentic brand name version. Dior Sauvage Eau de Toilette is one of my favorite fragrances, but at $100 for a 2-ounce bottle, I don't like to use it every day. I tried Dossier Aromatic Star Anise, which is the brand's interpretation of Dior Sauvage, and it smelled identical. At $29 for a 1.7-ounce bottle, I'm not as reserved with how often I spray it. I can buy three bottles from Dossier for the price of one from Dior. Once I finish my current bottle of Dior, I will not replace it with another. With Dossier Aromatic Star Anise, I have no reason to. — Amir Ismael, Reviews editor YSL Black Opium vs. Dossier Ambery Vanilla Kayla Bickham/Insider YSL Black Opium (usually $95 an ounce) was my first introduction to perfumes after I grew out of body sprays as a teen. Learning the hard way what it means to put on too much perfume has now permanently engraved its rich vanilla scent into my brain. After years and years of wear, I know Dossier's Ambery Vanilla is its sister scent without even having a bottle of YSL Black Opium of my own anymore. A yummy fall scent is the best way to describe what both bottles smell like. However, there's a difference or two that sets the two scents apart. There's something about the warmth of YSL's take on a seductive vanilla that's a bit more subtle than its dupe from Dossier. While the spicy gourmand is at the forefront of both perfumes, the vanilla sneaks up and takes over once settled on the skin in Black Opium, while Ambery Vanilla is more of a mix of the two scents it's named after. Although the licorice and black coffee notes linger a bit long in Ambery Vanilla, the perfume itself doesn't last all day. — Kayla Bickham, former Reviews fellow YSL Libre vs. Dossier Floral Lavender Sally Kaplan/Insider I tested Dossier's dupe for YSL Libre perfume, which I wore on my wedding day and use for many special occasions. My wife couldn't tell the difference at all, and I could barely tell myself after 2 years of using YSL! I also tested several other fragrances against their original inspirations and had the same reaction to each of them. I will never order expensive perfume again — I don't know how or why Dossier didn't exist sooner! — Sally Kaplan, Reviews executive editor Immediately after I began testing Dossier, my girlfriend ordered a few dupes of fragrances in her collection — one of which also being YSL Libre. I did a blind side-by-side smell test, and I, too, can confirm that YSL Libre and Dossier's Floral Lavender smell exactly the same. — Amir Ismael, Reviews editor Other Dossier men's fragrances we tried Dossier Citrus Ginger Inspired by Chanel's Bleu de Chanel, this minty fresh cologne with a sophisticated woody base from Dossier is timelessly elegant. Check price at Walmart Check price at Dossier I was so happy with how closely Dossier matched the Dior fragrance I already had, I decided to try a few scents that I didn't already own. I've always liked to try new scents, but more often than not, steep prices turned me back to the fragrances that I already knew I liked. Although I received a few samples for the purpose of this review, I've already purchased a few extras myself. I tried Spicy Vanilla, Musky Oakmoss, Aquatic Lime, Citrus Ginger, and Woody Sandalwood, and while I like some more than others for daily wear, I like having options at a low cost. I might not have a familiar point of comparison for all the these, but it sure beats spending upward of $1,000 on brands like Tom Ford, Chanel, and Giorgio Armani to create the same variety. — Amir Ismael, Insider Reviews editor Other Dossier women's fragrances we tried I also opted to try Dossier's Floral Marshmallow (a dupe of By Kilian's Love, Don't Be Shy) and Woody Sandalwood (inspired by Le Labo Santal 33). Both are scents on the warmer side. While I don't have the luxury versions to compare the scents to, I would happily repurchase both fragrances. I still fight the urge to apply more mid-day. — Kayla Bickham, former Reviews fellow How does Dossier maintain affordable prices? As consumers, we've been conditioned to expect premium colognes and perfumes to cost a lot. Purchasing a high-end fragrance is a luxury splurge. So, naturally, the first thing you probably want to know is how Dossier can make these fragrances so cheaply. First and foremost, the brand was founded with a direct-to-consumer model using relatively generic packaging, which allows them to reduce a lot of costs. There's no inflated cost because there's no luxury brand name on the bottle, nor are there special designs. All of the bottles are also made from simple, 100% recycled glass and come in a 100% recycled cardboard box. Dossier also has a membership program that offers a bunch of savings opportunities — best for the fragrance-obsessed, not the casual fan. For $39.90 per month, the membership gets you store credit for that amount, free samples, free returns and exchanges, plus additional discounts on bottles and a free full-size bottle for every three months of membership. Does Dossier perfume have staying power? In former Reviews fellow Kayla Bickham's experience, Dossier's Ambrey Vanilla perfume did not last all day long. However, her tip to stretch all perfumes is to apply them fresh out of the shower, air dry, and then lock the scent in under an unscented body lotion. Executive editor Sally Kaplan's experience was a little different — in her experience, the Floral Lavender scent that was based on her YSL wedding perfume lasted as long as the original. Cons to consider The only point that might deter some people from Dossier is the generic packaging. If you enjoy collecting unique bottles to display on your vanity or bathroom countertop, you won't be able to accomplish that with Dossier. If you're okay with all of your bottles looking similar — and the tremendous amount of money you'll save — then there shouldn't be anything stopping you from buying Dossier. And if our reviews of Dossier compared to popular fragrances aren't enough to convince you, try it for yourself. Dossier's risk-free returns allow you to try fragrances and send back full-size bottles for a full refund with no questions asked. The bottom line Overall, we can't recommend Dossier enough for anyone looking for affordable cologne or perfume. We each tried scents that mimic name-brand fragrances that we know and love and were impressed with how close they match. Some of us have also loved using Dossier to discover new fragrances without the luxury price tags. Shop all of Dossier's luxury fragrance dupes here.
