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.
1. A pair of Bearpaw ankle boots to keep your toesies cozy and stylish just like Uggs, but at a price your wallet will smile at. Even better? They're waterproofed already and have some serious traction on their sole, perfect for trudging through freezing weather.
Reviewers recommend sizing down!
Promising review: "I love these! BearPaws are very well made — I bought a pair of slippers a while back and I'm still impressed with how beautifully made they are. Yet they're half the price of Uggs. Don't get me wrong, I love my Uggs, but wanted a less expensive, waterproof, warm boot to slog through Wisconsin winter snow/slush and not worry about them getting messed up. These are perfect. They actually have better traction and arch support than Uggs. I couldn't be happier with my purchase!" —CGrey
Get them from Amazon for $41.99+ (available in sizes 5–13 and 18 colors).
2. Or chunky lace-up boots if Doc Martens are more your style, but you're looking to spend less than $100. Your feet will feel warm and protected, your outfit will look on point, and you'll have a little extra cash leftover in your bank account! The side zipper also makes 'em super easy to take on and off, no need to painstakingly do up the laces every single time.
Promising review: "I absolutely loved these shoes. They were perfect for the festival I went to. I wanted shoes I didn’t care that would get dirt and I didn’t want to wear my Docs for that reason. Honestly I like these better than my Dr. Martens. I walked in these for three days straight, eight hours a day and they honestly didn’t feel like normal boots they were pretty comfortable. They also did well when it rained or walking into puddles. And when people stepped on my feet they held up very well lol. 10/10 recommend." —Kindle Customer
Get it from Amazon for $35.99+ (available in sizes 5.5–10 and four colors).
3. A popular checkerboard throw blanket — reviewers compare it favorably to the $99 Barefoot Dreams throw, so you can keep warm on chilly winter mornings with every ~square~ inch of softness and trendy print in your choice of beautiful colors.
Promising review: "This blanket beats others because it is softer (a buttery and fluffy feeling), it is long enough for a 5'10" tall person, it is not too light and not too heavy (works year-round in Virginia), and it has a stretch to the material that I haven’t experienced with other soft blankets. The design is just so-so, but the colors are nice, and the price is right. If they updated the designs with more colors, patterns, then these would be absolutely perfect. I like this as much as my much more expensive Barefoot Dreams blanket and Williams Sonoma faux-fur blanket." —JH
Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in seven colors and four sizes).
4. Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Hand Cream, which I can personally vouch gives similar soft, hydrated results to pricier specialty hand creams like Kiehl's Ultimate Strength Hand Salve (which I also love!), but for $5 instead of $20. This is my 11th winter in NYC, and every year I MUST have some sort of hand cream in my bag, because the backs of my hands always turn crusty. Some years it's this, other years it's the pricier stuff. But it all works the same!!
You only need a small dab for your hands, and don't worry, it's fragrance-free! TBH a tube of this in my bag usually lasts me through most of the winter, although I also keep other lotions that I use when I'm at home.
Promising review: "This stuff is incredible. I've been using it since I was a kid and it's just perfect. I get super dry hands, especially because where I live the winters can get down to -40 degrees F. This stuff is magic. I don't know how else to explain it. This is just the best and most moisturizing hand cream I've ever tried — and I've tried a lot! A little bit of this goes a LONG way, so don't worry that it's only two ounces. One tube of this can last me probably 3–4 weeks, with me applying it every night." —hatchibomitar
Get it from Amazon for $4.49.
5. A pair of legging-style joggers you'll feel smart for buying because reviewers say they're similar to Lululemon Align Joggers. Reviewers love them for fall, winter, and early spring — one person says they wear them "all winter long". You'll find yourself pulling them on for errands, exercise, and just around the house because they're *that* comfy, *that* cute, and *that* good for your wardrobe.
Promising reviews: "These joggers are as good as my Lululemon Align joggers and much much cheaper....can buy three of these for one LLL." —Debra
"These are literally the best leggings/joggers I have ever owned, and I plan to eventually buy every single color. I originally saw these on TikTok and heard they were like the Lululemon ones but cheaper. I've never owned Lululemon leggings, but if they feel anything like these, then I have clearly been missing out. These are soft and absolutely perfect. I love the pockets and jogger style and that they fit like leggings and can be worn to the gym or dressed up with a cute outfit. I need to buy every color of these before they're gone!" —Courtney
Get it from Amazon for $28.99+ (available in women's sizes XS–XXL and 18 colors).
