And just like that, we’re a full month into 2023 — which means that our first batch of editor-approved, under-$100 finds is here. Since we refuse to gatekeep anything ever, we’re coming at you fast with all the best editor-approved stuff we bought and tried in January.
As online shopping savants, we take immense pride in being that go-to friend you ask when you’re wondering if that pricey skin-care brand is actually worth it, or if that TikTok-made-you-buy-it cheap thrill is low-key a scam. In this first wintery month of the year, we found solace in cheerful house slippers, fleecy dog onesies, and nourishing hair oils, to name a few of our cozy faves. Ahead, scope out all 35 gems that made the cut.
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. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
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Redken Curvaceous Curl Refiner
“I’ve always had what I referred to as a gentle wave, but as I’ve aged, my hair has become actually curly (thanks, hormones!). In my hair journey, I have tried a TON of products: mousses, gels, sprays, etc. But nothing has defined my curl as well as this Redken Curl Refiner. It stays totally soft, too, so you don’t have to worry about product crunch, and lasts multiple days. Curly girls, this is a holy grail product.” —Charlotte Lewis, Sexual Wellness Content Producer/Writer
Redken Curvaceous Curl Refiner, $, available at Ulta
Phlur Discovery Sampler Set
“Not gonna lie…I got caught real bad in the viral spiral of Phlur’s Missing Person (which, ICYMI, you can read about here). Literally, I had my mouse hovering over the purchase button for a full bottle, but to pay $96 for a scent I’ve never sniffed? Who even am I? I took a walk and cleared my head. When I got back, I did a reasonable thing and searched for a sample size of the stuff, only to discover that there’s a whole Phlur Sampler Set available at Sephora…and it’s on sale for less than $30! In the cart it went. Okay, so I did not burst into tears smelling Missing Person. It’s a great scent; don’t get me wrong. But it’s really some of the other fragrances that made me go, hmmmm! Like, Somebody Wood, wow, that’s a great one. This sampler set does NOT include Phlur’s latest Tangerine Boy, but you know, I’ll get to that one another time. Overall, this has been a very satisfying purchase for my nose.” — Jinnie Lee, Freelance Fashion Writer
Phlur Discovery Sampler Set, $, available at Sephora
Lodstob Gold Industrial 3-Way Dimmable Table Lamps
“Have you ever gone to someone’s house and been like, “Wow, that’s an attractive surge protector you’ve got there?” Me neither. That’s why I’m obsessed with this set of Lodstob touch lamps, which boast two sets of USB ports apiece. Not only does this feature eliminate the need for a bulky power strip next to my bed, but the lamps themselves cast really pretty, soft light at three different brightness levels and are so stylish you’d never guess they cost under $30 each.” —Sarah Crow, Affiliate Director
Lodstob Gold Industrial 3-Way Dimmable Table Lamps, Set of 2, $, available at Amazon
Briogeo Vegan Boar Bristle Hair Brush
“After decades of barely brushing my hair, I finally decided that, in the name of hair health, 2023 is the year I will get better at it. (*holds for applause*) Regular brushing doesn’t just smooth your hair, but it can help stimulate scalp circulation as well as distribute oils to avoid looking greasy at the roots. Anyway, I wanted to invest in something good quality that would last for months, if not years. Not to mention, I have a ton of hair and need a brush that can handle it. A few internet searches led me to the same answer: Briogeo’s synthetic boar bristle brush — aka a vegan alternative to the revered Mason Pearson. At just under $30, I have to say I was blown away at how pretty this brush is IRL. The paddle is nicely sized, and I’m able to do my entire head in a few passes.” —Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer
Briogeo Vegan Boar Bristle Hair Brush, $, available at Sephora
Aesop Marrakech Intense
“This is for sure an investment scent, but I took a sniff of Aesop’s Marrakech perfume in-store, sprayed it on my wrist, and couldn’t stop thinking about it the rest of the day. It’s fresh and musky at the same time. Plus, it’s the perfect size to throw in my bag and travel with. I’m picky about putting anything scented on my body, but Aesop can do no wrong in my eyes.” —Kate Spencer, Senior Affiliate Strategist
