Latest news with #Ray-Bans
Tom's Guide
3 days ago
- Tom's Guide
Ray-Ban Meta vs Oakley Meta smart glasses: Differences and similarities
Meta now has a new option when it comes to its smart glasses in the form of the newly announced Oakley HSTN Meta smart glasses. The latest Meta glasses look pretty slick. But with Ray-Ban Meta variants existing for a couple of years now, it's fair to wonder how these smart glass options compare. For those in the market for a pair of smart glasses, you may be wondering if its worth sticking with the Ray-Bans or turning to Oakley's option. We're here to help. If you're unfamiliar with Meta AI smart glasses, the Ray-Ban smart glasses rank fairly high on our best smart glasses list. We're looking forward for our chance to formally test the Oakley glasses once they become available. Until then, we can make a Ray-Ban Meta vs Oakley Meta comparison based on what we know about the new model. There are other styles of Ray-Ban Meta glasses, including the Skyler and Headliner but the Wayfarer are the glasses you'll see most often and the ones that Meta typically highlights when discussing its wearables. As such, I've compiled this comparison of the Oakley HSTN Meta smart glasses and the Ray-Ban Wayfarer Meta smart glasses to help you decide which pair of AI glasses you should rock. Oakley HSTN Meta Ray-Ban Wayfarer Meta Frame Round Square Color Gray Matte Black, Shiny Black, Lens color Prizm 24K Polarized Green, Clear, Green to Graphite transition, Gradient Graphite, Blue, Brown, Watermelon red Treatment Polarized Transitions, Clear Dimensions Hinge to hinge: 133mmLens Height: 43mmLens Width: 49mmBridge width: 23mmTemple length: 145mm Hinge to hinge: 131mm (137 large size)Lens Height: 41mm (44 large)Lens Width: 50mm (53 large)Bridge width: 22mmTemple length: 150mm (155 large) Weight 49g 49g (51g large) Camera 12MP ultra-wide3024x4032 images1440x1920 @30fps video1280x720 pixels @120 fps 12MP ultra-wide3024x4032 images1440x1920 @30fps video Speakers 2 Discreet Open-ear speakers 2 open-ear Bluetooth speakers Microphone 5-mic array (2 in left arm, 2 in right arm, 1 near nose pad) 5-mic array (2 in left arm, 2 in right arm, 1 near nose pad) Battery 8 hours single charge 4 hours single charge Charging case 48 hours 36 hours Memory 32GB flash storage 32GB flash storage Connectivity Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, iOS 15.2 and up, Android 10 and up Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, iOS 15.2 and up, Android 10 and up There is a pretty significant price difference between the Wayfarer and HSTN prices. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. Right now you can pick up a pair of Ray-Bans for $299 while the Oakleys can be pre-ordered for $499, a $200 difference. The transition lens Wayfarers are closer to the Oakleys at $379, but still cost $120 less. The Oakleys design is listed as a limited edition and Meta says it will only be available for "a limited time," so we're not sure how long that will remain open. There are some upgraded differences including better cameras and improved cameras in the Oakleys that could hint at why the new glasses are so much more expensive. The improved specs are a boon to the Oakleys, but if you're just dipping your toes into AI smart glasses, than the less expensive Ray-Bans might be be a better fit for your budget. Overall, the Ray-Bans are more wallet friendly but the Oakleys do offer double the battery life and better video capture, at least on paper. Ray-Ban Metas come in two sizes — a standard and large version. In contrast, the Oakleys are only available in one size that slots in right between the two Ray-Bans. The Oakleys weigh the same as the standard Wayfarers at 49 grams, and slightly less than the larger version. The big noticeable difference is in the design aesthetic, where the Wayfarers have a more square lens shape, while the HSTN have a rounded lens. Plus, the nose pads zone notches in a bit on the Oakleys compared to the Wayfarer where the nose pad area is thinner. Ray-Ban Meta glasses have a number of lens options ranging from transitions to clear, green and brown and red compared to the Oakley pair, which only is available with a Prizm 24K polarized lens that are "designed for specific sports and environments." The Prizm lenses are an Oakley design and can be seen on its non-smart glasses. Overall, your choice will come down to aesthetics. These Oakleys aren't a Meta-fied pair of wraparound Sphaera shades. They're pretty slick looking threading the needle between sports and daily wear. The Ray-Bans have been around longer and have more colorways for the frames including an N64-style transparent set that gives you more options to play with when picking a pair. On the whole, the cameras on the Ray-Ban Wayfarers and the Oakley HSTN glasses are basically the same. Both have 12MP ultra-wide lenses (that you can see in the corners of the glasses) which capture 3024 x 4032 images and video capture of 1440 x 1920 pixels at 30 FPS. However, the HSTN specs also have