What R29 Shopping Editors Actually Bought For Under $100 This Month
If we had $100 to spend, what would we buy? Our answers to this question look decidedly different than they did at the beginning of March. Finances are tight, and not everyone can afford to drop a Benjamin on non-essentials, we get it. Which is why this month’s edition of our Shopping team’s MVPs is not a guide to what you should be buying — it’s simply a list of items that helped us find a small slice of comfort during these uncertain times. We hope maybe one or two can do the same for you.
Ahead, the under-$100 products we actually bought, used, and came to rely on over the past 30+ days: from a new chemistry-based deodorant to a cooling mattress pad discovered on Amazon and a $5 D.C.-cherry-blossom bandana that supports Black artists. Scroll on to web-window shop, feel seen, inspired, fatigued, or just connected — all emotions are valid. And be sure to holler out what you’ve carted for under one hundo that’s made these stay-at-home days feel a little bit better.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Society6 Face Mask By ANoelleJay
“After covering Society6’s new face-mask collection launch that includes a multitude of designs supporting the works of Black artists, I immediately added one to cart (I also bought this beautiful gold and blue design, too). The artist, ANoelleJay, who created these designs was born in Jamaica and currently lives in NYC where she works with acrylic paint and watercolor — her designs are inspired by her Caribbean roots, Brooklyn culture, and her love for the environment.” – Elizabeth Buxton, Market Editor
Shop ANoelleJay
ANoelleJay Winter is Coming, Cold Blue Winter Nights Are Coming Face Mask, $, available at Society6
StackedSkincare Cryotherapy Ice Roller
“This product is basically a facial on a stick — and since most spas are closed right now, this is a fabulously affordable alternative. Keep the roller in your freezer and break it out whenever your skin is looking a bit red and puffy. Trust me, just a few rolls will have you feeling (and looking) refreshed.” – Amanda Randone, Market Writer
Shop StackedSkincare
StackedSkincare Cryotherapy Ice Roller, Face & Body, $, available at StackedSkincare
H&M Silk Blend Tunic
“While my loyalty to the traditionally-styled button-down will never waver, I’m in the market for a new iteration, which is why this standing-collar tunic caught my eye. Its oversize silhouette makes it a very airy, summer-friendly piece, and it helps me feel somewhat put together when I throw it over yesterday’s leggings or kick-flare jeans when I’m running out for coffee in the morning.” – Emily Ruane, Fashion Market Writer
Shop H&M
H&M Silk-blend Striped Tunic, $, available at H&M
Blk + Grn Lemon + Tangerine Pure Essential Oil
“Back in March when COVID-19 was beginning to unfold, I added some daily regimens that would relieve stress and subsequently help boost my immunity. One of those small things was adding a few drops of essential oil to my shower each morning. The first one I tried was a Eucalyptus oil from UpNature which is airway-opening, relaxing and I still highly recommend it. This second essential oils purchase is from the purveyors of clean beauty & wellness goods over at BLK + GRN. It’s a vitalizing scent of citrus that wakes me up with a jolt of fresh kick-in-the-butt (in the best way possible) tangerine and lemon. The GRN line was created by Dr. Kristian, the founder of BLK + GRN, and is made of three pure essential oils. It’s a bright way to start another very long day.” – Marissa Rosenblum, Senior Shopping Director
Shop BLK + GRN
GRN Pure Essential Oil Blend, $, available at BLK + GRN
Helistar Silicone Popsicle Mold
“Since I haven’t been able to pop around to my favorite corner scoop shop this summer, I’ve taken matters into my own hands…by making my own ice-cream pops. Only instead of making juice pops, I’ve been blending oat milk together with frozen strawberries, almond butter, and some dark chocolate chunks: I call it a coco-berry creamsicle.” – Elizabeth Buxton, Market Editor
Shop Helistar
Helistar 6 Pieces Silicone Ice Pop Molds BPA Free, $, available at Amazon
J.Crew Mercantile Striped Cardigan
“I need another striped item like a hole in my head, but here we are. I snagged this during Amazon’s Big Style Sale and don’t regret it one bit — it’s made from feather-light cotton so it’s a perfect weight for summer. I bought it in a size bigger than I normally wear so that I can keep it completely buttoned and wear it like a shirt. (I’ll add more layers when fall rolls around.)” – Emily Ruane, Fashion Market Writer
