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I'm A Fashion Editor & I Get Tons Of Compliments On These Cheap Things From Amazon

Get ready to shock everyone when you tell them, “Thanks! I found it on Amazon.”

by Scarlett James and Nicole Zane
Updated: 
Originally Published: 
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Well before I became a fashion editor, I was obsessed with looking as chic as possible for as little money as possible. Today, it’s still true — despite daily PR pitches from some of the hottest brands, the things that get me the most compliments are often cheap stuff I’ve found on Amazon, of all places. After years in the industry, I’m an expert at picking up affordable fashion that looks expensive — and today, I’m giving you a behind-the-scenes peek into my most-worn Amazon purchases.

To that end, I’ve enlisted a former stylist to comb through my shopping history and consider the reviews before backing up my recommendations. From the luxe vegan handbag in faux ostrich that my dentist refused to let me place on the ground to a pair of oversized sunglasses that got me stopped multiple times in London, these are some of my most-beloved finds. Get ready to shock everyone when you tell them, “Thanks! I found it on Amazon.”

1

Some Luxe Gold Chains That Channel Tiffany & Company

Love Tiffany & Co. jewelry but always get extreme sticker shock? Samesies. That’s why Benevolence LA’s gold chain necklace and bracelet set is an absolute steal considering how it looks so similar to the original design. The set comes with a 14-inch paperclip chain necklace and 7-inch bracelet in a glistening 14-karat gold plate, meaning it won’t turn your skin green or trigger allergies. “I got compliment from a jeweler, he asked me where I got it from and couldn't believe it when I said amazon,” a shopper bragged.

2

This Chunky Turtleneck In A Designer-Approved Style

This ZESICA turtleneck looks like it’s fresh off the ritzy racks of The Row — except it’s only $40. Even better? It looks plushly oversized, but don’t worry: the acrylic fabrication is not suffocating and is shockingly lightweight compared to high-priced wool versions. “I really wanted an oversized fit but not so big it was sloppy... this is perfect,” one shopper raved in the reviews. Another confirmed it was a “high quality sweater.” Choose between neutrals, pastels, brights, and even color-block renditions.

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 28

3

This Sophisticated Romper With A Relaxed Fit

For easy-breezy warm weather days, this romper is the epitome of casual-chic. With a drop crotch and overall roomy fit, it also has pockets for added convenience. The straps are adjustable to make sure the romper fits just right, while a poly-cotton blend means that it’ll be airy to wear. “This is a great piece to my wardrobe, it can be casual with a t-shirt underneath or over a bathing suit or I can dress it up with a nice jacket/scarf and some heels,” one reviewer shared.

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 23

4

An Effortless Body-Con Dress That Hugs Every Curve

One tidbit of fashion advice? Get yourself a bodycon that can be worn to the club with heels or to the coffee shop with sneaks. My fave? Wenrine’s crewneck sleeveless number checks so many boxes and fits like a glove. You can wear a bra without your straps hanging out and there’s ruching along the midsection and sides, so you don’t really need to add shapewear as the dress is intentionally textured. “Exceeded expectations!!! Fits amazing and helps smooth everything out!” one customer affirmed.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 30

5

A Wool-Blend Newsboy Cap That Instantly Elevates Any Ensemble

Suitable for fall, winter and spring, this Comhats newsboy cap is a winner for your wardrobe — and a life-saver if you skipped a shampoo or two. It will definitely add sophistication to a simple outfit without even trying, but feels soft and comfortable like a beanie. Constructed from a cozy wool blend on the exterior, there’s a breathable 100% cotton lining and moisture-wicking sweatband for slightly warmer days. “This hat is one of my favorites,” one customer commented. “It looks a like it cost a lot more money and it makes my expensive ones look cheap.”

  • Available sizes: One size
  • Available colors: 36

6

This Fierce-AF Shirt In Abstract Animal Prints

A printed button-down shirt will make any outfit pop, but sizing them can be notoriously tricky. This ECOWISH top is not restrictive in the chest area (hooray!) and has a flowy silhouette that’s comfy throughout. “The fabric is soft and the pattern print is perfect for my style. It’s not over dressy but stylish enough to take it to work. I got a lot of compliments when I wore it and my friends asked me where I got it from,” one shopper affirmed. Click through all the animal prints available before checking out, because some options are bold while others skew more subtle.