6. A lil' milk frother to upgrade your regular hot drink routine (idk about you, but I drink a LOT more tea in the winter) with delectably frothy, creamy tea and coffee lattes in a matter of moments: just press the button, and voila! Several reviewers prefer it to the much pricier Nespresso Aeroccino.
Note that this doesn't heat the milk up, though, the way the Nespresso frother does.
Promising reviews: "So I’ll admit I got this on a whim after a TikTok video, however I’m in love with this thing! It’s so much fun to use and you make your at home drinks feel so much more special. It’s easy to use and froths pretty quickly if you’re on the fence I’d say what are you waiting for buy it already!" —Denise
"I have tried the Illy machine with steam frother, the Nespresso Aeroccino and this one. This is by far the one with the best results, the cheapest, smallest, easiest to clean and... well, I ran out of superlatives! The best caffè macchiato, macchiatone, cappuccino etc." —andrea c
Get it from Amazon for $18.99 (available in 43 styles).
7. A chic aesthetic Simple Modern tumbler that's a highly functional alternative to the pricier Stanley cup. You can choose from 20(!!) different colors and patterns, so you know it'll fit your style. Even better? Double-wall insulation means your drinks will stay perfectly cold — or hot, to keep you warm on a below-zero day — for *literally hours*, and the silicone straw and leak-resistant lid will help avert disaster when you accidentally drop it.
This reviewer uses it with hot tea and said it kept the tea warm for over 14 hours in the car! Several reviewers mentioned they drink more water with it because of the straw, and they're not mad about how adorable it is, either!
Promising review: "Please do not run out to Targé and waste your money on a Stanley IF you’re only using a cup for ice/cold drinks. This cup is just as good and far more affordable. I put ice in my cup over 24 hours ago during my shift at the hospital, and there is still ice in the cup! This product is BEYOND worth it at this price point. You won’t be disappointed. If the cup isn’t in your cart at this point, I don’t know what’s wrong with you: GET IT! 😂" —Marie
Get it from Amazon for $29.99 (available in 28 colors). Also available in a style without the handle!
8. Cosrx Snail Mucin 96% Power Repairing Essence, which reviewers with sensitive and dry skin swear by as a way to boost hydration (with results after just a few days) without breaking the bank on $$$ moisturizer and serum brands. You can try it no matter your skin type to deliver deep hydration and help protect your skin from losing moisture. And goodness knows that with winter's dry air and the heater making it drier, your skin needs as much hydration as it can get.
Promising reviews: "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. 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
"I love this! TikTok made me buy it. Use after toner and before moisturizer. Helps lock in moisture and keep skin hydrated. Apply to damp face and let it absorb a minute before your favorite moisturizer. Works well with any type of skincare you normally use." —Auka Nayokpuk
Get it from Amazon for $16.41.
9. A super soft three-piece loungewear set about to be the only thing you want to put on your body in the morning because it looks and feels so damn luxe *and* warm. Yes Skims is still a fave, but this'll favor your bank account. Snow days just got a fancy upgrade.
Prime members: You can try before you buy!
Check it out on TikTok!
Promising review: "No joke, these are pretty much exactly the same as my Skims lounge set for half the price. The pants graze the tops of my feet even when I wear them high-waisted at my belly button, so I think they’re plenty long. The robe is like wearing a blanket, but still looks put together. Anyway, I’m back here to buy a second color because I loved them so much!" —Jenna
Get the three-piece set from Amazon for $53.99 (available in women's sizes S–XL and in 30 colors).
10. The cult- (and BuzzFeed editor-) favorite Essence Lash Princess mascara, because it just makes sense to buy a mascara that gives you results many reviewers say are better than expensive brands — and one says is better than even Dior Show. Skip messing around with falsies for parties, and opt for this sweat-proof, length-endowing option instead!
My colleagues Kayla Boyd and Emma Lord *love* this stuff! And it's less expensive than your favorite coffee shop drink.
Kayla says: "As someone who isn't a big fan of false lashes (the glue irritates my eyes and I'm terrible at applying them) this budget-friendly holy grail does the trick for both lengthening and volumizing my lashes. It uses a conic shape fiber brush to help the mascara apply evenly without getting too clumpy. After you've given it a minute to dry, it lasts all day long and doesn't smudge or fade. It seriously gives the effect of false lashes, without the discomfort." Read her full Essence Lash Princess Mascara review for more!
