As the final days of summer approach, it’s the perfect time for soaking up balmy rooftop nights, crushing our Goodreads list by the pool, and making the most of our warm-weather style opportunities. (Although this author would argue that “hot girl summer” is a year-round state of mind.)
Being a Refinery29 shopping editor means clocking hours diligently testing and reviewing an endless number of products to make sure you, our dear readers, never have to experience buyer’s remorse. (Unfortunately, we can’t really help when it comes to trying a new Trader Joe’s snack that doesn’t hit.) But truthfully, we also love to shop after hours.
Every month, we scroll our order histories to reveal the highlight reel that we would be remiss to keep quiet about — with everything priced at under $100. (No gatekeeping here!) From crisp cotton PJs to SPF moisturizers and plushie keychains, peruse ahead for the 13 best purchases Refinery29 editors made in July.
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.
Charlotte Tilbury Unreal Blush Healthy Glow Stick
“‘Unreal’ really is the word for this blush — I’ve been wearing it nonstop since I discovered it a few weeks ago. The texture is buttery smooth, gliding over skin without disturbing my foundation, and it blends so seamlessly that I never need to tidy up with concealer afterwards (which I usually do with others). I’m obsessed with the shade Rosy Glow. It has subtle pearlescent particles that bring life to my cheeks without veering into sparkly territory. The staying power is also seriously impressive. Unlike most cream blushes, the pigment really lasts, so I never need to top up throughout the day. I also love the chunky stick format; it feels generous and great value for money.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, Beauty Director
Charlotte Tilbury Unreal Lip + Cheek Glow Blush Stick, $, available at Sephora
Monchhichi Bearchichi Plushie Keychain
“After being totally entranced by Labubu keychains and diving into the whimsical world of character plushies, I also discovered Monchhichis — a slightly less contentious toy that looks more like a little bear than a large gremlin. So when I dug deeper and found this Monchhichi with a pink bib on Urban Outfitters website, I knew I had to have it. I like that this one isn’t a mystery design, so I knew exactly what I was getting. The palm-sized toy is also perfect for wearing as a bag charm on small bags, without it completely taking over. And $16 is definitely worth sparking some joy every time I look down at it.” — Victoria Montalti, Associate Fashion Writer
Monchhichi Bearchichi Plushie Keychain, $, available at Urban OutfittersPhoto: Courtesy of Victoria Montalti.
Murad Superactive Mattifying Oil + Pore Control Moisturizer SPF 50
“I’m usually skeptical about mattifying sunscreens, especially as someone with very oily skin. Most of them look powdery or chalky and do little to control shine throughout the day. But this one is built differently. It takes a moment to work into the skin, but it’s so deeply hydrating that I skip my usual moisturiser and use this on its own. The real magic happens as the day goes on. Whether I’m on a packed, sweaty train or sprinting through central London, not a trace of shine breaks through my makeup. Even better, it doesn’t aggravate my acne-prone skin. In fact, it helps improve it, thanks to salicylic acid, which keeps pores clear. And with its high SPF, my skin stays protected and fresh all day.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, Beauty Director
Murad Superactive Mattifying Oil + Pore Control Moisturizer, $, available at Sephora
Grande Cosmetics GrandeBROW-LAMINATE Brow Styling Gel
“I’ve tried countless clear brow gels, but none like Grande Cosmetics’ GrandeBROW-LAMINATE Brow Styling Gel. It sort of reminds me of the soap brow trend of 2019, but so, so much better. This gel isn’t crunchy or stiff whatsoever, but holds its shape unlike any other brow product I’ve tried. And can we talk about the included brush? The head itself is quite tiny, but I actually like that it allows me to wield it with better precision and get the product just where I need it. I haven’t noticed any considerable growth yet, but I also have pretty bushy brows to begin with, so it’s not a major selling point for me. I know the brand is best known for its brow and lash serums, but let me tell you — this sleeper hit is the real deal.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer
Grande Cosmetics GrandeBROW-LAMINATE Brow Styling Gel, $, available at Sephora
Sacheu Peel Off Lip Liner STAY-N
“Ever since sampling a handful of shades of the viral SacheuPeel Off Lip Liners, I’ve been hooked. Nothing I’ve tried works better to give lips a long-lasting, weightless stain that doesn’t move or transfer. But like the rest of the world, I’ve been patiently waiting for its most popular shade, nOO-Hde, to be restocked. Well fam, the day finally arrived this month, and I wasted no time in buying one at Ulta. It was worth the wait, and then some. It’s truly the perfect MLBB (that’s “my lips but better”) warm hue that I will be wearing daily until further notice.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer
Sacheu Peel Off Lip Liner STAY-N, $, available at Ulta BeautyPhoto: Courtesy of Karina Hoshikawa.
