36 Practical Products Under $25 That'll Improve Your Life This Spring

Olay Super Serum Body Wash (the body wash version of Olay's cult favorite facial Super Serum) — this is so soothing it's basically gonna feel like giving your dry skin a niacinamide-forward bottle of red, with notes of shea butter and a whiff of collagen peptides that'll treat your ~full body~ to 24-hour hydration. Ahhh, drink that all in.
A quick-dry anti-chafing "Fresh Breasts" lotion that uses tapioca starch, oatmeal, and glycerin to practically evaporate sweat in a second. If your poor ol' underboobs ache from sweat and friction, this'll prevent and help heal the chafing, itching, and rashes that hit once the weather starts warming up.
A hidden fly trap you plug into an outlet when you have flies, fruit flies, moths, or gnats crawling around. The little light lures bugs by up to 400 feet (!!!) and the sneaky design means this thing'll be blastin' bugs by the dozen without ruining your room's clean aesthetic.
A crack weeder tool, because the first thing you seem to see ~springing~ up in your yard each year is...weeds. This tool is designed to get those basically immortal weeds that practically grow THROUGH your concrete sans plant-killing chemicals. It fits into tiny, tight spaces and snatches up that unsightly stuff!
A Java Sock that'll do the two most important things for your beloved iced coffees (or...other drinks. I know people drink other drinks!) 1) It'll keep that caramel almond milk cold brew cold for ages — hours, according to reviewers — and 2) It'll keep your drink from sweating into your cupholder or all over your desk. It's a cruel twist of fate that iced coffee sweats as much as we do in the spring and summer.
A longline sports bra so your outfit can say "Lululemon" even if your bank account is saying "no new clothes at all." This top-tier top is a hit with reviewers because it's suitable for so much: outdoor workouts, gym use, *and* casual wear. Its lightweight design is breathable but sturdy and supportive without being too compressive, making it a stunning staple both at work and working out.
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Moisturizing Face SPF 60 Serum that'll do its very darndest to protect your skin (without a white cast) no matter how much you're out in the sun this spring and summer. Reviewers rave about using this as a priming moisturizer. Any way to sneak some SPF into your makeup routine is a real win. My pasty self is buying this as we speak. Seriously.
A pack of wall plant clips (a whopping SIXTY of them, in fact) sure to delight pothos-lovers who have vines wrapped around every nook and cranny of their living room, just waiting for the day when they can spread out around the room. These gentle clips are paint-safe and sticky on the back, so you can display vines without using nails or aesthetic-killing clips.
Medicube's "Zero Pore" Pads, a beloved Korean skincare secret with a magical mix of lactic and salicylic acid that'll redefine what "smooth" means to your skin. The dual-textured toner pads both exfoliate and refine your pores, making your face feel positively silky soft.
A paraben-free self-tanner with a mouse texture so you can apply the product evenly (unlike thicker lotions that leave distinct lines behind). With this, you'll get that summery glow without even needing to step outside.
L'Oreal illuminating moisturizer infused with glycerine and shea butter — if you're looking to add a lightweight alternative to your thick foundation and want an extra *glow*, then you're gonna adore this! Reviewers say it's basically like if Glossier's Futuredew and Drunk Elephant's Bronzing Drops had a brilliant, beautiful skincare baby.
A bottle of Better Life all-natural tile and tub cleaner that'll make spring cleaning your bathroom easier, banishing soap scum, mold, mildew, rust, and hard water stains from tired, worn-down tiles.
Londontown "Nail Veil" Protectant formulated with glycolic and lactic acid, biotin, and nitrocellulose to strengthen and protect your nails while elevating their natural look. There are several tint colors available, so you can find a shade that best fits your skin. It's basically like adding a nourishing foundation...to your fingernails.
SweatBlock antiperspirant wipes with a clinical strength formula that'll last up to seven days (!!!) for folks who get seasonal depression whenever the sun has them sweatin' it for no good reason.
A set of reusable microfiber mop pads so you don't have to worry about running out of disposable pads right when you need them most. Save some time and money with these extra-thick microfiber versions and easily wipe away the mud and pet fur spring leaves behind.
I Dew Care "Tap Secret" mattifying powder shampoo, because warmer weather means you can no longer simply hide your bedhead under a beanie. This fast-acting, non-aerosol formula soaks up greasy oil from your roots and leaves your hair looking fuller and, honestly, like you just got a blow-out. Skip the time and money at the salon and treat yourself to this instead!
