10-02-2025
These 29 Products Give "I Have An Amex Black Card" Energy (But They're Secretly Affordable)
We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.
Shopping
·
Blair Waldorf absolutely owns these monogramed hand towels.
Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women's.
1. A pair of teardrop earrings you can wear with any 'fit for any occasion — not many accessories can look as equally amazing with a shirt and jeans as they do with a floor-length gown, but these pull it off! They might look similar to the Bottega Veneta ones, but thankfully, they're *much* cheaper.
Promising review:"These are absolutely BEAUTIFUL! If I didn't know any better, I would have said these are the Bottega drop earrings. I personally love the smaller ones. I have not ordered the larger ones yet. Smaller ones are truthfully the perfect size. We love a good alternative because who has $800+ to spend on the Bottegas." — Brittany
Get them from Amazon for $7.99+ (available in 11 colors, two-packs, and an extra-large size).
2. 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).
Amazon
Promising review: "I finally received my new body spray yesterday and was in complete shock at the resemblance to Baccarat Rouge 540. This body spray is so delicious. It is definitely a Baccarat Rouge 540 [alternative]. There were so many reviews that said how much this body spray resembled the very pricey perfume, and they were all correct. I absolutely love Baccarat Rouge 540, but it's so expensive compared to other perfumes like Chanel, so I opt not to purchase it regularly. This body spray is a wonderful substitute for overpriced perfume. Today will be my first day wearing the spray, so hopefully, it has great longevity throughout the day as well. 🤞🏼 Regardless, I would still purchase it again moving forward." — Tina
Get it from Amazon for $25+ (available in two sizes and six other scents).
3. A gorgeous long-sleeved sequin dress that gives off major 16Arlington vibes (you know, the $765 version Hailey Bieber has worn). Yeah, it's that level of bougie. But here's the best part — this one's under $100. 😉
A few reviewers say the dress fits a bit roomy and that they were able to size down from what they normally wear.
Promising reviews: "Hailey Bieber dress [alternative]. I loved the dress; it was perfect and I could adjust it to fit me in the back with the black drawstrings, which are on the front of the dress as well! My hair got stuck to some of the sequins of the dress, though. But overall, love the dress!" — Willy
"This dress was surprisingly lovely! Great fit, so comfortable, looked amazing, and the sleeves are so cute. Got tons of compliments. Would recommend!" — Katrina R.
Get it from Amazon for $89.99 (available in women's sizes XS–L and in seven colors).
4. A pair of 100% suede platform ankle boots with a striking resemblance to Uggs, but for a fraction of the price. These have a cozy faux fur lining that'll keep your steppers so warm, they might not even realize they've been outside in the cold for the past 30 minutes.
Promising review: "I've never done any reviews before, but this totally deserves it. It has been almost a week since I purchased these amazing boots. I haven't bought Uggs because I think that they're too expensive but THEEEEESE feel so fancy and they're so warm. They're true to size and fit like a glove. They're so cute and very comfortable. I'm going to look for more colors." — D
Get them from Amazon for $27.99+ (available in women's sizes 5.5–11 and seven colors).
5. L'Oreal's True Match Lumi Glotion so you can glow 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, perfect for mixing with your favorite moisturizer or layering with foundation!
Promising reviews: "I used this with my Olay Regenerist Cream (it helps with my wrinkles). I mixed it, and it does a great deal of shine! You should buy it if you're looking for a Drunk Elephant D-Bronzi Drops substitute! Way better than Drunk Elephant." — raegan kuball
"I actually like this glowy lotion better than the Drunk Elephant one, and I have both. This goes on smoothly and is not greasy. It leaves you very glowy with a beautiful tan and works well with makeup on top if you so wish. Lasting power, too. Recommend." — ggvega
Get it from Amazon for $13.98+ (available in five shades and as a two-pack).
6. A spandex-blend slip maxi dress if you've always wanted to try the Skims version but just don't have the budget for it. It's soft and breathable, and some reviewers even like it more than Skims! Wear it casually with a bolero and sneakers, or jazz it up with some elegant jewelry and heels.
Reviewers agree that if you want it fitted, size down.
