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Like that cute pair of Teva sandals you’ve been eyeing, then talking yourself out of every summer...I have an under-$25 option you *need* to see.

As a shopping editor with over a decade of experience working in journalism and digital media, I cover everything from beauty and fashion to home, travel, gaming, and pets, and I'm constantly saving interesting products on TikTok (in *very* organized folders, mind you) to share with BuzzFeed readers.

If your summer "fun budget" is ~feeling the heat~ after booking all those trips, buying those concert tickets, and just generally being outside as much as possible, never fear: You can still scratch that spendy itch with these fun and practical finds that are giving the pricier stores and name brands a run for their money. 

Promising review: "So cute and a perfect, cheaper alternative to the more expensive Teva. Got so many compliments and they held up great all summer! Buy them! I will definitely be getting more!" —AR5

Get them from Amazon for $18.99+ (available in women's sizes 6–11 and 15 styles).

Plus, reviewers are loving this as a cheaper alternative to suits from J.Crew and Panache — like the one below!

Promising review: "I've been trying to find a swimsuit like this...for YEARS. I've had terrible luck on Amazon, the stores have been no better...and I've wasted more money than I care to admit. Anyways, I seriously can't believe how excellent this suit is in terms of style, coverage, and support. Sexy, but can definitely be worn around family due to not enhancing cleavage or overly showcasing the butt. I'm a 32DDD/34DD+ and it's so freaking hard to avoid looking raunchy and/or unsupported. I dished out a pretty penny for a Panache 32G one-piece...and while it held my breasts, it had underwire and was uncomfortable as HELL. This suit manages to somehow have the same support and with zero wiring. I don't understand, but yeah, I'm thrilled. I got the emerald green shade...which I must say, is gorgeous. Great bottom coverage without looking costumey (i.e. pinup/retro/vintage). Definitely going to donate my other bathing suits (some have never even been worn)...there's no reason to keep them around anymore.

"I'm not one for super glowing reviews or anything, and they kind of turn me off tbh...but I really can't help it with this one. Swimsuits are super tricky, and reviews can be naturally misleading because women's bodies have such unbelievable variation...but I hope other ladies get to hit the jackpot like I just did." —Happy Lady

Get it from Amazon for $32.99 (available in women's sizes S–3XL and 28 styles).

The tote comes with: one gold marker, one silver marker, one sticker stencil sheet, one ice cream charm, one lollipop charm, two pinwheel charms, two flower charms, one carabiner clip and peg, 20 glue dots, one bead string, 80 alphabet beads, 20 colorful beads, 15 pegs, four rotating bases, and 37 pip cleaners — so there's a lot to work with!

Promising review: "This kid's beach tote bag is absolutely fantastic — definitely a 5-star purchase! The size is perfect for little ones, not too big or bulky, but still roomy enough to fit all their essentials. The quality really stands out, too — it’s sturdy, well-made, and holds up great with regular use. My granddaughters absolutely love it! They use their totes to carry snacks, toys, and little beach treasures, and it’s become their go-to bag whenever we head out. It’s both practical and adorable — highly recommend!" —Paulina M.

Get it from Amazon for $24.99 (also available in a smaller "unicorn princess" style).

One reviewer compares this to a $64 Givenchy powder!

Check out a TikTok of the Laneige Neo Blurring Powder in action. 

Promising review: "This is the secret for makeup in hot and humid climates! I am a sweaty person, but I also love wearing makeup regardless of the weather. While holidaying in Southeast Asia at the start of wet season, I faced temperatures between 35 and 40 degrees Celsius (95–104 degrees Fahrenheit) with high humidity. After finishing my base makeup, I applied this powder all over. I did not use a setting spray because most break me out. Luckily, no setting spray was necessary while using this setting powder! It kept my foundation and cream blush from separating or becoming patchy, and also kept me from being too shiny. I reapplied a couple of times per day. This is magical and I will definitely be using regularly during the summers in North America too!" —Sara Lima

I wore this dress (in shade Lipstick Pink) to an outdoor wedding and I. AM. OBSESSED. It hugs my frame beautifully with the stretchy smocked waist — I can even get away with not wearing a bra, though for context I'm a B cup — and the flowy bottom of the dress sits just right. I personally haven't tried Hill House's Nap Dress (I drool over the designs, but $178 is a little too steep for me), but I'm perfectly happy to stock up on this dress in a few colors for around the same price. 

