Glam on a Budget: Unveiling Our Top Beauty and Fashion Finds Under £50 Tested and Treasured in 2023
As we bid adieu to 2023, our beauty and fashion aficionados have curated a list of tried, tested, and treasured gems that won't break the bank. In a year filled with beauty sensations like Elemis' Rose Pro Collagen Marine Cream and Charlotte Tilbury's Hollywood Glow Glide Face Architect Highlighter, our team scoured high and low for the best beauty and fashion picks, from viral must-haves to cult favorites.
From budget-friendly mascaras under £5 to electronic face tools under £50, our list spans the spectrum of beauty essentials. Each item on this carefully curated list has undergone rigorous testing by our dedicated team, earning its place as a standout recommendation for 2024. Whether it's skincare, makeup, wardrobe staples, or fragrance, these top-notch selections have secured a coveted spot in our 2023 beauty and fashion favorites, all priced under £50.
Among the noteworthy finds is the New Look satin midaxi skirt, priced at £26.99. Bethan Shufflebotham raves about its affordability, style, and quality. Having scoured various brands, including River Island, H&M, M&S, and Primark, Shufflebotham names the New Look skirt as the Mirror Choice best satin skirt. Praising its glossy appearance and premium texture, she emphasizes its versatility for any occasion, be it the office, dinner dates, or casual drinks.
These selections have seamlessly integrated into our daily rituals, wardrobes, and hair wash routines, promising a delightful mix of practicality and affordability. So, without further ado, let us introduce you to the beauty and fashion treasures that have earned a special place in our hearts and routines throughout 2023.
In a sea of wardrobe options, the standout feature of LookFantastic's skirt, as attested by over 80 satisfied shoppers and even endorsed by Frankie Bridge, is its super stretchy elasticated waist. Notably, this design choice resonates with those seeking comfort on days when bloating or self-consciousness takes center stage. With four of these versatile skirts gracing my wardrobe, it's safe to say they've secured a top spot in my 2023 favorites, effortlessly transforming outfits and lending them a look that feels 10 times more expensive than jeans. Grab yours here for £49.99, or catch it at the steal of £32 during Black Friday.
Moving into the realm of skincare, Narin Flanders shares her surprising journey from minimal skincare to discovering her top beauty buy—the Sensse electronic face cleanser from LookFantastic priced at £49.99 (though she snagged it for £32 during Black Friday). Approaching her 40s, she found her skin yearning for a pick-me-up, and the Sensse, recommended by knowledgeable team members, proved to be a game-changer. Not only did it address concerns like white milia and blocked pores, but Flanders noticed a significant improvement in her skin's texture. Coupled with the Elemis cleansing balm, it delivered a deep clean without the tightness or raw sensation associated with traditional exfoliators. Dive into the skincare revolution and grab yours here.
Meanwhile, at The Body Shop, Lucy Addicott unveils her winter savior—the Ginger Scalp Serum priced at £18. As the colder weather takes a toll on her scalp, leaving it dry and flaky, Lucy turned to TikTok for a solution and discovered a multitude of dry scalp sufferers endorsing The Body Shop's Ginger Hair Care Range. Incorporating the Ginger Scalp Serum into her routine proved simple, involving application with a handy pipet followed by a soothing massage into roots and scalp. After a brief 30-minute wait, it seamlessly integrates into her hair care routine, offering a rescue mission for her winter-weary scalp. Get your Ginger Scalp Serum here and bid farewell to winter scalp woes.
This collection of beauty and fashion favorites under £50 not only caters to diverse needs but also offers a budget-friendly yet transformative addition to daily routines.
In the battle against dry and flaky scalps, Lucy Addicott found her winter savior in The Body Shop's Ginger Scalp Serum, priced at £18. Noticing a tangible difference after the first hair wash, she now considers it her trusty serum, swiftly addressing dry scalp issues almost immediately. Despite its £18 price tag, the investment has proven worthwhile for Lucy, who has been using it since the beginning of the year and still has plenty left. This serum stands out as the sole product that effectively combats dryness, making it an indispensable addition to her hair care routine. Experience the magic for yourself and grab yours here.
Shifting gears to fashion, Eve Rowlands hails Nobody's Child for offering one of her favorite dresses of the year—the Pink Zendaya Midi Dress priced at £45 (originally snagged for £25 in a sale). Describing it as a showstopper with its gorgeous balloon sleeves and open back, Eve appreciates its soft and floaty feel, thanks to the fabric's composition (85% TENCEL™ Lyocell, 15% Polyester). Not confined to party occasions, she highlights its versatility, easily transitioning from a casual look with Dr. Marten boots and a jumper to an elevated ensemble with heels and statement jewelry. Eve underscores the endless options this dress brings, emphasizing the multitude of compliments it has garnered since her purchase. Make it yours here and revel in its transformative appeal.