Miami Herald
7 days ago
- Business
- Miami Herald
From pop-up to permanent: How independent brands are betting big on their first stores
In an age where algorithms curate our lives and screens mediate our interactions, brick-and-mortar retail remains a visceral, irreplaceable force. From the agora of ancient Athens to the mall-rat culture of the '90s, humans have always gathered to touch, taste, and talk. In 2024, merchants with brick-and-mortar stores generated an average of 81% of their total sales in person-up 7 percentage points from 2023, according to Shopify data. This growth underscores a simple truth: The thrill of discovery-a scent, a texture, an unexpected conversation-can't be digitized. It's not a question of online versus offline. It's a hybrid ecosystem where tools dissolve the boundaries, letting brands meet customers exactly where they are. For a viral fragrance brand, one pop-up changed everything When Dossier founder Sergio Tache launched his fragrance brand in 2019, he did it "the hard way." Online-first. Selling $49 dupes (or duplicates) of $300 perfumes meant battling consumer skepticism. Yet Dossier thrived, amassing a cult following thanks to the #FragranceTok community and viral scents like Ambery Vanilla (a dead ringer for YSL's Black Opium). "It just didn't make sense that to go out on a date and smell nice, you had to fork out $150 at Sephora. We wanted to create high-quality perfumes made in France, but sell them at affordable prices for the 99%," says Tache. Despite the brand's meteoric growth, a 2024 pop-up in Manhattan's Nolita neighborhood exposed a blind spot: Demand far exceeded expectations, and a line wrapped around the block for hours. The sight piqued Tache's curiosity. "I was walking down the queue talking to people who were kind enough to wait such a long time. I asked them a simple question, 'why are you here?' They gave me a very simple answer: They wanted to try the perfumes." In addition to their dupes, the pop-up showcased their underdog Originals Collection (their own creations), which customers overlooked online. The in-person response to this collection gave Tache a second revelation. "At the time, it was still a small category for us. But once people got to experiment with them, there was big enthusiasm," says Tache. "I saw that if we want to showcase all the great things we're doing, we need a physical space where people can interact with perfumes in a way that's hard to do online." Fast forward to now, Dossier is opening two NYC stores this summer: an 1,800-square-foot flagship in Nolita and a mall outpost. Their mission: translating a digital-native, minimalist ethos into a tactile, human experience. The stores will showcase all 150+ fragrances, inviting customers to layer scents-a ritual nearly impossible online. With Dossier, brick-and-mortar isn't a detour-it's an elevation. "We want to meet customers where they are. If they want to have a great experience in our own boutiques, we'll meet them there. If they love shopping online, we're online," Tache says. A bookstore gets the tech to power its first chapter For Amanda Badeau, The Archive bookstore wasn't just a pivot to physical retail-it was her first-ever business. As a lifelong booklover who left her corporate job, she wanted to curate a space where people could escape. "I've been working toward this goal my entire life. I have always dreamed of owning a bookstore," says Badeau. In The Archive, Charleston's dark academia haven, moss-green walls, flickering candlelight, and towering shelves of fantasy novels evoke a grown-up Hogwarts. The Archive's opening weekend was a love letter to brick-and-mortar's enduring power. More than 700 fans lined up for hours, some driving as far as from Georgia, to step into Badeau's vision: a moody refuge where $6 glasses of wine pair with $28 "romantasy" hardcovers. Many had learned of The Archive's opening day event from a single viral reel of Badeau ripping a "coming soon" banner off the door. "That day the line just kept growing. I still can't believe that so many people wanted to not only come to our bookstore, but were willing to wait in line for it. It's a very humbling experience." Badeau's sanctuary stocks hundreds of SKUs, from niche titles to locally roasted coffee beans. Uploading inventory via CSV lets her sync real-time stock levels across her shelves. Though The Archive launched as brick-and-mortar first, Badeau's point-of-sale (POS) setup is laying the groundwork for ecommerce. When she does go online, it will be all one unified system. "I wanted to do something where I could host my website, run my online store, and have the physical inventory of the shop linked with the POS. I just wanted everything to be connected," says Badeau. "People on social media are always asking whether we ship. So I want to set up ecommerce, build the brand, and hopefully even expand to other states. I want The Archive to be a household name for anyone who loves books." An IRL laboratory for digitally native brands And then there are the countless brands