Or Monday Haircare Dry Shampoo with a gorgeous gardenia scent and a formula that'll give you the same satisfying clean your hair needs with a lil' keratin treatment thrown in. This'll help protect against the frizz and breakage spring humidity inevitably brings. Plus, the packaging'll make your bathroom counter look beautiful all on its own.
A bottle of Angry Orange Pet Odor Eliminator, a fan-favorite among pet parents, this odor-eliminating spray is gonna lift stains from carpet and furniture while *also* pulling out the odor that is often left behind.
A daily planner to help you track school schedules, chores, and even your water intake if your spring cleaning goals this year are more about cleaning up your cluttered mind. Thanks, A-types, for finding a way to keep the house clean *and* stay hydrated...with a planner.
A versatile veggie chopper that'll help you prep (and clean up!) with speed that feels downright magical. The interchangeable blades just pop out, then just throw them right into the dishwasher. This'll be a game-changer for any dinner parties or BBQs you host this spring and summer.
Thank Me Later Eye Primer from Elizabeth Mott with an easy-as-pie application process, just use your ring finger to apply a pea-sized amount of the product onto clean, dry eyelids. After 30 seconds, it should be dry and ready for your makeup! This stuff is heaven-sent for anyone who spends way too much time on their smokey eye to have it sweat off the minute they hit the dance floor during wedding season.
A silicone clip-on strainer that's dishwasher safe, attaches to any size pot or pan, and is designed to save a bunch of space in your kitchen cupboards. It's pasta salad season, folks!
A jar of The Pink Stuff (the internet's favorite cleaning product) that'll spring clean everything from your faucet to your toilet tank to blotches in your bathtub (and it works *outside* of the bathroom too — spiffy). Move over, firefighters; I want a calendar of THIS sexy stuff and its shiny results.
A foaming garbage disposal cleaner to spring clean your rental's sink before your landlord decides to dispose of your deposit. And when I say, "clean out your sink" I really mean...toss in some foam and let it do all the work. That chore is way too gross to do yourself.
An exfoliating mitten for preventing ingrown hairs, reducing KP, and smoothing out your skin this spring. If you're getting ready for summer by positively slathering yourself in tanning lotion, this is a great first step for keeping your coloring uniform and smooth.
A travel brush with a hidden compartment sure to be looked upon with envy by your overpacked travel buddies as they desperately try to find some open space on the counter of your hotel bathroom. Trying to fit seven people in two rooms has not worked out as well as your friends thought it would. But hey, *you've* got a brush with enough room for toothpaste and tampons! You're doing great.
A 52-week tear-off meal planning pad framed by poppies and posies that'll have you wishing you remembered cursive so your grocery list looked as pretty as the rest of your planning pad. This is basically the adult version of putting drawings on the fridge...might as well make it fancy!
A bottle of professional-grade callus-removing gel (with over 40,000 five-star reviews!!) to get your neglected feet sandal ready — to use this spiffy stuff, just presoak your feet, apply the gel, let it sit, and rinse. Then watch in wonder as you scrape off *years* worth of calluses.
And a bottle of *extra strength* Lee Beauty Callus Remover for tackling the gnarliest of cracked calluses using a formula that's both powerful and protective of extra aching skin. The reviewer below recommends this for runners, as it's able to manage painful calluses without taking away from the added protection they provide active feet.
A Revlon volcanic stone face roller that'll absorb excess oil on your face as you swipe it away *without* ruining your makeup. Now that this exists, there's no better product to have in your bag when the summer sun brings back your extra oily skin. Oil blotting sheets WISH they were this sexy. Keep your makeup looking great all day with this OG TikTok beauty sensation.
A set of "wine wands" for cheap-box-wine-loving fiends who don't want their boozy spring brunches turning into hangovers. Simply swish these in a glass of wine, and in three minutes, those pesky sulfates and histamines will be removed. Then...poof! They've become hangover-free drinks thanks to these real-life magic wands.
A button-activated compact windproof travel umbrella at such a great price, it may be worth stocking up! Make sure you've got one in your car, your tote bag, your office...anywhere some unexpected wet and windy weather might rain on your parade.