Aesop Marrakech Intense Parfum, $, available at Aesop
Jane Iredale Powder Foundation Compact
“To say my skin is oily is like saying the ocean is damp. Imagine how your own face might feel if it were being misted with olive oil every hour on the hour without ceasing, and you’ll get the idea. And while I don’t typically deal with breakouts these days (shoutout to being over 30!), my skin is sensitive — and frequently red — enough to make me want to tone things down with a little makeup. Since even attempting to wear either liquid or cream makeup is an exercise in futility for me, I’ve become obsessed with the Jane Iredale Powder Foundation Compact. It never looks cakey, it lasts all day, and it takes my face from ‘sad duckling after an oil spill in a dish soap commercial’ to something that resembles human skin.” — Sarah Crow, Affiliate Director
Jane Iredale PurePressed Base Mineral Foundation SPF 20/15, $, available at Jane Iredale
Uniqlo Round Mini Shoulder Bag
“I know I’m super late to this trend, but I finally got my hands on the TikTok-viral Uniqlo shoulder bag, and it’s totally worth the hype. It is so lightweight and versatile, and I love having all my essentials within easy reach across my front torso. Uniqlo has just released a new version of the bag in water-repellent fabrics — run, don’t walk!” — Venus Wong, Senior Travel Writer
Uniqlo Round Mini Shoulder Bag, $, available at Uniqlo
Clinique Pop Plush Creamy Lip Gloss
“Clinique’s viral and award-winning Almost Lipstick in Black Honey is my go-to because of its dark burgundy tint and ultra-creamy formula. The shade Black Honey particularly went viral because it has this magical blend of red, yellow, and blue pigment that makes it look universally flattering on all skin tones. So when I saw that Clinique also sold a lip gloss in Black Honey, I immediately purchased it (and gifted it to some family members). The formula and shade are a bit more sheer and sticky than the lipstick, but it’s still so creamy and shiny and beautiful. You can wear it on its own or layer it over the lipstick.” —Victoria Montalti, Associate Affiliate Writer
Clinique Pop Plush Creamy Lip Gloss in Black Honey, $, available at Clinique
lululemon Align Waist-Length Racerback Tank Top
“I could truly sing Lululemon‘s praises until the end of time and own a concerning amount of stuff from them — and yet, I still can’t go into a store without leaving with one of the brand’s signature reusable bags. During my most recent trip, I walked by this utterly perfect tank top and knew I needed it ASAP. The fit is perfect, and the fabric is buttery soft and so comfortable. I wear it with everything from blazers to workout skorts to denim. I got it in black, but now I want one in every color.” —Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer
Lululemon Align Waist-Length Racerback Tank Top, $, available at Lululemon
Grasseed Reusable Vertuo Capsule Kit
“Even though I’m not much of a coffee drinker, I have to admit that I’m loving the Nespresso life ever since getting a machine as a gift over the holidays. While the convenience is unparalleled, I have to admit that the single-use capsules were starting to keep me up at night. The solution: this kit, which includes everything you need to refill your aluminum Nespresso pods with your coffee of choice. All you need to do is rinse out your used pods, allow them to fully dry, then pop them in the holder and add two tablespoons of ground coffee to the pod, tamping down with the included tool. Then, carefully peel an aluminum seal and stick it onto the rim of the pod before pressing that down with the other side of the tamping tool. It sounds like a lot of steps, but it literally takes me less than five minutes to create a week’s worth of pods.”—Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer
Grasseed Reusable Vertuo Capsule Kit for VertuoLine Capsules, $, available at Amazon
Adidas Gazelle
“I know we all can’t get our hands on a pair of Sambas these days, but I feel like the classic Adidas Gazelle serves about the same style purpose. I snagged this green pair to add a tiny pop of color to my very neutral wardrobe and am very pleased with my purchase! If you’re not a green fan, the brand has got about 12 colorways to choose from on its site right now!” —Kate Spencer, Senior Affiliate Strategist