Meanwhile, Stacey Dutton shares her revelation with Living Proof's Jumbo Advanced Clean Dry Shampoo, priced at £38. Amidst her busy work and life schedule, she was skeptical about finding the time for a proper hair routine. However, the Living Proof dry shampoo exceeded expectations, providing a lasting solution. Stacey highlights its unmatched quality and breakthrough formula, which not only eliminates oil and sweat but also leaves hair with a just-washed softness and shine. Despite its higher price tag compared to other options, Stacey emphasizes the long-lasting nature of the product, making it a worthwhile investment. Dive into the world of effortlessly refreshed hair and get yours here.
Closing the spotlight is an Amazon find priced at £27, inviting intrigue into a product that awaits discovery. The journey through tried, tested, and treasured beauty and fashion picks under £50 continues, offering a diverse array of transformative choices that cater to individual needs and preferences.
When my trusty near-decade old ghd straighteners bid their farewell earlier this year, I embarked on a quest for a budget-friendly substitute while holding out on investing in the likes of Dyson Corrale or Cloud Nine. Putting my faith in the wisdom of nearly 19,000 five-star Amazon reviews, I stumbled upon the Remington Shine Therapy Advanced Ceramic Hair Straighteners S8500, and it's been a game-changer. Usually priced at £79.99, these straighteners are a rare sight at full price, often hovering under £30 year-round and dipping below £20 during Black Friday sales. Boasting variable temperature settings, rapid heat-up, and floating plates for seamless gliding, they effortlessly leave my hair impeccably straight and irresistibly glossy after each use. The best part? They won't break the bank. Snag these budget straighteners here.
In the realm of fashion, Narin Flanders unveils her favorite purchase of the year—a true gem found after reading a Mirror Choice feature on a viral budget-friendly handbag. The Uniqlo mini round shoulder bag, priced at £14.90, stole her heart with its practicality and affordability. Flanders chose the versatile black option, and it quickly became an everyday essential, earning the endearing nickname 'Tardis bag' due to its deceptively spacious interior. While not waterproof, it proved rain-resistant enough for those unexpected showers. Securing a Top Cashback offer that practically made it free, Flanders couldn't resist and added a green corduroy version to her collection. Bethan Shufflebotham, equally enamored, confessed to owning four of these bags in various colors, even opting for a personalized embroidered version. Grab this fashion essential here — a purchase you won't regret.
Adding a touch of luxury to the mix is Charlotte Tilbury's offering priced at £39, promising an indulgent beauty experience. As the beauty and fashion favorites under £50 continue to unfold, the Remington straighteners and Uniqlo handbag stand out as exemplary choices that combine affordability with top-notch performance and style.
As the saying goes, 'first impressions last,' and for Harriet Morphy-Morris, Charlotte Tilbury's Airbrush Flawless Foundation left an indelible mark. Nearly two years and four bottles later, it stands as the sole coverage product gracing her skin. With the promise of staying all day and night, this foundation lives up to its claim, providing a seamless application that endures from morning to evening. Harriet attests to its smooth application and notes that despite its matte finish, it retains a dewy appearance on her skin—an appealing quality that avoids the dryness often associated with matte coverage. Being water-based, she advises using a brush for application, steering clear of the product-absorbing tendencies of a beauty blender. Find this beauty essential at Marks and Spencer for £35.
Meanwhile, in the ever-evolving world of fashion trends, Bethan Shufflebotham navigated the transition from skinny jeans to wide-leg elegance. With TikTok's decree that skinny jeans are 'out,' Bethan sought a budget-friendly alternative to update her wardrobe. Marks and Spencer's Wide-Leg Jeans, priced at £35, emerged as the answer to her quest. Available in seven shades, including classic black and various blue tones, as well as more adventurous choices like soft green and daring beige, these jeans offer versatility to suit different styles. Bethan highlights the true black hue of the denim, avoiding the common grayish tint found in other options. Emphasizing the perfect fit, she notes the authentic stretch denim crafted from responsibly sourced cotton that provides comfort and molds to the body's contours. These jeans seamlessly blend affordability, quality, and fit, creating the perfect fashion trifecta. Elevate your wardrobe with these wide-leg wonders here.
