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.

    Just 31 Sneaky Things To Get If Your Goal Is To Look ~Expensive~ While Being Thrifty

    You'll be looking like you just entered a whole other tax bracket (but the truth will stay between you and me).

    1. A sleeveless bodycon maxi dress if you can't justify the cost of Skims but *would* like to look snatched for nights out. This versatile piece stretches beautifully to hug your curves, with adjustable spaghetti straps and a fishtail hem adding to its flawless fit. You can accessorize this endlessly and get sooo much wear out of it.

    reviewer in a tan colored maxi dress
    reviewer wearing the dress in black, showing a side view

    Promising review: "I have the Skims bodycon as well, and this is a great alternative! The Skims dress is ribbed, and the fabric is thinner and softer, but I don’t think that the Skims dress quality increases proportionally with the higher price point. If I were to purchase another bodycon dress, it would hands down be this one. It hugs my figure beautifully and can be layered and styled for all seasons. It’s one of the most versatile pieces in my wardrobe!" —Makayla Curtis

    Get it from Amazon for $24.99 (available in women's sizes XXS–XL and in 10 colors). 

    2. A sleek time-marked water bottle that looks super luxe, but it's equally practical since it has time markers that'll help you drink a gallon of water over the course of the day. Who knew hydration could be so elegant?

    Promising review: "Saw it on TikTok and thought it would be a great bottle for work. It is very sleek and lightweight enough to carry when you have other items in your hand. I love the modern look, and it cleans very easily! The time increments really do motivate me. Definitely ordering again for myself and gifts. Fast delivery and very nice packaging." —Rosa

    Get it from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in three colors and two sizes). 

    3. An Anua heartleaf pore-clearing cleansing oil if you're ready to enter your glass skin era, because this K-beauty staple will do the trick. It'll dissolve makeup residue and pull blackhead-causing gunk out of your pores. Reviewers say you can actually see the yuck that's come out, which is both gross and satisfying — but not as satisfying as how good your skin will look after.

    the reviewer with glowy glass skin
    the sebum that came out of the reviewer's pores

    Reviewers say they use this as a step in their double cleansing routine, which is a method of cleansing your face twice — first with an oil-based cleanser, and then again with a water-based cleanser to help get all the gross stuff out of your pores.

    Promising review: "This is my first time ordering an oil-based cleanser and I’m so glad I purchased this one. I originally saw this product on TikTok and wanted to see what the hype was all about. After using the cleanser on my dry face for 2–3 minutes, I could visibly see my white- and blackheads on my fingers. I was a little hesitant to try oil cleansing because I have acne-prone skin. However, my face has never looked better. After each use, my face is as soft as a baby's bottom, and my scarring doesn’t look as deep! The cleanser has a light, clean scent. Not super strong! I am currently pairing this cleanser with the Anua heartleaf soothing toner to achieve glass skin. #glassskinera" —Myshel Cagle

    Get it from Amazon for $16.49.

    4. A delightfully chunky oversized scarf with a cashmere feel that you can actually afford (and not be terrified to wash). It honestly doesn't matter what else you're wearing on your body because this single accessory will give off such a luxurious vibe.

    Model in giant oversized camel colored scarf with frayed edges
    Model in hot pink version
    Amazon

    Promising reviews: "Would 100% buy again. The SOFTEST material ever. And it is oversized to perfection. Looks just like the picture, which I was skeptical lol. I love it. I need another color." —Heather

    "This scarf is exactly what I was looking for and more. Has a beautiful, cashmere feel and looks absolutely chic with every outfit. Did I mention it kept me extremely warm? 10/10." —Denise

    Get it from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in 12 colors). 

    5. A set of Glamnetic's press-on nails in case you don't have the time or money to invest in regular salon visits but still want that polished look. Whether you're going for chic subtlety or cute designs, these make it ridiculously easy, *plus* they're reusable for up to two weeks per wear!

    Reviewer with press on clear nails with white tips
    Reviewer with press on clear nails with rainbow tips

    Glamnetic is a small business that specializes on uniquely-designed, reusable press-on nails. 

    Promising review: "I saw these all over my TikTok FYP and was so curious to try them. They are absolutely beautiful, and just after two days I have gotten so many compliments. The glue holds super well and the application process was super simple. I don't think that I will ever get acrylic nails again, as a set like this would likely be three times the price." —Leslie and Paige

    Get it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in many styles). 

