We’ve officially reached the part of the year where the jackets have been phased out of regular rotation and summer vacay plans are well on the horizon. But you could tell that based on the literal receipts of what R29 shopped this month.
For the latest installment of our under-$100 favorites, we polled our savvy coworkers on the best purchases of April; per usual, they did not disappoint. (No gatekeeping here!) From on-sale travel backpacks to luxe lip balms, whimsical fuzzy tees, and more, our monthly MVPs are equal parts cheerful and practical. Ahead, scope out 32 of our editor-approved finds from the past month.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
“If you’re looking for a bit of color and hydration to your lips when you’re lounging at home or waiting to pick up your Starbucks mobile order, Dior’s Addict Lip Glow Balm has the subtle hue you need. I’m tempted to buy every single one. I appreciate how the shade brings out the natural color of your lips with a bit of glow.” — Vivien Lee, Affiliate Fashion Writer
Dior Addict Lip Glow Balm, $, available at Nordstrom
“While grippy socks are not required for most workouts, I always wear them during any Pilates reformer classes for safety reasons. In addition to giving me subtle Balletcore vibes, these grippy socks really help me stabilize my body during lunges, bridges, and more so I can focus on working up a sweat. They’re also so soft and comfortable to wear around the house, and at $16 for two pairs? The price can’t be beat.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer
Ozaiic Yoga Socks for Women Non-Slip Grips, $, available at Amazon
“I love any kind of cheek product that’s hydrating, multi-use, has clean ingredients, and no shimmer. This multi-stick from ILIA provides the perfect sheer wash of color on the cheeks — I swear you can’t mess up applying it — and I also love using it on my lips (no mirror required). I have the shade ‘Dreamer’ and it’s the perfect rosy terracotta color that will look really nice when my skin gets a little tanner in the warmer months. I’m excited to have this in my bag all spring and summer.” — Kate Spencer, Senior Affiliate Strategist
Ilia Multi-Stick, $, available at Ilia
“As someone who’s spent more than three decades on this planet, I was relatively sure I knew what my face looked like — until I bought this mirror, that is. In addition to having lights that allow me to get a better look at my face while I put on makeup, it has 2x, 3x, and 10x magnification sections, making it easy to see every pore and hair on my face if I choose to (and, let’s be real, who wouldn’t want to?).” — Sarah Crow, Affiliate Director
HUONUL Makeup Mirror Vanity Mirror with Lights, $, available at Amazon
“Perhaps it’s because all my shot glasses are from gift shops or friends’ houses, but I’m in awe of this little set. The glass is so luxe and has a weight to it that makes them hard to tip over (and really fun to lightly slam on the counter after a shot). Plus, the caddy is adorable and actually really useful — only using one hand to carry six shots is a luxury I never knew I needed. It’s definitely a great buy if you host dinner parties or need to give someone a gift.” — Alexandra Polk, Lifestyle Affiliate Writer
Sweet July Herringbone Handcrafted Shot Glasses & Caddy – Set of 6, $, available at Pottery Barn
“No matter how hard I try not to, I always manage to blow past the 50lb weight limit for checked luggage. After years of being That Person at the airport who’s having to open up her suitcase to unload heavy stuff before closing it back up (after, of course, all of the departures terminal has seen my underwear – fun!), I copped this très useful luggage scale after my dad (who works for an airline company) said he doesn’t travel without it. With lots of trips slated for this summer, I can’t wait to bring this essential on all my adventures.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer
Dr.meter 110lb/50kg Portable Handheld Luggage Electronic Scale, $, available at Amazon
“No exaggeration, the OSEA Hyaluronic Sea Serum is one of the best serums I’ve used. It smells beautiful, absorbs right away, and leaves your skin baby soft. I notice a difference right away! This is the first OSEA product I’ve owned, but I recently had a facial with all OSEA products, and it was one of the best I’ve had — definitely excited to try out more from this brand.” — Mercedes Viera, Associate Deals Writer
OSEA Hyaluronic Sea Serum, $, available at Ulta
“I’m all about convenience, especially when it comes to beauty. Lately, I’m too lazy to do anything skincare-related, but this moisturizer-in-a-stick has made all the difference. Combined with the OSEA Sea Serum I mentioned earlier, these two products have transformed my skin — making me excited to actually do my routine. This balm, specifically, is for all my lazy girlies out there. Plus, the cooling sensation feels so nice to wake up to early in the morning!” — Mercedes Viera, Associate Deals Writer
