What to Buy if You’re Shopping at Big-Box Retailers

We’re constantly surprised by Drew Barrymore’s in-house line, Beautiful. In addition to on-trend home decor and furniture, it also offers streamlined cookware under $100. This countertop air fryer is ideal for small spaces and isn’t an eyesore. You can do everything from baking and reheating to roasting and frying. ($39.96, Walmart)

Skimm’rs were the ones to put us on to Free Assembly, one of Walmart’s in-house clothing brands. Their pieces are inexpensive, but will last for multiple seasons. We’re currently eyeing this striped midi dress as it reminds us of a Damson Madder dress for a fraction of the price. ($34, Walmart)

This one is compact enough to fit in most bags, and the chic pale blue color means you’ll always be able to spot it. It holds up to two whole charges and is perfect for quick bursts of power during errands, nights out, and long travel days. ($11.88, Walmart)

Free Assembly does it again. This time, with a ruched one-piece that is giving Reformation energy. It comes in sizing up to 1X, and you can tie the front as tight as you need depending on desired coverage. It comes in two colorways, but we think the olive green looks particularly expensive. ($30, Walmart)

These 9-inch plates look like they came straight from a MacKenzie-Childs catalogue, and we’re here for it. They’re covered in a watercolor shell print that isn’t overly kitschy. Hang one up as a part of a gallery wall or use them for your next summer gathering. The best part? One plate costs $5. ($5, Target)

Soft pants forever. These shorts are made of loose linen and have a comfortable elastic waistband. If denim shorts aren’t your thing, you’ll love these. Pair them with a white tee for the ultimate 90-degree outfit. ($12.60, Target)

Coach’s Brooklyn Bag had its viral moment on TikTok this past fall. If you can’t stomach spending nearly $500 on a leather tote bag but want the same look, this one from Universal Thread is nearly identical. ($35, Target)

Speaking of dupes, our editor claims that this Day Lash mascara from Versed is eerily similar to her beloved Glossier Lash Slick. It’s a pretty natural-looking mascara because it provides basic definition and lift. Just like Glossier Lash Slick, it also comes in brown and removes well with warm water. ($14.99, Target)

These Sony wireless headphones are a noteworthy alternative to more expensive headphones on the market. The sound quality gets the job done for basic noise cancellation and focus, while the design is sleek. It has an adjustable headband for a custom fit, and like most headphones today, pairs to your devices via Bluetooth. ($59.99, Best Buy)

It wouldn’t be a Best Buy round-up without mentioning Oura ring. We love that this fitness tracker looks at overall well-being, rather than zoning in on steps or diet. It’ll let you know how well you’re sleeping, your stress levels, and can even detect when you might be at risk for getting sick. We don’t find ourselves obsessing over the stats with this one, just using it to feel our best every day. ($499, Best Buy)

Hatch’s Restore 3 is another tech product adored by our editors. The design-forward bedside device has consistently set us up for nearly effortless mornings starting at bedtime. You can use the Bluetooth-powered app to curate your own wind-down and wake-up routines by selecting sounds, along with light color and levels. You can also implement the sunrise alarm feature as a way to steadily wake up in a way that isn’t jarring. The Restore 3 has most of its controls on the device, so once you’ve set your routine on the app, you can go phone-free. The best part? It’s officially HSA/FSA-eligible. ($169.99, Best Buy)

These hypoallergenic pads are infused with centella asiatica and madecassoside to soothe redness and irritation. Use them in the morning or at night after cleansing, before moisturizer. If you also deal with uneven texture, they’ll help with that, too. ($29.90, Amazon)

This $35 set comes with a crossover cropped T-shirt and matching joggers. Keep a couple colors on hand for lazy WFH stints or long travel days. You’ll look put together with minimal effort. ($35.10, Amazon)

This one goes out to those who aren’t overly precious with their sunglasses. Our editors and Skimm’rs alike have been loving SOJOS for high-quality, trendy sunglasses that typically do not exceed $25. This pair is inspired by a retro Celine style, but they have countless options to choose from. ($15.99, Amazon)

Looking to change up your bedroom? Swap out your old duvet cover with this set for a quick fix.  You’ll get a duvet cover with matching shams that feels so soft like it’s already been washed multiple times. Not to mention, it comes in 10 sizes and 26 colors. (Price varies by size, Amazon)

Hero’s Mighty Patch is a tried-and-true step in many of our editors’ skincare routines. Because these patches are so thin and undetectable, we’ve even worn them out while running errands. This bundle comes with the classic circular hydrocolloid patches and a larger version you can use for body acne. ($24.70, Amazon)

Anthropologie who? We were excited when we found this steal of a set. It’s just under $300 for five pieces you can put on a balcony or small outdoor space. You’ll get four chairs and a matching table, all of which are made of handwoven, water-resistant resin wicker. It’s also made of rust-free aluminum, so you won’t have to worry about rain. ($299, Sam’s Club)

Bulk buying for the win. We love stocking up on beauty and skincare we know we’ll always need. These bundles are typically cheaper than regular market prices and they’ll last for longer. This Neutrogena Ultra Sheet Body Mist provides ample broad spectrum coverage and doesn’t cling to your skin in an uncomfortable way. (Price varies, Sam’s Club)

This upholstered bench is small enough for an entryway, but has shelves underneath to maximize vertical space. You can use it for storing shoes or any small accessories you don’t want to forget on your way out the door. ($49.98, Sam’s Club)

One can never have too many tubes of Aquaphor. Use the barrier balm all over your body to soothe irritation and hydrate cracked skin. It’s the best lip balm of all time for a reason. ($17.98, Sam’s Club)

Yes, you can buy luxury skincare at Sam’s Club. This T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum from Drunk Elephant is the only step you’ll need to get exfoliated skin overnight. It has salicylic acid to unclog pores and antioxidants to hydrate. It’s usually around $70, but at Sam’s Club, you can get it for about $50. ($49.91, Sam’s Club)