These 45 Cheap Versions Of Expensive Products Are So Good You Might Not Spot The Difference
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Everyone’s going to think you got a major raise when they see you in these smocked barrel jeans and perfect nude lippie and think you have major Anthropologie and Clinique money.
Posted 2 hours ago
by Emma Lord BuzzFeed BuzzFeed Staff
As a Senior Shopping Writer at BuzzFeed, I specialize in a broad range of topics, including beauty, cleaning, fashion, personal care, home, fitness, and my beloved “TikTok made me buy it.” My work has been featured across lifestyle and writing publications during my ten years in the digital media space, including Bustle, HuffPost, HelloGiggles, and The Washington Post.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "So comfy and they look just like the photo! The quality is great, they aren't see-through, and I love the bright color! They fit true to size. They are definitely a great value for the money." —Hope
Get them from Amazon for$9.98+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and 20 styles).
www.instagram.com, Amazon
Promising review: "The texture is thick! But it’s a good thick. These feel so smooth on the lips and are very glossy. Currently my favorite E.l.f. lip product, over the Glow Reviver Oil. Smell is not overwhelming and neither is taste. I came back to order them all." —Khloe3
Get it from Amazon for $7.97.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I was very impressed with the skirt, especially for the price tag. The material is buttery soft, similar to a Lululemon Align skirt. It is not see-through. I ended up buying more colors." —H.E.R
Get it from Amazon for $13.99+ (available in women's sizes XS–XXL and nine colors).
www.amazon.com, Amazon
(It goes without saying that you don't need to lay your edges if you don't want to, but this is a handy option if you do.)
Promising review: "Love this. It doesn’t leave a white cast after it dries and keeps my flyaways tamed. I like the longer wand. No clumps when you take it out of the tube. Easy to apply to your hair. Good value, especially for the brand. I like the rounded slim tube instead of the hard plastic that I’ve gotten before. Functions as it should without the mess." —Myan Espino
Get it from Amazon for $9.59.
Lulu Candles is a US-based small business that specializes in scented candles and perfumes.
Check out a TikTok of the Lulu Candle in action.
Promising review: "This is such a great candle that fills the room quickly with a really nice, strong smell that is soothing and relaxing. I was looking for a less expensive Le Labo Santal 33 scent candle, and this one is very, very close! It's a bit stronger, but I love it! The shipment arrived fast, and I just love how fast it fills up the room without being lit for so long!" —Cristina Bertolotto
Get it from Amazon for $16.95+ (available in three sizes, in gift box options, in packs of two, and in a variety of scents).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
You can check outVaseline's radiant body oils and lotions for more options!
Promising review: "Omg! It’s better than I thought. I am a Black woman that suffers from dry skin in the winter season, but this oil is amazing, smooth, light, and smells good. This oil is great for helping skin glow with a light glimmer of glitter. I would say this is a must-buy for women of color. Yeah thank me later sis." —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $8.97.
Promising review: "This is the best knock-off Scrub Daddy/Mommy. It cleans just like the original, doesn't scratch your pans, and gets all the grease and baked-on dirt that’s left on your plates, pots, or pans. Works well and activates to soft when under hot water or hard when under cold water. Easy to use and doesn’t smell. Rinses the food or grease off with no problem. Hopefully, they do not go up in price. I received three cute smiley face sponges that have eyebrows, so they would definitely fit on your Scrub Daddy suction cup if you have one. This is now my go-to sponge for dishes, bathroom cleaning, and my baseboards." —Deeva
Get a set of three from Amazon for$8.99+ (available in eight styles).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Note that the AAD recommends using at least SPF 30 and reapplying as needed for skin protection. You can read about sunscreen myths and facts from dermatologists for more information!