Shop J.Crew Mercantile
J.Crew Mercantile Striped Cardigan, $, available at Amazon
Nathan Sports Speedshot Plus Handheld Flask
“A few weeks ago, my husband left for a run without his phone, and when he wasn’t home two hours later I panicked. It turned out, I had good reason for the alarm — with many of the public water fountains inaccessible due to COVID, he had nearly collapsed from the heat. Luckily, he made his way to a local coffee shop and they gave him water and let him sit down for a while. I immediately went online to Nathan Sports (a stocked resource for outdoor workout gear) and purchased one of the water bottle/phone holder combos so he wasn’t without water or his phone again. This handy sports flask took him a run to get used to but now it’s been his most useful buy of the summer.” – Marissa Rosenblum, Senior Shopping Director
Shop Nathan Sports
Shop Nathan Sports on Amazon
Speedshot Plus Handheld Flask, $, available at Nathan Sports
ComfiClouds Cooling Bamboo Mattress Pad
“Hi, me again, talking about my husband (we’ve been spending a lot of time together). Not only is he a sweaty runner, but he’s also a bit of a sweaty sleeper. I needed a new mattress protector for our bed and the last one we used had sort of a plastic-y finish that I really didn’t like. This new mattress protector I recently bought is waterproof but it’s made of bamboo rather than PVC or vinyl. It doesn’t feel that different but it’s definitely an upgrade in quality.” – Marissa Rosenblum, Senior Shopping Director
Shop ComfiClouds
Comficlouds Cooling Hypoallergenic Bamboo Mattress Pad, $, available at Amazon
Kosas Chemistry Deodorant
“As a sweaty gal who’s always on the hunt for perspiration products that actually work, I was intrigued by the PH-balancing and BO-fighting promise of this new AHA-infused deodorant from Kosas. It’s sold in a fragrance-free option, too, but I ended up going for the Serene Clean (I wanted my pits to smell like a spa). Not only does this good look very chic on my shelf (it begs me to be #shelfied), but it also really does deliver on soothing my sensitive skin and providing a fresh underarm atmosphere. And, on top of all that, the brand is currently donating $5 of every purchase to the Loveland Foundation (an organization that supports communities of color focusing on Black women and girls) through July 13.” – Elizabeth Buxton, Market Editor
Shop Kosas
Kosas Chemistry Deodorant – Serene Clean, $, available at Kosas
Amy O Tiny Huggie Hoop Earrings
“I never thought about the size of my earlobes, and how they might be small on the spectrum of others’ lobes, until last year when I wanted a pair of silver huggie earrings. The first pair of teeny hoops meant to fit snuggly around my earlobes did not hug at all — in fact, there was barely a friendly embrace. Recently, I found the Goldilocks of huggies at Amy O. These little silver buddies come in 6mm and 7mm — or, if your earlobes are a bit larger than mine, there are also styles like this pair that come in 6.5mm and 8mm. I also like that the company is founded and run by women right here in NYC. Not a need, but an affordable, happy pick-me-up buy.” – Marissa Rosenblum, Senior Shopping Director
Shop Amy O
Amy O Jewelry Tiny Huggie Hoop Earrings, $, available at Amy O
The Nue Co. Prebiotic + Pribiotic
“I’ve been wanting to write a separate story on this matter (and I will!), so going to keep this as short as possible: I suffer from perioral dermatitis (a skin condition that’s like eczema and acne had an angry baby) and have unsuccessfully tried a handful of solutions from Lotrimin (yes, I put foot anti-fungal cream on my face) to Dermatologist prescribed antibiotics and heavy-duty creams — nothing ever worked long term until I started taking a daily pre-plus-probiotic supplement. My perioral dermatitis seemed to be an internal imbalance (as opposed to one related to environmental triggers) which is why introducing a supplement that helps to achieve a healthy balance of bacteria in my gut translated to healthy (bacteria-rash-free) skin on my face. The Nue Co’s supplement uses a 15-billion, spore-based synbiotic bacteria blend that helps encourage everything from healthy immunity to skin, digestion, and energy from the inside out — and, after taking it consistently every morning for a month, the itchy inflamed bumps around my mouth completely disappeared (I’ve been using it for going on four months now with no rash relapses). While I’ve found success with this particular bottle from The Nue Co., I imagine that similar results may be achieved with another brand. More on this to come!” – Elizabeth Buxton, Market Editor
Shop The Nue Co.
