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60 Cool Things Under $20 That Are Perfect For Bougie But Cheap People Like Me

These cool editor-approved finds hit the sweet spot between bougie and cheap — and start at $4.

by Rebecca Martinson
We may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.

Bougie people like myself are always on the hunt for hidden finds that are affordable, cool, and bursting with luxury vibes. With that in mind, I asked commerce editors here at Bustle to share their favorite cool, bougie buys that are perfect for cheap people (join the club!). From artful and affordable home decor to blingy accessories, don’t be surprised if you add more than a few of these to your cart — I know I did.

1A Big, Beautiful Claw Clip Shaped Like An Elegant Butterfly

Add a touch of elegance to any updo by pulling your hair into this claw clip. It’s shaped like a large butterfly, with a gold-colored finish that pairs effortlessly with nearly any outfit — and the sturdy spring makes it suitable for thick heads of hair. “I'm obsessed with this hair claw,” says editor Lauren Beach. “So simple, so pretty.”

2The Bubble Ketter Keychain That Adds A Custom Touch

Personalize everything from your lanyard to your purse with one of these keychains. Not only do they come in every letter of the alphabet, but they’re also made from high-quality, highly polished metal that’s fade-resistant. “It is such a well made beautiful charm that could cost much more,” wrote one reviewer.

3A Luxe-Looking Petite Watch That Slips Into Your Bracelet Stack

With its sophisticated appearance and splashproof design, this petite watch is perfect for adding a touch of luxury to everyday wear and dressy occasions. It’s made from sleek stainless steel that’s built to last — and the shiny finish makes it look way more expensive than it is. “It's hard to believe this is under $20,” says commerce editor Mallory Moreno. “Such a chic addition to any bracelet stack.”

414-Karat Gold Illusion Earrings That Look Like 3 Piercings

Not only are these earrings plated with 14-karat gold, but they also wrap around your ear so it looks like you’re wearing three hoops — no piercings required. And unlike some earrings, these are made with hypoallergenic posts that are unlikely to irritate skin. “My second ear piercing is always closing up, so these are great,” says Bustle editor Amy Biggart. “They give the look of three earrings but you only need one piercing.”

5Smart LED Strip Lights That Change Color With Music

Behind televisions, along ceiling corners, behind your bed frame — this LED strip light is an easy way to add mood lighting to nearly any room in your home. The music sync mode allows it to change color along with whatever song is playing. Plus, the smartphone app makes it easy to adjust color, brightness, and more. Biggart tells Bustle, “I put this smart light strip on the back of my TV, and it really elevates my movie nights.”

6Cult-Fave Overnight Collagen Masks That Melt Into Skin

Put on one of these face masks before going to bed, and its blend of niacinamide and bio collagen can help smooth, rejuvenate, and minimize the appearance of pores overnight. It only takes about three hours to fully absorb — it turns transparent to let you know — and the gentle formula is designed to be suitable for sensitive skin.

7Cushy Pillow Slides That Feel Like You’re Wearing Clouds

Looking for comfy and stylish slippers to wear around your home? Search no further than these pillow slides. The soles are made from thick, cloudlike EVA foam that helps cushion your feet as you move, making them perfect for everyday wear. “My forever house shoe,” shares Bustle editor Kate Miller. “So comfy, so easy to slide on/off, and easy to keep clean.”

  • Available colors: 16
  • Available sizes: 4 — 16 Women / 3 — 14 Men

8Chic Press-On Nails That Can Help Save *So* Much Money

The cost of getting your nails done every two weeks quickly adds up. Instead, try out these press on nails. They look just like a fresh gel manicure, but only take about five minutes to apply using the included adhesive. Plus, each order comes with 16 different sizes to help you find the perfect fit for your fingers.

9Elegant Hair Ties With Blingy Golden Accents

From classic gold rings to seashells, these gold-accented hair ties come in so many styles you may have trouble narrowing down your pick to just one. The elastic is strong enough to hold up both thick or fine hair and promises not to damage. One reviewer wrote, “They hold my hair nice and tight, are so easy to use and they make me look put together.”

10Rosemary & Mint Scalp Oil That Helps Give Hair A Sleek Finish

Whether your strands are frizzy or your scalp is dry, this oil may be able to help. It’s made with a blend of more than 30 essential oils that penetrate deep into your scalp, helping increase circulation, combat dandruff, as well as smooth brittle strands. “I love this scalp oil,” affirms Biggart. “The smell is divine and it does such a good job on my dry scalp.”

