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    27 Birthday Gifts That Look Expensive, But You And I Know Are Under $50

    You'll be setting the bar high as the best gift-giver, and it didn't cost you much.

    1. A dazzling tennis bracelet that'll sparkle with all the "ice" from those dazzling crystals when it catches the light, making everyone who passes by do a double-take. This bracelet is so stunning, they’ll swear it's straight out of a Tiffany’s showcase (but it didn’t even set you back 20 bucks).

    reviewer wearing the gold bracelet on their wrist
    reviewer wearing the silver bracelet on their wrist

    Promising review: "I LOVE this bracelet!!! It looks so expensive and is heavy duty. If you want a tennis bracelet without spending thousands of dollars, I HIGHLY recommend this!" —Gabby Little

    Get it from Amazon for $17.95 (available in three lengths and finishes, as well as a two-pack). 

    2. A sleek bamboo charcuterie board beautifully crafted for someone who loves to play host or just enjoys a bit of everyday luxury. They’ll be laying out an array of cheeses, meats, fruits, and nuts in a way that's both artful and appetizing. It's not just a board; it's a conversation starter, a centerpiece that elevates any gathering from a casual hangout to an elegant soirée.

    This board comes with a removable magnetic holder that keeps four serving knives and utensils upright and easily accessible, two ceramic serving bowls for sauces and dips, and six sampler forks to complement this stunning charcuterie tray.

    Smirly is the small business behind these charcuterie boards — check out their store page for more cute gift ideas for people who love to host and cook!

    Promising reviews: "This was a gift for a friend. She was blown away when she opened it. I'm sure she will get much use from it for family use and for parties. Can't wait to see how she fills it!" —Beaudette

    "This was a last-minute purchase for a party we hosted and the charcuterie was a hit! I loved the ramekins, spots for nuts and more, and the knife set is higher quality than what you would expect for the price point. Sharp and heavy. I do wish the ramekins were a little bit deeper, they’re quite shallow and probably meant for jams and honey but I wanted to use them for pickles and olives. I made them work, but it’s worth mentioning. The board was easy to clean and the small forks were a great accessory. I ended up using the fruit tray to hold a dip and crackers, it’s super versatile. I highly recommend this board for your own kitchen or as a gift!" —Gina DeLand

    Get it from Amazon for $39.99 (utensils and serving bowls come in five different colors). 

    3. An understated but sleek retro-style baguette purse that screams "luxury" but with a price tag that whispers "affordable." It has this vintage charm that feels both nostalgic and incredibly chic — and a design so versatile, they can pair it with their favorite jeans and tee *or* a little black dress to tie the whole look together. 

    Model holding the strap of a dark green small baguette style purse with gold clasp
    Reviewer holding the white version over their shoulder

    Promising reviews: "Gorgeous bag. The material is so easy to clean, and it's beyond sturdy. The zipper pocket inside is great for storing things discreetly. The length is great, it sits perfectly under my arm with a little bit of room still. Overall, great purchase." —Mary

    "Gorgeous bag. The color, the style...it's very well made. It was a gift for my sister-in-law and she loved it!!!" —Jennifer Ch

    Get it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in nine colors and one other style). 

    4. A pair of oversized square sunnies giving them all the style points without splurging on your end. The polarized lenses offer UV 400 protection, so they won't just look fabulous — their eyes will also be shielded from those harsh rays.

    reviewer wearing the sunnies in black
    reviewer wearing the sunnies in silver

    Promising reviews: "Love these so so much. I wanted the chic Bottega Veneta designer pair, but these look exactly like those for less than $20. Deal of the century. They are comfortable and extremely well made and I seriously can’t get over the price. I’m thinking about buying another color because I love them so much." —Kam

    "Literal wow. These are incredibly nice glasses — not cheap at all and very well made. The material is thick and of obvious quality. Buying these for gifts is awesome." —Sarah

    Get it from Amazon for $12.79 (available in 13 lens colors). 

    5. wireless charger that's also a dimmable bedside lamp, night light, Bluetooth speaker, white noise machine, and even a phone holder that can swivel 180 degrees. It's like the Swiss Army knife of bedside accessories, the gift of ultimate relaxation and convenience all rolled into one.