Catrice "Instant Awake" Under Eye Brightener (made with a *chef's kiss* mix of hyaluronic acid and shea butter), which became a knockout success once reviewers started raving en masse about the product's instant invisible coverage. If you're looking for quick and easy results that suggest you don't even require sleep...you've come to the right brightener.
An herb keeper that'll prevent your refrigerator from becoming a graveyard for well-intentioned grocery purchases.
Nyx's Lip IV Hydrating Gloss Serum for people who are sick and tired of their lip glosses lacking color, their lip balms lacking interest, and their lipsticks drying out their lips. This acts as a gloss, lip stain, and balm all in one for up to 12 hours of happy, hydrated, and good-lookin' lips!
EOS's Shea Butter Vanilla Cashmere body lotion sure to be the TikTok obsession you *too* are about to be obsessed with. This lightweight formula provides a soothing and long-lasting moisture barrier so your skin feels silky. Which is great, as it's what we want lotion to do, but people are also losing it over how great this smells...many are comparing the scent to $$ brands like Philosophy. Nice.

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9 hours ago

• Buzz Feed

34 Treats You'll End Up Using Over And Over Again

A set of hair tie bracelets designed to look like *actual* jewelry, so you won't be kicking yourself when you realize you left a hair tie on your wrist for every photo. A set of delightfully ~~tingly~~ self-heating soothing foot masks made with Epsom salts, lavender, and peppermint perfect for anyone whose recent step count is "too many." Nothing like a lil' self-care on those aching feet to lift your spirits! A bottle of Elizavecca hair treatment, an Olaplex-like repairing mask infused with collagen ingredients and protein extracts that will help restore hair health and reduce shedding. All you gotta do is apply it on wet hair after a shampoo, wait five minutes, and rinse it out. Olay Super Serum Body Wash makes anyone with dry or dull cold weather skin REJOICE — this is packed with niacinamide, shea butter, and collagen peptides for 24-hour hydration that will make you feel as ~luminous~ as the summer sunshine. (Psst — this is the body wash version of their TikTok-famous, super effective facial Super Serum, so you KNOW they mean business.) And Olay Super Cream with Sunscreen SPF 30, a luxury moisturizer (and another iteration of the iconic facial Super Serum!) engineered with niacinamide and collagen not just to protect your skin from the sun, but to help reduce dark spots and fine lines. This ultra-hydrating, lightweight cream also plays well with makeup and doesn't leave any kind of white cast. A wildly impressive handled BrüMate tumbler designed with a completely leakproof straw lid that might be actual witchcraft, and ~BevGuard insulation~ that will keep drinks ice cold for over 24 hours. Finally, a ginormous emotional support tumbler that not only fits in your car's cup holder, but can get tossed into your bag worry-free! A set of limited edition wildflower Band-Aids so the next time you get a little ouch, you can be like, "wound care, but make it fashion." A copy of Burn After Writing, a guided journal that tens of thousands of reviewers swear by — through a series of questions and thought experiments, it encourages people to take time away from their screens to explore their feelings, both new and old, so they can embrace meaningful ones and try to let others go. A pair of luxe retro-style oval sunglasses giving Miu Miu vibes without the $489 price tag. The devil's in the chic details on this one, including the little gold embellishments on the sides and the nostalgic shape of the lenses, which are softer than the typical skinny oval lens. Medicube Turmeric Overnight Wrapping Peel Off Mask, which has already made itself a TikTok sensation — unsurprising, since the K-Beauty brand Medicube knocks it out of the park again and again. This mask goes on before bed and uses hydrolyzed collagen, vitamin C, and turmeric to help even out skin tone and improve elasticity. A weighted eye mask that's basically like a weighted blanket for your human eyes, designed to decrease stress and encourage ~deep sleep~. They also feature a 3D contour, so they're hollowed out in the middle and won't rest right on top of your eyes. Tree Hut Vanilla Hand Wash infused with hyaluronic acid and ceramides to help hydrate and restore skin health so your hands can be super clean *and* super nourished. Now all you have to do is prepare to have the link to this handy whenever guests come over and are like, "WHERE DID YOU GET THIS DELECTABLE SOAP??" Cosrx Advanced Snail Mucin Glass Glow Hydrogel Face Masks, the overnight face mask version of the internet's wildly beloved hydration serum, Snail Mucin Essence. This mask visibly absorbs within a few hours to become transparent over your skin, packing it with 25% snail secretion filtrate, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide for a deeeeep hydration that visibly plumps and brightens your complexion to give it that "glass skin" effect. A little rose-shaped straw topper for your emotional support water bottle so you can remind yourself everything's (literally) coming up roses every time you pluck it off to take a sip. This is an excellent way to keep your straw safe from germs in between sips! Good Molecules Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel, a cult-fave product for your beauty arsenal that will quickly help minimize eye puffiness and swelling