11Stylish ‘90s-Flair Sunglasses That Won’t Break The Bank

You don’t have to spend an arm and a leg to own stylish sunglasses. Enter: this retro pair. They come in eight different color combinations to suit nearly any style, including gold frames with green lenses, rose frames with pink lenses, and more. “These sunglasses look so chic” says Biggart. “I can't believe they're this affordable. I always get compliments on them.”

12Nourishing Facial Cleansing Oil With A Luxurious Rose Scent

Cocoa butter and vitamin C are only some of the nourishing ingredients you’ll find in this cleansing facial oil. The noncomedogenic formula helps remove makeup, impurities, and more — all without leaving your skin feeling overly dry. Drucker also tells Bustle, “This rose-scented oil cleanser feels so hydrating and refreshing and doesn't leave behind a greasy finish.”

13A Faux Leather Tissue Cover That Surprisingly Elevates Decor

Sometimes the smallest upgrades make the biggest impact — like placing one of these covers overtop of your tissue boxes. It’s made from sleek faux leather, and comes in a variety of colors that range from trendy beige to light pastel lavender. “Tissue boxes can be such an eyesore, and these covers are so aesthetic!” says Moreno.

14Cool Vitamin C Capsule Cream That Can Help Brighten Skin

No skin-care routine is complete without these capsules. Simply rub them into your face after cleansing, and their blend of sea buckthorn extract, vitamin C, and niacinamide can help brighten your complexion as well as even out your skin tone. “These feel so luxurious,” says Moreno. “They just melt into the skin for a plump and glowing finish.”

15This Magnified Compact Mirror With A Chic, Leather-Look Case

Keep this compact mirror in your purse, and it’ll always be ready to go if you need to touch up your makeup on the go. It features two panels: one standard mirror, as well as one with three times magnification. “For quick touch-ups, this tiny mirror is so useful and chic,” explains Bustle associate editor Ali Drucker. “The faux leather casing looks like the real deal!”

16Trendy Cuff Earrings Lined With Sparkling Stones

Not only are these cuff earrings plated with 14-karat gold, but the cubic zirconia stones also sparkle like real diamonds — at a fraction of the cost. They come in three finishes: yellow gold, rose gold, or white gold. “I love these in my ear stack,” says Bustle editor Kate Miller. “They're low-profile enough to sleep in without a problem. Perfect for everyday wear.”

17A Unique Incense Burner That’s Gorgeous & Functional

Unlike some incense burners, this one holds the stick out into the center of a sleek glass tube that reaches all the way down to the wooden base — so there’s no need to worry about ash blowing around. It’s a functional and eye-catching piece of decor, and each order includes a set of incense sticks to get you started.

18Japanese-Inspired Decorative Tape That Elevates Notes & Cards

Whether you’re scrapbooking or looking for ways to liven up your daily notes or journal, these rolls of decorative tape are a fun pick. Each order includes 24 different patterns, including butterflies, checkerboards, flowers, and more. “The vintage patterns add a subtle aesthetic touch to my boutique packaging, while the adhesive performs reliably without being overly sticky,” wrote one reviewer.

19Caffeine & Retinol Under-Eye Balm With A Tiny Price Tag

Anyone with puffiness under their eyes can appreciate this budget-friendly balm. It’s made with a blend of smoothing retinol, brightening caffeine, and hydrating niacinamide, all of which work to help hydrate skin as well as brighten and refresh. “The skin under my eyes looks radiant, and it works perfectly both day and night,” gushed one reviewer.

20Hydrating Korean Lip Oil That Comes In 13 Subtle Tints

Give your lips a wash of shine and color with this hydrating lip oil. It comes in 13 subtle bougie tints, including apple, fig, black tea, and more. A touch of peony flower extract in the formula helps moisturize your lips so that they’re left looking smooth — and the small size makes it easy to carry in even the tiniest clutch.

21The Clever Pen That Helps You Erase Nail Polish Mistakes

Painting nails on your own can be difficult, making this low-key genius pen a smart buy. It erases polish smudges on cuticles and skin, helping you get a professional-looking manicure within the comfort of home. Each order also includes three felt applicator tip refills to get you started.

22The Exfoliating Body Bar That Helps Prep Skin For A Smooth Shave

Scrub yourself down with this body bar before shaving, and its blend of jojoba and castor oil beads help buff away bumps as well as rough skin, which can prevent ingrown hairs. A touch of shea butter works to help keep skin from drying out.

23Organic Lip Balms With Hydrating Coconut Oil & Yummy Flavors

Dry, chapped lips are no match for this six-pack of lip balms. Not only are they certified USDA organic, but they’re also made with a variety of hydrating ingredients, including coconut oil, beeswax, sunflower oil, and more. “I'm always struggling with dry lips and I've tried splurging on luxe, cult-favorite lip products,” explains Bustle editor Danielle Kraese. “I find these lip balms work just as well for me (for way less!)”

