You Only Need $20
Dozens of pieces that will make your day for less than a mediocre cocktail.
I’m not here to litigate the problematic facets of retail therapy today. All I know is that sometimes, in dire straits, a purchase can be harm reduction in comparison to other potentially more dangerous coping mechanisms, and it seems like most of us are on the ropes these days. Of course, financial recklessness isn’t without its dangers, which is why this past year I have become a pro at finding sub-$20 items that maximize dopamine, stylishness, and utility per dollar. Below, over 40 items for under $20 a piece that can add a little spark of intrigue to your life—a package in the mail, a new bauble on your finger or dresser or couch—for less than the price of a decent cocktail these days. Everything is either made by a small indie artist or vintage/secondhand, so no moral anxiety need spring up re: guzzling cheap crap just to consume. From Czech perfume bottles to VHS magnets to Goldfish pillows, these things won’t usher in a full-on panic attack if you choose to Add to Cart.
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THANK YOU for being here, and I am always available @that.esque on Instagram for sartorial scandals/situations/summons. Here is a little (big, actually, this time) preview of what’s below the paywall:
Seems that Diane Weiss is/was a NYC outsider artist. A ton of her weirdo painted leather can be found sprawled across the internet, but that doesn’t mean you won’t be the only one at the function with a Weiss original!
I need to be able to fidget with this for a few hours…
Does this not look like it could be an Adi ale Van bottle? I’ve never tried any of their fragrances, by the way—on my list if anyone wants to send some over!
The even more impish cousin to a flask.
Criminalized makes good-quality stuff, and these would be perfect for anyone who wants to maintain some “masculinity” while still donning dangly earrings.
This Etsy store, videogallerymagnets, is one of my new favorites, selling exactly what it says on the tin: magnets that look like American Girl Doll versions of your favorite (and most fucked-up) classics, from Desert Hearts to Suspiria (the horror collection is especially good).
Lots of rom-coms too. Almost makes me wish I still had my OG doll from when they didn’t even make them with curly hair so I could dress her like 80s Cher and pose her with Moonstruck.