In the realm of beauty bargains, Look Fantastic offers a budget-friendly gem at £10. As the exploration of tried, tested, and treasured beauty and fashion picks under £50 continues, the Airbrush Flawless Foundation and Wide-Leg Jeans stand out as exemplary choices, combining affordability with top-notch performance and style.
Eve Rowlands sings praises for a skincare gem that won't break the bank—& Other Stories' Perle de Coco Body Lotion, priced at £11. As a staple in her skincare routine, this budget-friendly moisturizer has earned the moniker of a Charlotte Tilbury’s Magic Cream alternative, delivering similar consistency and results. Eve, on a quest for radiant and smooth skin ahead of her wedding, discovered this powerhouse cream boasting ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid, Peptides, Vitamin C, Shea Butter, Camelina Oil, and more. The application left her skin super smooth and dewy, with noticeable firmness and reduced lines after a few weeks of use. The glowing compliments from a beauty therapist reinforced the transformative effects of this affordable gem. Despite its rich and heavy texture, Eve incorporates it into her evening routine for a nightly skincare boost, reserving Garnier’s SkinActive Vitamin C 2in1 Brightening Serum Cream for daytime use. Experience the magic of this budget-friendly beauty essential here.
Lucy Addicott unveils her newfound love for body lotion, thanks to & Other Stories' Perle de Coco Body Lotion. Priced at £11, this delightful discovery revolutionized Lucy's skincare routine, turning a once-skipped step into a luxurious self-care ritual. The enticing scent, reminiscent of Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula but with added notes of sweet caramel and warm vanilla, instantly captivated Lucy. The non-sticky formula absorbs within minutes, providing a quick and effective solution for silky, smooth skin. The milky, lightweight texture and lingering fragrance make it a winter essential, and Lucy credits this body lotion with converting her into a year-round moisturizer enthusiast. Elevate your body care routine with this chic and affordable find here.
In the realm of fashion, River Island takes the spotlight with a £45 offering that combines style and affordability. As the exploration of tried, tested, and treasured beauty and fashion picks under £50 unfolds, & Other Stories' Perle de Coco Body Lotion and River Island's fashion find stand out as exemplary choices, offering budget-friendly yet transformative additions to daily routines.
Eve Rowlands shares a game-changing discovery in the world of online jean shopping—the River Island jeans that defy the usual hit-or-miss experience. Eve, initially skeptical about ordering jeans online, found that these River Island jeans fit like a glove and were incredibly comfortable. The 100% cotton composition contributed to their decent quality and non-rough feel on her skin. Buttoning up the jeans brought a pleasant surprise—they sat on her waist perfectly, providing an ideal fit. Beyond the waistline, the material draped around her legs without clinging awkwardly to the thighs or calves, flattering her figure from hip to toe. The frayed ends added an edgy touch, sealing the deal for Eve, who professes her love for these jeans, wearing them at least twice a week. This discovery offers a beacon of hope for those navigating the challenging terrain of online jean shopping. Snag a pair of these game-changing River Island jeans here.
Bethan Shufflebotham unveils a mascara revelation from Boots—a budget-friendly gem priced at £4. As someone who struggled to find a mascara that truly impressed, Bethan's journey through both cheap and high-end options left her underwhelmed. However, a glimmer of hope emerged when TV presenter Angellica Bell recommended an affordable £4 mascara from a Boots own brand. Intrigued by Bell's endorsement, Bethan decided to give it a try, and the results exceeded her expectations. Usually priced at £4, those with an Advantage Card can often secure it for even less. The newfound obsession prompted Bethan to stock up, buying eight at once to share the mascara love with others. This affordable and effective mascara stands as a testament to the idea that great beauty finds don't always come with a hefty price tag. Explore the mascara magic at Boots here.
In the realm of tried, tested, and treasured beauty and fashion picks under £50, River Island's game-changing jeans and Boots' budget-friendly mascara emerge as exemplary choices. These finds not only defy common shopping challenges but also offer quality and style without breaking the bank, proving that affordable options can be transformative and beloved additions to daily routines.
Eve Rowlands uncovers a mascara gem with a comb-style applicator that promises lush lashes. Opting for a comb over a bristly brush, the fine-tooth design precisely grabs every lash, resembling the precision of a lash tech with tweezers. The mascara's thick formula is skillfully balanced, ensuring the brush doesn't hold excess product that could lead to smudging during application. The fragrance-free formula effortlessly coats lashes from root to tip, providing a dreamy application experience. Elevate your lash game with this mascara, featuring a comb applicator that delivers precision and definition. Click here to enhance your lashes.