24French-Style Burning Papers That Make A Bougie Alternative To Incense

Smoke, pet odors, food — these French-inspired burning papers can be used to eliminate unwanted odors from any space. Simply fold them accordion-style, then light the corner on fire to have it start deodorizing the air as it burns. And if you’re worried about how effective they are, Bustle editor Jen Fiegel says, “These are such a delight in my clothing drawers and surprisingly powerful for the size.”

25Gorgeous Satin Pillowcases For An Absolute Steal

Want to give your bed a fast and easy upgrade? Try swapping out your pillowcases with these satin ones. Their ultra-smooth surface is thought to create less friction against hair and skin, helping you “wake up like this” in style. And with more than 15 patterns to choose from, you shouldn’t have any trouble finding one that suits your bedroom.

26Glimmering Lip Balm That Changes Color With Your Skin’s pH

Give your lips an instant touch of glam with this shimmering balm. It changes color according to your skin’s pH level, turning a shade that’s completely unique to you — and the formula is vegan as well as paraben-free. “It is subtle but just enough to bring some life to your lips without being too much,” wrote one reviewer.

27Concealer Polish With A Brightening Filter Effect On Nails

If you’d like to make your nails look brighter and more flawless, consider taking a look at this concealer polish. It’s formulated with vitamins A and E that can help give nails a vibrant-looking glow, while celery extract works to strengthen any brittle spots. Choose from three subtle colors: lilac, peach, or moonlight.

28Skinny Scrunchies Made Of Smooth & Gentle Mulberry Silk

Unlike some scrunchies, these ones are made of 100% pure mulberry silk that’s oh-so-smooth, allowing them to hold onto hair without damaging — and to glide so nicely whenever you take them out. Each order even includes a pouch to keep them together when in storage.

29This Bougie Bow Chain That Lets You Extend Your Purse Strap

Transform that standard shoulder bag into a crossbody with help from this extender chain. The adorable bow makes it a cute addition to any bag — and with 10 options to choose from, it should be easy to find one to match your bag, or OOTD. “They are adorable and add the perfect extra length!” raved one reviewer.

30A Little Kitty Keychain That’s Dainty & Adorable

You don’t even need to like cats in order to appreciate this darling keychain. It’s just as fuzzy as it is cute, with a heart-shaped clasp at the top that makes it easy to secure to your purse, backpack, or lanyard. Choose from five colors: white, black, brown, pink, or gray.

31This Sleek Stand That Holds Headbands In Style

Got a bunch of bougie headbands sitting out on your vanity? Consider getting organized by keeping them on this stand. Two tiers give you ample room for headbands both thick and thin, while the gold-colored finish makes it look more expensive than it is. Lauren Beach also says that using it is “so much chicer than a messy drawer full of hair accessories.”

32Crystal Suncatchers That Reflect Rainbow Colors In The Light

Whether you hang these suncatchers inside or outside is up to you — but either way, they’ll reflect gorgeous rainbow colors all around whenever they’re hit with light. “Great value for the money [...],” wrote one reviewer. “The light reflects and sparkles beautifully.” You also have the choice of two finishes: gold or silver.

33The Icy Wine Bottle Chiller That Doubles As An Aerator

You don’t have to wait around for that bottle of white wine to cool down in your fridge. Instead, use this chiller stick. Simply keep it in your freezer, then place it inside of any wine bottle that you’d like to cool — it should have your wine deliciously chilled within about 15 minutes. Plus, the pour spout also doubles as an aerator. “This has become my go-to house-warming gift for friends (along with a bottle of wine, of course!),” says Kraese.

34Affordable Bamboo Cutting Boards That Elevate Snack Time

Whereas some wood cutting boards can cost an arm and a leg, this trio of bamboo ones is available for a steal. A handle on each one makes them easy to hang up in storage — and since each order includes three sizes, you can easily use them for charcuterie, chopping meat, and everything in between. “I love that this bamboo set still looks attractive yet is way more affordable,” explains Kraese. “Plus, these boards have held up so well even after years of daily use and abuse!”

35This Retro-Look Flip Calendar That’s Infinitely Usable

Unlike the calendar that may be hanging on your wall, this one features 33 inner pages that can be flipped to the current date, making it infinitely usable. Plus, the retro design adds a touch of flair to your desk. “I have this desk calendar and it is the coolest,” affirms Biggart. “Everyone who sees it asks me about it.”