  • Available sizes: Small — 3X
  • Available colors: 39

7

These Delicate Twilly Scarves You Can Wear So Many Ways

No matter whether you slip these MosBug scarves onto your handbag, into your ponytail, or around your neck, they’ll surely make a statement thanks to their high-end patterns. Plus, you get a pack of 10 and they look just a luxe as designer versions. For less than $2 per scarf, can you name a better deal? One customer weighed in: “Very good quality! I could not justify spending 200-400 on a name brand one when I can have so many of these,” a shopper pointed out. “Very nice packaging, came with a little note card with a charm on it, and they are individually wrapped.”

  • Available sizes: One size
  • Available colors: 2

8

A Set Of ‘90s-Inspired Claw Clips

Channel a ‘90s/Y2K vibe with these claw clips. They’re pretty much everything you could want from a hair clip: strong, keeps your hair in place, and colorful. A high 4.7-star rating and over 25,000 five-star ratings show how pleased reviewers are with this four-pack of clips. “I was skeptical when I saw these touted on social media, but they are the BEST LARGE CLAW CLIPS I'VE EVER OWNED!” one pleased shopper shared.

  • Available colors: 11

9

An Expensive-Looking Bag That Can Carry The Kitchen Sink

Made from a sturdy vegan leather in faux exotic textures, Dasein’s satchel handbag is an everyday purse that won’t let you down. Complete with gold hardware and pockets galore, you can store all your belongings and then some for a whole day out. The best part? It comes with a sleek matching wristlet — all for just $52. “The surprise for me was how I ended up using that little wristlet,” one reviewer confessed. “It's just as cute as the big bag, but allows me to leave the bigger one in my vehicle...while I can carry the wristlet without any extra effort on a quick trip into the store.”

  • Available sizes: One size
  • Available colors: 20

10

A Laidback Tank In Plush Ribbed Knit

The Drop’s textured rib-knit tank is one haute way to look casually cute on the go. Made from an airy blend of cotton and viscose, this summer sweater has a plunging V-neck that's balanced by a relaxed tunic silhouette — on second thought, this is really a seasonless staple that’ll fit in seamlessly with your current faves: Imagine it with jeans, slacks, shorts, or even tucked into skirts. You can even wear a fitted long-sleeved tee underneath in the winter for a 90s moment. “Great transition piece from hot to cold but really could be worn all year round,” one shopper agreed.

  • Available sizes: XX-Small — 5X
  • Available colors: 5

11

These Massive Oversized Sunnies For Instant Glamour

The Y2K oversized sunglasses trend is back — and it’s better than ever. These JuicyOrange shades prove it to be true and, yes, they’re truly large and in charge. “I have a big head so finding oversized sunglasses that are actually oversized on me is hard. These are huge IN A GOOD WAY!” one customer confirmed. Here are more deets: They’re not polarized, which plays well with tech screens, and have UV 400 protection to shield your eyes from all the harmful rays while at the beach or driving. Choose between five chic lens and frame color combination.

  • Available sizes: 55.5 mm
  • Available colors: 5

12

This Set Of Trendy Gold Hoops

Gold hoops make any outfit look that much cooler, and with this six-pack of 14-karat gold hoops, you’ll be set. With six pairs of chunky, textured earrings in a variety of sizes, you can match the right pair to your outfit of the day. They’re also lightweight and hypoallergenic, making them easy to wear. “I have SUPER sensitive ears,” one reviewer shared. “I can normally only wear sterling silver or real gold. I can wear these all day with no issues!!!! They are amazing!!!”

  • Available colors: 2

13

These Delicate Gold Rings To Stack In Endless Ways

Getting the stacked ring look that influencers wear can be pricey as hell — but not with IF YOU’s 30-piece ring set. Each set packs a bunch of delicate designs with on-trend motifs that look vintage yet modern at the same time. Not to mention, they come in multiple sizes to fit all of your fingers. Click through and check out the four other sets with additional gold options as well as silver styles and an edgy black metal set.