The Nue Co. PREBIOTIC + PROBIOTIC, $, available at The Nue Co
Bill Cunningham Fashion Climbing
“I know I’m two years late to the party here, but I impulse-carted Bill Cunningham’s memoirs on a recent book-buying spree. I tore through it in a single night, getting lost in his accounts of the fashion industry in the ’40s and ’50s, when he was a celebrated (but starving) milliner sneaking into society events and tangling with towering figures like Eleanor Lambert. What’s sad, however, is reading about his family’s refusal to accept his interest in fashion; ‘It’s a crime families don’t understand how their children are oriented and point them along their natural way,’ he wrote.” – Emily Ruane, Fashion Market Writer
Shop Bill Cunningham books on Amazon
Penguin Books ”Fashion Climbing” by Bill Cunningham, $, available at Amazon
LAPCOS Foot Mask
“I’ve become queen of all things foot care over the past few months. Since I bought my Revlon foot grater, I’ve been doing the most when it comes to pampering my feet — and this well-priced foot sheet mask has become my latest obsession. It’s similar to Baby Foot in that one packet contains a single-use pair of plastic booties soaked with serum. But instead of creating a magical-molting effect, this K-beauty Amazon gem hydrates and revitalizes tired toes with the help of peppermint oil and lavender. After removing and rinsing, you’re left with nothing but soft and soothed feet that smell like a spa day.” – Karina Hoshikawa, Beauty Market Writer
Shop LAPCOS
LAPCOS Foot Mask, $, available at Amazon
Sunwink Sparkling Herbal Tonic De-Stress Pack
“A stay-at-home summer has caused me to get more creative in the refreshment department. So, I’m constantly on the hunt for new sparkly substances that aren’t sugar bombs. Enter: Sunwink, a beverage brand led by a dynamic female-founding duo. These vibrant bottles are filled with an herbal-blended effervescent liquid that’s described as a ‘wellness tonic.’ My favorite is this here de-stressing combo of the Lemon-Rose Uplift and Hibiscus Mint Unwind: each tastes like a mix between premium tea and luxury seltzer. On top of tasting delicious (especially when mixed into a spritz), there’s a charitable kickback too: 2% of all sales go back to different organizations tied to each flavor, like the Marsha P. Johnson Institute or the Amazon Frontlines.” – Elizabeth Buxton, Market Editor
Shop Sunwink
Sunwink De-Stress Pack (12), $, available at Sunwink
Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Hair Mask
“I’ve always felt confident with my beauty and skincare routines, but hair care has been another story. What I’ve discovered, after years of striking out with various products, is that all of my color-treated hair woes can be smoothed over with a really good mask. I’ve saved major bucks on pricier hydrating shampoo-conditioner combos by investing in this deep-conditioning mask by Briogeo instead. I use it about once a week (leave it on for 10 minutes underneath a shower cap before rinsing) and it makes my hair look like it did pre-highlights many many moons ago. In other words, it’s botox for my tired locks.” – Elizabeth Buxton, Market Editor
Shop Briogeo
Briogeo deep conditioning mask, $, available at Briogeo
Thousand Adult Anti-Theft Guarantee Bike Helmet
“Since I’ve gone from taking the subway on a daily basis to basically never, I’ve had to familiarize myself with alternative modes of travel. One such method that I’ve rediscovered in quarantine is biking, which has become a regular part of my routine now that I’m cycling around Brooklyn to apartment-search. While I’ll admit that I used to rarely wear a helmet (I know, I know), I was inspired to do better after working on a recent story all about them. In addition to being sturdy and ridiculously chic, this Thousand helmet is easily the most comfortable helmet I’ve ever owned — in other words, I no longer have an excuse to not wear it every time I ride.” – Karina Hoshikawa, Beauty Market Writer
Shop Thousand
Thousand Adult Anti-Theft Guarantee Bike Helmet, $, available at Amazon
Umbra Conceal Book Shelf
“As my book collection continues to grow, it seems like the space in my apartment shrinks. This floating shelf does more than offer a nifty solution for maximizing unused wall space for anyone in tight living quarters — it adds a pretty cool decorative touch to your home, too.” – Amanda Randone, Market Writer