a 100 degree field of view. Neither the Meta site nor Ray-Ban list field of view specs for the Wayfarer. Additionally, the Oakleys can capture 720p video at 120 FPS. As far as we can tell there doesn't appear to be a difference in performance and AI between the Ray-Bans and Oakleys. Both will have access to Meta AI for vocal queries, live translation, and more. They also have access to the Meta AI app which lets you customize settings and interact with the Meta AI assistant on both the glasses and the app. As expected, both can make and take phones calls, or send text messages from the glasses. Lastly, the glasses have speakers for listening to music. The Ray-Bans are listed as open-ear Bluetooth speakers, while the Oakleys are just listed as open-ear, though it does have Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity, compared to 5.2 for the Wayfarers. As mentioned above, the Oakley's HSTN glasses claim a battery life of 8 hours on a single charge, which is double the claimed 4 hours on the Ray-Bans. In our Ray-Ban Meta glasses review we found the glasses lasted around 6 hours of active use. Once we are able to test the Oakley's ourselves, we'll know where the battery life comparison truly stands. The charging case with Oakley's model is also an improvement, with a claimed additional 48 hours of use; the Ray-Ban cases offer up to 36 hours. The Ray-Ban glasses do come with a nice leather case, while the Oakleys come in a more rugged-looking case that appears built for more sports and outdoor activities. Until we're able to physically test the Oakley Meta glasses, we won't know how the Ray-Ban Wayfarers and HSTN smart glasses truly compare. But from what we've seen so far, the Oakleys boast several upgrades from the Ray-Ban glasses with a slightly better camera and better battery life. Right now what it comes down to is price and aesthetics. The Oakleys, while a limited edition, are far more expensive than the Ray-Bans and perhaps don't offer enough of an upgrade to justify the price. If money isn't an issue, then it will come down to whether or not you prefer the look of the Oakleys. I happen to think they look pretty solid, even with the nose pad notch. You might prefer the more daily wear approach of the Ray-Bans that would look great in most social settings, especially with the availability of different lenses and colorways. Follow Tom's Guide on Google News to get our up-to-date news, how-tos, and reviews in your feeds. Make sure to click the Follow button.
Indian Express
3 days ago
- Business
- Indian Express
Why Qualcomm is betting on smart glasses like Meta's Ray-Bans as the next big thing in tech
Alex Katouzian, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Mobile Compute & XR at Qualcomm Inc, Monday expressed confidence that smart glasses will become the next big category in the consumer tech space. 'As of today, many people are carrying not one device but multiple devices like watches, phones, and earbuds. Glasses will be another smart device that people carry,' said Katouzian. Katouzian's confidence in the smart glasses segment comes after the surprise success of Meta's glasses developed in partnership with Ray-Ban. Although Meta has explored both virtual and augmented reality, it was the Ray-Ban smart glasses that caught consumers' attention globally, despite not being advanced AR glasses. Instead, the Ray-Bans combine the Meta AI voice assistant with basic hardware and a classic design, which helped the company sell millions of units. Ray-Bans are wirelessly linked with a smartphone. 'You have seen Meta Ray-Bans and Oakleys; they exist today at a scale much larger than last year or the year before. The volumes have increased six to seven times compared to what we shipped previously,' Katouzian told at the Snapdragon for India event in Delhi. The reason Qualcomm, the leading maker of smartphone processors, is making a bigger push into smart glasses is probably because it developed the processor that powered the Meta Ray-Ban glasses. Now, that experiment seems to have paid off, and the company is launching a new chip specifically designed for the next generation of smart glasses. The AR1 Plus Gen 1 chip is an upgrade from the processors used in smaller smart glasses, such as the Meta Ray-Bans. The new chip is not only smaller in size, allowing for a larger battery while keeping the glasses looking like regular eyewear, but also supports on-device AI, capable of running small language models. This enables the glasses to handle more offline tasks using voice commands. 