  • Available sizes: Multi (shown)
  • Available colors: 7

14

An Oversized Sweater That Feels Hella Luxurious

Whether you wear this baby with leggings, work trousers, or baggy mom jeans, you'll look très chic and cozy. The chunky sweater is woven from a viscose, nylon, and polyester blend that's not overbearing on the body despite having a thick turtleneck. Notice how it’s loose — not tight — on the model and has a split high-low hemline. Peek through the reviews and you’ll see that this “looks like the Free People Tunic that goes for $150” and “best sweater ever.” For $41? Run, don’t walk.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 18

15

These Charming Wedge Espadrilles With A Walkable Platform

Move over, Castañer. Not only will your feet love these U-Lite cap toe espadrilles — but so will all your warm-weather dresses. (Insert heart eyes emoji here.) Another plus? You’ll channel French girls like Jane Birkin and Jeanne Damas without even trying. The shoes have a breathable linen upper, cotton lining, and the classic jute wedge that’s timeless yet wearable on balmy days. The rubber sole and platform heel makes these walkable on pavement or cobblestone streets — plus, the wraparound strap secures your foot in place. “It’s lightweight, comfortable and so easy to wear. Perfect for my minimalist wardrobe,” one shopper confirmed.

  • Available sizes: 5.5 — 10
  • Available colors: 23

16

This Best-Selling Straw Hat You Can Pack In A Suitcase

Fact: Everybody needs a good sun hat for the warmer months. (I don’t make the rules.) Here’s a fantastic style by Lanzom that does the job that I can entirely vouch for. Available in punchy brights — including yellow, sky blue, and rose — as well as versatile neutrals like this khaki hue, this straw and polyester topper doesn’t bend or snap. (And offers UPF 50+ sun protection, no less.) Get ready to pack it in your suitcase on all your upcoming trips for years to come. “Loved this hat for traveling because it folds up and pops out to the perfect size! Not too big — like floppy hat big — but wide enough to protect your face from the sun on a hot day of exploring,” one shopper explained.

  • Available sizes: One
  • Available colors: 19

17

These Joggers That Work For Most Any Activity

These lightweight joggers are the ideal utility pant — they have zippered pockets, and they’re made from a quick-dry fabric that also offers UPF 50+ sun protection. An elastic waistband and cuffs helps ensure easy movement for hiking, exercising, or just running errands. “I ordered these for work in a very hot greenhouse,” a reviewer shared. “They are very light, stretchy, and breathable.”

  • Available sizes: X-Small — 3X-Large
  • Available colors: 15

18

This Casual Top With Playful Puffy Sleeves

This puff sleeve top will be a stylish, comfortable addition to your wardrobe, elevating any casual outfit. The V-neckline and puffy sleeves give this top structure and sophistication, while a lightweight fabric blend makes it soft and easy to wear. This top seems destined to become a favorite for wearing with dressier work pants or cutoffs and sandals.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — 3X-Large
  • Available colors: 43

19

The Purse Organizer That’s An Absolute Game-Changer

Are you the type to hastily throw all your belongings into your bag — and leave them like that? You’re certainly not alone! Or maybe you’re just a Type A person who needs organization 24/7, like me. Either way, that’s why this ZTUJO purse organizer exists — and I am truly thankful. It’s made from sturdy felt, with pockets galore! Think: three exterior sleeves, ten interior pockets, and a detachable zippered compartment in the middle for valuables. Love it. “If I could give it more stars I would! I have a speedy 35 and the large fits it PERFECTLY,” one shopper noted.

  • Available sizes: One size
  • Available colors: 12

20

This Waffle-Knit Top With An Unexpected Tie Knot

This top is unexpected in the best of ways — with a waffle-knit weave, it has a long, flowy tunic-length hem that also knots to change up the style. Wear it loose for that hippie-chic vibe, or tie it up if you want to emphasize your waist. Bat-wing sleeves add to this tunic’s unconventional vibe.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 22

21

A Lightweight Button-Up That Looks Beachy Chic

What’s chic and light and beachy all over? This breezy button-down shirt. The fabric has a linen-esque look, it has a relaxed fit, and the sleeves can be rolled up. Even better? It’s a top that can be worn over a tank or by itself for a polished look. “Honestly one of the most comfortable shirts I've ever worn,” one reviewer wrote. Choose from a ton of colors and patterns, and next thing you know, you’ll look like you should be in the beach house of a Nancy Meyers movie.