Promising review: "Wish I would have found this sooner! Works great and so far the cheapest option I have found for powder sunscreen. Love that my face isn’t greasy anymore from normal sunscreen!" —Michelle
"I have fine hair so anytime I’m in the sun I get burnt on my scalp. Regular sunscreen make my hair super oily and gross and I cannot stand wearing hats. I'm so glad I found this. You do have to apply it more often, and also it doesn’t work if it gets wet. Love this stuff, it's such a lifesaver." —james
Get it from Amazon for$14.19.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
The color-adaptive formula is designed so one of four shades will work on any skin tone.
Promising review: "Took years off my eyes! This product is so reasonably priced. I came across a TikTok promoting this and decided to take a chance since the price was super reasonable. My eyes looked brighter in a good way, and the concealer worked so well that I felt I looked younger. I got compliments from friends asking what I did differently with my makeup. I recommend it." —Monica T.
Get it from Amazon for $6 (available in four shades).
Amazon, Emma Lord/BuzzFeed
Check out a TikTok of the Slipsticks in action.
I *jumped* on this because I'm a huge fan ofClinique's Black Honey line — I'm wearing theMauve Mentality shadethat's meant to be an alternative to the $25 Nude Honey above! I love the consistency of this and the lightweight, buildable color. It's the perfect "keep this by the door/in a purse" lip tint that goes well with pretty much any outfit, since it's in that genre of "no makeup makeup." My only complaint is that you have to be careful not to twist it too high up, since the formula is kind of melty and makes it hard to twist back down. But otherwise this is an EXCELLENT everyday lippie to have in your arsenal!!
Promising review: "Love these. Sheer, pigmented, but buildable, and don't feel heavy or thick or sticky like Wet 'N Wild lip oils do. I love that it's available in a stick option." —catina m. claytor
Get it from Amazon for $9.12 (available in 11 shades).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Popilush is a small business that specializes in activewear and shapewear.
Promising review: "This bathing suit made me feel so good and secure! It has great support and flexibility to style it to fit your body. I'm a size 12 and ordered an extra large, which I think was a perfect fit, especially if you have a larger chest." —Emily Kightlinger
Get it from Amazon for $35.99 (available in women's sizes XS–3X and seven colors).
www.amazon.com, Amazon
If the name rings a bell, it's likely because you've used or heard of this brand's beloved under-eye masks!! You can check out Grace & Stella's Amazon page to find those and more high-quality, affordable versions of beauty products.
Promising review: "This is a must! Feels like a cloud and way better than a hand towel to dry your face, the perfect self-care product." —Jennifer
Get a pack of 60 from Amazon for $9.95.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Pro-tip: like a ZILLION postpartum humans said this was ultra-soft on their bellies, especially after C-sections!
Check out aTikTok of the ButterLuxe biker shorts in action.
Promising review: "MY FAVE. I have four colors of these shorts now! They’re so soft. Squat proof. The perfect length. Great quality material. I wear all of them every week, and they’re still in perfect condition." —Steiner Mom
Get it from Amazon for $24(available in women's sizes XXS–XL and 23 colors).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "These are the kind of flip-flops you reach for every day. They’re lightweight, super cushioned, and comfortable enough to wear for hours without my feet feeling tired. I bought them for quick errands and pool days, but ended up wearing them far more than I expected. The neutral color goes with just about everything, and they still look cute while being practical. If comfort is your priority, these are worth it." —Victoria C.
Get it from Amazon for $24.90 (available in women's sizes 5.5–11 and 32 styles).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "These are AWESOME sandals! Good arch support and comfy all day long. Easy to dress up and dress down, AND since they’re plastic, they can go in water and easily clean up. Perfect summer shoe. My more expensive sandals are spending a lot more time in the closet as these have become my go-to summer shoe.” —Shevaun Malone
Get it from Amazon for $18.04 (available in women's sizes 6–11 and seven colors).
Emma Lord/BuzzFeed
Check out a TikTok of the E.l.f. tubing mascara in action.