still testing the waters before diving in. According to 2024 Shopify data, 22% of entrepreneurs sold their products through avenues like craft fairs, holiday markets, and farmers markets, while 17% opted for pop-up shops. TikTok's first family, the D'Amelios (Marc, Heidi, Dixie, and Charli), learned the power of in-person connection through a pop-up shop for their eponymous footwear brand last year. Fans were able to try on shoes, take photos, and even participate in a meet-and-greet with the family. "So much of our journey has been shaped by social media, so stepping into a physical retail space felt like entering a new chapter," says cofounder Marc D'Amelio. "Being able to offer that in-person connection gave us the chance to build trust and hear direct feedback, which was incredibly valuable." It also allowed them to capture customer contact information and preferences, "which is so important for continuing the relationship beyond the pop-up," D'Amelio says. The founders of Eastside Golf, a streetwear-golf brand, left their NYC pop-up with one clear takeaway. "We need our own store," says cofounder Olajuwon Ajanaku. "We generated an incredible reaction from all types of people, whether they were men, women, golfers, or non-golfers." The founders plan to take what they've learned through the pop-up and apply it to their upcoming retail location in the Detroit airport. "Since the beginning, we have always wanted to create a space that's a home base for Eastside Golf, and the pop-up offered us a snapshot of the world of brick and mortar," says cofounder Earl Cooper. This story was produced by Shopify and reviewed and distributed by Stacker. © Stacker Media, LLC.
Buzz Feed
15-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
38 Random Products To Buy If You Enjoy Spoiling Yourself
A set of two lightweight tinted lip balms with a touch of gloss that'll be perfect for anyone who wants to add some color to their pout but keep it looking au natural. It's super similar to the viral Clinique Almost Lipstick Tinted Lip Balm but costs shockingly less. Dossier's "Ambery Vanilla" perfume for anyone who tried the sample size of YSL's Black Opium and fell in love with it but simply doesn't have $95 to spend on smelling lovely. Luckily for you, this one is super similar and will leave you with enough money left to *also* treat yourself to lunch. Olay Super Serum Body Wash made with niacinamide, shea butter, and collagen peptides and will deliver 24 hours (!!!) of hydration — aka everything you'd want in a revitalizing skin smoothie. Aaaaand, every shower you take will feel like a luxurious spa moment! Glitter-infused highlighters, so the next time you get the urge to annotate your already worn-down copy of Pride and Prejudice, you can do so with the kind of flair Jane Austen deserves. You better believe I'm reserving shimmery red for Mr. Darcy. A box of 100 tie-dye Band-Aids in assorted sizes that'll make that gnarly papercut you just got look pretty darn *~groovy~*. A stress relief coloring book from Coco Wyo (a TikTok famous brand known for creating the most adorable coloring books) featuring big, easy-to-color pictures you'll take one look at and want to scream, "THIS IS SO CUTE!!!!!" right before you rush over to your desk to grab your markers so you can get to work. Levi's Cinch Baggy Jeans with an adjustable band to make them flawlessly cinch to your waist — the only explanation is a witch must've her powers for good to create these so everyone can own a perfect-for-them pair of cute jeans. A trio of hypoallergenic gold-plated earrings for anyone who is tired of their current lineup and wants an easy, trendy fix they can pop into their lobes and say, "Ooh, cute!" And a set of golden bracelets that'll make it seem like you've splurged on the famed Cartier versions but for less than 20 bucks! Wear 'em together or separate them and pair them up with your already-loved baubles. A dimmable flexible clip-on mushroom light so when someone says "I mush ask you a question" you'll be ready to actually see what they're saying. It has five different color-changing LED lighting options you can adjust as needed — ya love to see it. Spiral taper candles in a bunch of fun colors that'll look simply darling on your tabletop — and they come at such a good price you won't be afraid to burn them and re-order. A crocheted swim cover-up that'll make you want to book a vacay to Aruba (where it's a perfect 80-something degrees every day) to show it off. Many reviewers have also dressed it up with heels and worn it to dinner! Beckham Hotel Collection Bed Pillows because, if we're being honest (and I like to think we've reached a point in our relationship where we can be blunt), the ones you've been sleeping on are starting to resemble Flat Stanley. It's time for you to upgrade your sleeping situation, friend! An instant foot-peeling spray that'll have you saying, "Whoa, whoa, whoa. Was this concocted by a witch in the woods?" because it works so incredibly well you won't believe your eyes as it renews your feet and leaves