thanks to its winning combo of caffeine and hyaluronic acid. It's basically an alarm clock for your eyeballs, because boy howdy are they awake now!! Maybelline Super Stay Teddy Lip Tint gives you an oh-so-pillowy matte pout that refuses! to! quit! no matter what you throw at it during the day. Reviewers mention that this is a great "everyday" matte, giving a velvety, well-pigmented look without being too dramatic. Eos' Shea Butter Vanilla Cashmere body lotion, which TikTok is going *feral* over both because of the lightweight, long-lasting moisture, and the soothing, delicious smell that reviewers compare to more expensive brands like Philosophy and Bath & Body Works. Londontown "Nail Veil" Protectant, which is designed not only to protect your nails, but to act as a sheer tint to enhance their natural look. It's basically "no makeup makeup," but for your fingernails. A set of reviewer-beloved "Loops Quiet 2," aka the "ear plugs for people who hate ear plugs." These lightweight plugs are so subtle that people won't notice you wearing them, and are meticulously designed to muffle distracting, irritating, or overwhelming noise without completely blocking out the world around you. Reviewers love to wear them at the office or in noisy homes — this way they can still stay aware of your surroundings without getting overwhelmed by them. Oxo's compact Cold Brew Rapid Brewer to make cold brew in FIVE MINUTES (!!) instead of overnight, like competing pitchers. Not only is it faster than comparable models, but it's cheaper, entirely portable, and doesn't need to be charged or plugged in. 🤯 You're going to be swimming in a RIVER of delicious, affordable cold brew with this gizmo. A pair of waterproof wireless earbuds with AirPods Pro energy — except these feature a charging case that, bless its technologically savvy heart, has an LED display letting you know exactly how much charge is left. Reviewers also love how delightfully comfortable and sweatproof these are, making them a solid, affordable option for talking on the phone and exercising. An "Exfoliate & Glow" premium scrub mitt for that oh-so-squeaky clean sensation that comes with sloughing off dead skin. No, for real — one reviewer saw all the dead skin left in their shower floor and dubbed themselves a "Lizard Person" after shedding it. This is great for helping even out skin texture and tone, preventing ingrown hairs, calming keratosis pilaris, and removing self-tanner, too! An effortlessly chic Nine West watch that not only pairs beautifully with your jewelry, but will help knock you out of that habit of checking your phone for time a thousand times a day and getting distracted by your notifications. A set of pastel glitter highlighters I saw on Instagram and NEARLY BLACKED OUT from the cuteness. If you like highlighting your planner pages, favorite passages from books, or lines from your journal, please do yourself a favor and purchase these subtle but oh-so-sparkly colors to jazz them up ✨. A beautifully packaged, travel-friendly Touchland Power Mist hydrating hand sanitizer for anyone who's like "mindfully practicing health and safety, but make it fashion." Unlike other sanitizer sprays, it's infused with aloe vera to keep your skin hydrated and has the most luxurious floral scents. Laneige Lip Glowy Balm, which unsurprisingly went just as TikTok viral as everyone's beloved Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask — the glowy balm has the same delightful flavors (including the iconic Gummy Bear) and hydrates lips with the *chef's kiss* lightweight, moisturizing blend that doesn't get all sticky and goopy-like competitors. An affordable, Lululemon-esque longline sports bra so comfy, supportive, and versatile that reviewers love it both for outdoor workouts, gym use, *and* errand running. This is designed to be supportive without being too compressive, with lightweight fabric that keeps you breezy in the heat. And another Lululemon-inspired piece, a charming and oh-so-comfortable tennis skirt with built-in shorts similar to the Align style. The secret inner pocket on these is perfect for stashing keys and tennis balls, and the shorts are designed with a four-way stretch so they won't ride up. A set of dainty but surprisingly strong bow-shaped hair clips to pair with all your frilliest dresses or to add a soft touch your more structured work outfits. A set of itty bitty vintage-inspired spoons that are just BEGGING to be used for all your coffee, tea, dessert, and yogurt needs. (Is it just me, or do we all have an Emotional Support Tiny Spoon?) A suuuuper easy to use Beachwaver B1 Rotating Curling Iron with automatic curling technology similar to the $599 (!!) Dyson Airwrap that not only creates (LITERALLY) effortless curls, but is designed with a ceramic heat barrel that makes them hold up the whole day. A crochet succulent car air freshener holder that will not only keep your car smelling fresh, but will be an adorable little buddy to keep you company on long commutes. Note — this includes a glass bottle to hold essential oils, but not the oils themselves, so you can pick your favorite! A pickling starter kit complete with everything you need to start fermenting small batches of INFINITE delicious things, from the traditional cucumbers and onions to yummy sauerkraut and kimchi to adventurous watermelon and mango. 😋 (If you've never had pickled mango before ... THANK ME LATER.) An "Everyday Mindfulness"-themed word search book full of unique, relaxing puzzles designed to keep you engaged without stressing you out.