'Not only are we moving toward making glasses smarter, but we are also working to combine these devices to deliver a much better user experience. Whether it's on-device or in the cloud, it doesn't matter to us. We are agnostic to that. We will help the cloud agent become smarter by giving it access to your personal information, and we will help the on-device agent become smarter by enabling it to process tasks locally, without accessing the cloud. That's the direction we are headed with these technologies,' he explains. Qualcomm is placing its bet on a product category that has never truly been a hit with consumers. Smart glasses that use augmented and virtual reality have often felt more like tech demos than practical, usable products. However, smart glasses like the Meta Ray-Bans have made the concept more accessible, even though they only perform basic functions and don't yet offer the kind of futuristic features, such as augmented reality, that tech companies ultimately hope to bring to glasses — features that could one day even replace smartphones. Smart glasses like Meta's Ray-Bans may be the first step in that direction, but it's one step at a time. Katouzian says the next generation of computing devices that people will carry are glasses. However, the chips needed for the glasses need to be reimagined, and the processors designed for smartphones won't be a fit. 'The glasses, especially in the case of AR, operate at below 1 watt, whereas a PC operates at tens of watts, and a phone operates in the single-digit watt range. We are going from tens of watts to single digits, and now to below 1 watt – each step an order of magnitude lower in power consumption,' he explains. 'So of course, the chips we design for AR glasses take into consideration how long the battery needs to last. They minimise power usage while still providing enough performance to make the glasses useful.' While the Meta Ray-Ban glasses may be the most popular smart glasses on the market today, the technology powering them has some limitations. 'Today, with the Meta glasses, you have to download an app on your phone that then interfaces with the device. We don't think that's the best way to do it because the app, by default, wakes up the phone's large processors to actually do its work. When these two things come near each other, they realise that there's another computing device there. We can offload the compute through either low-power Bluetooth or low-power Wi-Fi into the smartphone. What we would like to do is develop better contextual awareness between the glasses and the phone,' Katouzian said. But Katouzian imagines a future where smart glasses will have a relationship similar to the one we have with our smartphones or smartwatches. This means the glasses, smartphones, and smartwatches will work together seamlessly, with each device having its role and excelling at what it does best. 'Just imagine a watch combined with a pair of glasses. The watch will tell you everything about your internal health, while the glasses provide information about your external environment. When combined, your health and surroundings become one. Everyone carries a phone, which is a very powerful computing tool that holds your personal information: your calendar, emails, texts, location, and many other daily essentials are all stored there. Now, combine that with the glasses and the watch, so I can offload computing tasks to the phone to do things for me. I could store a large model on the phone itself. It can answer questions like, 'Hey, what should I do today in Delhi?' The glasses will detect that it's cloudy and about to rain, while the phone knows your location and understands your areas of interest.' While the Meta-powered Ray-Bans don't yet have augmented reality capabilities, they do feature video cameras, speakers, and a functioning AI, which many users have found more useful than the AI use cases currently available on a phone. 'You can actually do many things with an assistant, or ask questions that you would otherwise have to type or figure out where to get the information from. What that means is the AI agent has to be with you all the time to be useful. You should be able to just wear the glasses and have access to the agent. Today, this happens through the phone because it's the only connection to the cloud. Tomorrow, another device on your body that can have a cellular modem is the watch. So the watch and glasses will become an important pair,' he said. Katouzian said the AI agent will, by default, be part of whatever device you are using, whether it's a phone, watch, or glasses. He added that Qualcomm is working on a way to put a cellular modem directly into the glasses. 'We fully plan to figure out how to embed a cellular modem in the glasses themselves. It's already in the watch today – there's no reason it can't be in the glasses. 'The glasses cannot be very heavy; otherwise, their usability and comfort start to diminish. We pay a lot of attention to packaging and partitioning our chipsets and software in such a way that the glasses can be used comfortably for a full day.' From recording a concert with the built-in cameras without taking the phone out to make a call, much like any pair of wireless earbuds with a voice assistant, smart glasses like the Meta Ray-Bans offer features similar to other modern consumer tech products. While Ray-Bans don't offer advanced features, their form factor allows certain functions to work better on the glasses, making everyday technology more useful and helpful. The smash success of Ray-Bans has opened a new market for others to pursue seriously, and look beyond smartphones, which have started to peak but still generate billions of dollars in revenue. Meta's Chief Executive Officer, Mark Zuckerberg, has admitted that the glasses have been a bigger hit than expected since their launch, and the demand for them outpaced Meta's ability to manufacture them. Katouzian is encouraging its OEMs to make smart glasses alongside smartphones and wearables. 