all of your dead skin in its wake. Cosrx Snail Mucin 96% Power Repairing Essence that might actually be the nectar of the skincare gods — it soothes damaged skin, repairs dark spots, absorbs quickly, and will leave your face feeling delightfully moisturized. A Brumate Era 40-ounce water bottle with a locking feature that'll ensure you never have a repeat of the other day where you accidentally bumped your arm into your cup and spilled your freshly filled drink ALL over your A handheld lamp you will surely find yourself *mooning* over each night. It'll bring a magical ambience to your room, just you wait. Lawless's "Forget The Filler" comes in a variety of delectable flavors (birthday cake!!!). It hydrates lips overnight (similar to Laneige's repairing sleep mask) and will make your pout fuller. It's made of shea butter, hyaluronic acid, and a stimulating peptide complex that work so magically together you won't ever want to run out. A set of LED light saber chopsticks you're going to need to order two sets of so you can share 'em with the Chewbacca to your Han Solo (AKA whoever happens to be who you get sushi with every Friday night). One reviewer even ingeniously used them as hair accessories when visiting Galaxy's Edge! E.l.f.'s Holy Hydration! Thirst Burst Drops that'll quickly become your most talked about skincare item after you see how incredible it'll leave your face looking and feeling. It's packed with hibiscus complex and hyaluronic acid and can be used solely as a serum or mixed in with your go-to foundation for a hydrating boost your skin is likely craving. Reviewers love using it instead of the pricier (but VERY similar) Glow Recipe Watermelon Dew Drops. A crinkled "paper bag" vase that'll make you want to buy yourself flowers a la Miley Cyrus — it'll incorporate so beautifully with all of the decor you already own and love. And faux peonies for anyone who has claimed them as their favorite flower since Blair Waldorf said they were hers (guilty). These will remain just as beautiful as the day you buy 'em because, duh, they're fake! An exfoliating shower glove designed to lift away dead skin (and remove a spray tan that's seen better days) — an excellent way for you to kickstart your spa-like experience at home. A moisturizing body wash inspired by the fancy (and not quite as affordable) Baccarat Rouge 540 perfume — it's filled with scents of white jasmine, red currant, and sweet amber that'll make every shower feel like a luxury. A wireless keyboard and mouse set featuring an aesthetic vibe that might just make you *actually* look forward to spending eight hours at your desk. At the very least your coworkers will be super jealous of how coordinated your workspace looks. A Bissell multipurpose portable cleaner you'll pat yourself on the back for buying when you see just how much dirt and gunk it pulls out of all the surfaces in your life. Forget about buying a new couch — your current one is about to look fresher than ever. A heated eye massager complete with five different massage modes and Bluetooth music so you can fully indulge and relax while relieving pain from eye strain and headaches. A Lego version of a Disney Parks parade you can quickly build (it's only 200 pieces) then place on your desk to make even the most stressful work days feel a bit more magical. A compact Kindle for any lit lover with such a long TBR list that your nightstand simply can't contain it anymore — this option will let you continue to expand your shelf virtually and take your book on-the-go without taking up too much precious space in your bag that's already filled the brim with old receipts, hand sanitizer, mints, an old granola bar, the list goes on. A shaker of edible cocktail glitter, so just like Taylor Swift, you and your drinks can make the whole room ✨shiiiiiimmmerrrr✨. A heart-shaped silicone ice cube tray because chilled bevs are calling! Spruce up your iced coffees and Long Island iced teas with a little love in the form of these cubes 💕. LilyAna Naturals Eye Cream — designed to decrease puffiness and dark circles, so if you've been up far too late crying watching Steel Magnolias for the umpteenth time this cream will be there for you come morning. It's formulated with all-natural, vegan ingredients including aloe leaf juice, rosehip seed oil, hibiscus extract, and rosemary leaf extract that beautifully brighten and hydrate your skin (and can you imagine how incredible it must smell?!). A buttery soft pair of dreamlux leggings reviewers compare to Lululemon's Align (ooh, la, la). These beauties are super comfortable for lazy days, but if for some reason you decide you want to actually break a sweat in them they'll certainly be up to the task. Get it, girrrrrrl! A stuffed waffle maker you can count on to make all of your breakfast dreams come true — fill 'em with cream cheese, strawberries, chicken, or anything else your heart desires! A smocked bodycon dress with tiers that'll rival the decadent wedding cake at the fancy affair you're planning to attend next month. Some slip-on platform wedges in case you're hoping to literally elevate your style, starting with your summer shoes. Chunky espadrille sandals are exactly what you need to kickstart your warm-weather fashion overhaul — they're so comfortable one reviewer even boasted about being able to limbo in them 😅. Double-buckle slides for anyone who adores the look of Birkenstocks but has a more *~footloose and fancy-free ~* style when it comes to their footwear choices. These are just as comfortable but come in some more playful styles. And a stunning rubberized wireless Xbox controller with *~lavender haze~* vibes that'll go perfectly with the cozy games you're queuing up to play alongside your favorite soothing Taylor Swift playlist.