The Creme Shop Aqua Cure 24H Multi-Balm, $, available at Ulta
“Ever since I reviewed some of Pact’s bestselling travel pants for a recent Most Wanted story, this black hoodie has been stuck in high rotation in my wardrobe. It’s the perfect jacket to throw on top of your workout ‘fit when it’s a little chilly outside, and the thumb-hole designs are extra useful if you’re a runner. It’s also lightweight enough to stash in your bag, for when the AC gets too cold indoors. The French terry fabric is oh-so-comfortable, and the inclusion of big front pockets is always a plus. I like layering this under my leather jacket for days when I don’t really need a big coat, but still want to keep something warm just in case.” — Venus Wong, Senior Travel Writer
PACT The Studio Snug-Fit Zip Hoodie, $, available at PACT
“R29 shoppers have been hooked on the Satisfyer Pro 2 since I started at the company a year ago, so I was delighted to be able to try out the new Bluetooth/app-compatible iteration of the clitoral stimulator that had customers so buzzed. Spoiler alert: it’s my new go-to.” — Charlotte Lewis, Sexual Wellness Content Producer/Writer
Satisfyer Satisfyer Pro 2 Generation 3 (Wine Red), $, available at Amazon
“I love my cute little black bag. I was nervous that the chain would look cheap in real life but it’s shiny, durable metal. The faux croc checks out too. And get this: my iPhone Max 13 Pro fits in it which has saved my life many times on nights out. I highly recommend.” — Alexandra Polk, Lifestyle Affiliate Writer
Lisa Says Gah Luna Bag, $, available at Lisa Says Gah
“I have a running joke between my mom and me that having me as a daughter is the best Mother’s Day gift — one that neither she nor my twin sister finds particularly funny, unfortunately. (It’s all in good jest, though, don’t worry.) Anyway, the perfectionist in me couldn’t resist copping this Favorite Daughter tee from Nordstrom during a recent haul. It’s super soft and lightweight, and the cropped length is super cute. Next time my mom lovingly reminds me that she loves me and my sibling equally, I’ll just send her this selfie and remind her that I only speak the truth.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer
Favorite Daughter Collegiate Crop Graphic Tee, $, available at Nordstrom
“When it comes to skincare, I’m obsessed with trying new products. You recommend it and I’ll buy it. My skin doesn’t get irritated easily, so if something is trending, I’ll try it on. However, the one facial cream that I steadily return to (especially when my fiancé asks if we can use it again) for spring and summer is belif’s The True Cream Aqua Bomb. It’s bursting with hydration, and the lightweight gel-like cream is cooling and feels luxurious on the skin. If your skin is dry and needs a desperate drink of water, this elixir will revive it.” — Vivien Lee, Affiliate Fashion Writer
Belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb, $, available at Sephora
“I’m planning on repping (yes, pun intended) my favorite Taylor Swift Era at her NYC show in three weeks, and have never been more excited to wear a hoodie than this replica of this iconic style from the “Look What You Made Me Do” music video. It’ll be the perfect thing to wear for the three-hour epic concert once the sun sets. Plus, the Etsy storefront is loaded with other gorgeous (heh) Swifie styles in case Reputation isn’t your album.” — Charlotte Lewis, Sexual Wellness Content Producer/Writer
TheBlueHat Blind For Love Look What You Made Me Do Rep Era Hooded Dress, $, available at Etsy
“My perfect nude lipstick shade is a very specific mix of beigey rosy-brown, and I admit to owning more lipsticks, liners, and glosses than I’ll ever use in a lifetime. I’ve gone through endless trials to find the perfect everyday shade, and have finally found the one in Sephora Collection’s gel lip pencil in the shade Nothin’ But Nude. Not only is this formula truly incredible — it’s creamy, non-drying, longwearing, and gorgeously pigmented — but it’s among the most affordable buys at Sephora. I’m not serious when I say I’ll be stocking up in case it’s ever discontinued.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer
Sephora Collection Retractable Rouge Gel Lip Liner, $, available at Sephora
“I’m deeply invested in having my home smell good at all times but I also reaaaaaally loathe heavy chemical scents. The Pura Smart Fragrance Diffuser is an app-controlled plugin diffuser that allows you to customize the distribution of two different scents in your home. It also has a nightlight, which is particularly good for those of us concerned about both olfactory pleasantness and the ever-present threat of under-bed monsters, serial killers, goblins, etc.” — Sarah Crow, Affiliate Director
Pura Smart Fragrance Diffuser, $, available at Pura
