As April showers begin fading away into our memory, it’s time for May flowers and peak spring style season. Warmer weather is back until further notice, which means tank tops, bronzing drops, chic sandals, and other fresh finds being added to our editors’ regular rotation. For our latest column of Refinery29’s MVPs (most valuable purchases), we polled our coworkers’ order histories and group chats to present the can’t-shut-up-about-it fashion, beauty, and lifestyle investment pieces that made our month — and best of all, everything clocks in at $100 or less.
From the drugstore glossy lipstick that’s a designer dupe to the matcha cookies that have seriously leveled up our snack game, keep clicking to see (and shop!) the products our team of shopping editors tried and loved last month.
All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission.
Levi’s XL Baggy Straight Seamed Women’s Jeans
I cannot stop wearing these jeans. I’ve had them on almost every day since I got them. They’re insanely comfortable, but unlike most relaxed fits, they actually hold their shape all day. I love how easy they are to dress up or down — they look just as good with sneakers and a tee as they do with heels and a blazer. And the little ribbon tie at the waist? Such a cute, unexpected detail that makes them feel extra special.” — Sara Tan, Global Beauty Director
Levi’s XL Baggy Straight Seamed Women’s Jeans, $, available at Levi’s
Old Navy High-Waisted SleekTech Barrel Ankle Pants
“Fun fact: I was influenced by Refinery29’s own global beauty director Sara Tan to buy these pants from Old Navy. I can see why she’s a fan: They’re the perfect slightly oversized fit, but still feel polished enough to wear to the office or date night. (Best part: They come in petite lengths!) They’re super comfortable and lightweight, and I’ve been wearing them nonstop for spring. They’re also arguably the best travel pants since they combine the comfort of breezy joggers with the polished, chic jetsetter vibes I love to emulate at the airport.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer
Old Navy High-Waisted SleekTech Barrel Ankle Pants, $, available at Old NavyPhoto: Courtesy of Karina Hoshikawa.
Lululemon Align™ Waist-Length Cami Tank Light Support, C/D Cup
“From leggings to dresses, there’s not one Align piece that I’ve tried that I didn’t love. My most recent addition to my collection is the Cami Tank (I have the Cami Dress, which I wear multiple times a month), and I have a feeling I just found my new go-to layering top. It’s smooth and comfortable, and looks good with everything from a blazer and trousers to a cardigan and denim for a more casual vibe. I love that it comes in either A/B or C/D cup sizes (I’m wearing a size 4, C/D) and the fit is on point.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer
Lululemon Align™ Waist-Length Cami Tank Light Support, C/D Cup, $, available at LululemonPhoto: Courtesy of Karina Hoshikawa.
Hydro Flask 40 oz Wide Mouth with Flex Straw Cap
“I’ve been on the lookout for a slim, lightweight but insulated water bottle to take out with me. Hydro Flask ticks all the right boxes — especially for its fold-away straw (to stop dirt and dust from getting in) and the addition of a sturdy loop on the lid, meaning I can easily attach it to the outside of my bag.” — Esther Newman, Affiliate Writer & Content Producer
Hydro Flask 40 oz Wide Mouth with Flex Straw Cap, $, available at Hydro FlaskPhoto: Courtesy of Esther Newman.
Guess Oval Plastic Peony Sunglasses
“Yes, I’ve officially entered my butter yellow era, and these sunglasses are one of my go-tos for wearing the trendy hue. (And luckily, they’re on sale for under $100 right now.) I love the retro feel of the pastel color, round bug-eye frames, and chunky gold details on the arms. I’ve found that they’re great for elevating playful, casual outfits (like festival looks) as well adding a pop to tailored, chic looks. I can’t wait to continue styling them throughout the spring and summer.” — Victoria Montalti, Associate Fashion Writer
GUESS Oval Plastic Peony Sunglasses, $, available at GUESSPhoto: Courtesy of Victoria Montalti.