Promising reviews: "I saw this girl wearing this exact style of dress with a Skims tag on the back, and honestly, it made me so grateful that I purchased this dress instead. It looks exactly like the Skims version, and I could be biased, but the material of this dress looked better than the Skims one. If you want it to be a little snug, I would definitely recommend sizing down one size from your normal size. So freaking comfortable and made out of thick material." — Kaitlyn
"I have the Skims dress in black and wanted to look for a cheaper version, but read reviews and some said that it is a bit looser than expected. I would agree that the small is a bit loose. If you want a snatched look definitely get a size smaller as it is very stretchy. I'm 5' tall so this is a bit long on me, even when I wear heels. In comparison to the Skims, the material is smoother while Skims has a ribbed texture. You honestly can't tell the difference. Good bang for your buck if you ask me!" — Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $24.99 (available in women's sizes XXS–XL and 10 colors).
7. And a scoop neck top that's also giving Skims a run for their money. It's super soft with the perfect amount of thickness and stretchiness, making it the perfect versatile staple for your closet.
Promising review: "At first, I was a little skeptical — I have been wanting to find a Skims-like material shirt for a while but didn't want to pay the price of one lol, and this shirt feels amazing. I will be getting one in every color now." — Julianne
Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in women's sizes XXS–3XL and 33 colors).
8. Some oversized square sunnies for when you want to add some Bottega energy to your 'fit but don't have the extra cash to spend on a *real* pair of Bottegas. These have polarized lenses and UV protection — so they do more than just make you look chic and stylish.
Promising review:"I've been looking at these sunglasses at Bottega Veneta for months but just couldn't justify spending the hundreds of dollars because I lose sunnies so often! These are EXACTLY THE SAME! The weight of them, the detail on the sides. The only difference is the brand name is not on the side (obviously LOL) Love these so much!" — Shelley Cooper
Get it from Amazon for $13.99+ (available in 14 lens colors).
9. An ornate Baroque mirror that has the same vibe as the Anthropologie one without asking you to break your budget. I mean, you see the reviewer pics below — this thing is gorgeous, stunning, amazing — any room would be lucky to have it.
Promising review:"I've had my eye on the Anthropologie mirror in this similar style for years. But I cannot bring myself to spend that kind of money on a mirror. I don't care how nice it is. But this mirror is gorgeous, much more affordable, and while not an exact [substitute], it's very similar and brings just as much charm to a room. It's incredibly sturdy, detailed, and well made. I do notice a bit of waviness in the mirror itself but it's not extreme and serves its purpose while adding beauty to a space." — Deborah L.
Get it from Amazon for $91.99+ (available in 10 sizes and five styles).
10. A satin slip skirt (with an elastic waistband for extra comfort!) that'll look ah-mazing with everything from sweaters and boots to graphic tees and sneakers. The fabric has a beautiful flow and shine to add some elegance to your wardrobe. You've probably seen this skirt all over Pinterest, and it's about time you got one!
Promising review: "EXTREMELY HIGH QUALITY. I am so pleased with this skirt that I've now ordered three. The pink is almost a bright fuschia and I feel super 'Elle Woods' in it. The Storm color is a soft greige (gray/beige) and looks stunning at work. It doesn't shift at all and doesn't cling too badly (except where you want it to). Overall INCREDIBLE purchases." — Hutson Family
Get it from Amazon for $49.90 (available in women's sizes XXS–5X and 21 colors).
11. A set of old money-esque decorative hand towels you can monogram with your initials for some extra ~sophistication~. But they're not just beautiful — these are also extremely soft, thick, and absorbent.
Promising review: "These towels are absolutely superior quality in every way. Very soft, thick and beautiful. The monogramming is also well done. Exactly what I was looking for in my new bathroom. I will be buying more." — Amazon Customer
Get them from Amazon for $19.99 (available in seven colors and 26 initial options).
12. A sleek, minimalist watch because it's simple, timeless, and goes with just about anything in your wardrobe. It's also water-resistant, so it'll survive that mad dash to your car in the pouring rain.
Promising review:"I ordered this watch not expecting to be blown away because of the price. Boy, was I wrong! I immediately put on the watch as soon as I opened it up; It fits comfortably and the band wasn't too small, which I was a little concerned about. I'll definitely be looking to purchase other styles of this watch. Great buy, especially for the price!" — Jessica Kurry
Get it from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in eight colors).