My colleague Heather Braga, on the other hand, is a Hill House devotee — but even she was impressed by this cheaper option: "Listen, I am the proud owner of NINE Hill House Nap Dresses. I condone splurging on them (truly, by all means) and will be the first to tell you they are worth every penny. That being said, I tried out one of these from Quince and LOVE it. I have the Tribeca Stripe pattern and cannot believe how similar it feels to the other brand. It's my current go-to style for my frame (two kids in two years, send prayers) and is one of the few things I know I can throw on and KNOW I look great. Will definitely add another to an upcoming order and have been shouting from the rooftops how wonderful this brand fits."

Get it from Quince for $69.90 (available in sizes XS–XL and 12 styles).

The packaging similarities are impossible to ignore, but that's not where the comparisons between this E.l.f. sunscreen and Supergoop's cult-fave product end. I've tried both, and I honestly prefer this E.l.f. version. Supergoop's had a slight graininess to it that I didn't love, while this E.l.f. sunscreen is exactly what I'd hoped Supergoop's would feel like: totally smooth and velvety. Like Supergoop's, it goes on totally clear and doesn't feel like you're wearing a mask; it sinks in immediately. And of course, a major selling point: The 1.7-ounce bottle of E.l.f. Suntouchable has a list price of $15, while Supergoop's Unseen Sunscreen in the same size will put you back $38. 

Now, it's worth noting that Supergoop's Unseen Sunscreen has SPF 50, while E.l.f.'s product offers SPF 35. Both of these meet the American Academy of Dermatology's recommendation of using a sunscreen with SPF 30 or more, which blocks 97% of the sun's UVB rays. Anything over SPF 30 offers only slightly more protection (and nothing can block 100% of the sun's rays), yet the higher number, the more brands tend to charge. So do with that info what you will! This isn't the only SPF I use, but I love having it in my arsenal, especially when I do want to layer makeup on top!

Promising review: "This sunscreen is a gem. I was not expecting to love it as much as I do. I absolutely love E.l.f. products, but I rarely try their skincare. Something told me to try this. When I put it on, it gave a smooth silicone finish and feel. I was faithful to Supergoop but didn't want to spend as much as the product is listed for. I will continue to use this sunscreen; it has been one of the best I’ve ever tried. I’ve been into skincare since I was 15; I am 37, and for me to say that this product is a gold mine is rare." —Angelina S

Promising reviews: "I have been searching for a sunscreen like this for a long time. I really dislike putting anything heavy on my face and prefer a gel-like consistency. I am a big fan of the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid serum, and the texture of this sunscreen feels pretty close to that. I have tried much more expensive 'serum' sunscreens and find this one my favorite and for a much better price point." —JHoch

"This sunscreen is lightweight and spreads easily. No odor, no white cast. I have been using EltaMD for years. I cannot tell the difference between this Neutrogena and the EltaMD on my face, except, of course, for the price. I can easily buy four Neutrogena bottles for the price of one Elta MD. The packaging is the same. Airless, pump dispenser." —Elizabeth

Promising review: "Saw Urban Outfitters had a tomato lamp for $100 and said hell naw. But then this lamp came along from the Amazon gods for $30 and no way I could pass up such a sick lamp. Smaller than anticipated but is immaculate. Runs almost everyday/all day and has been doing great for a year now. After a few hours, it automatically goes to the strobing setting. Remote has never failed me yet (knock on wood)." —Samantha L.

Note: It doesn't come with a mitt for application, so grab one if you need it! 

It's also vegan, cruelty-free, made from recycled materials, and *doesn't* leave any gross fake tan smells.

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!” —Review Writer 

Get it from Amazon for $9.59+ (available in 10 options across five tanning levels).

It's color-adapting, so one of four shades will work well for any skin tone!

To use, apply this in thin layers to avoid creasing, then follow with your favorite setting powder (Catrice also makes one that matches these shades) if you like. If you don't like applying products with your fingers, they also make a triangle-shaped puff that's perfect for using with this.

I have this in the Light Rose shade (I'm very pale), and it works *so* well to brighten my undereyes — I use my fingers to apply it (after moisturizing and applying my primer), and it blends seamlessly. When I want to look more awake and lively, I love reaching for this Catrice brightener — and while I also love my Tarte Shape Tape blurring concealer stick (which retails for $32), I have to admit the results are pretty similar with this $6 product.

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). 