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11 hours ago

• Buzz Feed

35 Alternatives To Pricey Fashion Items In Your Cart

Buttery soft high-waisted leggings, which are deceivingly identical to Lululemon's Align leggings — and reviewers are calling it out! The only difference? These give you all the buttery soft material and comfiness for a mere fraction of the name-brand price. 👀 Slingback heels because they blend comfort and elegance in the most gorgeous way. Their timeless style might just make these one of your most-used pairs — they'll take you from your daily office routine to casual lunch dates to evening drinks. Many reviewers agree that these also give *major* Chanel vibes. Or some breathable pointed-toe flats ready to keep your feet cushioned and decked out in style. They look and feel as high-quality as Rothy's or Vivaia, without having to spend the extra $70–$100. The stretchy knit upper is comfy and trendy-looking (office days just got a whole lot better!) and you can toss 'em in the wash before they even have the *chance* to get stinky. An oh-so-elegant ribbed button-up tank, which is giving the side eye to the similar Abercrombie & Fitch style that's double the price. 👀 You know what that means? You don't have to limit yourself to just one color. And a cherry bag charm so you can stay on-trend without having to shell out $95 for the Coach charm. This'll add a cute lil' pop of color to any plain bag. Plus, you can get one for every single bag you own without breaking the bank. A flirty corset lace-up sundress with a cute slit and a bustier design that's sure to fit you like a glove. It gives major Bridgerton vibes, but the price tag makes it easier than ever to show up looking like the diamond of the season. And it looks extremely similar to the House of CB version (which goes for over $200 👀). A ribbed workout jumpsuit that reviewers claim looks and feels like Skims-level quality, but asks for way less money out of your wallet than Ms. Kim K. It's compressive but breathable, with four-way stretch so you can pull off all your squats with ease (plus it's thick enough that it won't show your undies). And a long-sleeve bodysuit because it's basically saying "Look at me! Look at me!" before you pull the trigger on that Skims bodysuit. The "Smoke Cloud" fabric is buttery smooth and *not* sheer, and the sweetheart neckline will add a little extra charm to your ensemble even if it's being paired with your fave faded jeans. A faux-leather bag that you'll be dying to show off at your next office day. Just let your work nemesis assume it's Polène's Cyme. And send them an unnecessarily long email while you're at it. Some Nortiv 8 walking shoes because they're designed with pillowy comfort and bold color combos that let them disguise themselves as Hokas. Guess this means you get to splurge a little bit more on your *non*-workout 'fits. A Lululemon-inspired tennis skirt with built-in shorts and a secret inner pocket for your phone so you can hold your iced coffee in one hand and gesticulate with your other as you tell your bestie the latest tea in your love life while on your hot girl walk. Also, no need to worry about a strong breeze. A pair of pilot shield sunglasses that'll make you do a double-take because they're verrrry similar to the $699 Bottega Veneta pair you've been stalking online. Seriously, the attention to detail on these will leave you *spooked*. Or a pair of retro-style oval sunglasses — even the snobbiest of sunglasses connoisseurs would *swear* these are the $400+ Miu Miu ones. And who are you to correct anyone that comes to that conclusion? Or!! A pair of oversize square sunnies to throw on for an instant style boost, no matter what you're wearing. The polarized lenses offer UV 400 protection, so not only will you look amazing, but your eyes will also be shielded from those harsh rays. Plus, reviewers say they look just like the $425 square sunglasses from Bottega Veneta! A beautiful tennis bracelet, because a small, twinkly accessory can add an upscale factor to any outfit. And just look at that Swarovski-like sparkle it gives off (no one would ever know that it's actually cubic zirconia). Or, go all out with a set of golden bracelets so you bling your wrist out without wearing your wallet out. Like this reviewer says, "Cartier who?!" A beaded shoulder bag — alright, I'm gonna have to see some ID because there's no way this isn't the $295 one from Staud. Hey, better to get a little splurgey at Anthro with this little beauty and *not* have to completely wipe out your ~treat yourself~ budget. An elevated laptop tote bag so clean-cut and