I am not a new human to the tubing mascara game, and in fact readily spent $26 on the famous OG blend from Blinc every time it needed replacing. I didn't even love it for the length half as much as the fact that tubing mascara like this genuinely never smudges, but can I just say — regardless of price, the E.l.f. tubing mascara formula blows all the others I've tried out of the water. It gives me way more length and volume than other brands, slides on so much more easily, stays put ALL day, and never, ever smudges. My favorite part, though, is how gently and easily it comes off with soap and water. In the past, other mascara removals have felt rough on my lashes, but this comes off so fast that I'm like ??? was I even wearing mascara a minute ago?? Anyway, I hesitate even writing this review because I want to gatekeep the hell out of this before it sells out, but the world needed to know. I'm a big fan of the brown shade (which is what I'm wearing above!), but it also comes in black and soft black.
Get it from Amazon for $7 (available in three shades).
Amazon, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Great hair dryer. I have wavy fine low porosity hair that has been colored and Graves disease, which causes issues with hair. This dryer is fast, has great cooling air, and helps with frizz." —reader985
Get it from Amazon for $74.99(available in three colors).
Emma Lord/BuzzFeed, www.amazon.com
iJoy is a small business that specializes in headphones and tech accessories.
I own a pair of these, and because I'm vain as heck and need to own all things pink, but I was decently surprised by how well they muffle noise! I feel like these are ideal for people who still want to hear some of the world around them (read: parents, people working in open offices), but still want to listen to their tunes comfortably. The charge on these goes for at least four hours (I haven't tried it beyond that yet), and the Bluetooth connects to my devices super easily. Excellent pair of headphones for the price point.
Promising review: "These headphones surprised me. I thought they were not going to be as great because of how cheap they are, but the bass is amazing! The noise cancellation is so good that I can’t hear anything. The volume is loud and sound quality is a win, and just how I like it. Very snug and comfy, recommend! Thanks TikTok, lol :)." —Chevelle Revero
Get it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in five colors).
Amazon, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "My favorite blanket purchase ever! You know when you purchase a blanket that is so soft and thick like fur. It keeps you very warm, and then you get something on it and have to wash and dry it for the first time. This is the true test, will it come out the same? I am very happy to share it did!! It looks and feels exactly the same. Great purchase!" —Linz
Get it from Amazon for $37.99+ (available in 11 colors and three sizes).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I’ve been buying these for years. They replaced my Ray-Bans that look identical! Fit great and with the price point, I don’t have to worry too much with my kids and being on the go!" —Jessica M
Get a pack of three from Amazon for $16.99+ (clip the coupon on the product page for this price; available in 29 sets, as well as two-packs and individual pairs).
Amazon, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I have a real diamond tennis bracelet that I don’t always like to travel with or wear in the water. This is the perfect swap! The quality for the price is amazing, and it shines like it’s real. I’ve worn it all summer in the pool, and it hasn’t tarnished at all." —Sarah Reeves
For what it's worth, Pavoi — the company behind this piece — has gone TikTok viral time and time again for its classic, modern, and expensive-looking pieces. I personally own almost all my "daily wear" jewelry from Pavoi and swear by it (particularly thisgold-plated ring and these chunky gold-plated earrings!). Everything is so easy to accessorize and makes my outfits look and feel so much more put together, and the pieces are so durable that they're easily worth twice what I paid. Check out the rest of Pavoi's line of jewelryfor more options, including earrings, bracelets, and anklets!
Get it from Amazon for $19.95+ (available in three colors, two styles, and three sizes).
Amazon
Promising review: "I bought this before I was gifted the Dorsey necklace and they are almost identical. If you don’t want to spend $$$ on the Dorsey necklace, this is a great option." —Bianca
Get it from Amazon for $14.95+ (available in yellow gold, rose gold, white gold, and three other styles).