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 42

22

These Demifine Gold Huggies That Look Like The Real Deal

Available in yellow gold, rose gold, and white gold, these cubic zirconia huggies are precious — and paycheck-friendly. If you’re familiar with PAVOI, you’re probably already well aware of their reputation for high quality and jewelry that will never turn your ears green. (Which is shocking to me, considering they only cost $13.) “I have sensitive ears that get infected easy, but not with these! I’ve been wearing these earrings for 3 months straight including sleeping and showering. They’ve held up well. They don’t cause my skin to green,” one fan affirmed.

  • Available sizes: One (shown)
  • Available colors: 4

23

A Sleek Everyday Bag That Can Be Worn On The Shoulder — Or Crossbody

This crossbody bag looks like it’s fresh off the shelves of a designer store, channeling high-end labels like Coach with its simple, practical luxury. Assembled from substantial faux leather that looks as sumptuous as the real thing, this practical purse can be lengthened from a shoulder strap into a crossbody bag, depending on your preference. The two gold-zippered pockets add visual interest — and practicality — to the exterior while the inside has two compartments and a pocket for organization. “It's good quality and I love how stiff it is and stands on its own,” one customer explained. Already have a black bag in your arsenal? Go bold with the fuschia, orange, or teal options.

  • Available colors: 25

24

Squat-Proof Leggings With More Than 20,000 Five-Star Ratings

One pet peeve of mine? How annoying it is when you’re working out but your leggings don’t have pockets for your phone between sets. That’s why these Dragon Fit leggings are incredible, because they have two! Made from a four-way stretch performance blend of polyester and spandex, these leggings have got you covered for exercising, yoga, errands, or just lounging around. One shopper confirmed “they are squat proof and sweat proof,” while another was impressed to note that they “feel like VS knockout leggings.” This marble print is so fun, but be sure to check out all the offerings — including capri-length and fleece-lined versions.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — 3X
  • Available colors: 35

25

Platform Oxfords Both Sophisticated & Stylish

Stella McCartney who? These Ying Lan lace-up shoes are an homage to the British designer’s standout shoe. It has a classic Oxford upper with a 2-inch striped platform that gives you a much-needed lift — but not too much to be walkable. Plus, the chic brogues have an anti-skid outsole made of rubber, so you can galavant around in these without slipping and sliding. “They're well built and I like that the white sole is a material dirt or scuffs can be wiped off,” one customer commented. Have tiny feet? You’re in luck: These comes in sizes starting 4.5 — and up.

  • Available sizes: 4.5 — 10
  • Available colors: 9

26

These Top-Knot Headbands For Those “Meh” Hair Days

Having one of those hair days where nothing feels quite right? These top-knot headbands are here for you. Put one of the eight headbands on to upgrade any outfit, and similar to the model in the photo, pull a few tendrils of hair out to frame your face. The ribbed texture helps keep it in place, and one reviewer notes: “They work with short hair!” Choose from a good selection of color pack options.

  • Available colors: 9

27

An Instantly Chic Bodysuit With A Trendy Square Neckline

Wear this bodysuit when you want to feel hot, simply put, it’s just that kind of piece. With an on-trend square neckline and a fitted form, this closet staple comes in both short- and long-sleeve options. It’s a stretchy jersey-spandex blend with a snap closure and a tanga cut. With over 9,000 five-star ratings, this one is on its way to being a shopper favorite. “The fabric is very soft,” one reviewer wrote. “Stretch is really good. Didn’t ride up on my crotch either.”

  • Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 31

28

This Smart-Looking Backpack For Your Morning Commute — Or Traveling

This ain’t your average run-of-the-mill backpack — just look at it! Kah&Kee’s faux leather backpack is business class elegance from the front with a breathable mesh in the back. It’s large enough to fit all the essentials, including space and compartments for a 15-inch laptop, books, a scarf or change of clothing, and whatever else you need for work or sightseeing. My first reaction is to open it up and gush to people about the size! This bag is so spacious, stylish, and durable. I use it every day for work and have used it often for traveling. It is hands down the best and most functional bag I have ever brought on a plane,” one reviewer gushed.

  • Available sizes: One size
  • Available colors: 11

29

The Designer Alternative Sandals You’ll Live In All Summer

If you’ve got your eye on Tory Burch’s signature sandals but the price tag is steering you away, no sweat! These Athlefit sandals are just as comfortable and equally stylish. For $25?! An actual no-brainer, if you will. They have an easy slip-on design with an EVA midsole and a durable rubber outsole that’ll hold up throughout the season — and beyond. One reviewer noted that this shoe “doesn't hurt your feet or in between your toes” (so crucial), while another fan declared that they were “worth every penny.” (Also agreed.)

  • Available sizes: 5.5 — 11
  • Available colors: 5

30

A Pretty Floral Top With Billowy Balloon Sleeves

One huge selling point about this floral blouse? It turns nearly any outfit into a polished, party-ready look. White jeans or cropped pants magically become dressier and more elegant with this garden-inspired top. The lantern sleeves add a beautiful statement, while the casual V-neck frames necklaces nicely. “I'm a big fan of soft, flowing clothing and this top didn't disappoint!” a reviewer shared. “It's nicely made and fits true to size as well as colors being exactly as shown.”

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 32

31

These Delicately Stunning Eternity Bands

Fact: You can’t go wrong with these dainty PAVOI dainty rings. Available in both gold-plated and gold vermeil options, these babies look like they cost hundreds of dollars to the blind eye — but nope! $15 for one ring and $37 for a set of three is an absolute steal considering all the styling possibilities. You can stack them together on one hand to create more impact or rock one solo for a hint of glitz. Mix them in with your wedding and engagement rings, too, for a sparkly statement. “Looks delicate and hasn’t turned my finger after wearing, washing, showering, cooking and sweating,'' one customer reported.

  • Available sizes: 5 — 10
  • Available colors: 3

32

Some Chic Slides That Feel “Like You’re Walking On Clouds”

Hermes sandals are nice and all, but have you seen these wallet-friendly slides by The Drop? They have a similar cut-out band, but these are a polyurethane leather that drives the cost down. Better yet? They’re also comfortable right out of the box, which is a total win in my book. “The material is buttery soft. I walked around NYC for almost an hour running errands the first time I wore these out and I had no discomfort or blisters,” one shopper was amazed to report. Another fan gushed that the comfort was true: This sandal “feels like you’re walking on clouds.”

  • Available sizes: 5 — 13
  • Available colors: 8

33

An Animal-Print Blouse With Ruffled Accents

This tunic top falls into that helpful wardrobe category of “top that snazzes up an otherwise casual outfit”. Whether tucking it into work pants or wearing loose over cut-off denim shorts, this poly-cotton blend top has ruffled cap sleeves and neckline to lend it some structure. Designed to be wrinkle-free, reviewers say it’s a “great professional shirt” and has “gotten a lot of compliments”.

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 30

34

Some Chunky Hoop Earrings That Look Expensive

These gold hoops have heft to them, giving them a trendy chunkiness that makes any look more glam. Plated in 14-karat gold, these oval hoops are a timeless accessory — and they also come in rose gold and white gold plating. Made to be hypoallergenic, these hoops will quickly become your go-to accessory.

  • Available colors: 3

35

An Airy Tank With Lace Trim

This pretty top accessorized with a wide lace trim neckline is an elegant choice for staying cool while feeling a bit dressed up. This lightweight poly blend top has a longer hem that covers the seat of pants — or it can be tucked in for a more structured look. It comes in darker neutrals and brighter, sunnier colors depending on your mood. “Love! Have it in 5 colors now,” one reviewer wrote, with another adding that it’s a “great layering piece”.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — 5X-Large
  • Available colors: 22

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