Adidas Gazelle Shoes, $, available at Adidas
Frigidaire Portable Mini Fridge
“If you’re not refrigerating your eye cream, may I humbly suggest that it might be time to reevaluate? This teeny-tiny (and obviously adorable) retro mini fridge is perfect for keeping those creams cold and perfect for de-puffing, and it has plenty of room for you to tuck away a few seltzers for your bed-based binge watches, too (no shame!). It’s also extremely quiet, allowing even light sleepers like me to keep it running in my bedroom without issue.” —Sarah Crow, Affiliate Director
Frigidaire EFMIS175-PINK Portable Mini Fridge-Retro Extra Large, $, available at Amazon
Bobbi Brown Luxe Lipstick in Claret
“I like keeping a finger on the pulse when it comes to Asian beauty trends, especially what’s trending in China, my native country. Lately, I’ve noticed lots of hype around this Bobbi Brown Luxe Lipstick on Chinese social media, and all the girlies are wearing the shade Claret. I obviously had to try it out for myself, and I am in love. It’s a gorgeous rouge with a brownish undertone, the type of red that reminds me of vintage lacquer furniture. The formula is perfect for wearing in the winter, since it’s very creamy and stays on all day. In terms of keeping your lips hydrated, the lipstick is miles ahead of other competitors in that price range. With 28 colors in the collection, there are plenty of options even if you don’t really dig the Claret color.” —Venus Wong, Senior Travel Writer
Bobbi Brown Luxe Lipstick In Claret, $, available at Nordstrom
Ephedora Bed Wedge Mattress Filler Pillow
“I saw this mattress wedge pillow featured on some home interiors website, and I couldn’t believe such a thing I needed even existed! As you can see, the gap between my mattress and wall is pretty substantial and everything was falling into the abyss — pillows, stuffed animals, my phone, books. Well, NO MORE! This wedge pillow is one of the most useful purchases I’ve ever made in my life.” —Jinnie Lee, Freelance Fashion Writer
EPHEDORA Bed Wedge Mattress Filler Pillow, $, available at Amazon
MagicLinen Waffle Kitchen Towel
“I spend a lot of time in the kitchen so anything that I have in it is pretty well used, from appliances to dish towels. Therefore, I want nicer quality items that will last and bring me joy each time I see them. The MagicLinen waffle towels are great for the kitchen and check all my boxes: They’re sustainably made, aesthetic, and absorbent for inevitable messes. Also, check out the convenient lil’ loop you can use to hang it for drying purposes!” —Becca Sax, Affiliate Strategist
MagicLinen Waffle Kitchen Towel in Beige, $, available at MagicLinen
Ygreato 4 Pack Elastic Makeup Headbands
“Out of all the products influencers promote, I’m most affected by the GRWM headbands. I’m not a fan of the viral sponge spa headband, and I actually didn’t see anyone boosting this adorable bunny ear four-pack — I just knew I wanted some face-washing hair accessories. These under-$10 fluffy bands are absolute delights. I worried because my head doesn’t even fit into baseball caps, but these provide the perfect amount of stretch and honestly only cause headaches after about two hours of wear (took a nap in one once on accident). The fabric also absorbs water and doesn’t go limp. I highly recommend for Black girlies unsure if their knotless braids are other protective hairstyles are too big for certain headbands or anyone looking to feel utterly cute during their skin-care routines.” — Alexandra Polk, Lifestyle Market Writer
Ygreato Bunny Ears Elastic Makeup Headbands, 4-Pack, $, available at Amazon
KitchenAid Pasta Maker Attachment
“To be completely transparent, this was gifted to my girlfriend, who is a superstar home cook but had never tried making pasta from scratch. As a pasta enthusiast, I was extremely on board with this venture (especially since she was going to do the hard work herself!). Despite how long it took to make the dough, rolling out was a BREEZE with the attachment. It was so fast and so easy to use, and there was something extremely satisfying about watching the dough get thinner and thinner and eventually sliced into familiar noodle shapes. Not to mention, it was one of the best meals I’ve ever had. I’m obsessed.” — Charlotte Lewis, Sexual Wellness Content Producer/Writer
Antree Pasta Maker Attachment 3 in 1 Set for KitchenAid Stand, $, available at Amazon
