I've admitted before that even though I might not be the most efficient shopper when I do make a purchase, I commit—wholeheartedly. This is probably why countless friends, family members, and colleagues are always amazed by the must-have products I've discovered over the years on Amazon. You see, I am not so secretly a wizard when it comes to finding the best products lurking within the behemoth online retailer. And, of course, while I prefer to shop small, there are just some items that are more efficient and affordable to purchase online.
So keeping the keyword "affordable" in mind, I pulled together a list of 37 random things I've found on Amazon that people always ask me about. From fashion basics and trendy accessories to nicely priced beauty must-haves and even a few tech gadgets and wellness essentials, all of the below products are easily sourced on Amazon and can be added to your cart with just a few clicks.
Even better? Every single item on this list clocks in at $50 or less. Still skeptical? Keep scrolling—you're bound to be pleasantly surprised.
Fashion
(Image credit: @madisonclevenstine)
Goodthreads
Boucle Shaker Stitch Balloon-Sleeve Sweater
Can you ever have too many cozy sweaters? I actually own this style in a few colors.
The Drop
Amy Fitted Turtleneck Ribbed Sweater
I wear black turtlenecks every day in the winter, so I was pleasantly surprised to find this on-trend ribbed style for under $50.
Nackiy
MacAron Hair Clips
Barrettes are still a big trend this year, and buying them in a 20-pack ensures you'll always have one handy in a bag or coat pocket.
Sofsy
Polka-Dot Patterned Tights
I wore these tights to a chic winter wedding in 2019 and was pleasantly surprised not only by how they kept me warm when walking from the ceremony to the venue but also how durable they were on the dance floor.
Pavoi
Classic Tennis Bracelet
I also acquired this for said wedding. I needed a little sparkle to enhance my all-black ensemble but didn't have time to shop around for a splurge. This simple tennis bracelet did the trick in a pinch—and got me so many compliments!
Daily Ritual
Stretch Cotton Knit Twill Zip Pocket Jogger Pant
Jeans, who? Joggers are the heroes of my wardrobe this year.
The Drop
Sarah High-Waist Double Pleated Wide Leg Pant
For those days when you actually have to wear real pants.
Amazon Essentials
Tech Stretch Short-Sleeve Crewneck T-Shirt
It has been said that these Amazon Essentials tees are comparable to the fashion-girl favorites from Madewell.
Meraki
Lightweight Cotton V-Neck Sweater
Who What Wear editors are obsessed with this affordable, lightweight knit.
Core 10
All Day Comfort High Waist Yoga Legging With Side Pockets
They say you have to kiss a lot of frogs before you find your prince. You also have to try on a lot of leggings before you find the perfect fit. Go ahead—take these for a spin.
Kirundo
2020 Women’s Winter Lapel Sweatshirt
You might think that you don't need to opt into the shearling trend this season, and you would be wrong. At this price point, this is a cozy coat you can feel good about buying now (and probably wearing every day until spring).
Amazon Essentials
Oversized Plush Button-Front Coat
No one believes me when I tell them I scored this classic coat on Amazon—especially at this price.
Beauty
(Image credit: @livpurvis)
Cuccio
Revitalize Cuticle Oil
Cuticle oil wasn't even on my radar until I interviewed several nail professionals last year, but after using this top-selling Amazon product, I'm hooked (and so are my mom and sister).
Avarelle
Acne Absorbing Cover Patch
No joke, I hand these zit stickers out like candy. My boyfriend and best friend are also big fans.
Wet Brush
Original Detangler Hair Brush
I've waxed poetic about the Wet Brush before, but this product has single-handedly saved my fine hair from serious breakage. I have multiple that I stash in my bedroom, bathroom, and suitcase.
Mario Badescu
Witch Hazel Toner
I am so 2000 and late on this, but after speaking with several skincare pros, I got turned onto this toner. It was a simple step to add to my routine, but my skin has never felt cleaner or looked better.
The Original MakeUp Eraser
The Original Makeup Eraser
I used to think that I was so diligent about taking off all of my makeup before bed. Just a few swipes of this MakeUp Eraser and I realized how much residue was actually getting left behind (ew, gross). Try it and you'll see for yourself!
Revlon
One-Step Hair Dryer & Volumizer
Everyone at Who What Wear who has experienced this magical Revlon machine is hooked. It works great on different hair textures, and at this price, it is absolutely worth buying now.