    6. Or some nail concealer designed to illuminate nails while concealing any yellowing or staining, coating them in a milky shade that looks natural and gorgeous. Yeah, it costs more than cheaper nail polish, but it gives a professional look without the hefty price tag, and reviewers say it lasts up to two weeks!

    reviewer wearing the pale pink version
    another reviewer wearing a milky white shade

    Promising review: "Wow, what a find! If you’re always bummed with the look of your light color nail polish after a few days, this will not disappoint. This product gives full coverage over stained or discolored nails. Other whites, nudes, or light pink polish always end up looking messy when I do my nails at home. This stuff is magic! It can be used either sheer or with a few coats, and it corrects the dreaded 'smoker’s nails.' It lasts better than the professional manicures I have had. Is it pricey? I say no, based on either wasting your money on subpar polish or paying for a manicure at a salon. I finally have the perfect product. My nails look goooood." —Nadnor

    Need more details? Check out our full Londontown Illuminating Nail Concealer review

    Get it from Amazon for $20 (available in five shades).

    7. L'Oreal's illuminating Lumi Glotion as a cheat code for dewy, shimmery skin, and for less than half the cost of alternatives like Glossier Futuredew. This works beautifully as a lightweight foundation alternative or for adding a little glow on top of your makeup. 

    Reviewer wearing and holding L'Oreal Paris Makeup True Match Lumi Glotion
    Reviewer wearing L'Oreal Paris Makeup True Match Lumi Glotion

    Check it out as part of a five-minute "dewy no-makeup makeup look" on TikTok

    Promising review: "This is EXACTLY what I was looking for. I apply after moisturizer and makeup, highlighting under my eyes and brow bones. Not too sparkly. Just makes me look like I’ve had enough coffee. Seems to last through hot and sweaty Florida days, so that’s a plus. I’ve tried other luminizers, and for me, they are usually too sparkly or weirdly colored. I tried an $$ Glossier one that remained strangely sticky the whole time it was on my skin. I will purchase again!" —DLW

    Get it from Amazon for $12.97+ (available in four shades).

    8. A highly rated pair of hoop earrings if you have designer jewelry taste but not a designer jewelry budget (join the club). Reviewers compare these to Jennifer Fisher hoops that go for up to hundreds of dollars and say they don't hurt your ears!

    Reviewer in rose gold small hoop earrings
    Closeup of earrings on a table

    Jewelry is not one of those things I like to splurge on, so when I found this budget-friendly pair, I decided to ~treat myself~. And wow, they look amazing in person! I'm sort of obsessed with this brand in general now (I wore one of their tennis bracelets to a wedding recently and got so many compliments!) and may finally be able to build up a collection of jewelry staples without going broke.

    Promising review: "This product is AMAZING! If you are looking for a good [swap] for the Jennifer Fisher earrings, these are it! They are super lightweight, effortless, and so cute!" —Anna Weir

    Get it from Amazon for $13.95+ (available in four sizes, four colors, and two metal types).

    9. A sophisticated laptop tote bag that'll have you looking and feeling so put together, especially if you're trying to embrace that whole "dress for the job you want" mantra. It's stylish and well-designed, with ample depth and pockets for holding all your on-the-go essentials.

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

    Promising review: "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. The bag does sag a bit after use. But has held up to wear and tear. I would recommend." —Su

    Get it from Amazon for $28.89+ (available in 10 styles). 

    10. The Cosrx snail mucin repairing essence because you're tired of watching all those skincare videos on TikTok, only to find they're pushing products that would cost a large portion of your paycheck. This K-beauty fave is gold for deep hydration and can help reduce the appearance of acne scars, dark spots, and fine lines, leaving your skin looking bright and dewy. (Yup, nice skin isn't only for rich influencers.)

    Reviewer before and after picture with redness healed from their face
    the bottle of snail mucin showing the thicker texture of the product

    Promising review: "My skin dries out severely during the winter all the time, and I have to constantly use Vaseline to keep it moisturized (normal cream doesn't work on me). Imagine my surprise when my SO tried to put snail goo on me, eww!! I resisted for weeks refusing to use this product as she constantly vouched for its abilities. After a month, I finally gave in, and boy it is amazing! My hands feel more moisturized than ever for longer, and it doesn't leave a disgusting, greasy feel as Vaseline. Take it from a once-non-believer: you have to try this. Even if it doesn't work for you, you paid a fraction of what you would've paid for any other name-brand moisturizers." —Kyoko Ozaki

    Get it from Amazon for $17

    11. And Differin gel, which is immensely popular among folks with acne (dozens of reviewers literally describe it as "magical"). It's a prescription-strength retinoid designed to promote cell turnover, targeting the two main causes of acne: clogged pores and inflammation. With some patience, it can help your skin look clearer and more radiant!