Little Beast Purple Disco Fleece Sweatshirt
“I’m obsessed with my dog, Chicken Nugget, exactly like those parents who constantly post photos of their child on Facebook or Instagram at any chance. With great love for my baby, comes great responsibility to ensure she has everything she may need — thus when winter came, I needed to find her outerwear for a range of temperatures. Wham-o! I found Little Beast with some of the cutest cold-weather apparel I have ever seen. Nugget stays adorable, fluffy, and warm. Also, I love that I have the option to get the fleece in a onesie or as just a sweater in a variety of colors to fit Nugget’s personality. She always gets compliments galore!” —Becca Sax, Affiliate Strategist
Little Beast Purple Disco Fleece Sweatshirt, $, available at Little Beast
Acerich Set of 6 Stainless Steel Straws
“There’s not much to mention other than the fact that sipping cold brew has never been easier. I like knowing my teeth are being protected from stains and it makes my plain pour of La Colombe over ice feel like a $7 oat milk latte. Oh, another plus! These straws are extra long and make great additions to taller glasses.” —Alexandra Polk, Lifestyle Market Writer
Acerich Set of 6 Stainless Steel Straws, $, available at Amazon
Caseative Cute Curly Wave Frame Shape
“I may or may not have ruined my old plain phone case by trying to decorate it with hot glue and gems in January (don’t recommend), so I needed a new one quick — but, the extravagant homemade case I found on Etsy wouldn’t arrive until March. I needed a cheap, protective, and still-cute case to use in the meantime. I love my little in-betweener squiggly phone case. It’s a measly $13 and so far has protected my bare screen over the course of about four drops. It’s also easier to hold because of the placement of the grooves. A true hidden gem. (P.S. adorable homemade keychain from my talented friend not included.” —Alexandra Polk, Lifestyle Market Writer
Caseative Cute Curly Wave Frame Shape Shockproof iPhone Case, $, available at Amazon
Gisou Honey Infused Hair Oil
“I’m not one to have long hair, but since my wedding is in a few months, my makeup artist and hairstylist sternly told me to please leave it alone. Since my hair is getting longer now, I find it’s more prone to getting frizzy with its never-ending strands — cue Gisou’s Honey Infused Hair Oil. The glossy honey hair oil has been my hair’s elixir to keep the strands at bay. I’ve wanted to try it forever, and it’s now engraved in my routine before I leave the apartment. The luxe hair oil works better as an overnight treatment as well. I like tracing it through my hair’s bottom after a shower for that next-morning shine.” —Vivien Lee, Affiliate Fashion Writer
Gisou Mini Honey Infused Hair Oil, $, available at Sephora
DedCool Milk Room + Linen Spray
“My love affair with DedCool and the Milk scent is very documented on R29. At this point, I’ll purchase anything this brand releases in this scent. I’m literally obsessed with it. I’m just waiting for the day that they come out with a shower gel and candle so I can officially say I was surrounded by the smell. Even just spraying it once is enough, but you’ll love the scent so much you’ll want to spray it way more than that. Obsessed!” —Mercedes Viera, Associate Deals Writer
DedCool Room + Linen Spray MILK, $, available at Dedcool
People We Meet On Vacation
“TikTok and Nadine from Netflix’s Single’s Inferno — what a combination — introduced me to this lovely book that I finished in a day. I love a good rom-com where the main characters are opposites who are perfect for each other. Call me weird, but I live for that moment when you’re flapping around like a fish in bed, screaming at one of the characters for not realizing that the other is interested in them. Just me? Ha, well, People We Meet On Vacation does just that and will truly keep you on the edge of your seat, frantically flipping through pages for its slow burns and almost moments.” —Vivien Lee, Affiliate Fashion Writer
Emily Henry People We Meet On Vacation, $, available at Amazon
Nails Inc. Manicure & Pedicure Must Haves Set
“This is my go-to routine to keep my nails fresh and healthy in between manicures. The cuticle oil is very nourishing without feeling too greasy, and I like applying it to my fingers before going to bed. The treatment mask is for when your tips are recovering from a gel manicure or acrylic nails. Finally, the gel effect nail polish lasts for ages, and the brand’s flat and round brush design makes it so easy to apply.” — Venus Wong, Senior Travel Writer