Promising review: "This product actually works! Very affordable, too. There are a lot of expensive teeth whitening products out there, but why spend extra money when you don't have to? Definitely worth trying!" —Mona L Cureton
Get a two-pack from Amazon for $9.95.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I have not tried the name-brand brush, but grabbed this one to see if the design worked for my hair. Holy defined curls, Batman! I styled pretty much as usual, but used the brush to distribute the product (I useInnersense gel), lifting at the roots and letting the curls bounce after I released. This photo is after breaking the cast with some hair oil. My curls are never this defined and healthy-looking. Don’t think twice about it: your curls need this brush." —Natalie Gonzalez
Get it from Amazon for $8.49 (available in three colors).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "They work great, look cute, and make me feel pretty. I’ve been buying these for over a year now, and I’m always happy to recommend the brand whenever people ask about the little stars on my face. I like the different colors. I get to match them to my outfits. Other brands usually charge an absurd amount for a few puny stickers that barely do anything, but these patches actually pull gunk out and leave the blemish looking much better afterward. It’s kinda gross, but super satisfying. Totally worth the money, and it’s more than earned my praise." —Fredric M.
Get a pack of 240 from Amazon for $8.99 (available in 11 styles).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "It’s much more spacious than it looks. It’s very sleek and stylish. I use it as my work bag and find that it looks professional and has enough space for all of my stuff. I carry a laptop, a pencil case, two books, a makeup bag, a water bottle, a wallet, lotion, a phone, and laptop charger, and other small miscellaneous objects. Still plenty of space. And when you carry it, it doesn’t feel bulky or cumbersome." —Su
Get it from Amazon for $32.99 (available in nine styles).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "These shorts absolutely exceeded my expectations. They are incredibly comfortable and, honestly, have become one of my favorite athletic shorts. The high-waisted fit is supportive without feeling restrictive, and they stay in place beautifully whether working out, walking, traveling, or just running errands. The material is lightweight, breathable, and soft while still feeling high-quality and durable. I love that they provide great coverage without looking bulky, and the fit is sporty while still being really cute. They’re also surprisingly versatile — perfect for gym workouts, pickleball, beach walks, hikes, lounging, or pairing with an oversize sweatshirt for an effortless athleisure look. I’ve already found myself reaching for them constantly and will definitely be ordering more colors." —Dr. Manetta
Get it from Amazon for $19.99(available in women's sizes XS–3XL and dozens of colors).
Joy Jolt is a small business that specializes in modern and pop culture-themed drinkware and kitchen accessories.
Promising review: "Crate & Barrel look for less. These look and feel very high end — almost like a thin crystal." —Lauren
Get a set of two from Amazon for $13.95+ (available in three styles).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Tired of traditional 'cool' pillows that feel like a brick? Tired of soft pillows that wake you up in sweat? Look no more! I am a very hot-natured, hot-sleeping person. I can not sleep without a fan on high blowing on me. This pillow is legitimately cool and comfortable. Somehow soft but still supportive. Very, very happy with my purchase and the price!" —Robert
Get it from Amazon for $31.34+ (available in two styles and Standard, Queen, and King sizes).
Amazon
Here's what BuzzFeederElizabeth Lilly has to say about them: "I own several sets of these and even pack them when I travel because I never want to sleep on a cotton pillowcase again after getting used to these beauts."
Promising review: "My hair has never been better! I got this because of TikTok and it has done wonders for my hair. My hair isn’t frizzy or dull-looking when I get up in the morning." —Aaron Key
"These are really nice — perfect price point too. There's no difference between these and the same pillowcases from Kitsch at three times the price." —Keri
Get a set of two from Amazon for $8.99 (available in 22 colors and four sizes).
Amazon
Check out a TikTok of the Aussie multi-use spray in action.