13. A stunning laptop tote bag if you've been dying to own the luxurious Béis Work Tote but don't have over $100 to spend on a bag. This tote is just as wonderful, with a padded pocket that fits up to a 15.6-inch laptop and many other compartments for all the stuff you'd need for your day. The handles and shoulder strap are both adjustable and detachable, so you can also wear it different ways!
Promising reviews: "It's much more spacious than it looks. It's very sleek and stylish. I use it as my work bag and find that it looks professional and has enough space for all of my stuff. I carry a laptop, pencil case, two books, makeup bag, water bottle, wallet, lotion, phone and laptop charger, and other small miscellaneous objects. Still plenty of space. And when you carry it, it doesn't feel bulky or cumbersome." — Su
" Purchased for my daughter, who is an attorney. She said she really likes it and has gotten many compliments on it from her peers." — J Cliett
Get it from Amazon for $34.86+ (available in nine styles).
14. Or a trendy tote bag that could get mistaken for the Longchamp Le Pliage bag — it even folds into a tiny rectangle just like the OG. (Whether you decide to tell people you got it for waaay less is up to you.) It's the perfect commuter bag and can easily hold your laptop, iPad, and all of your daily essentials!
Promising review: "I absolutely love this bag!! I needed something to use when I'm traveling, especially for when I go to trade shows and meetings. I've always lugged my backpack everywhere and finally got fed up with it on a trip this past week. I also wanted something that was classy looking and had a full zipper. I love the material because it's easy to clean. It looks almost exactly like the Longchamp bag too which is the main reason why I got it. I've actually been using it daily by putting my small purse in it and am able to put other things in it as well (small jacket, water bottle, small reusable bag, etc.) It has two inner pockets which are near the top of the bag. One is zipped and one isn't. It stays on my shoulder and doesn't slip off, unlike other bags I've had. I'm curious to see how well it holds and for how long, but so far I'm very impressed and very happy with the quality!" — Kelsey
Get it from Amazon for $26.99 (available in four colors).
15. A set of elegant cylindrical wineglasses so you can bring the fine dining experience into your home. Each drink will taste even better knowing how much money you saved not splurging on the nearly identical Crate & Barrel version.
Joy Jolt is a small business that specializes in modern and pop culture-themed drinkware and kitchen accessories.
Promising review:"Crate & Barrel look for less. These look and feel very high end — almost like a thin crystal." — Lauren
Get a set of two from Amazon for $19.95 (available in three styles).
16. Nyx Fat Oil Lip Drip formulated with vegan squalane, raspberry oil, and cloudberry oil 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.
Amazon,
Promising review: "I have Fenty Cherry Treat, a lip oil from Dior, and several other brands that were $20 or more…and the NYX Fat Oil is better! Same consistency as the others, but a little more color, which is a good thing. About as long-lasting as any other thick lipgloss. It's always awesome to find a less expensive [option] for the high-end products I like." — Jennifer
Get it from Amazon for $7.54+ (available in 14 shades).
17. A faux-leather belt that people passing by may easily mistake for the Gucci one. But no, you saved your money and got an equally chic one for *much* less.
Promising review:"I'm one of those people who wears a belt for looks, not function. I had this belt on my list for a while because I like how it added an extra touch to outfits. Finally purchased it and it fits great! It really does that little extra to outfits because it looks expensive while being reasonably priced. I even had a coworker ask if it was 'one of those fancy Gucci belts.' I highly recommend!" — Jessica Maslyar
Get it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in women's sizes XS–XL and in 10 colors).
18. A cubic zirconia ring if you're not ready to drop over $1,000 (!!) on the Cartier Love Ring but still want the look. You'll find yourself wearing this with basically all your outfits — it's just that easy to style.
Promising review: "The perfect non-name-brand ring you can find honestly. I wasn't looking for a Cartier knockoff when I found this ring, but I have had people ask me if it's the real deal. I honestly love this ring though, the sizing was accurate, it is weighted well, none of the 'diamonds' have fallen off, and it hasn't tarnished! I've worn it daily for almost a year now and it has held up well. It has some very small scratches on it, but that's typical of most rings. For the price, I am super happy with this ring and I honestly can't believe how well it has handled everything I've put it through." — Eva Richterkessing
Get it from Amazon for $9.99 (available in ring sizes 5–12, three finishes, and two styles).