“Let me tell you a little something about this setting spray. I got it from a co-worker last winter and just like one wise TikToker said, it leaves my makeup ‘on stick.’ Seriously! It’s not a manual pump spray with a wet mist — it’s more like hairspray… for your face. Or those fast-drying nail sprays that make your nail just a tad bit cold. So if you’re trying to have your foundation survive the summer sun this year, you know what to do.” — Alexandra Polk, Lifestyle Affiliate Writer
One/Size On ‘Til Dawn Mattifying Waterproof Setting Spray, $, available at Sephora
“I was just gifted this viral lip oil from R29’s lovely Senior Writer Karina Hoshikawa, and I’m already obsessed. I’ve seen tons of reviews of this oil and how it’s supposedly better than most trendy lip oils on the market. Although I haven’t tried too many other oils to share a comparison, I can say that this one feels so glossy, hydrating, and luxurious. It thankfully isn’t sticky or goopy either, which I really appreciate. And the packaging is just so beautiful!” — Victoria Montalti, Associate Affiliate Writer
Gisou Honey Infused Lip Oil, $, available at Gisou
“Life is stressful and sometimes you need a little treat. But frankly, I just don’t know what I’d even do with one of those brown Tootsie Pops you typically get in larger boxes other than give it away to my enemy. Luckily, this bag of all-cherry ones is perfect for satisfying that sugar fix without having to offload less-desirable flavors onto the R29 free table.” — Sarah Crow, Affiliate Director
Tootsie Roll Cherry Tootsie Pops 60 Count, $, available at Amazon
“Even though I’ve got a baby bob, I’m still impressed at how this product gets my hair super wavy. This is a newer release from Act+Acre, a cream product that apparently customers were asking for — and I’m glad to report that the brand got it right. After a shower (once my hair’s damp), I do the whole scrunch-up maneuver and comb this curl lotion in with my fingers and then let air dry. What begets is voluptuous, beachy waves without any of the stiff or crunchy texture.” — Jinnie Lee, Freelance Fashion Writer
Act+Acre Cold Processed Soft Curl Lotion, $, available at Act+Acre
“I live, love, and laugh in loungewear and athleisure. Just ask my roommate. So the opportunity to find a set that’s not only cute and comfy, but is made of 100% organic pima cotton (aka sustainable) is a dream! I opted for a medium of both the cami and pants from ODDOBODY’s launch – the pants were the perfect length, but if I were to buy another cami I would opt for a larger size because I have a larger bust. Both are uber soft and breathable, perfect for upcoming hot summer nights.” — Becca Sax, Affiliate Coordinator
ODDOBODY Cami Tank, $, available at ODDOBODY
ODDOBODY Lounge Pant, $, available at ODDOBODY
“My dog, Chicken Nugget, is my everything and of course, I had to get her something to keep her warm during a chilly New York spring. She absolutely hates heavy and tight clothing so this turtleneck is the perfect article of clothing to keep her warm (but not too warm) while still having mobility for running her zoomies. I’d definitely recommend following the sizing guide on the website and sizing up for a roomier fit. For reference, Nugget got a size medium. Plus, she looks cute as a button — like a très chic French painter. All she needs is a beret!” — Becca Sax, Affiliate Coordinator
Laēlap Milo Turtleneck Top, $, available at Laēlap
“NGL, skin care can be intimidating sometimes. There are so many products to choose from and so many different formulas, from gel to solids to foam. As a rare wearer of makeup, my skin needs a deep cleansing post-beauty. Traditionally I have done a micellar water and foaming facial cleanser. So I was very skeptical before trying this product, but I ended up really liking it. The product feels like a mask (and dries like one) with easy removal. It leaves my face feeling fresh and glowing. I also enjoyed the mindful moment while the mask was drying – it adds a nice pocket of peace to my day.” — Becca Sax, Affiliate Coordinator
Solvasa Golden Harmony Cleansing Mask, $, available at Solvasa
“People are browsing for a new spring scent, but I believe I found my forever one. Jo Malone has tons of timeless scents that evoke nostalgic moments, and the Wild Bluebell does just that. It’s a fresh, crisp, fruity scent with bluebell, lily of the valley, persimmon, and lemon — perfect for spring. With one whiff, I’m brought back to my grandma’s garden. While I would peer and ask her which flower was which, she always came up behind me with a plate of Korean persimmons to snack on. It’s a scent perfect for spritzing on before bed, for daily use, or to bring back memories.” — Vivien Lee, Affiliate Fashion Writer
Jo Malone London Wild Bluebell Cologne, $, available at Saks Fifth Avenue
“After a long winter of hiding out in various tube socks and heavy boots, my feet are aching to roam free in cute summer footwear. I recently went on a beach vacay and couldn’t stop popping on these strappy sandals from Naot. For starters, the cork and latex footbed is perfectly contoured to my arches, keeping the shoes light as a feather. The black leather strappy design is really versatile and looked good with virtually any outfit I wore. The feature that really deals the deal? A Velcro closure that requires less than zero effort to fasten. They are the type of no-brainer, lazy travel shoe I’ll be bringing to all my warm-weather adventures.” — Venus Wong, Senior Travel Writer