Buzz Feed
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
39 Random Items To Buy If You Enjoy Spoiling Yourself
A set of two lightweight tinted lip balms with a touch of gloss that'll be perfect for anyone who wants to add some color to their pout but keep it looking au natural. It's super similar to the viral Clinique Almost Lipstick Tinted Lip Balm but costs shockingly less. Dossier's "Ambery Vanilla" perfume for anyone who tried the sample size of YSL's Black Opium and fell in love with it but simply doesn't have $95 to spend on smelling lovely. Luckily for you, this one is super similar and will leave you with enough money left to *also* treat yourself to lunch. Olay Super Serum Body Wash made with niacinamide, shea butter, and collagen peptides and will deliver 24 hours (!!!) of hydration — aka everything you'd want in a revitalizing skin smoothie. Aaaaand, every shower you take will feel like a luxurious spa moment! Glitter-infused highlighters, so the next time you get the urge to annotate your already worn-down copy of Pride and Prejudice, you can do so with the kind of flair Jane Austen deserves. You better believe I'm reserving shimmery red for Mr. Darcy. A box of 100 tie-dye Band-Aids in assorted sizes that'll make that gnarly papercut you just got look pretty darn *~groovy~*. A stress relief coloring book from Coco Wyo (a TikTok famous brand known for creating the most adorable coloring books) featuring big, easy-to-color pictures you'll take one look at and want to scream, "THIS IS SO CUTE!!!!!" right before you rush over to your desk to grab your markers so you can get to work. Levi's Cinch Baggy Jeans with an adjustable band to make them flawlessly cinch to your waist — the only explanation is a witch must've her powers for good to create these so everyone can own a perfect-for-them pair of cute jeans. A trio of hypoallergenic gold-plated earrings for anyone who is tired of their current lineup and wants an easy, trendy fix they can pop into their lobes and say, "Ooh, cute!" And a set of golden bracelets that'll make it seem like you've splurged on the famed Cartier versions but for less than 20 bucks! Wear 'em together or separate them and pair them up with your already-loved baubles. A dimmable flexible clip-on mushroom light so when someone says "I mush ask you a question" you'll be ready to actually see what they're saying. It has five different color-changing LED lighting options you can adjust as needed — ya love to see it. Spiral taper candles in a bunch of fun colors that'll look simply darling on your tabletop — and they come at such a good price you won't be afraid to burn them and re-order. A crocheted swim cover-up that'll make you want to book a vacay to Aruba (where it's a perfect 80-something degrees every day) immediately instead of waiting for summer to show it off. Many reviewers have also dressed it up with heels and worn it to dinner! Beckham Hotel Collection Bed Pillows because, if we're being honest (and I like to think we've reached a point in our relationship where we can be blunt), the ones you've been sleeping on are starting to resemble Flat Stanley. It's time for you to upgrade your sleeping situation, friend! An instant foot-peeling spray that'll have you saying, "Whoa, whoa, whoa. Was this concocted by a witch in the woods?" because it works so incredibly well you won't believe your eyes as it renews your feet and leaves all of your dead skin in its wake. Cosrx Snail Mucin 96% Power Repairing Essence that might actually be the nectar of the skincare gods — it soothes damaged skin, repairs dark spots, absorbs quickly, and will leave your face feeling delightfully moisturized. A Brumate Era 40-ounce water bottle with a locking feature that'll ensure you never have a repeat of the other day where you accidentally bumped your arm into your cup and spilled your freshly filled drink ALL over your A handheld lamp you will surely find yourself *mooning* over each night. It'll bring a magical ambience to your room, just you wait. Lawless's "Forget The Filler" comes in a variety of delectable flavors (birthday cake!!!). It hydrates lips overnight (similar to Laneige's repairing sleep mask) and will make your pout fuller. It's made of shea butter, hyaluronic acid, and a stimulating peptide complex that work so magically together you won't ever want