    This is water-based, non-comedogenic, and oil-, alcohol, and fragrance-free.

    Note: It's designed for daily use, but since this is a retinoid, start slow and don't jump right into daily application, which may cause irritation. See how your skin handles it and work your way up from there, pairing with a good moisturizer and SPF. 

    Promising review: "I have had semi-severe acne for the past 10 years and have tried many different things that promise clear skin, but I have never found anything that worked. I even went to the dermatologist a few times and did not see any results with what they prescribed me. Even though I knew this probably would not work as everything does, I tried it out because $14 wasn't too much to waste. Oh boy. I have only used this for about three months, and my skin is COMPLETELY CLEAR!!!! I was literally crying to one of my friends yesterday about how happy I was to be able to do basic things without the pain from my acne distracting me. I haven't had a single pimple in the past month, while I used to get 3–4 a day. I can't believe the day has finally come when I can glide a finger over my skin, and it is completely smooth. I can finally wear makeup. I can sleep on the side of my face. I can wear a mask without changing it from getting acne gunk on it. I finally beat acne after 10 long years thanks to Differin." —Hailie Perry

    Get it from Amazon for $13.55+ (available in four sizes and four styles). 

    12. A showstopping cocktail ring set you can casually wear out to functions like, "Oh, this old thing? I inherited it from my great aunt Esther." Hey, we're manifesting your own future as the mysterious wealthy relative, and this set is so durable, maybe you will pass it down.

    Reviewer wearing a diamond shaped blue cocktail ring with a gold setting
    Reviewer closeup of the set on their hand

    Promising review: "First, let me say I LOVE THIS RING!!!! I wear it all the time. I've been wearing it for over a month now and in the beginning, I tried to take it off when doing dishes, showering, and washing my hands. After about two weeks I just decided to leave it on, and it has been fine. I never take it off, the ring is true to size. It's not too thin or thick, feels great on, and it is durable. The only con is that the stones can sometimes look cloudy. Other than that, I love it couldn't be happier, it's great for the price, and I am very pleased." —tracy k revels

    Get it from Amazon for $22.99+(available in four colors and ring sizes 5–10). 

    13. And for the bling you do have, a jewelry-cleaning brush that'll have your precious gems looking sparkling new without taking them to the jeweler. This little brush uses polished bristles and special polymers that get into all the cracks to leave your rings and other jewelry looking fit for royalty afterward!

    before/after of a green gemstone looking bright and vibrant after cleaning
    reviewer's diamond ring sparkling on their hand

    Twist the bottom of the pen to dispense the fluid and brush onto the gem to clean!

    Get it from Amazon for $9.48.

    14. Lilac St. Original Lashes, which are meant to be worn for up to 10 (!) days — they're way less effort and more budget-friendly than professional lash extensions and have converted many reviewers! These vegan, cruelty-free silk lash fibers have an ultra-thin band, adhere well, and look *super* wispy and natural.

    reviewer showing the lilac st lashes from various angles
    reviewer wearing the lilac st lashes

    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 $12.30 (available in eleven styles and four sizes).

    15. A silky slip dress that'll truly cement your status as That Girl and turn heads anytime you walk into a room. A staple for weddings, date nights, and everything in between, this staple comes in a wide range of colors and sizes, AND it's under $50. What a find! 👏

    reviewer wearing pink slip midi dress with heels
    reviewer wearing the dress in black

    Promising review: "This dress exceeded my expectations (especially coming from Amazon)! Finding a plus-size dress is not a fun task, but this dress made me feel super sexy and was perfect for my friend's semi-formal wedding. The fabric felt nice and did not look cheap. The only thing is that the fabric wrinkles easily, even if it’s been hung up for a while. Overall, I loved this and would highly recommend it." —Erica

    Get it from Amazon for $45.99 (available in women's sizes L–5XL and 45 colors and patterns).

    16. teeth-whitening pen, minty fresh without the weird aftertaste and completely painless — no discomfort for sensitive teeth and gums! But most importantly, it leaves your teeth noticeably whiter and at a fraction of the cost of the dentist (and Crest Whitestrips).

    Promising reviews: "This product actually works! I’ve smoked for over 30 years, and my teeth have never been more white! I think I’ve tried everything out there. I have finally found something that works. ! I will be sticking with this one!!!!" —MattK

    "I’ve tried the toothpaste and strips, and they either didn’t work or made my teeth sensitive. This stuff has been the best. Easy, effective, and doesn’t make my teeth sensitive!" —Bsk

    Get a two-pack from Amazon for $18.95.