Shop Umbra
Umbra Conceal Book Shelf, $, available at The Container Store
Square L7 Jym Pant
“This Bronx-based brand offers a tight edit of garments that walk the line between casual and work-friendly — in other words, the ideal WFH uniform. I snapped up their Jym Pant as soon as I landed on their website — they’re cut in an elegant palazzo silhouette from sweatpant-level-comfy cotton. The reflective racing stripe and extra-long length make these around-the-house pants just a little bit more special than your average loungewear.” – Emily Ruane, Fashion Market Writer
Shop Square L7
Square L7 Jym Pant, $, available at Square L7
FURminator Dog De-Shedding Brush
“This thing is crazy — it’s like a gross-but-good beauty product for pets. The sheer the amount of hair I can brush off my pup, Arlo, in one single session with this thing is jaw-dropping — and so weirdly satisfying. I cannot do it the justice that the top reviews on Amazon can…seriously, just read this one. Oh, and there’s one for cats, too. It definitely helps with keeping shedding at bay. Worthy every penny.” – Elizabeth Buxton, Market Editor
Shop FURminator
Furminator Undercoat deShedding Tool, $, available at Amazon
Compeed Advanced Blister Care Cushions
“As lockdown restrictions ease, I’ve been turning to tennis as my socially distant activity of choice these days (I’ve got the gnarly blisters on both my hands and feet to prove it). Luckily, I found these blister cushions which stay in place for days and offer immediate pain relief. I was shocked at how well they worked and at the fact that I’ve been able to keep playing even before my blisters heal.” – Amanda Randone, Market Writer
Shop Compeed
Compeed Advanced Blister Care Cushions, $, available at Amazon
LETT Madrid Ribbed Biker Short
“I caved and bought a pair of bike shorts — that I do not plan on biking in. These powder blue babies are crafted from a super-soft and high-rise rayon-spandex blend with a chic ribbed detailing that is best suited for: lounging around the house in while taking work Zoom calls; sipping seltzer on the back deck in while reading a good book; having a picnic in from a safe social distance and soaking up the sunshine (they’re breathable, too). They look very cute paired with anything from a sports bra to a t-shirt, running sneakers to mule sandals, etc. And, all for under 50 buckeroos.” – Elizabeth Buxton, Market Editor
Shop LETT
Lett Madrid Ribbed Biker Short, $, available at Verishop
Asystem Radical Relief Gel Roll-On
“I’ve talked about the go-to gear that’s been getting me through my home workouts — but one thing I haven’t mentioned is a product that I rely on for soothing sore muscles (after being a little too confident with my ability to complete an advanced HIIT video). While it’s not exactly cheap, this roll-on truly is magic for alleviating tight, inflamed muscles with a cooling effect that feels amazing on the skin. It’s basically liquid Salonpas, which is a Japanese pain-relieving patch my dad swears by — arigato! In addition to powerful ingredients like menthol and arnica, there’s also 300mg of CBD in it — which can also help aid in pain relief.” – Karina Hoshikawa, Beauty Market Writer
Shop Asystem
Asystem Radical Relief Gel Roll-On, $, available at Asystem
AllVeryGoods Cherry Blossom Bandana
“I actually found out about this Etsy hidden gem from fellow R29-er, Emily Ruane. She included the Washington, DC-based artist Ama Schulman’s work in her roundup of Black-owned Etsy shops. I especially love her original take on Washington DC’s cherry blossom season with this frame-worthy bandana (you need to click to see the artwork!) featuring landmarks including the Capitol building, the Jefferson Memorial, the Smithsonian Museum of African American History and Culture, and (very importantly) Ben’s Chili Bowl. Vintage and original art bandanas and textiles are an affordable way to decorate empty walls and home nooks that need a little cheering up.” – Marissa Rosenblum, Senior Shopping Director
Shop AllVeryGoods
AllVeryGoods Cherry Blossom Bandana – DC 2020 I, $, available at Etsy
Glossier Coconut Balm Dotcom
