What if we told you that luxury doesn’t always have to be out of reach. If you look in the right places, you can find that cashmere sweater or rich body cream at much more reasonable cost — without sacrificing quality.
Don’t believe us? Lifestyle expert Bahar Takhtehchian joined the 3rd hour of TODAY to break down some smart saves in style, beauty and home. For starters, brands like Quince offer cashmere-blend pieces starting at $35 and you’ll find a multi-styling hair system from a Shop TODAY tried-and-true brand.
So before you splurge on that high-ticket item, take a peek at some affordable options that feel luxurious and provide amazing results.
The best smart saves seen on TODAY
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to spend a fortune on cashmere. Quince offers affordable options like this cashmere and cotton-blend sweater tee that Takhtehchian lives for in-between seasons.
According to the brand, this men’s polo sweater is designed with 100% Mongolian cashmere for $60. Takhtehchian notes how the Johnny collar adds a little flair to the classic style.
Editor’s note: Our broadcast pick is a Quince app-exclusive, we found another cashmere-blend option that’s available to purchase on the website.
This isn’t your usual hoodie, it gets an elevated upgrade with it’s waffle texture and luxurious cotton and cashmere-blend material. The elevated style can be worn anywhere from planes to casual office days.
Culotte pants are surging over 100% in Google search this past year, and many brands can run you well over $100 for these stylish bottoms. But we found an option for under $50 that’s high-quality and flattering. “I tried these myself, and not only are they comfy, but they’re easy to dress up for work or down for running errands,” says Takhtehchian.
“Getting cozy doesn’t have to come with a luxury price tag,” says the expert. “This trendy bubble blanket from Bedsure has a plush, 3D-textured pattern that gives it an extra-soft, warm feel.”
The brand notes that this blanket can be used year round, it’s lightweight for summer temperatures, while being warm enough for fall and winter.
Digital calendars are having a major moment for busy households and lifestyles, and Taketehchian explains that this gadget acts as a centralized hub for to-do lists, appointments, shopping lists and so much more. The best thing about this option is that it’s under $70, doesn’t require a subscription and when not in use, it turns into a digital picture frame.
Nivea’s Creme Body Moisturizer has gone viral on TikTok for it’s rich formula, provitamin B5 ingredients and $10 price tag. According to the brand, it can be used on your face and body, and softens rough areas such as your elbows and knees.
This black cherry lip color has been an cult-favorite for the fall season for decades. It’s buildable, hydrating and looks flattering on every skin tone, not to mention it rings up at only $5.
More smart saves to shop
People will never guess you bought these sandals for under $30. The stylish design has a luxurious and elevated look that you can pair with dresses, skirts and more.
This previous Beauty Award winner is a staple in many editor’s makeup bags. The affordable cream-to-powder eyeshadow stick is perfect for quick makeup routines, gliding and blending seamlessly across the lids for a pop of color.
Assistant marker editor Audrey Ekman says she’s “obsessed” with this brand’s fragrance line. She says the scents remind her of much more prestige brand perfumes but smell just as good.
You don’t have to dish out $80-plus on a pair of high-quality leggings. According to the brand, this option is made with “butterluxe” fabric that “feels like second skin.”
Ballet flats will always be a fall fashion must-have, and the washable styles have been gaining traction with many notable brands coming out with their own take. However, this find is under $40 and offers both comfort and style. I [Garlin] own a pair and was surprised at their arch support and functionality.
Noise-cancelling headphones are must-have for travel days, commuting and noisy offices. This pair from Anker is currently under $50 and has incredible reviews from shoppers who rave about the quality and clear sound.
Our editors love a multi-styling system for it’s convenience, ease-of-use and salon-like results. While some may cost you hundreds, WavyTalk has multi-styler for under $100. It has five attachments for smoothing, adding volume and more.
Meet the expert
Our team features a range of qualified experts and contributors in our broadcast segments to reveal the latest trends, remarkable sale events and all things shopping across a variety of categories. Products were independently chosen by members of the Shop TODAY team along with Bahar Taktehchian.
- Bahar Takhtehchian is a lifestyle and beauty expert who formerly stopped by the show to highlight multitasking cleaning items, travel products and more.
How we chose
The Shop TODAY editors and writers search the internet to find the best products out there. We interview expert sources, comb through customer reviews and even use our own personal experiences to make shopping easier for our readers.
As an editorial team, we independently create content and determine coverage based on research, reporting and what we think TODAY.com readers would like to read about. The goal of our content is to provide a service and inform readers who are on the hunt for the latest products to help make their life better. Items are sold by retailer, not TODAY. Pricing and availability are accurate as of publish time.
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