    17. A slouchy matching set if your goal is to look effortlessly chic while lounging around or working from home. Its waffle knit material, buttons, and overall ~coordination~ make it look expensive, but you didn't have to step foot anywhere near a high-end store to buy it.

    Promising review: "The material feel and weight are very luxe. A must-have set. Looks and feels very chic, especially with a little French tuck action. Can’t wait to order in other colors!!!" —Michelle Ramirez

    Get it from Amazon for $49.99+ (available in women's sizes S–XL and in 16 colors).

    18. A battery-operated fabric shaver to revive your beloved but, unfortunately, very pilled sweaters and leggings so you can wear them again and again and look like they're fresh from the store. Eliminating those tell-tale signs of wear and tear is an easy way to make your wardrobe look nicer.

    Be sure to pick up two AA batteries! They're not included.

    Promising review: "I LOVE THIS. I have seen this product all over TikTok and have been thinking of getting it for a while. It is the best thing ever. It removes all the little fuzz balls on my leggings or sheets. It helps me relax honestly. I recommend." —Kayla foulk

    Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in six colors and two styles).

    19. Kitsch's iconic claw clip giving your 'do some classic elegance with its gold finish and sturdy clamp that can hold even long, thick hair. Plus, the teeth are rounded to prevent damage and discomfort!

    reviewer with styled hair pulled into the gold claw clip at the back
    Reviewer with hair pulled into a bun with the clip at the back

    Kitsch is an LA-based, self-financed, woman-owned small business established in 2010 that specializes in hair accessories. 

    Promising review: "Love that you can dress this up or down! It is my go-to accessory for working in preschool to put my hair up quickly. It is elegant and classic. It is amazingly durable, even in getting thrown in the bottom of my heavy work bag! I am amazed by this clip. I have coarse, medium thick hair, and it is a perfect size." —Niki

    Get it from Amazon for $7.29+ (available in two colors). 

    20. Plus, an effortlessly chic handmade wooden hair fork that'll make it look like you frequent expensive boutiques in Paris and Milan. 

    Models with hair in a bun held together by wooden clips
    Something Minty/Etsy

    Something Minty is a California-based Etsy shop established in 2021 that specializes in unique designed hair clip claws, barrettes, and earrings. 

    Promising review: "Really love this, super nice and smooth with a pretty way of curving. Love the simple wood look and looks good quality and goes with everything. Many ways to put your hair up with it. I like how long it is because I have very long hair." —batsheva goldfein

    Get it from Something Minty on Etsy for $9.49+ (available in four styles and two sizes). 

    21. Oversized square sunnies exuding high-end vibes at a far more appealing price, plus polarized lenses with UV 400 protection. 

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

    Promising review: "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

    Get it from Amazon for $15.99 (available in 13 lens colors). 

    22. A pair of faux-leather straight-leg pants for a chic, edgy staple that's actually comfortable enough for everyday wear since the fabric has stretch! Plus, they may or may not be very similar to a popular Abercrombie pair that retails for over $100. 👀

    reviewer wearing the pants in brown
    reviewer in black leather pants

    Check out a TikTok of the pants in action.

    Promising reviews: "Perfect!! Omg, just buy them now! Don't hesitate! These are going to go fast once the word gets out how great they are! They have some stretch to them!" —Amazon Customer

    "Literally exact [swap for] the Abercrombie leather pants." —Gabi B

    Get them from Amazon for $52.99 (available in women's sizes XXS–4XL and in 20 colors). 

    23. And some seriously stylish faux leather shorts you can wear with tights or bare legs, with a tee or oversized blazer, with sneaks or heels — basically, these are a year-round staple, one people might assume you picked up at Zara rather than Amazon dot com.

    Hi, I have these and can't recommend them more!! As a pear-shaped individual, I love that they comfortably cover my bottom while still hugging me at the waist, thanks to the stretchy elastic there, aka no awful gapping. As other reviewers mention, these have a thickness to them that makes them feel high quality. In the summer, I do sweat in these a little at the waist, which is to be expected, but the wide-leg design helps keep everything else breezy. In the fall and winter, they go great over tights! Oh, and the pockets are nice and deep

    Promising review: "I was so surprised when I received these shorts. They are such good quality. They have weight to them, making them feel expensive. I feel like I would buy these from Zara. Super cute and exactly what I was looking for!" —Jaimelee Calvello

    Get it from Amazon for $27.99 (available in women's sizes XS–XXL and six colors).

    24. A pair of platform slippers because you've been sooo tempted to pull the trigger on a pair of Ugg Tazz, but $100+ isn't in the budget rn. These are just as cute, feel high quality, and slipping your toes into the faux fur lining = pure luxury.  

    the reviewer holding up the shoe
    reviewer wearing the beige slippers

    Reviewers recommend going up a half size if you want to wear socks with your shoes. 