Emma says: "Hello, that is my face above (I'm the blonde), because I bought into the hype of all the 5-star reviews and now I will never look back!! Putting it on is like giving my eyelashes butterfly wings. It doesn't get clumpy, it stays put ALL the livelong day no matter how much you sweat, and you can apply it on very lightly if you don't want it to look so dramatic, or continue applying for longer lashes each time."
Promising review: "Saw this product on TikTok and thought it would be expensive looking at the results they got. I am beyond amazed with how my lashes look after about two coats. For around $5 you couldn’t ask for a better mascara! I will be buying this same one when I run out. I was not expecting to like it as much as I do! No complaints." —Kd
Get it from Amazon for $4.99.
11. A sunrise alarm clock because waking up in the morning when it's dark outside (*sighs at super short winter days*) is a little easier when this lamp gradually gets brighter and then floods your room with light, instead of blaring an annoying alarm sound into the dark. Yep, it's just like that TikTok-famous Hatch alarm clock, but'll run you less than $50 instead of over $100.
You can program it with seven light settings, seven chill "wake up" sounds, and set it to start slowly lighting up at 30, 20, or 10 minutes before you wake up.
Promising review: "I’ve always wanted one of these alarm clocks! It works so great! A much more peaceful way to wake up for sure, if you’re a heavy sleeper this may not work for you, but as someone who easily wakes up to light, it is great! Wayyyy cheaper than the Hatch one and does the exact same thing!" —Hannah
Get it from Amazon for $38.99+ (available in three colors).
12. A slightly cropped, fleece-lined half-zip pullover so you have something cute to slide on as a perfect mid-layer under a coat, or when it's feeling a little chilly in the house, because it goes with literally everything. It's so trendy and nice, many reviewers talk about how it reminds them of a more expensive Lululemon item!
Promising reviews: "I saw this sweatshirt advertised by an influencer on TikTok. I was blown away by the quality of this jacket!! It’s super soft and it fit perfectly." —Rebecca Slattery
"Love it. So soft and comfortable. Such a great fit. Totally looks like Lululemon." —ahnjloo
Get it from Amazon for $39.99 (available in women's sizes S–XXL and 21 colors).
13. An eyebrow soap kit for an instant, easy eyebrow transformation that locks hairs exactly where you want 'em all. damn. day. even if you have to brave the dreaded "wintry mix" slush falling from the sky to get to your cookie exchange. Precision and hold without crunchiness or crustiness — for well less than the cost of name brands? Check, check, check, check, and check.
Promising reviews: "I have the kind of eyebrows that look very full with brushing, but can quickly look like one has 'collapsed' once my hair or something else touches it. I’ve used nearly every product from Anastasia Beverly Hills, but never had luck keeping my brows in place. Well, let me tell you, this stuff is no joke. I had to scrub my eyebrows clean tonight to get them to move. If you need some help holding your fluff, this will be your new favorite product. Also, I was able to ditch the eyebrow pencil since this this stuff holds every hair in the place you brush it." —Bailey M, Deacon
"Saw this on TikTok and after looking around where I live for some clear soap and coming up short I decided to try these out. They are a great value for the price. Super easy to use and give a great effect on the brows." —Linds
Get it from Amazon for $4.99+ (available in a one- or two-piece set, and with a brow gel).
14. A 6-quart Dutch oven reviewers say has the same functionality and beauty as $$$ brands — *cough* Le Creuset *cough* Staub *cough* Lodge — all while clocking in at $70 or less. Look, I'm a dutch oven stan, since reviewers say this has the same enameling and heavy cast iron as the pricey versions, I'd bet money it's just as good for big, beautiful batches of warming soups, stews, and pastas.
Promising review: "Le Creuset? Don't know her. I have always wanted one of these enamel covered cast iron beauties, but even from the outlet stores they were expensive. I saw this guy after finding a stew recipe that went from stove to oven, and I got it. I am DELIGHTED with this purchase! I've cooked in it several times, including a chili recipe tonight that had to reduce by half. It left a ridiculous ring on the inside, and that sucker wiped right out. I haven't burned or scorched any of my foods and it's pretty, too!" —HerRoyalHighness
Get a 6-quart Dutch oven from Amazon for $55.48+ (available in two other sizes and 10 total colors).
15. A tennis bracelet so you can stuff stockings (including yours) with some sparkle and shine after handing over a couple of $10 bills, instead of the several $50s name-brand Swarovski would cost. This is a wear-everywhere piece, and thanks to the price point no one you gift it to will be afraid to. Everyone's outfits are about to get a little extra shine!