    Promising reviews: "This product is aesthetically pleasing and beautifully crafted. Looks great on the bedside table. It works well, the sounds are good, charging and light are very convenient! I liked it so much I ordered more as gifts!" —michele wharton

    "This was a bright spot in my day when it arrived! It is well made. One of my concerns was that the wood looking top would be cheap plastic, but to delight, it is a wood veneer and very nice! The grey cloth bottom is also well made and it is well balanced on its four little feet. The lamp has four light levels, which is great since I have migraines and sometimes need low light, and the sound for the white noise is clear and plays well without any problems. The charger is also great and charges in about half the time as the Samsung-provided charging cord. What a great find!" —Jean Heffner

    Get it from Amazon for $34.99+ (available in two colors).

    6. Diana the Huntress bust ready to captivate even the gods themselves. Picture it gracing their study or adorning the side table in their living room, patiently waiting to be admired and cherished by all who gaze upon its magnificence. 

    Reviewer's bust is placed on top of a large books
    the bust displayed on top of a stack of books next to a framed painting

    Promising review: "I wanted a conversation piece on my mantle and this one spoke to me. Not too heavy, feels like smooth plaster. It’s nicely detailed. Looks nice as a stackable piece." —Lori g

    Get it from Amazon for $22.99+ (available in six styles).

    7. An oversize sweater-vest they can pair with a crisp, stylish collared button-down to achieve that effortlessly posh look!

    a reviewer wearing the sweater in black
    a reviewer wearing the vest in khaki

    Promising review: "I’ve gotten a ton of compliments on this vest and been asked where I bought it twice. It’s heavyweight so it hangs nicely. The fit is boxy and loose, which is what I wanted. Looks great with high-waisted jeans!" —RFlip

    Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (available in women's sizes S–L and in 12 colors).

    8. A layered necklace set that can instantly elevate their outfit from "meh" to "yeah, baby!" These chains are separate so they'll have the freedom to arrange and adjust them to their liking. Reviewers also gush about their quality at this price point, including the fact that they don't tarnish quickly!

    Three gold colored necklaces in different chain styles layered on a model's neck
    Amazon

    Promising reviews: "These are gift-quality pieces! I don't know how they are doing three necklaces at this price! These necklaces look and feel sturdy, a very close match to my vintage real gold chains. Seriously, getting three necklaces of this quality at this price, I almost feel like I stole something." —KFL

    "I love the way these layering necklaces look! I haven’t taken them off since I received them and they look brand new still. I’ve worn them in the shower, pools, and beach and they are still perfect." —Allison Kwong

    Get it from Amazon for $15.99 (available in three finishes and 15 other styles). 

    9. diamond-cut glass decanter crafted in Italy and just begging to be the centerpiece of their bar cart. It'll let them dispense their preferred spirits with such elegance and command — reminiscent of a mob boss who doesn't merely occupy a seat at the table, but outright claims ownership. 

    The crystal decanter with rocks glass
    Amazon

    Promising review: “I purchased this for my brother as a Christmas gift last year. The package arrived in perfect condition, with its contents safely intact. After pouring our first glass of whiskey from this decanter, we immediately felt more sophisticated and used words like 'indubitably,' 'transcendent,' and 'ergo.' Indeed, drinking from this decanter will make even Canadian LTD taste piquant." —Justin Pickens

    Get it from Amazon for $19.93, or get a set with the six matching rocks glasses for $34.99 — a great deal!

    10. Or a cut crystal–style cocktail shaker that'll have them feeling like a suave secret agent with every shake while crafting their go-to signature drink.

    Promising reviews: "I am so thrilled with this shaker. It's beautiful and can sit out on my bar cart, super functional, and doesn't leak. It's a conversation starter and everyone who has seen it loves the way it looks and asks where I got it. I will say, the bottom is quite heavy and this makes shaking a bit awkward, but once you get used to it, it's no big deal." —Amanda B

    "I bought it as a gift for a fancy aunt of mine, and she loved it. It gives a much fancier look than the standard metal shaker." —HoustonGolfer

    Get it from Amazon for $22.63 (available in two colors and a set with two martini glasses). 