“An oldie, but a goodie. I recently reordered myself a new tube of Glossier’s beloved Balm Dotcom, in its sumptuous coconut flavor, and I could not be more delighted than if I had spent the $12 on an overpriced cold-brew-pastry combo from my fave coffee shop. This stuff is moisturizing magic: I dab it everywhere from my lips to my dry over-sanitized knuckles; I use it to gloss my eyelids and smooth up my nearly non-existent eyebrow hairs in a makeup-less pinch. TLDR: It smells delicious, feels luxe, and the price is on point.” – Elizabeth Buxton, Market Editor
Shop Glossier
Glossier Balm Dotcom, Coconut, $, available at Glossier
Partake Vegan & Gluten-Free Mini Cookies
“As a self-proclaimed Cookie Monster with an aversion to dairy products, I’m always on the hunt for a new vegan treat to love and devour. These crunchy mini choco-chip cookies are just that, and since they’re made without the top 14 allergens, they’re perfect for sharing (if you don’t end up polishing off a box on your own).” – Amanda Randone, Market Writer
Shop Partake
Partake Vegan & Gluten Free Mini Cookies, $, available at FreshDirect
Wekapo Inflatable Air Hammock
“The first time I saw one of these inflatable human hot dog buns in the wild, I was attending an outdoor concert and boy did this thing seem so obnoxious to have out in a sea of people vying for a spot near the stage. A few years later, sans tightly packed crowd, an inflatable hammock seems like just the trick to enjoy a day at the park in solitude or perched next to a buddy a few feet away. And just like any prized sundress — she’s got pockets!” – Marissa Rosenblum, Senior Shopping Director
Shop Wekapo
WEKAPO Inflatable Air Hammock, $, available at Amazon
W3ll People Bio Baked Bronzer
“I don’t know about you, but lately, I’ve been catching myself during Zoom meetings and can’t help but think: Damn girl, you look a little tired. Fun, right? Well, in addition to investing in some noise-canceling life upgrades, I’ve also discovered that a little bronzer goes a long way in waking up a lackluster complexion. (Also, it’s a safer bet than getting an IRL tan!) My current go-to is this W3ll People powder, which creates the most natural-looking bronze glow on my olive skin, and is free of nontoxic ingredients.” – Karina Hoshikawa, Beauty Market Writer
Shop W3ll People
W3LL People Bio Baked Bronzer Powder, $, available at Thrive Market
Richer Poorer I Am A Voter Sweatpants
“OK, so I haven’t bought these yet as they were just pitched to me this morning but there is currently another tab open on my laptop with a lit-up cart button filled with these Richer Poorer sweats. They’re part of a small capsule collection with 50% of the proceeds going to I Am A Voter — a nonpartisan 501(c)(3) organization that ‘aims to create a cultural shift around voting and civic engagement’ amongst other things pro-democracy and educational. (Register to vote here!) They’re pricy but owning a give-back pair of pants with the three branches of our government printed down the side is very appealing to me.” – Marissa Rosenblum, Senior Shopping Director
Shop Richer Poorer
Richer Poorer I Am A Voter Sweatpant, $, available at Richer Poorer
ROOP Furoshiki Satin Bag
“If you’re like me, your first outdoor gathering with friends was the ultimate outfit-planning opportunity that wasn’t made with Zoom in mind. Even if people can’t get close enough to appreciate the details, this stand-out purse was the perfect finishing touch to my fresh-out-of-quarantine look. Plus, I’m always looking to support sustainable brands like Roop, who use deadstock fabrics to bring new designs to life.” – Amanda Randone, Market Writer
Shop ROOP
ROOP Furoshiki Satin Bag, $, available at Selfridges & Co.
Alleyoop Slow Your Roll Deodorant
“More deodorant! I’ve been a natural-deo devotee for years now, but the biggest gripe I still hear from friends is that they simply don’t work as well as traditional antiperspirants. Well, I can tell you now that you’re probably not going to find an aluminum-free formula that will keep you 100% dry (which, reminder, is an effect of sweat glands being plugged up), this Alleyoop stick comes pretty close. It feels pretty similar to conventional solids but is completely vegan and aluminum-free. I can’t really speak to the hair-inhibiting benefits since my pits are lasered, but it certainly keeps me B.O. free.” – Karina Hoshikawa, Beauty Market Writer
Shop Alleyoop
Alleyoop Slow Your Roll Deodorant, $, available at Alleyoop
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