I've been using Monday dry shampoo for a while now, and I'm officially a devotee. I was so skeptical because of the low price, but it honestly works better for me than pretty much every other dry shampoo I've tried. It lasts me a good long while, too! Also, a tip from my hairdresser that's been lowkey life changing: Use dry shampoo on *clean* hair; don't wait for it to get oily — it works way better to prevent oil buildup and extend your hair's freshness and volume between washes. I've been using that method with my Monday dry shampoo, and it works wonders.

Promising review: "Honestly one of the best dry shampoos I've used and at an amazing price. I’ve used others — Batiste, Not Your Mother's, Philosophy, Amika, IGK — and always felt disappointed. Not with this one. 100% recommend!" —Katrina S.

And psst — as much as we love I Dew Care's powder shampoo, this is a more budget-friendly option, offering twice the amount of product for a fraction of the price.

Promising review: "I can’t recommend this product enough! I have fine Asian hair and it starts to get greasy after 12 hours. I’ve been looking for a cheaper alternative to the Drybar dry shampoo but haven’t had any luck. This, however, is even better. I’m able to touch up my hair on the go and it looks like I just washed it. The amount of product is more than the aerosol cans and much better for your lungs haha. It works just as well as the Drybar one…honestly better!" —Lovie

Promising review: "I wear this going on walks or elevating an outfit to run errands. The side pocket is perfect to fit my phone or wallet. Very comfortable, especially in the spring/summer! Packs well for trips. It’s a staple in my closet. Great quality for the price." —Jamie

Get it from Amazon for $22.23+ (available in women's sizes XS–XXL and 30 colors). 

Promising reviews: "I have several pair of Rothy’s in a very similar style to these, and they are actually just as comfortable right out of the box as Rothy’s…maybe more so. I also purchased in black. LOVE THEM!!" —Amazon Customer

"I couldn’t be happier with these flats! As a result of them dropping in price, I purchased four pairs in varying colors to wear with jeans and sweaters. Not only do they look cute, but they are also decently padded and comfortable. I have been buying Vivaia flats for over $100 and these look just as good and are more comfortable to wear." —PSK

Get it from Amazon for $32.99 (available in women's sizes 6–10 and 15 colors and patterns).

Promising review: "Expensive isn't always better. I tried this spray before spending the day outdoors in 90-degree heat at Disneyland, and the only place my makeup moved was on the tip of my nose because I have allergies and use a lot of Kleenex. But otherwise, it looked as fresh as it did when I put it on. I’ve used MAC and Urban Decay setting spray, and they never worked as well as this stuff. I am completely amazed. Definitely give it a try." —Stephanie

Get it from Amazon for $9.97 (available in two sizes).

Promising review: "TikTok made me buy these!! One video did it for me and I RAN to Amazon. And yes, I bought ALLL the colors. They fit like a dream and are good quality. People that know their sunglasses thought these were the REAL THING! For the price, these are made EXTREMELY well and look hecka expensive. Get all the colors so you can wear them for every season." —Santana Davis 

Get it from Amazon for $14.99 (available in 10 tints). 

The weights are covered with a sweatproof, skin-friendly silicone layer that's comfortable, and the adjustable elastic band helps you get the right fit. You can even remove weights as well if needed!

Promising review: "I love these! So great for yoga or mat Pilates. I like that they are 2 pounds each, which is the perfect weight, and you can even take off weight as well. I use them every week for my workouts. Very durable band as well!" —Robyn

Get a pair from Amazon for $22.49+ (available in three weights and 13 color combos).

BTW, people also love this for helping heal piercings. (Note: This product has newer packaging that you might receive instead of the older bottle shown above!)

Promising review: "This spray is amazing. I had a rash on my face and it disappeared after one use of this spray. I had a stye in my eye and the skin around the eye was irritated. This spray fixed not only the irritation but the stye went away as well. Any sort of blemish or acne is taken care of with this simple inexpensive spray. Great for after-sun care or workout redness. Everyone loves Tower 28's expensive SOS spray. The SOS spray contains hypochlorous acid, which is the exact same ingredient in the Briotech spray for much less money. It’s a miracle worker." —Squid466

Get an 8-ounce bottle from Amazon for $17.99 (available in five sizes).