Lush x Hello Kitty Bath Bomb
“Once again Lush is winning me over with its collaborations. This time, it’s a sweet-as-pie collection with Hello Kitty that has been adding candyfloss-scented bubbles to my baths and sending me off into strawberries-and-cream-smelling dreams.” — Esther Newman, Affiliate Writer & Content Producer
Lush Hello Kitty Bath Bomb, $, available at LushPhoto: Courtesy of Esther Newman.
Milk Makeup Hydro Grip 12-Hour Hydrating Gel Skin Tint
“I love the formula of this gel skin tint. It offers great coverage with only a small amount of product, evens out my skin tone without covering up my freckles, is buildable, and leaves my skin looking dewy-not-greasy. It’s so lightweight that I barely feel like I’m wearing anything — perfect for the warmer months! — and lasts for hours (it’s in the same family as the OG Milk Hydro Grip Primer). So much so that I’ve been getting so many compliments on my skin, even at the end of my day!” — Esther Newman, Affiliate Writer & Content Producer
Milk Makeup Hydro Grip 12-Hour Hydrating Gel Skin Tint, $, available at SephoraPhoto: Courtesy of Esther Newman.
Revlon Super Lustrous Glass Shine Balm
“I may have a Sephora’s worth of nude tinted lip balms, but somehow I can’t resist adding just one more to my collection. I purchased Revlon’s Glass Shine Balm in the shade Nude Illuminator on a whim, but it quickly skyrocketed to main purse status after my first use. (I’ve been wearing it so much lately that the bullet is already worn down quite a bit — which, when you own as many lip products as I do, is a testament to how much I love it.) It’s not shimmery, but rather imparts a slick, but not too wet, sheen to lips. (It reminds me a lot of Chanel’s Rouge Coco Shine, TBH!) It’s also got the perfect amount of pigment where I can wear it alone for a natural tint of color, or over a lip pencil. I’ll definitely be trying other shades soon.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer
Revlon Super Lustrous Glass Shine Balm, $, available at Ulta BeautyPhoto: Courtesy of Karina Hoshikawa.
Tiny Tags 14K Gold Ion Plated Cowboy Boot Necklace
“I’m moving to Dallas this summer (yeehaw!) and to celebrate my upcoming move, I bought this cute Tiny Tags necklace at my local Target. I love dainty jewelry, and this teeny-tiny cowboy boot pendant is an adorable addition to my everyday stack. It can be worn at three different lengths, making it perfect to pair with other necklaces, and the detail on the boot is really pretty up close — it honestly looks more expensive than it is. I can’t wait to wear it as an official Texan.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer
Tiny Tags 14K Gold Ion Plated Cowboy Boot Necklace – Gold, $, available at TargetPhoto: Courtesy of Karina Hoshikawa.
FP Movement Free Throw Unwind Cami
“Since first trying this baby tee, FP Movement has become my go-to for casual T-shirt styles — and not just for working out (if I am being honest, I haven’t worn one in the gym ever). My newest obsession is this tank. The back cut-outs add a nice detail to an otherwise simple silhouette, while the underbust offers sports bra-like support (meaning: no need to wear a bra) and the fabric helps with sweating, as I recently found out when I wore it to the Charli XCX concert.” — Irina Grechko, Global Fashion Director
FP Movement Free Throw Unwind Cami, $, available at Free PeoplePhoto: Courtesy of Irina Grechko.