19. Or a stackable oval gem ring because it's stunning and goes with everything from a sweatsuit to an actual suit. It's perfect for when you're ballin' on a budget, and some reviewers even use it as a substitute wedding ring while they travel. (It's that gorgeous!) Plus, you can pair it with other high-quality Pavoi rings to get some Pinterest-level ring stacks.
Here's what BuzzFeed Shopping editor Emma Lord has to say: "TBH, I bought this ring after seeing it blow up on TikTok, and I love it. I wear it every single day, and I've gotten SO many compliments on it — friends are always stunned when I tell them how cheap it is! I've been wearing it for months now without any wear and tear that a quick cleaning won't fix. Pictures don't do it justice; it really does ✨gleam✨ like real jewels. (Bonus: I use this as a fake wedding ring when I travel to encourage humans to leave me alone, lolololol.)"
Get it from Amazon for $15.95 (available in three plates and ring sizes 5–10).
20. A vegan leather shoulder bag that's so versatile and chic, you'll be pairing it with everything from a casual tee and jeans to a sleek dress for date night. It comes in a stunning range of colors that you'll want to collect like Infinity Stones — and I mean, you literally could buy *four* of these for the same price as JW Pei's adorable Joy shoulder bag.
Promising review: "I'm amazed at the quality of this bag!! Like helloooo, don't think, just buy. To think I almost bought the JW Pei original. This will do just GREAT." — Olive
Get it from Amazon for $22.49 (available in nine styles).
21. A pack of vegan and cruelty-free Lilac St. Original Lashes you can wear for up to 10 days (yes, you read that right!). They're a more affordable and accessible alternative to salon lash extensions but still give you the same flawless result. The silk lash fibers attach to an ultra-thin band that adheres well, giving you natural, wispy lashes that'll have you feeling like you're in the Winx club. ✨🦋
Check out why these are a fave in this TikTok.
Promising review: "Y'all I have been a loyal Lilac St. customer since they started and I will never leave them. These are the absolute best quality. I get so many compliments. They are the most natural and most comfortable to wear. I use multiple times by using makeup remover and water to remove any glue. Seriously will never stray." — Katiew
Get them from Amazon for $12.95 (available in eight styles, four sizes, and in packs of three).
22. A 6-quart Dutch oven that people compare to budget-busting versions from Le Creuset, Staub, and Lodge in both its beauty and delivery of amazing meals. You don't need to sell your soul for high-quality, durable cookware (that also happens to be so pretty, it could double as decor).
Promising review:" Le Creuset? Don't know her. I have always wanted one of these enamel covered cast iron beauties, but even from the outlet stores they were expensive. I saw this guy after finding a stew recipe that went from stove to oven, and I got it. I am DELIGHTED with this purchase! I've cooked in it several times, including a chili recipe tonight that had to reduce by half. It left a ridiculous ring on the inside, and that sucker wiped right out. I haven't burned or scorched any of my foods and it's pretty, too!" — HerRoyalHighness
Get a 6-quart Dutch oven from Amazon for $61.19 (available in three sizes and 10 colors).
23. A set of vintage-inspired glass coffee mugs because the vessel a beverage comes in can make or break the vibe. Now you can enjoy your favorite drinks in a beautiful cup that looks way more expensive than it is — or I suppose you can buy the nearly identical set from Anthropologie if you like spending more money.
Amazon
Promising review:"These are so cute and look like an Anthropologie [version] for a fraction of the price!" — corriescott
Get the set of two from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in five styles and sets with matching lids or saucers).
24. A pair of elegant slingback heels that just might get mistaken as the Chanel version — but don't worry, no one has to know you got them for about as much as you'd spend on Uber Eats. These are perfect for when you have to be in the office during the day, then head straight to a fancy dinner at night.
Some reviewers mention the strap is a little loose and recommend going a half size down so it stays snug against your foot!
Promising review:"Love these sandals. I bought them for a black and beige dress, thinking I'd be limited to only those matching colors. After receiving and trying them on — they looked perfect with jeans, too! My feet are not narrow but not wide either. The fit is perfect on my size 8 feet, which are usually in sneakers. Dressing up in these sandals will present a [high-end] vibe and be comfortable, too!! I love the look it gives my feet! Dress it up, dress it down, and easy wearing — my go-to sandals now!!" — shinyliberty
Get them from Amazon for $42.49+ (available in women's sizes 5–12).
25. A sparkly CZ tennis bracelet because you actually don't have to spend an arm and a leg on a Swarovski to feel opulent. This one looks just as elegant and timeless and can be worn everyday or to special events.