36A Lightweight Cheek & Lip Tint With Buildable Color

This tint stick is one of those rare makeup tools that everybody should probably have in their kit. It’s suitable for use on cheeks and lips, leaving you with a dewy, shimmering finish that’s perfect for everyday wear. The best part? It’s made with ginseng and aloe vera, both of which help hydrate skin.

37The Adorable Tissue Box Cover Shaped Like A Small House

Give that tacky cardboard tissue box a makeover by hiding it underneath this cover. It fits nearly any standard-sized, square tissue box — and the tissues dispense through the chimney for an added touch of fun. “Not only does this cloak whatever print your tissue box comes in, but it also looks like a tiny house,” explains Biggart. “I'm obsessed.”

38Lacy No-Show Socks That Won’t Slide Down Into Shoes

Made from soft, breathable material, these no-show socks feature a pretty built-in band at the top that makes it look like you’re wearing a stylish anklet. But, it cleverly works to help keep them from sliding down into your shoes as you walk around.

39A Smooth Racerback Bra That’s Comfy Enough To Sleep In

Made from a stretchy nylon-spandex blend, this racerback bra is one of those rare bras that’s so comfy you can even wear it to bed. The straps can be adjusted so that you have just as much lift as you like. And if you’re worried about it chafing against skin, Miller tells Bustle, “This racerback bra feels so buttery-soft, and it disappears under tanks. I want it in every color.”

40The Plant-Based Collagen Mask Formulated To Smooth Your Butt

Not only is this mask formulated to help plump up the skin on your behind, but you also only need to wear it for about 15 minutes for best results. Plus, the plant-based formula is vegan as well as free from parabens or sulfates. “My tooshie was firmer and softer after using these for 10 mins!” raved one reviewer. “Highly recommend to anyone who wants a juicy booty!”

41Blemish-Flattening Patches In Adorable Cat & Botanical Shapes

Few things ruin my morning like waking up with an unwanted zit — which is why I like to keep hydroclloid patches on hand. The dressing works to draw out impurities, helping flatten blemishes within a matter of hours. Each order also includes a variety of shapes, including daisies, cats, clovers, and more. According to Fiegel, they make pimples “an opportunity to accessorize with these adorable salicylic acid-infused patches.”

42Reusable Spray Bottles Made From Chic Glass

Consider these glass spray bottles a definite upgrade from the plastic bottles your products likely came in. The nozzles feature a twistable spray tip that can be adjusted from mist to stream. And if you aren’t convinced that they look better than plastic bottles, Drucker tells Bustle, “I fill these bottles up with cleaning products because they're so much nicer to look at than the original plastic packaging.”

43Easy & Elegant Yard Lights Powered By The Sun

Give your home’s curb appeal a little boost by installing these ground lights. Their waterproof design helps keep them in good working order come rain or shine, and each one is powered by a built-in solar panel — so there’s no need for any complicated hardwiring during installation. Simply press them down into the ground and they’re ready to go.

44Wall-Mounted Mug Holders That Streamline Your Countertop

There’s no drilling necessary when installing this mug holder. Each order includes double-sided adhesive that’s so strong it can easily support up to 22 pounds — so feel free to load the holder up with mugs both large and small. Plus, each holder has space to hold up to four mugs, freeing up valuable counter space.

45This Washable Area Rug That Seriously Levels Up A Room

Step off of those hardstyle floors and onto this plush area rug. It has a nonshedding, low pile that feels soft and luxurious underfoot, with a nonslip backing to help keep it from shifting around. You can also toss it in the wash for easy deep cleaning. Choose from 11 colors: light gray, blue, taupe, and more.

46This Clever Organizer That Tidies Up Your Plasticware Lids

Every kitchen has at least one cabinet that’s devolved into a mess of plasticware, so why not grab this organizer for the lids? The four dividers in the center can be adjusted to fit lids of nearly any thickness — and there’s enough space inside for up to 10 lids. “The storage capacity was exactly what we needed [...],” wrote one reviewer. “The design makes it visually and tactically easy to use.”

47A Compact Travel Jewelry Case In Dozens Of Cute Velvet Colors

Letting jewelry roam freely throughout your suitcase is an easy way for it to get tangled or lost. Instead, keep it in this case. Multiple compartments give you room to store earrings, necklaces, rings, and more, while the plush velvet exterior makes it look more expensive than it is. Choose from dozens of colors: red, black, orange, and more.