FitFlop Adjustable Webbing/Leather Back-Strap Sandals
“A few years ago I tore a ligament in my ankle, which even now needs extra support — especially from open shoes like sandals. I’ve long loved Fitflop for stylish, supportive shoes (I already own their walking shoes, wellies, platforms, and shearling-lined slipper boots), and this sporty pair is my latest addition. I love the fun color-blocked design, the chunky, padded sole, the thick, utilitarian straps, and the statement D-ring attachment — all stylish choices that are also super practical because these sandals are ergonomically engineered to help your body’s alignment and offer extra arch support. Not to mention, there are two fastenings at both the front and back of the ankle for your best, comfiest fit. And they’re lightweight, so perfect for hikes or vacation.” — Esther Newman, Affiliate Writer & Content Producer
FitFlop GEN-FF Adjustable Webbing/Leather Back-Strap Sandals, $, available at FitFlopPhoto: Courtesy of Esther Newman.
Open Edit Tori Kitten Heel Sandal
“Last year, I got these heeled flip-flops in white and didn’t take them off all summer. I don’t think I was the only one obsessed with this Y2K style from Nordstrom’s in-house brand — when I tried to purchase the same pair in black, they were sold out. Not only are both styles back and in stock this season, but they are also available in additional colors ranging from the trendy yellow to engine red and even leopard print.” — Irina Grechko, Global Fashion Director
Open Edit Tori Kitten Heel Sandal, $, available at NordstromPhoto: Courtesy of Irina Grechko.
Agapée Hélia Ring
“I’ve tended to be more of a silver ring kind of girl, but when I recently discovered Agapée’s stunning molten gold-plated jewelry, I was sold — especially on this statement piece which is inspired by my favorite flower, the sunflower. I’ll be wearing it all summer long whilst listening to Lorde’s Solar Power on repeat and eating fresh fruit out in the garden (aka the dream!).” — Esther Newman, Affiliate Writer & Content Producer
Agapée Hélia Ring, $, available at AgapéePhoto: Courtesy of Esther Newman.
Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat Contour Duo
“The market is currently super saturated with lip liners, but I promise that Charlotte Tilbury’s newest launch is worth your time. The duo-ended pencil features a slightly deeper shade that gives your lips definition, while the brighter pink end is perfect for filling out your lips. The texture is smoother than butter, thanks to the peptide-packed formula, and the color combo looks incredible with a clear, sparkly lip oil (I’m wearing the shade Medium).” — Venus Wong, Senior Writer
Charlotte Tilbury LIP CHEAT CONTOUR DUO – MEDIUM, $, available at Charlotte Tilbury
Stripe and Stare Pointelle Cami
“Okay, it’s finally getting hot out there and that means switching from my long fuzzy pajamas into something more comfortable (read: breathable). While many pajamas lack style, this collaboration between RIXO and Stripe & Stare is perfect for those who still care about their fit come bedtime. Made from 95% biodegradable Tencel, this pointelle set is lightweight, airy, and sustainable (they plant a tree with every order!). Plus, the rose print is exactly the sort of mood booster I want as we head into a new season.” — Alicia Lansom, Culture Editor
Stripe & Stare x RIXO Pointelle Cami, $, available at Stripe & Stare
Bordallo Pinheiro Cabbage Dinner Plate & Bowl
“I’ve always been a fan of Tory Burch’s Lettuce Ware collection, but it’s always been out of my price point. So after my friend overheard me admiring a similar design at a flea market, she gave me a Bordallo Pinheiro cabbage plate for Christmas, which she found from Williams Sonoma. Then, in April, she found another piece from the same brand for a steal while shopping at TJ Maxx, and eagerly bought and gifted it to me, too. The whimsical dishware brings me so much joy to look at, and I’m excited to add them to my al fresco dinner tablescapes this season.” — Victoria Montalti, Associate Fashion Writer
Bordallo Pinheiro Cabbage 17 oz. Bowl, $, available at Bloomingdale’s
Bordallo Pinheiro Cabbage Dinner Plate, $, available at Bloomingdale’sPhoto: Courtesy of Victoria Montalti.