beautiful it might just empower you to strut through that office like the baddie you are (even though you're dreading sorting through those Monday-morning emails). This stylish piece offers spacious compartments for all your essentials (laptop, makeup bag, books, and more) and keeps them organized and within reach. Reviewers even compare this to (and favor it over) the Béis Work Tote that sells for $148! A spandex-blend slip maxi dress that'll have you looking absolutely chic *and* staying comfy at the same time. Reviewers *love* how the material is just as soft as the trendy Skims version... and some even say it's better! A fanny pack people say is veryyy similar to Lululemon's belt bag, which is over double the price! Use it to keep your phone, wallet, headphones, (and maybe even a protein bar to snack on) close to you and easily accessible. Perfect for travel or everyday use! The strap is long enough to wear crossbody or around your waist, which keeps your arms and hands completely free. Plus, it'll surprise you with just how roomy it is. A pair of sandals that many reviewers say are a wonderful alternative to Birkenstocks (there are 1,000+ reviews comparing them). Their cork footbed quickly adjusts to the contour of your foot *and* they're designed with soft lining and adjustable straps. The comfort of a tennis shoe combined with the effortlessness of a sandal? Yes, please. A pair of lightweight legging-style joggers because they have a tapered design and a stretchy waistband that'll probably make them one of the most reached-for pieces in your closet. And let's not forget the side pockets! Plus, reviewers have not failed to notice how remarkably similar they are to Lulu's Align joggers. 👀 And a soft, stretchy longline sports bra drawing comparisons to a tank from the same collection, so you could achieve the whole Lulu Align ~look~ for a whole lot less. It's designed with a classic V-neckline, sweat-wicking fabric, and goes with, well, anything! You can also pair it with your fave biker shorts or leggings so you can go straight from your errand-packed morning to your afternoon yoga class. Platform slippers in case you've added the similar Ugg Tazz pair to your cart about a million times but haven't been able to checkout just yet. Once you slip your feet into the faux-fur shoes, you'll find you'll be wearing them so often, they'll basically be an extension of you (yup, even in the heat of summer). A pair of stylish teardrop earrings, which simply ooze Bottega Veneta vibes. Accessorize any 'fit with these beauties for an instant ~chic factor.~ Plus! Reviewers say they're so lightweight and comfortable, some even forgot they had them on. And a highly rated pair of hoop earrings reviewers compare to Jennifer Fisher hoops that go for up to hundreds of dollars and say they don't hurt your ears! Whether you're going to lunch with jeans and a plain tee or to an upscale dinner with a dress, these will be the *perfect* touch to tie your whole fit together. A puff-sleeve dress you can wear on *or* off the shoulder, giving us the versatility we need in our lives. It features darling lil' flowers and has been said by one reviewer to be super similar to the popular Nap Dress! BRB, gonna go get it in every color. A pair of gorgeous, super versatile heeled slip-ons if you want all the *slip on, slip off* ease, but in a classic open-toe design — plus they could pass for the version by It brand Dolce Vita. These babies have a thick heel for stability as well as soft, thick braided straps to keep your feet in place. (Because having them slide all over the place can be so annoying!) A plated ring because reaching for that cup of iced coffee will never feel more bougie than this. And since this one doesn't cost thousands of dollars (chill out, Cartier 😭), you live to see another day of affording that $10 coffee. A faux-pearl choker that Vivienne Westwood herself might have to linger on a moment or two to ensure this isn't actually her Mini Bas Relief pearl choker. This'll tie all those sunny brunch ensembles with a pretty bow! And a pair of Buff Bunny–inspired booty-highlighting biker shorts for anyone who would love to add 48 fun colors and prints to their workout wardrobe without spending $48 on each. That booty (and that wallet) are about to be lookin' thicccc. A pair of absolutely *stunning* sparkly stilettos because it'll make you the belle of the ball. They'll easily become the centerpiece of your outfit, and reviewers rave about how surprisingly comfy they are! This reviewer even compares them to the Christian Louboutin So Kate heels. 