'We have the ability to make devices contextually aware of each other so they don't need an app. If an OEM can build both the phone and the glasses, they can use our protocols to fully utilise what the phone offers or what the watch offers. I think that's how we want to proceed.' In India, Lenskart, which provides eye care solutions and retails computer glasses, sunglasses, and contact lenses, is launching a pair of smart glasses featuring a Qualcomm chip. 'With Lenskart, we put together our solution with a glass maker, an actual ODM elsewhere, and combined it with what Lenskart wanted to do. This combination will allow Lenskart to provide smart glasses to its customer base,' he said. Katouzian says the launch of smart glasses from Lenskart will help broaden the market for smart glasses in a country like India. Meta recently launched its Ray-Ban smart glasses in India, though they cost as much as a mid-range smartphone. Qualcomm has also set its sights on augmented reality and mixed reality as key target areas, diversifying its business beyond smartphones. The San Diego-based chip maker is heavily involved in Samsung's Project Moohan mixed reality headset, which will be powered by Google's new mixed reality OS- Android XR, designed for headsets and smart glasses. Anuj Bhatia is a personal technology writer at who has been covering smartphones, personal computers, gaming, apps, and lifestyle tech actively since 2011. He specialises in writing longer-form feature articles and explainers on trending tech topics. His unique interests encompass delving into vintage tech, retro gaming and composing in-depth narratives on the intersection of history, technology, and popular culture. He covers major international tech conferences and product launches from the world's biggest and most valuable tech brands including Apple, Google and others. At the same time, he also extensively covers indie, home-grown tech startups. Prior to joining The Indian Express in late 2016, he served as a senior tech writer at My Mobile magazine and previously held roles as a reviewer and tech writer at Gizbot. Anuj holds a postgraduate degree from Banaras Hindu University. You can find Anuj on Linkedin. Email: ... Read More
Buzz Feed
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
36 Products Very Similar To The Pricier Versions
A tinted lip balm so close to the same magic as "Black Honey," TikTok's beloved $25 ~universal shade~ from Clinique, that it will genuinely startle you — especially when you see the price. This is a perfect, non-sticky "go-to" lippie that's just a step above the "no makeup makeup" look, giving the perfect subtly polished effect. An affordable, Lululemon-esque longline sports bra just as comfy, supportive, and versatile as the real thing that reviewers love it both for outdoor workouts, gym use, *and* errand running. This is designed to be supportive without being too compressive, with lightweight fabric that keeps you breezy in the heat. A Baccarat Rouge 540-inspired moisturizing body wash infused with white jasmine, red currant, and sweet amber that reviewers swear by for a cheap alternative to keep that delectably luxe scent on them all day long. Nothing wrong with smelling a lil' ~~expensive~~! A set of Victoria's Secret–inspired seamless "invisible" underwear so soft and stretchy your butt will want to *sing* when you slide them on. This is a true holy grail underwear that doesn't show, doesn't ride up, and somehow manages to look cute all at the same time. A pair of luxe retro-style oval sunglasses giving Miu Miu vibes without the $489 price tag. The devil's in the chic details on this one, including the little gold embellishments on the sides and the nostalgic shape of the lenses, which are softer than the typical skinny oval lens. And a three-pack of vintage-inspired polarized sunglasses for anyone who needs to stock up on a few "these look like Ray-Bans, but I won't cry into my Baja Blast if I accidentally leave them in the Taco Bell parking lot" pairs this year. These are especially handy because you can match the subtle prints to whatever 'fit you're wearing! A TikTok-beloved "Soft" perfume rollerball that honestly has no right smelling so delectable and layering so well considering it's only five cash dollars. Reviewers are obsessed with the scent's warm sweetness with a hint of citrusy zest, comparing it to waffle cones, lemon pound cake, and warm vanilla scones ... and this $65 bottle of Pink Sugar 👀. And a cult-favorite Creamy Coconut fragrance rollerball