Promising review: "I love this so I ordered a second for backup! Depending on my day I will add no more than one or two drops to my moisturizer or my primer. Takes away the winter pallor of my face which definitely has not had enough sun lately. The bottle is small, but you don’t need to use much. Reasonably priced for the amount. I would say buy it." —Incognito

Hi, I own these in (*checks Amazon order history*) FOUR colors now, and I feel like I'll just keep adding more colors to my collection over time. I LOVE these shorts and first bought them after seeing a recommendation from our own Emma Lord (who's a regular runner). As usual, she was right: These feel like a steal for how good they are. I'm a pear shape — aka my hips and bum are much wider than my top half — so I've always struggled to find athletic shorts that are long enough and don't ride up while I'm running or squatting, but that are also fitted around the waist and don't leave that awkward gap. These fit the bill perfectly. I also love the side zipper and spacious pocket, perfect for tossing in my keys and a card/cash, though even my bulky Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra phone fits inside too. 

Promising review: "DO NOT WALK….RUN! Better than all my Lululemon shorts EASILY! These shorts look great while being so comfortable. I do CrossFit and I felt covered the whole time, but didn’t feel like I was being suffocated, the fabric is so breathable the zipper is a perfect size, I love everything about these shorts. I’ve told everyone who will listen, these are THE shorts everyone needs." —MadelineVanHoose

Get them from Amazon for $19.99 (available in women's sizes XS–3X and 32 colors)

I own *several* of these workout tops from The Gym People now and absolutely love them; I have no doubt I'll be back for more. They're soft, comfortable to work out in, and look great on; plus, they come in the CUTEST shades and have built-in padding — what more could you want? And yes, they look amazing with the high-waisted shorts above.

Promising review: "Comparable to Lululemon. I love my Lulus but wanted something more affordable and this hit the mark! I’m typically a size medium, and the medium fits great! I bought two, the fuchsia and white — I love both colors and the material is very soft." —Alyssa Lynch

Get it from Amazon for $22.99 (available in women's sizes XS–3XL and 29 colors). 

Promising review: "So cute, love it! Functional buttons all the way down. Light ribbed fabric and the style is darling!" —Megan 

Get it from Amazon for $13.98 (available in women's sizes S–XL and 17 colors). 

Promising review: "Obsessed with this purse! And a reasonably priced option for such a popular bag trend right now. Good size to fit essentials like phone/wallet." —Jacscott15

Get the food-themed bag from Anthropologie for $98 (available in four styles) — and check out the Fiona beaded bag in more styles here (including the cute floral edition pictured above, right).

Check it out a TikTok of the E.l.f. mascara in action.

BuzzFeed Shopping writer Emma Lord swears by this: "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). 

Promising reviews: "Bought this dress because I always wanted to get the House of CB dress but didn’t want to pay over $250 for it. It’s honestly so good! I got the size large in this since they didn’t have my normal sizes, which are small to medium. (I have a bigger chest, so I tend to size up.) But since this has a corset back, I was able to cinch it up really tight, and it fit perfectly!" —Chris Herfurth Kennedy

"Beautiful, stunning perfection. This may be the best thing I've ever bought on Amazon. The corset in the back makes it fit like it was made for me. It's double-lined and not see-through at all, even though it's white. The straps are adjustable, the slit is a good height, and the fabric is slightly stretchy. I cannot say enough good things about it. It did come slightly wrinkly in the skirt, but nothing that a good steam won't fix." —Shoshanna

Get it from Amazon for $63.99 (available in women's sizes 0–16 and 20 colors/styles).

Promising reviews: "Like walking on a cloud. These are the most comfortable sandals I have ever owned. I have plantar fibroma, which makes wearing shoes extremely uncomfortable. These are great, providing arch support and a comfortable walk. My feet stay in place without sliding side to side. The soles don't squeak when walking on polished floors. I bought two colors and, for the price, may add a few more." —S. R. F. 

"I have six pairs of Birkenstocks and just didn't want to spend that kind of money this time. These sandals are actually more comfortable than my Birkenstocks. They have added padding on the insole. I think they were almost 1/3 of the price. I was pleasantly surprised by the quality." —Amazon Customer

Get them from Amazon for $33.23 (available in sizes 5–12, including wide sizes, and 20 styles).

BuzzFeed Shopping editor Maitland Quitmeyer says this is her go-to satin pillowcase: "I have two Slip pillowcases, and several of these, and actually the Bedsure ones wash up much nicer and retain an incredibly silky smooth feel after dozens of trips through the laundry. They're the only ones I'll buy going forward, and I recommended them to my mom and now she's in love with them too!"