Jade Leaf Matcha x Dana’s Bakery Matcha Cookies
“Okay, I’m not a matcha drink girl, but I am a matcha food girl. And these new Jade Leaf Matcha x Dana’s Bakery matcha cookies are unreal. I got to try them ahead of National Matcha Day on May 2, and I can vouch for these green concoctions. From the nutty sesame seed and white chocolate cookie to the sweet strawberry and cream one, they’re super rich and flavorful. Bonus points for them being gluten-free! Jade Leaf Matcha also sent me some powders so I’ll be testing my taste buds soon.” — Victoria Montalti, Associate Fashion Writer
Jade Leaf Matcha x Dana’s Bakery Matcha White Chocolate & Sesame Cookie, $, available at Dana’s BakeryPhoto: Courtesy of Victoria Montalti.
Boux Avenue 2 pack medium flow modal period pants
“Period pants have to be functional, sure, but I’ve really enjoyed how nice these look, too. At my most uncomfortable time of the month, it’s nice to still feel my underwear is cute. These are comfortable, secure, and hold my flow with ease.” — Tanyel Mustafa, Senior Writer
Boux Avenue 2 pack medium flow modal period pants – Black, $, available at Boux Avenue
Longtake Sandalwood Intensive Hair Perfume Serum Oil
“Not to be dramatic but I feel naked without spraying hair perfume before I head out the door. But the scent that has been winning the most compliments (and queries lately) is actually a hair serum. Korean perfume is in a league of its own, and this sandalwood-forward scent proves it. The grounding base note actually comes from upcycled oak sawdust from carpentry workshops, and the fragrance further draws you in with inviting whiffs of eucalyptus, violet, cardamom, and amber. With its super affordable price tag, it’s little wonder that this is one of the top sellers at Olive Young, South Korea’s beauty super retailer.” — Venus Wong, Senior Writer
Longtake Sandalwood Intensive Hair Perfume Serum Oil, $, available at Amazon
Finisterre Nieuwland 3mm Yulex Swim Sock
“I love sea swimming — my favourite mornings are when I drag myself out of bed and down to my nearest beach for a cold plunge (before a big mug of tea and a sweet treat at the local cafe). While it is warming up out there, I live in the UK where our beaches are mostly pebbled, so I’ll wear these well into the spring and summer to protect my feet. They’re made with Yulux rubber which is a plant-based alternative to neoprene (taking 80% fewer carbon emissions to make), feel almost fleece-lined for an extra comfy fit, and are actually far easier to get on and off than other swim socks/boots I’ve tried. Paired with Finisterre’s long-sleeved swimsuit and cozy changing robe, I’m ready to face all weather and terrain.” — Esther Newman, Affiliate Writer & Content Producer
Finisterre Nieuwland 3mm Yulex® Swim Sock, $, available at FinisterrePhoto: Courtesy of Esther Newman.
Westman Atelier Sun Tone Bronzing Drops
“I think by now everyone knows a majority of my makeup routine consists of Westman Atelier products. I decided to pick up the brand’s bronzing drops — one of its newer products — hoping it would add a bit of natural warmth to skin and it did just that. I mix a drop or two with my sunscreen or daily moisturizer and it provides an all-over subtle bronzy glow without being shimmery or oily. I can see myself using this product all year round, not just during the spring and summer.” — Kate Spencer, Senior Affiliate Partnerships Manager
Westman Atelier Sun Tone Bronzing Drops, $, available at Credo
Remedy For KP Bumps
“I’m getting married this month, and have been doing a lot of H2T skin prep to make sure I’m glowing on the big day. Out of the many body products I’ve tried in an effort to treat the KP bumps on my upper arms and thighs, this one has been my favorite. It doesn’t have a scent (other lactic acid-based products I’ve tried smell like an unfortunate mix of sour milk and wet dog), and absorbs like a lightweight body serum. I’ve been applying it almost nightly for almost two months now, and am beyond impressed with the results. The raised “chicken skin” bumps and discoloration are nearly gone, and I haven’t even finished the bottle.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer
Remedy Remedy For KP Bumps, $, available at Remedy
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