Nails Inc. Manicure & Pedicure Must Haves Set, $, available at Sephora
Sulhwasoo Overnight Vitalizing Mask
“Sulhwasoo is a treasured K-beauty favorite. While most people have heard of the First Care Activating Serum or Ginseng Renewing Cream, the brand’s new Overnight Vitalizing Mask is where it’s at. The nourishing sleep mask gives your dry winter skin a moisture boost with its combination of the brand’s exclusive Nutritive RED Elixir formula, jujube, and pomegranate extracts. The creamy texture is smooth and luxe, and the radiance you get from it is unreal. I like to apply it two to three times a week, and in all of my aunts’ wise words, “don’t forget the neck.” —Vivien Lee, Affiliate Fashion Writer
Sulwhasoo Overnight Vitalizing Mask, $, available at Sephora
Egyptian Magic All Purpose Cream
“I’ve mentioned before my lips get very, very dry in the winter. I went to see my favorite esthetician, Elizabeth Hand at Ställe Studios, who shared her ‘esthetician secret’: Egyptian Magic. It’s an all-purpose cream that feels more like a balm. I have become addicted to this product, and not just for my lips but also for my cuticles. A little goes a long way, and at this price point? You can’t go wrong!” —Sam Baker, VP of Commerce & Partnerships
Egyptian Magic All Purpose Skin Cream – 4 Ounce Jar, $, available at Amazon
Dabogosa Reusable Waterproof Household Gloves
“Hands are often forgotten about when it comes to self-care, but I am here to remind you: Your hands do not need to suffer because you hand-wash dishes. You can use dishwashing gloves! These gloves have been my savior, from protecting freshly done manicured hands to preventing dry hands after hand-washing dishes from a dinner party. They do it all. Save your hands and nails from distress, and get these gloves.” —Becca Sax, Affiliate Strategist
DABOGOSA 2 Pair Reusable Waterproof Household Dishwashing Gloves, $, available at Amazon
Verilux HappyLight Touch – UV-Free LED Therapy Lamp
“Seasonal depression has been kicking my ass this year, making it significantly harder to function like a normal human. And I know I’m not alone. SAD affects about 10 million Americans, and it’s okay to need an extra boost of help. A UV light is a perfect way to help add some daylight to your life. My mom swears by this particular model because it doesn’t take up more room on her desk than an iPad.” —Charlotte Lewis, Sexual Wellness Content Producer/Writer
Verilux LED Therapy Lamp, $, available at Amazon
Dove Relaxing Body Wash
“Usually, when it’s time for me to buy body wash again, I opt for whatever looks to be the best value (aka typically the creamiest and cheapest option). So when I saw Dove’s newish body wash branding and its great price point, I knew I wanted to try it out. While there’s a range of body washes with different benefits and scents, I was excited to try the ‘relaxing’ option with lavender. I have a pretty sensitive nose and strong scents instantly give me headaches, but the smell of lavender calms me down. When I took my first shower using this body wash, the combination of the steam and the essential oils was so soothing and opened up my sinuses. It truly makes for a spa-like shower, and the formula is so moisturizing. The large bottle lasts me a while, and I know I’ll keep going back to repurchase it.” —Victoria Montalti, Associate Affiliate Writer
Dove Dove Relaxing Body Wash Pump, $, available at Amazon
A New Day Thick Gold Hoop Earrings
“After watching all of Selena + Chef and admiring her chunky gold hoops, I knew I needed a pair for myself. But because it’s not my normal style, I was worried about shelling out serious cash for a real gold pair. My ears are pretty sensitive, so I was nervous about getting some cheapies, but this pair from Target exceeded my expectations. They’re totally hollow, making them light enough to wear all day. Plus, they didn’t upset my sensitive ears at all. I love the way they instantly create a look out of any outfit, and I’ve found myself reaching for them more than I even anticipated. For under $10, they’re well worth their price.” —Charlotte Lewis, Sexual Wellness Content Producer/Writer
A New Day Thick Hoop Earrings, $, available at Target
Etsy Daily Planner Notepad