    11. An elegant Bodum pour-over coffee maker so they can start their day with the kind of luxurious morning brew you'd expect from a 5-star hotel room service, but it's right there in their cozy kitchen. 

    the pour over coffee maker on a tray
    Amazon

    Promising reviews: "Super easy to use, makes a mean cup of joe, and is nowhere near the price of a Chemex. I use mine on a daily basis and would absolutely recommend this product to any of my coffee-loving friends." —Brad Lemons

    "My granddaughter loved this as a gift; she will use it for her college apartment." —Happy customer

    Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (available in five styles and three sizes).

    12. A gorgeous linen-scented reed diffuser that's a symphony of delightful fragrances, ranging from crisp clean linen to soothing lavender thyme. This diffuser comes beautifully adorned with real preserved baby's breath flowers, adding a touch of whimsy to its sophisticated design, and eight pure cotton sticks allowing them to dial up the fragrance intensity to match their mood or the occasion.

    reviewer's iffuser with orange blossoms on a marble surface
    Reviewer's reed diffuser in square bottle with turquoise flowers on a tray

    Promising reviews: "I love the aesthetic of it and the smell is amazing! I bought two more as soon as I saw how nice this was. The quality feels so expensive and luxurious that it just had me in a chokehold, and I definitely love the look." —Isabell Thao

    "I bought this as a gift for my son’s girlfriend and she absolutely loves it. Will be buying myself one now! Smells amazing and very pretty in her side table. Came boxed up in an eye-appealing box perfectly for gift giving as well. Greatly buy!!!!!" —Kim Z.

    Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (available in two versions and various scents).

    13. glass chess set blending elegance and usability. This chic board is just the right size — not so big that it takes over their entire table, but not so small that they're squinting to see the pieces. It's not just a game; it's a conversation starter, a beautiful piece of art, *and* a timeless keepsake. 

    A clear glass chess set arranged for the start of a game on a dark table
    Glass chess set on a mirrored board

    Promising review: "This was everything I dreamed it would be. I love modern-looking things and remember seeing a glass chess set at a relative's house growing up used for decor and I thought it was so badass and elegant. I have to figure out a surface to play the game on because the board is flat (I’ve been using colored construction paper). My kids and my grandma are enamored by how beautiful the set is as well. Great price and a great game to learn, so you may as well do it in fashion." —Sunday

    Get it from Amazon for $25.99.

    14. An elevated laptop tote bag for the corporate baddie, making them feel like they’ve got their life together even on their most hectic days. With its ample spacious compartments, this stylish piece will keep all their essentials (laptop, makeup bag, books, and more) organized and within reach.

    A green faux snakeskin handled bag
    reviewer wearing a black laptop tote bag

    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 $33.99 (available in 11 styles). 

    15. A pair of pink-tinted, gold-rim coupe glasses — these stunning beauties are giving Anthropologie vibes, but you won't have to empty out your wallet. They're a statement piece, an instant upgrade for any gathering or quiet evening in. And let's be real, who doesn't love a bit of glamour?

    Two elegant stem glasses with a slice of lemon on one, on a lace tablecloth for a chic decor piece
    Amazon

    Promising reviews: "I absolutely love these glasses! They're just as beautiful in person as you might hope, and the weight of the glass is very nice also. They're real glass, not plastic, and the gold is so elegant. I absolutely love these, and I'm thinking about getting an extra set." —JLJ

    "I bought these as a hostess gift for my maid of honor when she hosted my bridal shower. She had an absolute fit over them! So cute. I was shocked at how high quality they were for the price." —Don Deaver

    Get a set of two from Amazon for $18.99 (also available in a set of four).

    16. Or, an elegant set of rainbow wineglasses so they can feel like the main character while drinking a mimosa with their brunch. These lightweight and durable crystal glasses bring a level of sophistication to any occasion, whether it's a fancy glass of cucumber water or sparkling wine for girls' night.

    reviewer photo of the wineglasses in styrofoam packing
    reviewer photo of the glasses in a cabinet

    The Wine Savant is a New York-based small business established in 2017 that specializes in unique, quality drinkware and accessories. 

    Promising review: "My boyfriend got these for me for my birthday and I am obsessed with them. The only wine glasses we use! The colors absolutely mesmerized us both when I opened the packaged…felt like we were looking at a rainbow. They are beautiful to say the least." —bai

    Get a set of six from Amazon for $49.99.