👀 A glitzy long-sleeve sequin dress in case you admired the 16Arlington dress Hailey Bieber wore, which goes for $765 (*chokes on my Cup O' Noodles*). This under-$100 version is just begging to make an appearance at your next date night and drop. some. jaws. A pair of elevated, effortlessly chic wide-leg petal sweatpants — if you put these in the same room as the ones from Anthropologie and Free People, it'd be looking like that one Spider-Man meme. Reviewers love how cozy and breathable these are, and that the style is perfect for indoor lounging *and* outdoor errands. A half-zip pullover sweatshirt that serves as the ideal layering piece to take on and off for those airport days. It's light enough to make it easy to travel with but warm enough to keep you from getting cold. It'll also run you far less than Lulu's $118 scuba hoodies.

Travel + Leisure

15 hours ago

• Travel + Leisure

I'm a Former Lululemon Employee, and These Are the 11 Best-selling Items Shoppers Never Return—From $18

Before I found my calling as a travel writer, I had another career I loved so much that I used to show up to work early and leave late— on purpose . My job title was store educator, and my office was the Lululemon store in East Hampton, N.Y. I had the privilege of teaching shoppers about Lululemon's groundbreaking—and that word isn't a stretch (pun intended)—fabric technology, fueling the athleisure movement. We're talking game-changing fits and features that warranted an unheard-of price point. Back in the early aughts, paying $98 for a pair of leggings, even in the Hamptons, seemed ludicrous. Still, I don't recall many people leaving the store without buying something. And even fewer people came in to make returns. I've never worked in retail again, and I don't think I could because, in a way, Lululemon ruined me. That said, it still makes up at least 60 percent of my travel wardrobe, and that's without the generous employee discount I used to enjoy. So, which items are worth investing in? Here are 11 best-selling Lululemon items, or updated versions, that were never returned, including leggings, jackets, shorts, and even dresses, starting at just $18. I remember so many Wunder Under tights flying off the shelves that we joked they had wings. Even Taylor Swift has been photographed wearing them! Since debuting around 2008, Wunder Under tights have come in various iterations, but I love this current style because it has deep drop-in pockets on the sides that are big enough to fit my phone and passport. Although they're technically designed for training, I wear them as travel pants. Shoppers who work out in them say they love how they don't show sweat. Perhaps that's because it dries super fast thanks to the Everlux fabric's moisture-wicking properties. When I travel to warmer climates, I reach for the Wunder Train High-rise Short. Like their pant counterparts, they're extremely breathable. In Lululemon's own words, they 'perform in high heat.' These shorts don't have deep side pockets, but I appreciate the stash pocket in the waistband, which is big enough to fit a credit card or hotel room key. Choose from four-inch and six-inch inseams, and regardless of length, expect them to feel like a second skin. One shopper, who trained for a marathon in them, wrote that they 'loved the hugged-in feeling,' and despite running in them for years, the fabric integrity has held up nicely. Back in my day, Lululemon's reversible, strapless 'Beat the Heat' dress was all the rage. Until they resurrect it, I recommend the Align Dress, which I currently own in black. Between the built-in shelf bra and shorts with pockets, it's a seriously elevated dress you can wear while working out or wine tasting. Plus, it's made of Nulu, so it's softer and looks sleeker. 'It flatters every curve and moves effortlessly, whether heading out for a casual day or dressing it up for a night out,' reads one five-star review titled 'Perfect for traveling.' Lululemon's best-selling Define Jacket is made of its first signature fabric, Luon. When it launched in the early 2000s, this game-changing blend of nylon and Lycra was embraced by yogis tired of thin fabrics that were too sheer and ripped after a few months of wear and tear. Today's Define Jacket looks similar to the O.G., although it no longer comes in Herringbone (RIP). It has over 7,600 five-star ratings, and shoppers love how easy it is to dress up or down. One shopper, who says they've bought it 'on repeat' in many colors for decades, says it's perfect for spring, summer, and fall when all you need is a light jacket. I won't say what year I was born, but I'm old enough to remember the reversible Groove