Promising reviews: "Soooo pretty. It’s 100% a Swarovski [alternative] for so cheap. Looks exactly like the photo and I wear it every day." —Trysten Walters
"Absolutely OBSESSED. I actually saw it on TikTok and decided to buy one for myself and I LOVE it. It’s so stunning. You won’t be disappointed." —Kailee Gonzalez
Get it from Amazon for $17.90+ (available in two styles, three sizes, and three colors).
16. The lightweight SoCozy Curl Spray Leave-In Conditioner Spray, which curly-haired people of all ages (kids and grown-ups!) swear by for BOTH A) defining curls in the morning and B) resetting and detangling curls to prevent frizziness at night. Aaaaand...*drumroll* ...multiple reviewers say it works better than other more expensive products they've tried! You've got enough on your winter to-do list, let this take some of the stress out of getting you and your kids ready in the morning.
Check out a TikTok of the SoCozy Curl Spray on one kiddo's gorgeous hair. Reviewers with curls all the way from 2a–4c love it!
Promising review: "I was pleasantly surprised by this. I didn’t think it would work as well as it does. My little one has curly hair and it’s not very long. (She’s 2.5-years-old.) I was using a misting spray that I didn’t love the smell of and it was kind of on the expensive side. So I gave this a try to see if it could replace that one. And it ABSOLUTELY DOES! This redefines my daughters almost coil curls, moisture is great for her frizzy curls and I thought maybe this would be too heavy for more than after shower wet hair but it’s great on dry hair!" —Sarah
Get it from Amazon for $7.99.
17. A pair of faux leather straight-leg pants that look basically the same as the Abercrombie style that went viral but will cost you just about half the price. If you're looking for pants to keep you feeling stylish, and comfy, but also *warm* through the next few months, consider your search over!
Watch a TikToker compare these to the Abercrombie faux leather pants here.
Promising reviews: "Perfect pants for the winter and cold weather. The cold breeze is always blocked! I love these and they fit so well!" —Olivia Alvarez
"Love them! They are lightweight and breathable with moderate stretch. Unless looking close you can't tell its not leather. And obviously doesn't feel like leather but who cares. For the price these pants are fantastic. I'd definitely recommend." —Mimi
Get them from Amazon for $49.99+ (available in women's sizes XXS-4XL and up to 23 colors).
18. A pack of five colorful wool-blend socks because nobody ever wants to suffer through cold feet or itchy feet, and having a little wool mixed in will give you that warmth while minimizing the prickly irritation you associate with wool. I have this set and love them when it's cold out, and second, the reviewer below that they compare very favorably to mall brand socks, at a fraction of the price!
Like I said, I own these and love 'em! I've had them for five or so years now and all the ones I still have (I lost two different single socks) have held up extremely well despite being washed and worn every couple of weeks or so. No holes in sight!
Promising reviews: "Great socks! Found them comparable to Talbot's but far less expensive." —Amazon Customer
Get them from Amazon for $14.49 (they fit women's sizes 5–9 and are available in 20 colors and patterns).
19. Eve Hansen Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum that you'll immediately feel thankful for when it keeps your skin soft, soothed, and hydrated *without* looking oily, despite Jack Frost's earnest and repeated attempts to dry you out. And reviewers say it's just as good as the $200 (that's so much money!!!!!) TNS Recovery Complex serum.
Promising reviews: "So far I have used about four bottles of this product. I use it like a serum and put a few drops on my face and décolleté before I apply moisturizer in the morning or night cream. I see the same outstanding results I did see with the TNS Serum — just for a fraction of the price!!!" —nana bendick
"Winter dries out my skin like crazy, and I've been looking for an option to add to my skin routine to keep my skin feeling refreshed and moisturized. I've been adding it to my foundation as well, which has made a big difference! Love using this first thing in the morning to help feel refreshed and ready to go." —Laura Q
Get it from Amazon for $27.98.
20. A 20-pack (!) of extra thick magic cleaning pads because (shh), they're made out of exactly the same melamine foam as the famous Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. Just like the name-brand, this one's super durable and holds up to tough scrubbing, and will similarly magically vanish all kinds of gunk — including that dirt you let build up from muddy puppy paws on your back door because it's just been too darn cold to wipe it off on a regular basis.
Promising reviews: "These are the best. Sooo much better than Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. Won't buy those anymore and these will last me a very long time. I scrubbed and they got everything clean and didn't break apart!!! Can even reuse if I wanted." —miguel mendez
"I own a cleaning business and have spent a small fortune on the name brand. I clean everything from condo rentals to long-term lease/residential rentals and I have had to clean unimaginable NASTY, I mean 'pics or it didn't happen' kind of nasty, and these cut right through it. These work just as well as the name brand, if not better, and they seem to last a little longer!" —Keisha Marie
Get a pack of 20 from Amazon for $13.95.