reviewers compare to the $25 Sol de Janeiro version 👀☀️ . This is from TikTok-famous small business brand Kuumba Made, known for its luxury scents at ridiculously affordable prices, so you know they're on their game — reviewers especially love how ~beachy~ and long-lasting this sweet but elevated fragrance feels and how nicely it plays with other scents! Mise En Scene Perfect Serum, a beloved K-beauty staple reviewers compare to the $46 Gisou version for MEGA hair hydration and heat protection up to 450 degrees, so you can style your hair without sacrificing on ✨shine✨. This unique blend of seven-oil blend Moroccan argan, olive, coconut, apricot, Marula, jojoba, and camellia oil not only protects hair, but helps correct damage from dryness, *and* reduces drying time. E.l.f. Glow Reviver Melting Lip Balm for all the ultra fans of Summer Fridays, Rhode, and Laneige whose bank accounts are begging them to put a stop to the lippie madness. These new deliciously tinted, moisturizing, buildable glosses are just as buttery and decadent as the balms that inspired them, for a fraction of the price. (Brb, drowning myself in the "Strawberry Shortcake" and "Vanilla Toffee" flavors.) A bodycon lounge dress perfect for fans of Skims looking to spare themselves a few bucks — this versatile, figure-hugging dress has just the right amount of compression to mimic the iconic style and stay oh-so-comfortable for long periods of wear. Essence's Drop of Sunshine Bronzing Drops, aka the more affordable version of the beloved $39 Drunk Elephant version. This buildable, hydrating formula is an easy way to add a ~sunkissed touch~ to your beauty routine without breaking the bank (or compromising your skin!). A pair of high-waisted running shorts with a comfy scrunch-elastic waistband reviewers compare to the Lululemon version. These are lightweight, quick-dry, and come in so many adorable colors that your butt might just want them on rotation until laundry day. And a pair of Buff Bunny-inspired booty-highlighting biker shorts for anyone who wants to add some fun prints and colors to their favorite ~asset~ when they're on the move, for a fraction of the usual $48 price. E.l.f.'s iconic eyelash curler that'll blow all the expensive versions out of the water — this gives your lashes such an instant, gentle lift that you'll be like, "Oh, cool, there's dark magic in here somewhere." If you want to take your bare lashes or mascara to the next level, this little gizmo will do it in a few seconds flat, without the $22 price tag of the Shu Uemura version that reviewers compare it with. A ribbed button up tank top with some real Abercrombie & Fitch energy to perfectly straddle that line of "professional" and "I am 100000% going out after work today, and a martini glass will be involved." A set of golden bracelets giving ~quiet luxury~ vibes at "I want to pay rent this month" prices. Reviewers especially love these mix-and-match sets because they look like expensive versions from Cartier — the middle one is giving the $8,000 "Juste Un Clou" and the studded one is giving the $6,000 "Love Bracelet!" And a dainty gold-plated station necklace, another home run from jewelry brand Pavoi so close to the real diamond versions from Quince and Dorsey that run $400+ that it'll turn all your everyday looks into ~quietly expensive~ looks. A Skims-inspired square-neck compressive body suit that's basically 10 outfits in one — you can rock it solo, wear it as a bodysuit tucked into jeans, or pair it with a hoodie or a jacket. Go, little base layer, gooooo! A Lululemon-esque adjustable mini belted pack (aka ~fanny pack~) you can wear around your waist or shoulder for a lightweight bag alternative that you won't lose, since it is literally attached to you. A lot of reviewers mention how genuinely *stunned* they are by how much this little bag can secretly carry. A set of Bala Bangle-inspired wrist and ankle weights to get your ~fitness~ on this summer — these serve all the same cuteness and function without the $55 price tag. Not to mention this has a TON more colors available to match your 'fits. A hydrating, plumping lip glow oil reviewers compare to the cult-fave Dior Lip Oil ... that is, if it were a FRACTION of the price 👀. A set of satin pillowcases that not only have a cooling effect, but are soft on your skin and create less friction for your hair so it won't get as tangled while you sleep. Reviewers especially love these because they're an affordable alternative to ones that typically run $18 per case! E.l.f.'s Holy Hydration! Thirst Burst Drops, another home run from the brand's moisturizing "Holy Hydration" line that reviewers are comparing to the $35 Watermelon Dew Drops from Glow Recipe. This lightweight formula is designed to brighten and plump skin for a dewy effect, whether you're wearing it alone, applying it under your makeup, or mixing it with your foundation. A super lightweight, loose-fitting high neck muscle tank for fans of the Lululemon version at a *much* lower price point. This is a breezy *dream* thanks