Promising review: "This is an amazing product! It’s like that other '10' product, but MUCH more affordable! You only need to spritz some on your hand, rub palms together, and then apply. I have yet to try it on dry hair, but as a leave-in applied on wet hair, it is amazing! My hair is dry, medium to thick, and its texture changes due to hormonal fluctuations and certain medications. My hair feels wonderful with this (and it smells great, not overpowering at all). Best leave-in I’ve used in quite a long time that doesn’t leave my hair feeling weighed down or dirty. Highly recommend if you like “10” products. Can’t go wrong with this stuff!" —Shayne
Get it from Amazon for$9.97.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "This is a quality product in my opinion. Equal to Moleskine sketchbooks at half the price. I don't often write reviews, but I have purchased and used a few of these, filled them up, carried them about, and found them quite durable." —E. D. Scoville
Get it from Amazon for$11.99+ (available in 26 colors with blank, lined, dotted, or grid pages).
Amazon
I bought these on Prime Day, which is the only day I will buy leggings because I hate wearing leggings with a burning passion. My "I'm not like other girls" bit is that, for some reason, I am always more comfortable in jeans than leggings. BUT NOT THESE!!! They slide on. The fabric is so lightweight and breathable that it feels like a whisper. The band is so deceptively comfortable that sometimes I'm like, "Am I still wearing them??" I use them to run outdoors because that is the only circumstance I'll wear leggings, and I'm happy to report that after several washes, they are durable and compressive enough to withstand workouts. They would be excellent for lounging if I weren't wired in this odd anti-legging way. I have already bought two more pairs and made my friends buy them, too.
Promising review: "Super comfy. I usually don’t write reviews, but I tried these first before buying Lulu, and these are the most comfortable leggings for everyday and even for workouts. Highly recommended!" —Criselle Johnson
Get them from Amazon for $32 (available in women's sizes XXS–XXL, two inseams, and 21 styles).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I get so many compliments! It's so comfy! Perfect for walking and hiking or even running errands! I want to buy it in every color!!!" —Addison Dalton
Get it from Amazon for $26.31 (available in sizes S–XL and ten colors).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I’ve used this setting spray a few times now and I absolutely love it. It really helps my makeup stay in place all day without needing touch-ups, even in heat or humidity. The mist is super fine and dries quickly without feeling sticky or heavy on the skin. It sets everything beautifully without ruining your makeup or leaving any residue. I also love that it doesn’t have a strong scent. If you want your makeup to last and still feel comfortable, this is a great choice. Definitely a new favorite in my routine!" —YSantiago
Get it from Amazon for $10.98.
www.amazon.com, Amazon
Promising review: "Lovely top, the stretch is just right and not super duper spandex like some stretchy things. Getting it on and off was a cinch. The fabric is a nice weight, somewhere between heavy and lightweight. I liked that my bra was hidden by the straps and didn't stick out anywhere, and, it isn't too short — it doesn't show belly. It will be a sweet addition to my summer wardrobe! Highly recommend." —merkie moo
Get it from Amazon for $16.99 (available in women's sizes XS–XL and 19 styles).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: “If you use St. Tropez tan products or any fake tanner, do yourself a favor and try this. This stuff is AWESOME. Dries quickly, lasts longer, does NOT make your skin stinky, applies evenly, and you get a fair amount of product!! Other tanners I’ve used become VERY noticeable when they start fading. Gross hand lines, patchy white spots, etc., but not this stuff. The best one-hour tan I have ever used!” —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $11.89 (available in 16 styles).
Amazon, www.amazon.com
I own both versions of these pants — the $118 Anthro ones and the Amazon ones — in different colors. I really only got the Amazon ones because the color I want from Anthro is backordered into oblivion, and I could not wait any longer, but I'm so glad I did! These may not have the lightweight feel of the Anthro ones, but I think the more structured denim will be warmer for fall. More importantly, they are still ridiculously comfortable, and the barrel cut is SO adorable and fun to pair with shirts and sweaters. I found these to be true to size. I highly recommend these to anyone who wants a comfortable, cute, affordable pair of jeans for fall!