Bethan Shufflebotham introduces a black dress from River Island that effortlessly ticks every box for a festive wardrobe essential. Priced at £45, this midi-length dress with short sleeves offers a flattering fit, a touch of glamour, an affordable price point, and versatility for various occasions. The ruched detailing adds an elegant touch, featuring draping across the shoulders and a wrap skirt that creates a figure-flattering ruched effect at the waist. Ideal for Christmas parties, theatre trips, or even a birthday celebration, this dress exudes undeniable elegance. Elevate your winter occasion wear with this stunning black dress from River Island, available for under £50. Purchase the dress here.
Stacey Dutton shares a summer wardrobe find with the White Broderie Maxi from Tu Clothing at Sainsbury's, now available at a reduced price of £25 from £50. The dress, suitable for warmer months, combines comfort with style. Stacey, typically wary of maxi dresses due to a dislike for frumpy styles, praises the flowy and light feel of this dress. Ordering her usual size 10, she finds it to be a comfortable fit for a full day out in the sun. Paired with tan sandals and a simple hairdo, the dress exudes effortless elegance. Whether dressed up or down, this versatile maxi dress offers a comfortable and chic summer wardrobe option. Grab this White Broderie Maxi for a breezy and stylish summer look, available at Tu Clothing at Sainsbury's for £25. Purchase it here.
Stacey Dutton receives a delightful compliment at Aldi while wearing a Tu Clothing at Sainsbury's White Broderie Maxi. Before heading out with her family, a lovely woman approaches Stacey to express admiration for the dress, noting its beauty and how it looks lovely on her. Overwhelmed with happiness, Stacey nearly sheds tears of joy. This heartwarming encounter reinforces the dress's appeal for those seeking an eye-catching outfit for any summer occasion. Available for £25, the White Broderie Maxi from Tu Clothing at Sainsbury's combines style and comfort, making it a must-have for a standout summer wardrobe.
Eve Rowlands discovers a foundation serum on Amazon that becomes a game-changer for her makeup routine. Influenced by social media and friends, Eve decides to test the foundation serum, priced at £8.91. The product, containing 1% Hyaluronic Acid, offers weightless coverage with a luminous finish, combining skincare benefits and foundation coverage. As someone dealing with dry spots, Eve appreciates the hydration and coverage provided by this serum, making her feel more confident when applying a full face of makeup. Notably, the serum stays put all day, maintaining a smooth complexion on problematic areas. Enhance your makeup routine with this foundation serum available on Amazon.
Lucy Addicott shares a budget-friendly hack for enjoying The White Company's Wild Mint, Peppermint & White Tea fragrance. While The White Company products are known for their luxurious scents, Lucy unveils a cost-effective way to relish this particular fragrance without waiting for sales. Describing the scent as a refreshing aroma with sweet undertones, Lucy appreciates its versatility for year-round use. This hack allows individuals to enjoy the delightful fragrance in their homes without splurging on candles or expensive diffusers. Dive into the calming and refreshing scent of Wild Mint, Peppermint & White Tea with this budget-friendly tip.
Eve Rowlands shares a budget-friendly hack to enjoy The White Company's premium fragrance without breaking the bank. By purchasing the Wild Mint Fragrance Oil, Eve can add a few drops to her affordable diffuser, bought for £13 on Amazon. This clever approach allows her to fill the room with The White Company's luxurious scent, providing a cost-effective way to indulge in a premium experience. With only a few drops needed at a time, this savvy method ensures that a single purchase of the Wild Mint Fragrance Oil lasts for an extended period, making it an ideal solution for those looking to enjoy a touch of luxury without a frequent repurchase. Elevate your space with The White Company's signature scent.
Harriet Morphy-Morris reveals her skincare routine transformation with the Clinique Liquid Facial Soap and Clarifying Lotion 2 set, available for £36. Facing challenges with skin breakouts, Harriet adopts a consistent daily routine with these Clinique products. The Liquid Facial Soap provides a foaming cleansing wash, while the Clarifying Lotion 2 helps smooth and freshen the skin. Harriet observes a significant improvement in pigmentation and texture, attributing it to the toner. Despite the higher price compared to other skincare ranges, Harriet appreciates the versatility of the Clinique set, eliminating the need for multiple products for morning and night use. Experience the transformative effects of Clinique's skincare set here.
Bethan Shufflebotham introduces the Trigwell Cosmetic’s powder puff, a TikTok-viral beauty product that has become an essential part of her routine. Unlike other viral beauty buys promising skin-blurring effects, the Trigwell Cosmetic’s powder puff is an applicator designed to work with any translucent powder. Bethan, who has oily skin and prefers a matte finish, has been using the powder puff for several months and loves the soft, smoothed, and poreless look it gives her skin. Embrace the power of this viral beauty tool, which enhances your makeup application for a flawless finish. Try the Trigwell Cosmetic’s powder puff here.