Naot Kayla Wedge Sandal, $, available at Amazon
“After I sang the praises of HUM Nutrition’s sleep aid tablets during Most Wanted’s Sleep Week, the fine folks at the brand alerted me to a new gummy version — and I gotta say this stuff gets me hitting the hay like nothing else. I pop two of these berry-flavored gummies about 30 minutes to an hour before I plan on snoozing, do my whole nighttime routine, climb into bed, and before I know it, I’m dropping my phone mid-scroll like a hot potato.” — Jinnie Lee, Freelance Fashion Writer
Hum Nutrition BEAUTY ZZZZ GUMMIES, $, available at Hum Nutrition
“It’s finally skirt weather again, and this Amazon purchase is a perfect transition piece from spring through summer. Not only is it the perfect midi length, making it effortlessly stylish with any top it’s paired with, but also its elastic waist is ruched and so comfortable that I was able to wear it out and about while experiencing terrible period cramps. If you already have a black swishy midi skirt, this one comes in 14 different color options, too.” — Charlotte Lewis, Sexual Wellness Content Producer/Writer
Exchic Stretchy Ruched Waist Casual Flared Yoga Skirt, $, available at Amazon
“I’m Korean, which means my body is 60% ramen (usually the unhealthy kind). So when I was targeted an ad for Immi, a new vegan low-cal and high-protein ramen brand, I had to try it. Honestly, the variety pack is super tasty but it goes down like a healthy meal. Plus, I could always use more protein in my everyday diet. I like to add an egg and some chili oil to my bowl before I slurp it.” — Jinnie Lee, Freelance Fashion Writer
immi Variety Pack Ramen, 6-Pack, $, available at Amazon
“Ever since I saw this suave suitcase pop up in an episode of Succession, it has been living in my head rent-free. After testing out the Roy family’s go-to suitcase for myself, I can now confidently say that the people clamoring about “quiet luxury” are definitely onto something. I rave about the suitcase at length in my standalone Carl Friedrik carry-on review, but if you want the jist: this is the most stylish piece of luggage I own, and I was seriously impressed with how it weathered some major travel damage on my part. The fact that it costs about half of what a designer carry-on case would – and makes me look like a high-flying Succession character – just takes the cake.” — Venus Wong, Senior Travel Writer
Carl Friedrik The Carry-on, $, available at Carl Friedrik
“My newest obsession? Slime, slime, slime! If you haven’t delved deep into slime, let me explain the appeal in two words: Sensory heaven. Whether it’s soft or crunchy, there’s nothing like hyper-focusing on playing with some slime. For me, nothing hits like Sloomoo Institute’s Something Blue with its irresistible scent and crunchy texture. I couldn’t recommend it enough. I’m obsessed.” — Mercedes Viera, Associate Deals Writer
Sloomoo Institute Something Blue, $, available at Sloomoo Institute
“This backpack has been my trusty companion on both long and short-haul travels ever since I reviewed it for Most Wanted last month. It’s great for travel, thanks to the big internal volume, lightweight construction, and side pockets. I just love being able to squeeze any additional shopping (or any outwear when I get warm) and being able to lug things around without burdening my back. The brand is offering 30% off on some classic Little America colorways (on both the Standard size and the smaller Mid-Volume), and it’s a great opportunity to grab this Herschel bestseller.” — Venus Wong, Senior Travel Writer
Herschel Little America Backpack, $, available at Herschel
“When I saw this cropped sweater on Cider, I knew I had to add it to my spring wardrobe. It’s cozy without being too heavy, which is perfect for the chilly spring weather. Believe it or not, it’s also a great conversation starter. I can’t tell you how divided my friends, family, and coworkers have been on whether it’s an orange or a PEACH (!?) But as per the style name, it’s definitely an orange! Plus, I’ve even gotten compliments on how soft it is, so it’s an overall win.” — Victoria Montalti, Associate Affiliate Writer
cider Orange Pattern Knitted Short Sleeve Crop Top, $, available at Cider
“I recently reviewed these Bombas best-selling socks, and I’ve been such a fan of them since. I was so surprised by how cushiony they are and love that they have right and left sides for perfect foot contouring and a comfortable fit. I wear these to the gym or when I know I have a lot of walking to do and want to stay comfy all day long.” — Victoria Montalti, Associate Affiliate Writer
Bombas Women’s All-Purpose Performance Ankle Socks, $, available at Bombas
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