Cetaphil
Hydrating Eye Gel-Cream With Hyaluronic Acid
I'm all about setting achievable goals in 2021, and maximum hydration is at the top of my list. This is a low-lift way to do the most for the delicate skin around your eyes, especially during the winter months.
CeraVe
Moisturizing Cream
Hydration and moisturizing go hand in hand, so you know I am slathering myself in this classic CeraVe cream after every shower.
Neutrogena
Healthy Skin Anti-Aging Perfector Tinted Facial Moisturizer and Retinol Treatment
So you want healthy skin, some anti-aging action, retinol, a slight tint, and SPF? How's this for an affordable skincare solution?
Elixir Premium Lab
Moisturizing Gloves Hand Mask
Not only does this Korean hand treatment feel luxurious, but it also forces me to put down my phone for a few minutes and be in the moment. Win-win.
Tech
(Image credit: @greeneyesgoldsoul)
Peepers
Vintage Vibes Rectangular Blue Light Filtering Reading Glasses
I am lowkey obsessed with blue light glasses. I have about five pairs that I wear on rotation (a great conversation starter for Zoom meetings), and recommend Peepers frames especially—they come in several fun colors and styles, plus Oprah loves them, too.
Amazon Basics
Universal Air Vent Car Cell Phone Holder
I live in New York City, which means I rarely get to drive anywhere. However, I discovered this product when I was at home for the holidays in 2019 and immediately purchased multiples to give to my parents and car-owning friends. The universal design works in any type of vehicle and uses magnets to hold up the phone instead of a clunky contraption. Even better? Two come in a set, so you can keep one and give another to a pal.
Cowin
Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Wireless Headphones
I bought these ahead of a long-haul flight to South Africa in 2019, and have no idea how I traveled without noise-canceling headphones before. They're cheap enough that you don't have to beat yourself up if they get lost in transit but also durable and work great.
Doboli
Compatible Airpods Pro Case Cover
Unfortunately, I did lose my AirPods on a flight last year. I sucked it up and purchased a new pair along with this bright silicon case—so far, so good.
Amazon Basics
Double Braided Nylon Lightning to USB Cable
Is it just me, or are these things always in short supply? I like this 10-foot power cable and find it charges faster than the one that came with my phone.
Wellness
(Image credit: @sequinsandsales)
Plants for Pets
Succulent Plants
Ready to start your plant collection? Succulents are an easy way to add greenery to your home—you'll become a plant person in no time.
Lagunamoon
Essential Oils Gift Set
So you want to test out a few essential oils but aren't sure where to start? Here, start right here.
InnoGear
Essential Oil Diffuser
And get this diffuser, too. I have one in my bedroom and another in the living area for maximum zen.
Nature's Way
Sambucus Elderberry Gummies
If taking a gummy vitamin can help keep me healthy, why not? These are a top seller on Amazon.
Vital Proteins
Collagen Peptides
You know you're getting older when you actually start singing the praises of dietary supplements. Curious about collagen peptides? This Vital Proteins powder is easy to integrate into your morning routine.
Sports Research
Biotin
I have been taking biotin for years. While some pills can taste chalky or bitter, this brand is totally palatable.
Scentered
Sleep Well Aromatherapy Balm Stick
This sleep stick is the gift that keeps on giving! Well, I keep giving it to people, and then they give it to someone else, and so on…
Alaska Bear
Natural Silk Sleep mask
I live in a really bright, eastern-facing apartment and wear this sleep mask religiously. (I am not a morning person.) It is very soft and helps me relax.
Fit Simplify
Resistance Loop Exercise Bands
These resistance bands are easy to incorporate into any at-home workout.
Simple Modern
32 oz Summit Water Bottle
As I said, hydration is key, but single-use plastics are a definite don't. I like to keep this big water bottle at my side and refill it at least three times a day.
Drew Elovitz is originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, but has spent the last decade living and working in New York City. She earned a master's degree in media and popular culture from New York University, then began her career on the internet as the Twitter voice of Barbie. She worked previously at Who What Wear as the director of content strategy and also spent several years leading the social media teams at Teen Vogue and Entertainment Weekly. You'll find her byline on the site around topics such as celebrity fashion, must-have basics, beauty favorites (particularly nail polish), and wellness tips and tricks.