21. Three flavors of lip sleeping masks packed with emollients, which help protect and moisturize your kisser similar to the way the famed Laniege mask does, but for less than half the price. And you get a lime flavor, pomegranate flavor, and berry flavor. Cracked, dry winter lips begone!
Promising review: "I breathe through my mouth when I sleep and I often wake up with super chapped lips. I love Laniege’s lip sleeping mask but, it gets pricy when used daily. This product is the most amazing alternative for it at a FRACTION of the price! Laniege is $24 for just one and this is less than $10 for three?! THREE? Omg take my money. Highly recommend! —Nikz
Get a set of three from Amazon for $9.90 (available in four scent combinations).
22. Waterproof duck boots in a classic style reminiscent of L.L. Bean, but at a price that fits comfortably in your budget. They come in several styles, including ones with fleece lining in case you live somewhere extra cold that demands something extra cozy! Sleet and snow will be no match for you when you're equipped with these.
Promising reviews: "Great fit and quality for the price! The best part about these shoes is the Sherpa lining. They have kept my feet toasty warm. They look good on, and they fit really nicely. I love the zipper for easily slipping them on, and the ties for tightening or loosening. I have a pair of L.L. Bean that aren’t lined and honestly these are just as comfortable if not more so." —Kerry Worley
"I am thrilled with these boots! I took a chance on them and went to Seattle in the winter hoping they would keep my feet dry and comfy. They did not disappoint! We hiked, walked on beaches, it rained, and it snowed, and I wore these boots every day and my feet were always warm and dry, and they held up perfectly. Not to mention they looked great! :) They made this pregnant lady very happy and I highly recommend them." —L.McDaniel
Get them from Amazon for $49.99 (available in sizes 5–11 and in 19 colors and styles).
23. A faux sheepskin rug — it's perfect for putting next to your bed, on the hard mudroom bench, or anywhere the wood or tile is feeling a little chilly from the low, low temps. Oh, and if you're looking for a little cozy hygge this winter, consider this an affordable way to set that mood.
Promising review: "I painstakingly searched for hours for a 6x9 faux fur white rug that had solid reviews and didn't cost an arm and a leg. I'm so glad I did my research because I didn't find this one until right at the end! If feels so soft and luxurious and totally pulls my room together!! Most of the similar rugs I looked at were at least $250 if not a lot more, so when I found this for $140 I just couldn't beat it! My living room is very large, and somewhat narrow and it filled the space perfectly! I also bought the 2x3 throw, which is just as soft and awesome as the larger rug!! Highly recommend!!!" —Isiah Abraham
Get it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in many sizes and colors).
24. A bottle of NYX dewey setting spray so you can ensure your makeup lasts and lasts through even the most marathon of parties, all while giving you an extra layer of defense against dry wintry skin. Mac and Urban Decay both have their own much-beloved setting sprays, but reviewers say this works just as well if not even better.
Promising reviews: "My winter must-have! When it’s winter my skin is slightly dry — even though I moisturize and prime and do my bb cream, it still feels a little dry. So a few spritzes of this baby and I don’t have to worry about a thing!" —Priscilla
"Expensive isn't always better. I tried this spray before spending the day outdoors in 90-degree heat at Disneyland, and the only place my makeup moved was on the tip of my nose because I have allergies and use a lot of Kleenex. But otherwise, it looked as fresh as it did when I put it on. I’ve used Mac and Urban Decay setting spray and they never worked as well as this stuff. I am completely amazed. Definitely give it a try." —Stephanie
Get it from Amazon for $7.99 (available in two sizes and matte, dewy, or plump finishes).
25. And the illuminating L'Oreal moisturizer if Glossier Futuredew's like your Holy Grail, but you just can't justify spending over $20 for an ounce of serum right now. Get that shimmery, hydrating (thanks, shea butter, and glycerin) glow you love for less, whether you're wearing it instead of foundation or as a dewy layer on top of your everyday look!
Promising reviews: "I bought this to add a little glow to my winter skin and omg it’s my new favorite. It smooths in beautifully, blends out if you want to use as a highlight, and as a plus, it’s super sheer and a teeeeeny bit darker than my face and it makes me look like I actually have a pulse. 11/10 will buy again." —Jana L. Perry
"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).