Get it from Amazon for$49.99+ (available in sizes 2–16 and in three washes).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Popilush is a small business that specializes in activewear and shapewear.
Promising review: "Run to get this! PURCHASE!! I ordered a large — I’m usually wearing an XL, however, it fit perfectly. It does not cut off my thighs, so so comfy! No bra needed, will be a staple this summer. It’s not overly thick, but it’s not cheap material. I’m obsessed!" —Andrea
Get it from Amazon for $29.99 (available in women's sizes S–XXL and eight colors).
Emma Lord/BuzzFeed
I own this in so many colors, it's truly lawless. I'm a long-distance runner, and these are my holy grail — supportive without being constrictive, lightweight enough to withstand sweat, and miraculously, I don't chafe as I do with other sports bras. I am a huge fan of the Lululemon Align and will continue to swear by them until I die, but can only justify buying one of those a year — at this price point, I was able to buy enough of these that I wear them errand running and with cute high-waisted jeans without worrying about losing them to the laundry. These also wash up beautifully and stand the test of time!
Promising review: "I saw these tanks all over TikTok. I decided to purchase one and absolutely love it. The fit and style are exactly the same. I will say the material is not as soft and is more like a bathing suit material, but overall it’s a great purchase!" —M
Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (available in women's sizes XS–XL and 21 colors).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I’d yet to find anything (even foundation) that could cover up my red areas. Cheeks, chin, nose, and forehead. It comes out green, but has a gorgeous lightweight finish of a tint that indeed covers my redness beautifully. There’s no greasiness to it at all. It dries down to a beautiful matte finish. It’s super easy to use. I use my fingers. The texture is like silk. It leaves my face baby-soft, not sticky at all. It doesn’t settle into my fine lines or wrinkles, and I don’t need powder to 'bake' it under my eyes. It also covers the black circles under my eyes." —Julie F.
Get it from Amazon for $10.97 (available in six styles).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Perfect size purse for glasses case, small umbrella, passport. Plenty of card slots. Inside zipper pocket for cash and change. The shoulder strap is the perfect length; the chain is great for crossbody. Clips and rings are metal; hopefully durable over time. Can definitely dress up or casual. Like it so much. I just ordered one in another color!" —BA
Get it from Amazon for $23.99 (available in dozens of styles).
Amazon, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Had these for quite some time before tearing off the tags to wear them, and had so many compliments on them! I love them! Super comfy and fun." —Shannon Taylor
Get it from Amazon for $35.99+ (available in women's sizes XS–XXL and 13 styles).
www.amazon.com, Amazon
Promising review: "I got these for my girls for Christmas. They are very good quality and comparable to Lululemon. My girls love these and are now asking for them in all of the colors." —Placeholder
"Really cute! Love how easy it is to take cards/cash out of the pouch! Also love how many things you can fit in the bigger bag!!" —Abri M
Get it from Amazon for$8.98 (available in eight styles).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Modern long-sleeve tee. It could also act like a thin sweatshirt, too! Fit just like expected. So comfortable and soft. Not too baggy, just right. True to size. Looks nice on. Great with jeans or leggings. Highly recommend." —Laurel824
Get it from Amazon for $12.99+ (available in women's sizes 3XS–4XL and 35 styles)
BuzzFeed Shopping is service journalism first: our writers and editors spend all day shopping so you don’t have to, vetting products, fact-checking brand claims, and surfacing what actually helps in real life. We center readers over revenue, recommend products with authenticity (using real experiences, not ad-speak), and reflect our diverse audience, inclusive of a variety of price points, people, and needs. We cut through fake deals, favor useful info over glossy fluff, and recommend both budget and splurge options with context so you can decide what’s right for you — and still have a little fun along the way.
Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.
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Userlq87 10/08/2026
know 🎶 is a good idea for me and I have a new one for the rest of the year and it was a long day for the rest of the week after the week after that I think I can get the heating on for a bit of a while but it was a long time ago
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