Promising review: "I ordered these pillowcases just to see if they could compete with Blissy. Well, they can. I have washed them three times and they came out great. They seem to protect your hair and skin. So, I’m very happy with them." —EMc

Get a set of two from Amazon for $5.99+ (available in standard, queen, king, and body pillow sizes and 29 colors).

This stuff is gold. I'm relatively new to the Poreless Putty Primer fandom but now that I'm here, I'm not leaving anytime soon. This makes SUCH a difference in how my foundation goes on, and it makes it look as close to poreless as I think is humanly possible — and maintains the smooth look for many hours! Just be sure to let it sit for a little bit before applying your foundation.

Promising review: "Okay so first nothing will make you 'poreless' but this stuff is amazing. Will even out fine lines and help with super porous areas; my T-zone [has really visible] pores and this definitely gave me a boost in confidence. I would highly recommend. Especially to those not to familiar with makeup, this is a game changer. Honestly it works better than my $30 primer from Urban Decay and lasts all day. I am oily so I usually blot some powder on later in the day but if you have dry skin this could be the ultimate game changer!" —Olivia

Promising review: "The pink looks great on my skin tone. I have very wide feet, and these sandals stretch as you walk, which is wonderful, but they also don’t slip out. Will buy in other colors!" —Marline Pena

Get it from Amazon for $19.98+ (available in sizes 6–11 and 11 colors).

Some reviewers found that they didn't even need a bra with this!

Promising review: "Okay this is so good. I had the Zara bodysuit identical to this but it quickly got stretched out so I tried this one out. It is 10 times better than that one. The fit is perfect, it hugs you just right, and is supportive enough that I won’t wear a bra. Also, not see through at all! Amazing. Need in all the colors." —Dawn E.

Get it from Amazon for $19.97+ (available in sizes XS–3XL and 12 colors). 

Promising review: "Cutest summer/vacation/destination wedding clutch ever! Looks like the Cult Gaia purse but without the beads in between each bamboo. Literally one-fourth of the price, so definitely a steal! Dress it up with a scarf and you’re ready to go! I’m 5'4" and got both sizes but decided to go with the small since the large was too overwhelming. Surprisingly roomy and with a bit of re-arranging, fit my phone, card case, sunglasses, powder and brush, lip gloss, hand sani, EpiPen, bug spray, AND selfie stick! No smell right out of the package and came with a nice thank you card and small gift." —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $35.98+ (available in two sizes). 

Promising review: "This is EXACTLY what I was looking for. I apply after moisturizer and makeup, highlighting under my eyes and brow bones. Not too sparkly, just makes me look like I’ve had enough coffee. Seems to last through hot and sweaty Florida days, so that’s a plus. I’ve tried other luminizers, and for me they are usually too sparkly or weirdly colored. I tried an $$ Glossier one that remained strangely sticky the whole time it was on my skin." —DLW

Get it from Amazon for $14.97 (available in five shades).

Promising review: "Really well constructed. Comfortable fabric. I don't wear shorts, so these will be great for summer. The fit is great. I ordered these pants in three more colors the day after the first pair arrived. Excellent value!" —Montana Fam

Get it from Amazon for $29.74+ (available in women's sizes XS–XXL and 20 colors). 

Promising reviews: "Like a cloud ☁️ These are the most comfortable shoes I have worn; it feels like a pillow hugging your foot. The same day they were delivered, I ordered another pair in a different color. I’m a healthcare worker, and these are perfect for standing and being on your feet a lot. Walking feels very smooth and low-impact. I never leave reviews on anything, but these are amazing." —Ian Durham

"I’ve had these [for almost a year] and they are my go-to comfort walking shoe. I have a couple of Hokas, and I still prefer these because of the comfort and affordability. I’m buying my second pair now in a different color. I have plantar fasciitis and my doctor saw me in these shoes and said these were exactly the kind of shoe I need to wear." —Jennifer

Get them from Amazon for $69.99 (available in sizes 5.5–11 and eight colors).

Promising review: "I’m SOO impressed with the quality of this bag! I’ve worn the Lululemon belt bag and I gotta say, this is pretty similar. Almost identical, except the Lululemon is a tiny bit smaller size. The Lululemon one also has a plastic zipper but this Amazon one is metal. I prefer the plastic but this one is OK. It might be better than Lululemon JUST for the fact that they have so many color options!" —Em

Get it from Amazon for $12.98+ (available in 29 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.

Note: Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.