    Promising review: "These are so cute and perfect! They are comfortable and true to size! My expectations were beyond met! I have been sharing the link to these to so many people already!!!! I have returned my Tazz Uggs (not true to size and expensive) and will buy more of these instead!" —Lineth L.

    Get it from Amazon for $35.98+ (available in women's sizes 5–10 and in two colors).

    25. A luxe velvet V-neck maxi dress that's so timeless and versatile, you can roll up to allll those weddings and cocktail parties in it looking so casually elegant, with a big smile on your face because you didn't drop hundreds on this lovely gown. 

    a reviewer in the orange dress
    different reviewer in the burnt orange dress

    Promising review: "This is [very similar to a] Jenny Yoo dress and it's absolutely perfect. Quality is on par with more expensive brands. Not cheap like I expected. I wore it for family pictures and am keeping it to hopefully wear again because I love it so much!!! Don't spend a couple hundred dollars on this same style, buy this one!" —KymberlyJanelle

    Get it from Amazon for $59.99+ (available in women's sizes 0–30 and in eight colors).

    26. Some pearly hair clips for when you want to channel your inner heiress. Nothing says "I feel expensive," like casually wearing pearls in your hair on your way to Target. 

    reviewer holding one of the pearly hair clips
    reviewer wearing the clips

    Promising review: "I've gotten so many compliments on these. Such an easy way to jazz up a look. The bobby pin style are very sturdy and can actually hold a lot of hair in place. I've worn them several times and they've been tumbled around in my purse for days and no pearls have come loose or fallen off. Highly recommend." —R.Lien

    Get them from Amazon for $7.99

    27. Etude's Dear Darling Water Tint, because lip tints are all the rage these days, and some of them (*cough* Benefit) cost way more than you'd like to spend your hard-earned cash on. This smudge-proof tint will "stain" your lips with a swatch of vibrant, non-sticky color. Wear it alone or layer with lip gloss for a true "it girl" look. 💋

    reviewer holding red version of the lip tint in their hand
    reviewer wearing the lip tint in shade cherry ade

    Also, she's ~multipurpose~ — reviewers like to use this as a blush too!

    Promising review: "I used to manage a Benefit Cosmetics boutique and I can say this is 100% comparable to BeneTint 👍🏽 The sheerness is natural looking but not invisible, and the color lasts a work day. Not heavy like a power blush that sits on top of the skin. No breakouts!" —Katie Stober

    Get it from Amazon for $5.48+ (available in three shades and combo packs). 

    28. chunky-heeled designer lookalike you can strap on when you want to add a little extra drama to your formal 'fit or for a night out on the town. Covered in satin with rhinestones on the straps, these beauties will help you make a statement, and according to reviewers, they're pretty comfortable with great quality for the price!

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

    Prime members: You can try before you buy!

    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).

    29. A faux leather double circle belt with a designer look for a *very* reasonable price. Maybe one day you'll splurge on the Gucci belt, but today is not that day!

    reviewer wearing the belt in black
    reviewer wearing the black belt

    Promising review: "This is my favorite belt! It's perfect with jeans, and I get so many compliments on it. I love that the double-ring is sort of designer-inspired, but not a complete knockoff of the Gucci belt. I highly recommend! I am typically a medium and the medium was perfect." —Everyday Teacher Style

    Get it from Amazon for $14.99 (available in women's sizes XS–XL and in 10 styles). 

    30. A Fossil watch if you like to sport a little bling on your wrist — and, you know, see the time at a glance — but can't quite justify splurging on a Michael Kors watch. For under 100 bucks, you can get an alternative that's also beautiful, with a crystal bezel, stainless steel bracelet, and other glitzy details. 

    It's also water-resistant up to 330 feet and safe for bathing, swimming, or snorkeling!

    Promising review: "I was going to get the Michael Kors rose gold watch, but decided to go with this one due to the great price and my familiarity with Fossil watches and how great they are made. I was not disappointed. The crystal dial is just enough to make it look really expensive and add a touch a bling! I totally recommend it." —Tina Beanie

    Get it from Amazon for $75.65 (also available in other colors). 

    31. Slip-on mules stylish enough for work and so comfy, you'll probably end up wearing them even on casual days — reviewers say they hold up well to light walking. They're a budget-friendly alternative to Madewell's Gemma mules, well worth it for half the price and how much use you'll get out of them!

    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 $37.71+ (available in women's sizes 5–12 and five colors).

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