“In my journey toward becoming a more organized person, I’ve gone through hundreds of planners, and somehow I ALWAYS quit them — sometimes not even halfway through. I came to the conclusion that I needed something that I didn’t need to open, because out of sight, out of mind applies very well to my brain. This super-cute notepad from Etsy had everything I could need. And it’s worked super well so far. I feel so productive and like I have my life together when I use it.” —Mercedes Viera, Associate Deals Writer
poweredbydaisies Daily Planner Notepad, $, available at Etsy
Baggue Happy Puffy Slipper
“I have good news and bad news when it comes to these slippers. The bad news is that this particular print and colorway is sold out, but the good news is that Baggu makes these in a bunch of other patterns, so you can still live your cozy life. I love that these feel like padded Baggu bags for your feet, and the small/medium size is a surprisingly good fit. And it goes without saying that the print is obviously the ultimate mood-booster.” —Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer
Baggu Happy Puffy Slipper, $, available at Baggu
Amazon TENS unit
“If you’ve never seen or used a TENS EMS unit in physical therapy, this little device is a godsend. It sends pulses of electricity to soothe muscles and pain. I remembered this was my favorite part of physical therapy when I used to go and wondered whether they sold them for at-home use. Luckily for me, they do. I’ve only used this a few times in the last two weeks, but I can confidently say this is one of the best things I’ve ever bought to treat my chronic pain. The battery life is great so far. There’s a 20-minute timer automatically, several intensities, modes, and it comes with everything you could ever need. I absolutely love this thing.” —Mercedes Viera, Associate Deals Writer
Belifu Dual Channel TENS EMS Unit, $, available at Amazon
Free People Nightbird Burnout Kimono
“I had a ’70s-themed party and didn’t want to look like I was wearing a Halloween costume, so I went on the hunt for ’70s-inspired outfit that I would want to rewear. Thankfully, I came across this kimono from Free People that is SO cute and has the ’70s feel when paired with flared jeans, but not so much when with jean shorts.” —Sam Baker, VP of Commerce & Partnerships
Free People Nightbird Burnout Kimono, $, available at Free People
Bokksu Snack Box
“Japanese snacks are my ultimate obsession. I still have dreams about the most amazing truffle potato chips I found in a convenience store in Tokyo many moons ago, only to never see them again anywhere else. Bokksu is the type of service I wish had been around back then: The company curates a monthly edit of hard-to-find snacks from indie brands and local artisans all over Japan and ships them all in a neatly packed box to your doorstep. Some of the highlights I got in my Seasons of Japan box include a soft apple cookie from Aoyama (the best region for apple production), seaweed and lime salt crackers, and the most amazing white chocolate-flavored, freeze-dried strawberries. The brand is offering a limited-edition Kyoto Blossoms box for the month of February, with tons of goodies inspired by cherry blossoms. You can either buy a one-off treat box, or subscribe to the monthly service. Based on how quickly I emptied my box (it was just that good), I’d definitely recommend an ongoing subscription.” —Venus Wong, Senior Travel Writer
Bokksu Classic Bokksu Snack Box, $, available at Bokksu
BlenderBottle 28oz Classic V2 Water Bottle
“I’m new to the protein shake and smoothie game. While concocting these drinks is a lot of trial and error, I figured finding a cute bottle to store them in would at least motivate me to keep making them. I’ve always seen BlenderBottle products, so I figured I’d start there. I found a large BPA-free bottle with a flip top and mini-handle that’s colorful, and I’m very happy with it. My current routine is making my drinks in a blender before pouring them into the bottle and, occasionally, shaking it all up with the wire whisk ball that comes with it. I really feel like this was a bang for my buck because it was only $10, and the quality is great, keeping my drinks cold and being leakproof.” —Victoria Montalti, Associate Affiliate Writer
BlenderBottle 28 oz Classic V2 Water Bottle, $, available at Target
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