Flared Pant with a black waistband on one side and a colored waistband on the other. They were a huge hit with shoppers, particularly those who loved getting two looks for the price of one. Today's Groove Flared Pant may not be reversible, but I don't mind. That's because it's made with the newer and improved Nulu fabric. Lululemon describes Nulu as 'buttery soft,' but I love that one satisfied shopper refers to it as 'barely-there soft.' Plus, it boasts a wider foldover waist that I find to be more flattering, especially if I'm wearing a crop top or shorter tank like my new Glow Up Tank Top. The Groove shorts were also hard to keep in stock. While it's no longer made, the Align High-rise Short is the ideal substitute. It's basically the Groove, but it's made with Nulu fabric and is available in more inseam options, from two to eight inches. I have them in six-inch and they're so comfortable, I sometimes wear them under dresses even if I can get away with wearing underwear instead. I appreciate that the wide waistband, despite having a secret stash pocket, doesn't dig into my stomach when I sit down. The Align High-rise Short has more than 1,700 five-star ratings, with one shopper, who has purchased many pairs over the years, calling them their 'go-to' for every activity from gardening to rollerblading. When I worked at Lululemon, my uniform was a pair of leggings or a skirt paired with the Power Y Tank, which shoppers loved because it was such a versatile layer. Today, its closest cousin is the Ebb to Street Tank Top, another best-seller that dropped a few years later. Like the Power Y, this tank features a slim fit, narrow racerback, and built-in B/C cup bra with removable pads. Unlike the Power Y, it has a slightly ribbed texture, a longer length, and a touch more Lycra—three enhancements shoppers seem to appreciate. The Ebb to Street Tank Top has more than 2,000 five-star ratings, where many fans beg the brand not to change a thing. I used to have a love-hate relationship with the Scuba Full-zip Hoodie. I loved telling shoppers about its fun features, including a zipper pull that can be used as a hair tie, thumbholes, Cuffins to keep sleeves in place, and an oversized structured hood. But I hated folding them. Fortunately, because most shoppers who tried one on wore it out of the store, we didn't do a lot of refolding. Today's hip-length Scuba Full-zip Hoodie is longer than the O.G., but judging by its 4,700 five-star ratings, it's just as beloved. One shopper, who has the latest model, wrote that they love the new fit, although they admit they still wear their old Scuba, which has to be 10 to 15 years old and 'still looks amazing.' The Speed short was the predecessor to today's Speed Up Short. I finally retired my first pair of faded Speeds (they were 15 years old) last year. I remember them being such a hot item that when we'd get new inventory in, my coworkers and I would set aside a pair or two in our size because we worried they'd sell out by the time our shift was over. The latest Speed Up High-rise Lined Short, a trending item online, has an upgraded zipper on its back pocket, an updated high-rise fit, and slightly more flattering seams. One shopper, who reckons they've owned every version of this short since 2008, sums them up as a 'staple for summer.' I used to have cotton sports bras until 2009, when I used my Lululemon employee discount on the Flow Y Bra. Yes, it had a prime position on our bra rack, but that's only because it was so popular. It's been a Lululemon mainstay since the early 2000s, and I remember celebrating like it was Christmas when the Flow Y Bra IV with the partially mesh back came out. It was so breathable! Today's Flow Y Bra is more like the original in cut, but it's made with a newer (and softer) fabric: Nulu. If I have to wear a bra, I don't want to be reminded. Pro tip: Size up. I'm a size 4, but when it comes to Lululemon bras, a size 6 fits much better. When I worked at Lululemon, headbands used to sell like hotcakes, and not just because they occupied prime real estate on the floor. In fact, most shoppers knew they'd love their new headbands so much, they didn't even want the receipt—it went straight in the trash, and the headband went straight on their head. While this License to Train Wide Headband is more performance-oriented than the Slipless Headbands we carried, I love it because it comes in more neutral colors that appeal to men, too. Still relatively new, it only has about 131 five-star ratings total. But from those, it already has an impressive 4.7-star average rating. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.