Promising reviews: "Soooo pretty. It's 100% a Swarovski [alternative] for so cheap. Looks exactly like the photo, and I wear it every day." — Trysten Walters
"I just lost my very real gold tennis bracelet. I've heard good things about this company and decided to order one that looked like the one I lost. It just came in, and it looks as nice as my real one. I don't know how it will do as time goes, but for $19, it's a great buy." — Alina
Get it from Amazon for $17.95+ (available in three lengths, 14-karat gold-plated or 18-karat gold vermeil, in yellow, rose, or white gold, and in packs of two).
26. And a hypoallergenic, adjustable knot bangle that would look great layered with it. With its ~luxury lewk~, it's a simple way to add a bit of elegance to your outfits, and since it's scratch-resistant, it's the perfect piece for your go-to jewelry collection.
Check out a TikTok of the knot bracelet in action.
Promising review:"Super high quality. Looks very expensive while the price is inexpensive. It looks so luxurious. I am absolutely in love." — Veronica Rosales
Get it from Amazon for $15.95 (available in three colors).
27. An A-line midi dress with the same corset back as the House of CB version — but this is about four times cheaper! Now, you can live your cottagecore dreams in this Pinterest-perfect dress without spending a large chunk of your paycheck.
Check it out on TikTok. Some reviewers note it's a little sheer and recommend nude undergarments.
Promising reviews: "Bought this dress because I always wanted to get the House of CB dress but didn't want to pay over $250 for it. It's honestly so good! I got the size large in this since they didn't have my normal sizes, which are small to medium (I have a bigger chest so I tend to size up). But since this has a corset back, I was able to cinch it up really tight and it fit perfectly!" — Chris Herfurth Kennedy
"Beautiful stunning perfection. This may be the best thing I've ever bought on Amazon. The corset in the back makes it fit like it was made for me. It's double-lined and not see-through at all even though it's white. The straps are adjustable, the slit is a good height, and the fabric is slightly stretchy. I cannot say enough good things about it. It did come slightly wrinkly in the skirt, but nothing that a good steam won't fix." — Shoshanna
Get it from Amazon for $53.99 (available in women's sizes 0–14 and in 16 colors/styles).
28. A deeply nourishing collagen-coating hair mask 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 *).
Just apply after shampooing, wait 5–20 minutes, then rinse out (easy peasy)!
Check out our Elizavecca CER-100 Collagen Coating Hair Protein Treatment review to learn more about why my colleague calls it "the miracle product I've been searching for."
Promising reviews:"I have 4c hair and was looking for a protein treatment for my thin and fragile hair. I had recently used a product in my hair that had so much alcohol in it; that wreaked havoc on my hair, leaving it pretty damaged. I was very skeptical about this product because I have never seen anyone with my hair type use it. Boy was I wrong to doubt this product, it left my hair looking and feeling beautiful. I highly recommend it to anyone natural or with curly hair." — Therese-Claire
"I have super fine, blonde hair. I've ran through likely hundreds of different hair masks and leave in conditioners over the years, only to have them cling to my hair like nothing else, often leaving it feeling waxy and heavy. After a few rounds of clarifying shampoo, I reached for this stuff and it legit brought my hair back from the grave. Even with my hair being extremely fine, it leaves it soft, glossy, and gorgeous! I know some people have said they're not a fan of the smell, but I find it to be super light and refreshing.
Could not recommend this stuff enough!!" — Soph
Get it from Amazon for $7.93.
29. A pair of slip-on mules for days when you're working at the office *or* just roaming around window shopping and want your feet to breathe (reviewers say they're super comfy 😌). Your friends will be shocked that these *aren't* the Gemma mules from Madewell — and they'll be even more shocked when you tell them the price.
Promising reviews:" Purchased to test as a [swap] for the Madewell Gemma mule. I absolutely love the shoes! I feel like they will stretch when I wear them a few more times, which my narrow feet can't really afford, but for the price of these compared to Madewell, I'll live with." — Briana Favors
"I really love these shoes. I've been eyeing the Madewell Gemma mules for months, but stumbled upon these and decided to take a chance. These are super comfortable and easy to walk in." — Hannah Newsome
Get them from Amazon for $35.97 (available in women's sizes 5–12 and five colors).