to run out. A set of LED light saber chopsticks you're going to need to order two sets of so you can share 'em with the Chewbacca to your Han Solo (AKA whoever happens to be who you get sushi with every Friday night). One reviewer even ingeniously used them as hair accessories when visiting Galaxy's Edge! E.l.f.'s Holy Hydration! Thirst Burst Drops that'll quickly become your most talked about skincare item after you see how incredible it'll leave your face looking and feeling. It's packed with hibiscus complex and hyaluronic acid and can be used solely as a serum or mixed in with your go-to foundation for a hydrating boost your skin is likely craving. Reviewers love using it instead of the pricier (but VERY similar) Glow Recipe Watermelon Dew Drops. A two-piece pajama set you'll wish was appropriate to wear to work — it's so soft and will make you feel like royalty the second you slip into 'em (instead of someone who works a 9 to 5). A crinkled "paper bag" vase that'll make you want to buy yourself flowers a la Miley Cyrus — it'll incorporate so beautifully with all of the decor you already own and love. And faux peonies for anyone who has claimed them as their favorite flower since Blair Waldorf said they were hers (guilty). These will remain just as beautiful as the day you buy 'em because, duh, they're fake! An exfoliating shower glove designed to lift away dead skin (and remove a spray tan that's seen better days) — an excellent way for you to kickstart your spa-like experience at home. A moisturizing body wash inspired by the fancy (and not quite as affordable) Baccarat Rouge 540 perfume — it's filled with scents of white jasmine, red currant, and sweet amber that'll make every shower feel like a luxury. A wireless keyboard and mouse set featuring an aesthetic vibe that might just make you *actually* look forward to spending eight hours at your desk. At the very least your coworkers will be super jealous of how coordinated your workspace looks. A Bissell multipurpose portable cleaner you'll pat yourself on the back for buying when you see just how much dirt and gunk it pulls out of all the surfaces in your life. Forget about buying a new couch — your current one is about to look fresher than ever. A heated eye massager complete with five different massage modes and Bluetooth music so you can fully indulge and relax while relieving pain from eye strain and headaches. A Lego version of a Disney Parks parade you can quickly build (it's only 200 pieces) then place on your desk to make even the most stressful work days feel a bit more magical. A compact Kindle for any lit lover with such a long TBR list that your nightstand simply can't contain it anymore — this option will let you continue to expand your shelf virtually and take your book on-the-go without taking up too much precious space in your bag that's already filled the brim with old receipts, hand sanitizer, mints, an old granola bar, the list goes on. A shaker of edible cocktail glitter, so just like Taylor Swift, you and your drinks can make the whole room ✨shiiiiiimmmerrrr✨. A heart-shaped silicone ice cube tray because summer is on its way, and so are your chilled bevs! Spruce up your iced coffees and Long Island iced teas with a little love in the form of these cubes 💕. LilyAna Naturals Eye Cream — designed to decrease puffiness and dark circles, so if you've been up far too late crying watching Steel Magnolias for the umpteenth time this cream will be there for you come morning. It's formulated with all-natural, vegan ingredients including aloe leaf juice, rosehip seed oil, hibiscus extract, and rosemary leaf extract that beautifully brighten and hydrate your skin (and can you imagine how incredible it must smell?!). A buttery soft pair of dreamlux leggings reviewers compare to Lululemon's Align (ooh, la, la). These beauties are super comfortable for lazy days, but if for some reason you decide you want to actually break a sweat in them they'll certainly be up to the task. Get it, girrrrrrl! A stuffed waffle maker you can count on to make all of your breakfast dreams come true — fill 'em with cream cheese, strawberries, chicken, or anything else your heart desires! A smocked bodycon dress with tiers that'll rival the decadent wedding cake at the fancy affair you're planning to attend next month. Some slip-on platform wedges in case you're hoping to literally elevate your style, starting with your spring/summer shoes. Chunky espadrille sandals are exactly what you need to kickstart your warm-weather fashion overhaul — they're so comfortable one reviewer even boasted about being able to limbo in them 😅. Double-buckle slides for anyone who adores the look of Birkenstocks but has a more *~footloose and fancy-free ~* style when it comes to their footwear choices. These are just as comfortable but come in some more playful styles. And a stunning rubberized wireless Xbox controller with *~lavender haze~* vibes that'll go perfectly with the cozy games you're queuing up to play alongside your favorite soothing Taylor Swift playlist.