Introducing the Trigwell powder puff, priced at £14.99 for a set of both large and mini puffs, this beauty tool transforms your makeup routine. Bethan Shufflebotham raves about its ability to provide a shine-free, flawless finish while minimizing the appearance of pores. Witness a magic trick before your eyes as the skin looks blurred, texture disappears, and pores become almost non-existent. Bethan demonstrates the puff's impact by applying powder to only half of her face, revealing softened fine lines, concealed dark circles, and reduced creases beneath her eyes when smiling. Elevate your makeup game with this transformative powder puff set. Grab yours here.
Stacey Dutton unveils her long-standing makeup favorite—the Collection Cosmetics Cream Bronzer, priced at just £8.99 from Boots. Despite trying various Charlotte Tilbury products, Stacey insists that Collection Cosmetics wins hands down when it comes to cream bronzer. The sheer finish of the cream bronzer suits her skin better, allowing for buildable color with blush and concealer. Stacey appreciates the glowy effect that requires fewer products over the top, achieving a natural, fresh-faced look that makes her skin feel more youthful than Charlotte Tilbury's. Embrace the budget-friendly bronzer that stands out in Stacey's makeup routine. Purchase the Collection Cosmetics Cream Bronzer here.
Marks and Spencer's Discover Soft Iris perfume takes center stage as a worthy rival to the iconic Chanel Coco Mademoiselle, priced at just £6 for a 30ml bottle or £10 for 100ml. While Chanel's fragrance holds a luxury status at £136 a bottle, the Soft Iris perfume offers an affordable alternative, saving you at least £126. Users have attested to the striking resemblance between the two scents, making the Discover Soft Iris a compelling choice for those seeking an elegant fragrance without the hefty price tag. Indulge in a captivating aroma with Marks and Spencer's budget-friendly perfume. Experience the allure here.
Discover an affordable fragrance that captivates the senses—Marks and Spencer's Discover Soft Iris perfume, priced at just £6 for a 30ml bottle or £10 for 100ml. The perfume shares striking similarities with the iconic Chanel Coco Mademoiselle, boasting citrusy notes, base accords of amber and patchouli, and aromatic vetiver. With bergamot and orange blossom enhancing its allure, this budget-friendly fragrance is perfect for everyday wear. Ideal for on-the-go use, toss it in your bag or keep it in the car, reserving your expensive perfumes for special occasions. Immerse yourself in a delightful aroma without breaking the bank. Try it out here.
Eve Rowlands unveils a timeless fashion staple—the ASOS cable jumper priced at £35. Embodying the essence of the "Frazzled English Woman" trend, reminiscent of characters like Iris in The Holiday and Bridget Jones, this chunky knitwear is a cozy and stylish addition to your winter wardrobe. The oversized fit, dropped shoulders, crew neckline, and ribbed trims provide ultimate comfort, while the blend of polyester, nylon, and acrylic keeps you warm as temperatures drop. Pair it with jeans, a massive scarf, and a trench coat for a chic winter look. Elevate your winter wardrobe with this adorable cream cable jumper. Get it here.
Shani Cohen introduces the perfect night-out dress for the festive season—the NA-KD mini dress priced at £44.95. With Christmas and New Year's approaching, Shani recommends this sparkly piece to add glamour to your winter wardrobe. The flowy fit conceals lumps and bumps, and the cuffed design cinches your waist, making it ideal for post-Christmas dinners. The long sleeves and high boat neckline provide warmth and flatter your figure. Whether paired with leather knee-high boots for a chic look or statement heels for the ultimate night out, this dress is a versatile and stylish choice. Don't miss out—buy it here before it's gone.
In conclusion, this curated selection of tried, tested, and treasured beauty and fashion finds under £50 offers a glimpse into the must-have products that have captured the hearts of the Mirror Choice team in 2023. From budget-friendly mascaras to electronic face tools, satin skirts to chic dresses, each item on this list has undergone rigorous scrutiny, earning its place as a standout favorite. The team's dedication to uncovering affordable yet quality pieces shines through, providing readers with valuable insights into the best beauty buys and fashion picks for the year. As we bid farewell to 2023, these recommendations promise to elevate your skincare routine, enhance your wardrobe, and add a touch of luxury to your everyday life, all without breaking the bank. Embrace the essence of style and self-care with these coveted selections that promise to make 2024 a year of beauty and fashion excellence.