Color Wow Speed Dry Blow-Dry Spray
“I haven’t tried many Color Wow products in the past, but since I ran out of my It’s A 10 leave-in-conditioner-meets-heat-protectant after I had just dyed my hair, I needed a product from my local Sephora in a pinch. The staff highly recommended this product, which magically removes excess water from your wet hair and decreases blow-drying time. It’s become a game-changer for me because I can dry my hair much faster now, and therefore put less heat and strain on my dyed strands to help preserve the color for longer.” — Victoria Montalti, Associate Fashion Writer
Color Wow Speed Dry Blow-Dry Spray, $, available at Color WowPhoto: Courtesy of Victoria Montalti.
NiuYichee 2 PCS Water Absorbent Diatomite Coasters Rectangle
“I moved recently, and my kitchen sink is installed in the center kitchen island. Cute, but also means that things could get messy (read: wet) while doing dishes. I saw a TikTok ad for these stone, splash-proof trays for your dish soap, and my life is forever changed. They’re visually chic, and work like a total dream. Splashes of water absorb and dry within seconds, and my counter has never looked cleaner. And did I mention that a pack of two is less than $10?” — Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer
NiuYichee 2 PCS Water Absorbent Diatomite Rectangle Coasters, $, available at Amazon
Rahua Smoothing Hair Balm
“I’ve tried a lot of products to tame my stubborn flyaways, but most of them either make my hair too crunchy or greasy. This balm is the rare exception. It contains rahua oil, a natural ingredient from the Amazon that boosts shine, hydration, and overall scalp health. The floral scent is just lovely, and the compact size means it’s great to carry around for last-minute touch-ups.” — Venus Wong, Senior Writer
Rahua Smoothing Hair Balm, $, available at DermStorePhoto: Courtesy of Venus Wong.
Glossier Lip Glaze
“I recently had the pleasure of speaking with international pop girl group Katseye, who are the new faces of Glossier and modeled for the brand’s launch of Lip Glaze, a lip oil-gloss hybrid. After seeing how lovely it looks on the girls, I had to try it for myself – and I’m so glad I did. Chilly, a cool baby pink, enhances the natural color of my lips with a luscious shine that doesn’t feel too sticky. I enjoy the minty sensation and the doe foot applicator, which distributes just the right amount to coat my lips.” — Venus Wong, Senior Writer
Glossier Lip Glaze (Chilly), $, available at GlossierPhoto: Courtesy of Venus Wong.
ERHA Digestion Drink
“My appetite disappears when it’s hot out, and I often get indigestion after heavier meals. This blackberry-flavored herbal drink is a new discovery that has made a huge difference: it’s packed with six grams of fiber and helps my stomach feel less bloated after big meals. I also love the refreshing flavor, which reminds me of hibiscus iced tea. It’s stocked at Erewhon, which tells you everything you need to know about its cool factor.” — Venus Wong, Senior Writer
Erha Digestion with Invigorating Blackberry Hibiscus Drink, $, available at ErewhonPhoto: Courtesy of Venus Wong.
Uniqlo Wide Pleated Midi Skirt
“This pleated skirt from Uniqlo has moved to the top of my wardrobe rotation as a breezy yet put-together piece I can wear to the office. The flat waistband gives enough stretch to tuck my shirt in, and the mid-calf length looks flattering on my 5’1″ frame. The fabric has a bit of weight to it, but I can still move around comfortably in it on a hot summer day, and I’d imagine the olive green color will go very well with my fall and winter outfits, too.” — Venus Wong, Senior Writer
Uniqlo Wide Pleated Midi Skirt, $, available at UniqloPhoto: Courtesy of Venus Wong.
Katie Kime Après Ski Toile Pajama Shorts Set
“I discovered Katie Kime after being gifted a set of PJs on a press trip, and ever since, I’ve been obsessed with the brand. The toile prints (inspired by various cities, including Texas, where the brand is based) are so cute, and the lightweight cotton fabric is soft and smooth against skin. I know it’s still summer, but I couldn’t resist buying this après-ski-themed set featuring some of my favorite snowy motifs: Fair Isle sweaters, fire pits, and other cozy surprises.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer
Katie Kime Après Ski Toile Pajama Shorts Set, $, available at Katie KimePhoto: Courtesy of Karina Hoshikawa.
Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch for Tired Eyes Patches
“I’ve sworn by Hero Cosmetics’ Mighty Patch as my first-line defense for breakouts, but until recently, I was sleeping on some of their other patch solutions — namely, this under-eye set. This pack contains three pairs of patches infused with three forms of hyaluronic acid, as well as niacinamide, panthenol, and allantoin to visibly soothe, hydrate, and brighten even the most sleep-deprived eyes. (Pro tip: Keep them in the fridge and enjoy even more cooling, depuffing benefits.)” — Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer
Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch for Tired Eyes Patches, $, available at Ulta BeautyPhoto: Courtesy of Karina Hoshikawa.
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