Buzz Feed
05-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
27 Cheap Beauty Products To Replace The Expensive Stuff
A ~weightless~ liquid cream blush for people who are going for the soft, dewy lewk but aren't ready to drop $25 on the Rare Beauty blush. This one stands out for its rich pigmentation and smooth blendability, made even easier with the built-in sponge applicator. Definitely a compliment earner! Hair Chemist's Sleek Spray if you love the Color Wow Dream Coat spray but cringe every time you see its price. This anti-humidity spray works pretty much the same — apply it on damp hair, blow-dry to activate, and then enjoy smooth, glossy hair that'll have you feeling like a Kardashian. E.l.f. Suntouchable Invisible Sunscreen that doubles as a water-resistant sunscreen (with SPF 35) and a blurring primer that grips your makeup and keeps it looking smooth all day. It goes on clear — no white cast, no greasy finish — just a silky, lightweight layer of protection. If you're a fan of Supergoop's sunscreen but *not* the price, then this is the next best thing. A tube of the bestselling, $5 (!) Essence's Lash Princess mascara to get you the same results as those premium mascaras that go for $30+. It helps deliver dramatic length and volume without the need for false lashes. And the wand is really great for getting an even application that doesn't clump. Dossier's "Ambery Vanilla" perfume if you're in love with YSL's Black Opium but not so into the $100 price tag. The scent lasts, the bottle's cute, and honestly? No one will know it's not designer unless you tell them (and even then, they might not believe you). A lightweight Sol de Janeiro hair and body fragrance mist in scent Cheirosa '68 — infused with a lovely blend of hibiscus, jasmine, and sun musk, it's reminiscent of the iconic Baccarat Rouge 540 (but won't leave your wallet crying). A Briotech spray made with hypochlorous acid, a powerful ingredient known for calming irritated skin, including helping with conditions like rosacea or post-acne redness. The Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Spray knows what's up, but with this, you get twice the amount for a fraction of the price — it's simple math at this point. CeraVe's resurfacing retinol serum that works like a charm to tackle pesky dark spots, fine lines, and uneven texture. It gently helps renew your skin while keeping things smooth and hydrated — thanks to ceramides and soothing ingredients that help keep irritation at bay. And some reviewers even prefer it over pricier versions (like the $92 Murad Retinol Serum)! Nyx Fat Oil Lip Drip infused with vegan squalane, raspberry, and cloudberry oils to hydrate your lips while providing some serious shimmer. It's comparable to the Dior lip oil and UNDER $10, so everyone say "thank you" to Nyx. E.l.f.'s Hydrating Core Lip Shine in the shade "Ecstatic" that reviewers say is a solid replica of Clinique's Black Honey (ya know, the tinted lip balm famous for looking good on everyyyone), but for a fraction of the price! This one doesn't change colors as magically, but it is a beautiful, subtle tint with a non-sticky formula you'll be happy to have in your bag when you see a cute person at the grocery store. And an E.l.f. multistick — in one simple step, you can add a splash of color to your eyes, lips, and cheeks! It applies as a blendable cream, then dries like a powder to create a more matte look. If you hate juggling several products, this multistick is endlessly versatile, and it's waaaay cheaper than the $39 one from Nars. Marc Anthony "Grow Long" Leave-In Conditioner Spray for detangling while strengthening and nourishing your locks so they can grow to be as long as Rapunzel's. Why bother with several products when you can get everything you need in one spray (complete with biotin, vitamin E, caffeine, and ginseng) instead? A bottle of Elizavecca Hair Treatment that only needs 5–20 minutes to revitalize your hair — and trust me, your strands will thank you. This treatment will leave your mane softer and glossier (it's the ceramide 3 and protein extracts!), and reviewers love how effective it is in repairing their damaged hair. You simply won't find another hair mask that works this well and is this affordable (*side-eyes Olaplex*). E.l.f.'s Halo Glow Liquid Filter so you can get that gorgeous glow without dropping $$ on Charlotte Tilbury's Flawless Filter. You can mix it with