to the quick-dry fabric, the cross-over pleat in the back, and the slight petal hem at the bottom. And another Lululemon-inspired piece, a charming and oh-so-comfortable tennis skirt with built-in shorts similar to the Align style. The secret inner pocket on these is perfect for stashing keys and tennis balls, and the shorts are designed with a four-way stretch so they won't ride up. A multipurpose blush stick reviewers compare to the $18 Pixi Beauty version — this version may be cheaper, but it's also easily buildable, blendable, and perfect for that light, dewy, "kissed by a happy pink cloud" look. A square-neck lettuce trim "going out" top that a lot of reviewers compare to an expensive mall brand, but muuuuch more affordable. And thank goodness, because once you fall for its comfy stretch and effortless cool, you're going to want it in WAY more colors. Moodmatcher color-changing lipstick, an affordable WinkyLux alternative that not only adapts to the pH of your skin to create a personalized, perfect shade for your skin tone, but lasts for HOURS. Reviewers marvel at its all-day staying power even after meals and breaking a sweat. Look at that lil' green lipstick go!! A plated, jewel-embedded ring you can buy yourself as a little treat if the $1,250 Cartier Love Ring is decidedly out of your budget. Dare I say this version is ... prettier than the designer one? A high-quality, *just* compressive enough layering T-shirt reviewers love so much that a ton of them tried it and immediately ordered more colors to stock up. This shirt is double-lined but still feels lightweight on the skin, giving a sophisticated, expensive look with a casual feel. Reviewers compare it to Skims at a fraction of the price! E.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter that looked at the iconic (and expensive) Charlotte Tilbury Flawless Filter and said, "Game on, pal." Not only does this give that dewy, soft, "barely there" finish, but it's designed to hydrate your skin with hyaluronic acid, helping improve your moisture barrier for longterm glowiness, too. Etude's delightfully multipurpose Dear Darling Water Tint, which a lot of reviewers compare to Benefit's Lip Tint. This smudgeproof formula is designed primarily to be a natural-looking, weightless lip stain, but reviewers use it as a blush as well! A pair of elevated, effortlessly chic wide leg petal sweatpants that look like they fell out of an Anthropologie ad. Reviewers love how cozy and breathable these are, and that the style is perfect for indoor lounging *and* outdoor errands. A ridiculously versatile minimalist nylon tote bag for fans of Longchamp's Le Pliage bag who perhaps do not feel responsible enough to own the real deal, knowing how messy and chaotic everyday life and travel plans can get. This version is a dead ringer for the name brand, and reviewers adore that it's nearly waterproof and super comfortable to sling over your shoulder. An Anthropologie-inspired reversible quilted throw blanket you can get in all kinds of fun, lively sprints that will startle your boring couch into having a personality, or give your bed a *much* needed reset.
Buzz Feed
17-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- Buzz Feed
34 Upscale-Looking Products That Will Impress Friends
An Anthropologie-inspired reversible quilted throw blanket you can get in all kinds of fun, lively prints that will startle your boring couch into having a personality, or give your bed a *much* needed reset. A buttery soft (and pregnancy-friendly!) Butterluxe athletic skort so lightweight, comfortable, and breezy that it will become the MVP of your warm weather wardrobe in no time flat. A three-pack of vintage-inspired polarized sunglasses for anyone who needs to stock up on a few "these look like Ray-Bans, but I won't cry into my Baja Blast if I accidentally leave them in the Taco Bell parking lot" pairs this year. These are especially handy because you can match the subtle prints to whatever 'fit you're wearing! A set of golden bracelets giving ~quiet luxury~ vibes at "I want to pay rent this month" prices. Reviewers especially love these mix-and-match sets because they look like expensive versions from Cartier — the middle one is giving the $8,000 "Juste Un Clou" and the studded one is giving the $6,000 "Love Bracelet!" A beautifully packaged, travel-friendly Touchland Glow Mist hydrating hand sanitizer for anyone who's like "mindfully practicing health and safety, but make it fashion." Unlike other sanitizer sprays, it's infused with aloe vera to keep your skin hydrated and has the most luxurious floral scents. A Lululemon-inspired mini wristlet wallet set that looks just like their $50 version, and also easily holds cash, cards, and lip balms, so you don't have to deal with the whole muss and fuss of a purse if you're going on a walk around the neighborhood. Plus, you know what they say — keep your friends close and your beloved lippies closer. A pair of super lightweight ruffled elastic shorts you will be SO happy you invested in when