    17. A captivating, cult-favorite luxury-scented candle if they’ve been on the hunt for a signature scent to elevate their living space. This jasmine, oud, and sandalwood blend is sophisticated and even smells divine without being lit, reviewers say. 

    Lulu Candles is a US-based small business that specializes in scented candles and perfumes. 

    Promising review: "I was staying over at a friend's house and sitting next to her coffee table. She had this candle on the table and even though it wasn't lit I could smell it, and it was so delicious that I instantly went online to find it and bought it for myself! If this came in a perfume I would buy enough to last the rest of my life. I don't know how to even explain the scent but if you are an amber/patchouli/vanilla fan, this is absolutely for you. The jasmine adds an unbelievable freshness without a flowery scent." —Melissa I. 

    Get a 9-ounce candle from Amazon for $16.95+ (available in three sizes, in gift box options, in packs of two, and in a variety of scents).  

    18. Along with a dreamy dimmable candle warmer lamp so they can further set the mood with a cozy, enchanting vibe. This warmer evenly melts candles and fills the room with a delightful aroma without the need for any open flames. It can help them get longer use out of them too!

    A gold-stemmed lamp with a flower-shaped bulb shining light down on a warmed candle
    Amazon

    Promising reviews: "I love that you don’t have to light the candle — the bulb in the shade heats it. It has a timer if you don’t want it on all the time and a dimmer. And I love the retro rose-shaped shade." —Melissa A.

    "Looks exactly as pictured. High-quality design and product. I purchased as a gift for Mother's Day and it was perfect!" —jeanette s.

    Get it from Amazon for $29.98+ (available in 10 styles). 

    19. A sleek and timeless watch that'll complement their style *and* keep them on time for plans. What makes it even more special is the stretchy band that wraps lovingly around their wrist, offering that bespoke, made-just-for-them fit.

    Promising review: "STAPLE IN FASHION. I've never been a watch girl since I think they look chucky and clash with my outfits. However, this is one purchase I ABSOLUTELY recommend; the gold color is the perfect shade and matches all my other jewelry. It's so dainty, I use it as an accessory rather than an actual watch (it's fully functioning). Keep it away from excessive amounts of water, as it will stop the clock from functioning. I've accidentally taken a full 15-minute showers with it on, it air dries and the clock starts working again. (I wouldn't recommend doing that.) I've had this for four months now, no signs of wear and tear and no signs of tarnish. Amazing buy!!!!" —Selina

    Get it from Amazon for $40.44 (available in four styles). 

    20. chunky-heeled Versace lookalike enveloped in luxurious satin and adorned with sparkling rhinestones, bringing just the right amount of pizzazz to their step. Reviewers say they’re surprisingly comfy and stellar quality, especially considering the price tag.

    closeup of a reviewer wearing the pink heel
    reviewer wearing the black heels with a dress

    Promising reviews: "I’ve been wanting the Versace ones but obviously can’t afford them. I saw a TikToker share these so I snatched them up immediately. I’m in love!!! I’m a 5.5 in heels so I got the 5 and they fit perfectly. They are pretty comfy too, which is nice. I’m thinking about getting them in different colors now." —Courtney Van Court

    "Baby goooorl... March yourself into the checkout browser because these are so so so good!! They're really comfortable, which I wasn't expecting all except for the ankle strap, but I think that's because I'm sensitive??? The height was something I was a little scared of, but they're so easy to walk in, I suppose the platform cancels out a portion of the heel. Obviously they're not perfect, but if you want that, you should probably go talk Versace with $1,800 in your pocket." —Anika

    Get them from Amazon for $39.99 (available in women's sizes 4–10.5 and seven colors).

    21. crystal jewelry box so lavish, it'll make each earring, bracelet, and necklace nestled within feel more opulent. It looks like a million bucks, but guess what? It's actually under $15.

    model opens a bejeweled round storage box on a marble table with accessories
    Amazon

    Promising review: "Bought this as a gift for a good friend and she loved it. It is beautiful and well-made. The crystals sparkle and it looks more expensive than it is. I'm thankful she is so pleased with it." —J.K.

    Get it from Amazon for $12.99+ (available in three sizes and two colors).