foundation or moisturizer for a natural glow — or apply it directly as a highlighter. And you'll get some extra hydration thanks to hyaluronic acid and squalane in the formula. Or L'Oreal's True Match Lumi Glotion that'll having you beaming like a beautiful sunset without spending three times as much on Drunk Elephant's D-Bronzi Drops. This adds a lightweight tint that creates a natural dewy look and you can also layer it with foundation or a moisturizer! A bottle of Nyx setting spray if you're tired of your makeup sliding off halfway through the day. One quick spritz, and this magic mist locks in your look for up to 16 hours with zero shine — just like the beloved Urban Decay setting spray, except this one will leave you with extra funds for a sweet treat. An extreme-hold Nyx eyebrow gel that'll ensure your brows stay sleek and sculpted from dawn 'til dusk! The wand applicator effortlessly tames your brows and provides a strong hold without any sticky residue. It's ideal for all brow types and perfect for creating anything from bold, defined arches to a natural, groomed look. A bottle of sulfate-free biotin shampoo with over 36,000 5-star ratings? 🤩 Yes, please. And for under $15 — a total steal. The star ingredient, biotin, can help make your hair look fuller, while rosemary and coconut oils swoop in to nourish and moisturize your scalp. A trio of lip sleeping masks that essentially do the same thing as the Laneige one (providing deep hydration and nourishment) but for waaay less money *and* you get THREE of them! It's primarily an overnight treatment, but it can also be used as a lip balm throughout the day — so you're getting some serious bang for the little buck you spent. An under-eye brightener for when you stayed up way too late watching true crime documentaries and need to trick everyone at brunch into thinking you're well-rested and thriving. It adapts effortlessly to your skin tone to conceal dark circles while delivering a natural, bright finish — just like the Becca Under-Eye Corrector, but this one leaves you some spending money for an extra mimosa. 😉 Or Maybelline's Instant Age Rewind Concealer, which is used by even professional makeup artists because of how well it minimizes fine lines, dark spots, and redness. The lightweight formula blends beautifully (made even easier by the built-in sponge applicator), giving you fuller coverage without feeling heavy or cakey! E.l.f. Power Grip Primer that'll have your makeup sticking to your face like its life depends on it. It's infused with hyaluronic acid to keep your skin feeling hydrated and looking plump. Just apply it, wait a quick 30 seconds, and watch as your foundation goes on smoother and lasts way longer than it ever has before. A six-piece set of high-performance matte lipsticks you can trust to stay put through eating, drinking, and everything in between, delivering gorgeous color that lasts. As one reviewer put it: "This functions just like the high-priced lip colors you can find at high-end stores and makes it affordable for all!" Wet n Wild's Megaglo Blushlighter with a soft blush and a radiant highlighter that can be worn alone or layered together for that "just got back from vacation" look. The formula is silky, blendable, and super pigmented (a little goes a long way), and it works beautifully across a range of skin tones. Plus, it's literally less than a latte!! A box of "Zombie" face masks to help hydrate and tighten your skin while reducing the appearance of pores and fine lines. Just apply, let sit for 15 minutes, and rinse to see all the benefits! It's like Hanacure but at a fraction of the price, so you'll realistically be able to add and keep this in your routine. A rainbow eyeshadow palette offering 40 different matte, shimmer, and metallic shades so you can play around and unleash your inner makeup artist *without* having to buy a bunch of pricey palettes. Whether you're feeling subtle or ready to experiment with bold, creative looks, this affordable palette is all you need — all for under $10. 😌 E.l.f.'s Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm to literally melt away every trace of makeup (yes, even waterproof mascara!) without stripping your skin. It's packed with skin-loving ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides to help leave your face feeling soft, hydrated, and so smooth — and reviewers with sensitive skin give it their seal of approval!