you need an elevated piece to toss on without thinking, like when you're walking the dog early in the a.m. or heading to a last-minute outdoor lunch with pals. A simple faux diamond tennis bracelet to add a touch of sophistication to any outfit without the price of name-brand versions like Swarovski (even though reviewers agree this looks like the Real Deal 👀). A pair of gorgeous kitchen shears that are as functional as they are stunning — reviewers love these all-purpose, super sharp blades for cutting everything from meat and fruit to opening packages and wrangling with complicated wrapping. A set of sophisticated cylindrical wineglasses to rival Crate & Barrel's, and to elevate your Friday wine-cheese-and-Netflix nights so instantaneously that you'll feel like an extra in one of those Shows About Rich Families Who Fight All The Time. A set of lightweight, oh-so-dainty ruffled pajamas inspired by the $89 Piyama version. Revievers are in loooove with this set for summer, saying the fabric is so high quality that it feels like linen. If you're looking for breezy warm weather loungewear, this adorable set fits the bill! A sophisticated laptop tote bag so you can easily (and chicly!) carry not just your tech, but the whole arsenal of I'm A Very Busy Business Person things you need to get through the day. Reviewers compare this to the $100 Beis version, and especially love the unexpected depth and pockets included. A pair of elevated, effortlessly chic wide leg petal sweatpants that look like they fell out of an Anthropologie ad. Reviewers love how cozy and breathable these are, and that the style is perfect for indoor lounging *and* outdoor errands. Kitsch's iconic claw clip, well-known for its delicate style and strong, sturdy clamp suitable for all hair types. Yes, it's more expensive than the cheaper sets you can get out there, but this is actually built to last and has specially rounded teeth to prevent hair damage. An affordable cult-favorite luxury-scented candle with a scent reminiscent of Le Labo's Santal 33, and a throw so satisfying that reviewers can't stop gushing about it. If you're in the market for a signature scent for your space this fall, look no further than this jasmine, oud, and sandalwood blend. A gorgeous statement checkered cutting board designed with deep grooves for juice, hidden handles on the bottom, and end grain to "heal" cuts from knives. A true overachiever considering it's worth the buy for decor purposes alone!! A fully wireless (Shark Tank–featured!) stick-on "Poplight" sconce so easy to install that you literally just charge it up and stick it to the wall with non-damaging adhesive. It is a renter and indecisive decorator's DREAM — all the whimsy and function of a cute sconce with none of the effort!! HGTV nerds all over the world are shaking. A plated, jewel-embedded ring you can buy yourself as a little treat if the $1,250 Cartier Love Ring is decidedly out of your budget. Dare I say this version is ... prettier than the designer one? And a dainty gold-plated station necklace, another home run from jewelry brand Pavoi so close to the real diamond versions from Quince and Dorsey that run $400+ that it'll turn all your everyday looks into ~quietly expensive~ looks. A hybrid tissue box phone holder that's basically "GRWM" goals — you can prop this on your vanity to stream content, FaceTime, and even record yourself while you're getting your glam on. ✨ An effortlessly chic, surprisingly roomy woven straw summer purse designed to look like $100+ woven purses from Staud or Revolve that are taking this year by storm. A set of flower petal dessert glasses so you can serve up little puddings, ice creams, and yogurt parfaits and decorate them with edible flowers for your Meghan Markle era. 🌸 Reviewers also use these for cocktails and juice! A vintage-style six-in-one Bluetooth record player that plays *deep breath* vinyls, CDs, AND cassettes along with connecting to Bluetooth and the radio, so you can walk down every single musical path on memory lane. A roll-up wide brim UPF 50 sun hat to protect your cheeks from the sun's rays *and* keep you looking effortlessly chic no matter how many days it's been since your last hair wash. This one is a real winner because of how absurdly packable it is, making it perfect for shoving into a tote bag on long days and a suitcase on vacation — and how affordable it is compared to $87+ versions from brands like Bloomingdale's, Wallaroo, and Cuyana. An affordable sleeveless exercise romper you will be SO glad you bought on days when the sun is trying to bake you like cookie dough. These are medium-compressive, soft, breezy, and SUPER easy to throw on when your brain is too fried to match a top and a bottom in the heat. Bonus — these are comparable to Aerie, Abercrombie, and Hollister versions that can go for three times this price! Case-Mate's iconic waterproof beach totes, which are, of course, ridiculously roomy and useful, but more importantly, RIDICULOUSLY cute. This is it "It" accessory of the beach if there