    22. A set of black foil-playing cards that feel straight out of a scene from Ocean’s 11. This sleek deck is guaranteed to elevate game nights to a whole new level of cool. Plus, these cards laugh in the face of spills thanks to their waterproof design — perfect for those intense Texas Hold'em sessions that are bound to get a little rowdy.

    Promising review: "My husband and I have friends over occasionally to play cards at our house. So upon looking for some new cards I saw these, and I had to get them. They are so sleek and unlike any deck I've ever seen. Also, they are plastic cards! Even the case is plastic! I was surprised but happy about it. Plastic is much more durable than paper and will last longer. The holographic designs on the cards are beautiful. The back of the cards almost looks like a rainbow when the light hits them a certain way, and so does the card packaging. The front of the cards are just beyond cool. These far exceeded my expectations." —MesEHair

    Get it from Amazon for $6.99+ (available in seven styles).

    23. A darling vintage-style jewelry catch-all adorned with the cutest little bow details, making it the perfect accessory for anyone who's embracing their coquette era.

    white rectangular vintage-style catch all with gold trim and gold bows on both ends
    pink version of the same catch-all

    Reviewers say to pay attention to the measurements, because it's smaller than they assumed! 

    Promising review: "Charming and elegant. This looks so expensive. I gave it to my mother for her birthday, and she was quite impressed. She uses it as a place to put her rings when she is doing things in the kitchen. It’s the perfect size, and she was very impressed. I didn’t want to tell her how inexpensive it was, but isn’t that what you want in a gift? A big bang for your buck?" —NMW

    Get it from Amazon for $8.99+ (available in three styles). 

    24. A wine decanter capable of making their two-buck Chuck taste like vino they're sipping at a swanky 5-star spot. It works its magic using aeration, letting the wine breathe and blossom to bring out all those delicious flavors and aromas they didn’t even know were hiding in there.

    Promising review: "I was a little nervous to purchase this as a gift for someone because it's glass, and I was worried it would arrive broken. However, it was very well packaged and came in perfect condition. It is a really beautiful decanter that anybody who is a wine drinker would love to have. I am so glad that I decided to purchase it. It is larger than I thought it was going to be as well, which is always a nice surprise." —Kaila Knies

    Get it from Amazon for $23.99.

    25. wide-leg pants and matching blouse set that’s practically screaming their name for the next topical getaway. Plus, with all the colors it comes in, you can snag yourself a set so you and your bestie can be matchy-matchy.

    reviewer wearing the cream set with the shirt open over a black bikini top
    plus-size model wearing the black set with the top unbuttoned and open over a white tank top

    Promising review: "I was amazed with this outfit. I bought it very last minute for a six-day family cruise trip…and oh boy do I wish I would have bought more in different colors. The fit was just as I imagined it. The material, the fit, comfort. Easy to dress up or dress down. 20/10 would recommend and will definitely be buying more." —Ralf and Jacky Artigas

    Get it from Amazon for $49.98 (available in women's sizes XS–4XL Plus and 35 colors).

    26. A pair of stylish teardrop earrings to give the luxe look of Bottega Veneta without the luxe price tag. These earrings will instantly elevate their look, and reviewers say they're so lightweight and comfortable, some even forgot they had them on.

    the reviewer wearing the earrings
    the earring in a jewelry case

    Promising review: "These are AMAZING! I highly recommend them. They look so luxurious and expensive. I've gotten a lot of compliments on them already. 10/10!" —Hayley Ghormley

    Get them from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in 11 colors, two-packs, and a extra large size). 

    27. A reviewer-beloved mushroom lamp they might even believe you got handblown just for them — but instead you snagged it from Amazon dot com. This whimsical beauty is ready to illuminate their room (and might even catch a woodland fairy frolicking around). 

    Mushroom shaped lamp in white with bright colors streaked throughout
    mushroom lamp with pink and white striped pattern

    Promising review: "I wanted a lamp for my desk with enough brightness to light the desk and my room, but not so much as to ruin the vibe in the evenings. This lamp has been a great purchase! I've been using it consistently for months with no issues. The quality is excellent and the glass allows it to give off a warm light without overpowering my bedroom in the evenings. Highly recommend!" —E K 

    Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in eight styles). 

    The reviews for this post have been edited for length and clarity.