48Pretty Chain Hair Ties That Double As Bracelets

If you like the idea of upgrading from traditional black hair elastics, these stylish gold hair ties are worth a look. Each one features a metal chain that makes them look like a trendy bracelet, giving them an oh-so-fashionable look on wrists as well as in hair. Choose from two finishes: gold or black.

49This Pricey-Looking Makeup Bag That Opens Up Flat

Finding that one lipstick tube in a giant makeup bag can be a challenge. Luckily, this particular bag opens up flat, making it easy to see where everything is at a simple glance — and Moreno agrees that it makes things easier. She tells Bustle, “Its flat-lying design is perfect when you need to whip out your makeup on the go.” Plus, the waterproof exterior helps keep everything inside safe from moisture.

50The Flower Holder That Lets You Craft Gorgeous Bouquets With Stems

If you’d like to create a unique floral display, consider taking a look at this holder. The base is covered in small pins that grip onto your stems, holding them upright so that you can create a gorgeous bouquet — and the wide shape helps keep it from tipping over when loaded to the brim. Biggart tells Bustle that “it's made arranging flowers so fun.”

51Color-Changing Lip Balm With A Real Flower Inside

This balm has a sheer, shiny finish and changes color according to your skin’s pH level, turning a unique shade of pink that’s personalized. The formula is vegan as well as made without any phthalates or sulfates — and there’s even a real chrysanthemum flower embedded inside the stick.

52This Sturdy Paper Towel Holder With A Chic Marble Base

Ditch that flimsy paper towel holder in favor of this sturdy one. Nonslip pads help keep it from shifting around whenever you tear off sheets, while the marble base makes it look more expensive than it is. “This keeps paper towels always at the ready without being an eyesore,” explains Miller. “The marble base is substantial, too.”

53A Classic Shoulder Bag With Expensive-Looking Crocodile Embossing

With more than 20 colors to choose from, don’t be surprised if you’re tempted to grab this classic shoulder bag in more than one shade. It’s made from high-quality faux leather — and the crocodile embossment gives it an added touch of chic. “A great everyday purse,” says Moreno. “Its croc-emobossed design is subtle but stylish.”

54A Stylish Anti-Fatigue Mat That Helps Support Your Body

Standing at your kitchen counters for long periods of time can leave your legs feeling sore, so why not grab this mat? The cushioned surface helps keep your muscles from aching — and since it’s water-, stain-, as well as oil-resistant, wiping it clean when dirty is a total breeze. “Anti-fatigue mats are such game-changers, and I love how pretty this one is,” says Biggart.

55A Sleek Acrylic Organizer To Tidy Mail, Files, & More

Got a mess of papers on your desk? Consider using this organizer to tidy up. It features three compartments that are great for holding mail, tablets, folders, and more. The nonslip base also helps keep it from shifting around — and the acrylic body gives it an oh-so-sleek look.

56Scented Cleaning Spray With Sugary Citrus Notes

Not only is this cleaning spray vegan as well as cruelty-free, but it also has an uplifting scent that’s derived from grapefruit, tangerine, and sandalwood essential oils. “Do you need fancy scented cleaning spray?” asks Fiegel. “Absolutely not. But does it make cleaning feel like less of a chore and leave your rooms smelling citrusy and elegant? Yes, yes it does.”

57Cat Headband & Wristbands That Help Keep You Dry During Skin Care

If you’re not a fan of water splashing in your hair or trickling down your arms during your skin-care routine, this headband and wristband set is worth a look. Not only is it designed to make you look like an adorable cat, but all three pieces are made from absorbent fleece to help you stay dry. “Would recommend to anyone looking to add an adorable piece to their skincare routine,” wrote one reviewer.

58This Crochet Plant That Hangs From Your Rearview Mirror

Add a pop of low-maintenance green to your car by hanging this crochet plant from your rearview mirror. It’s made from high-quality cotton yarn, with a rope in the back that can be adjusted so that it hangs as high or low as you like. It comes in a variety of styles, including strawberries, sunflowers, pothos, and more.

59Edison Bulb Table Lamps With An Industrial Vibe

Don’t be surprised if friends ask where you found these table lamps. Their industrial vibe is sure to look good paired with just about any style — and their compact size makes them easy to use in small spaces. Though if you’re unsure of how nice they look in person, Biggart confirms that “the look of these industrial lamps is so chic [...].”

60The Gua Sha Massage Tool That Delivers A Deep Muscle Massage

With an extra-large design that makes it suitable for your back, legs, abdomen, and more, this Fiegel-approved massage tool lets you give yourself a full-body gua sha massage from head to toe. The built-in handle makes it easy to grip — and the resin body is designed to withstand heavy pressure. Choose from six colors: pink, blue, brown, and more.