ever were one. Get ready to be swimming in the ocean AND in compliments from strangers. Bonus — it even comes with a separate dry bag for your phone! An effortlessly chic Nine West watch that not only pairs beautifully with your jewelry, but will help knock you out of that habit of checking your phone for time a thousand times a day and getting distracted by your notifications. An oh-so-classic pair of slip-on pointed toe ballet flats reviewers *love* as a cheaper alternative to the beloved Vivaia and Rothy's version, especially since these are also designed for all-day wear without any painful break-in periods, and are fully machine washable. A chic structured toiletry organizer with a "window" so you can look inside and easily access whatever you need on the go. Reviewers especially love how the structure of it stops items like beauty products or medications from getting crushed inside (and that it's a heck of a lot cheaper than the $100 Truffle Clarity version). Birdie, an indoor carbon dioxide monitor that — bless her dramatic heart — flips over and "dies" if the air quality in your home goes down, prompting you to open a window or run an air purifier so you can breathe easier. Once Birdie is happy with the air quality again, she'll pop back up! A three-tier ring floor lamp for anyone who wants a lighting option that isn't going to bore them to tears. This not only has unique, sophisticated flair, but comes with adjustable brightness so you can curate the room's mood. A set of six rustic-style ceramic ramekins so versatile that you'll be putting them to WORK. Not only can you use these in your oven or air fryer to cook in smaller portions for lava cakes and egg bakes, but you can use them to serve ice cream, yogurt parfaits, dips, and snacks. A set of restaurantworthy shallow pasta bowls to make you feel like you're genuinely ~plating~ all your meals like a professional — this is like a bowl and a plate had a very stylish, SUPER convenient baby for all your pasta and salad needs. A cheerful fruit bowl for a pop of deeply functional color in your kitchen — this thing is secretly also a colander, so you can wash your fruit and leave 'em sitting pretty on the counter to dry.
Daily Mirror
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
'I went to France for charity shops and couldn't believe value of item I found'
A British bargain hunter has hailed a discovery she made in a charity shop in Paris, which she believes is worth around £300 - and she only paid a fraction of that price A woman who defied the soaring Parisian heat to check out the French capital's charity shops has expressed her delight after stumbling upon a bargain find. Lola Amuah took to TikTok to reveal the results of her shopping trip across the Channel, noting one particular item she snapped up that she claims is worth £300. "It's 30 degrees in Paris and all we can think about is going to flipping charity shops," she joked in a video. Accompanied by her friend, Lola headed inside a branch of Emmaus - a charity established in the 1940s to help combat poverty and homelessness in France. The pair began their experience by checking out the clothes and hats, before Lola made a beeline for the toys section. After picking out a Toy Story soft toy, she soon moved on to a basket of sunglasses, which included a child's pair of Ray-Bans. Lola's friend then summoned her over to showcase a Bimba Y Lola purse. "This is an expensive brand, isn't it?" she asked. "We've got to get it," agreed Lola as the duo checked it over for authenticity. Closing, Lola spotted a brown leather Coach handbag, which she examined thoroughly. Noting its €79.50 price tag (£70), she declared: "Isn't that gorgeous? It's stunning, and it is real." She hailed her success in a caption: "We found a £300 handbag in a charity shop!" Coach handbags in this style currently retail online for between £300 and £495. "Stop going to charity shops and finding fabulous things, I'm so jealous," one TikTok user penned in response. According to the brand's website, Coach is a global fashion house founded in New York, also in the 1940s. "Inspired by the vision of Creative Director Stuart Vevers and the inclusive and courageous spirit of our hometown, we make beautiful things, crafted to last—for you to be yourself in," Coach states. It goes on to add: "We believe in crafting beautiful things that you can be yourself in. Since 1941, inspired by the spirit of our hometown, New York City, we've built a legacy of craft and a community that champions the courage to live authentically. "Today, the same way we care about every stitch that goes into our product, we care about the impact we have on people, communities and the planet. "Everything we make, we craft to last with the belief that better-made things create a better made future for all." Today, there are 17 Coach stores in the UK, seven of which can be found in Central London and its outer boroughs. Other branches can be found in major cities including Birmingham, Edinburgh, Leeds, Portsmouth and York.
