As a home editor at Good Housekeeping, I spend a lot of time scrolling through Amazon in search of on-trend furniture and decor to share with readers. Recently, I tried something new: I decided to enter the name of a popular retailer — not sold on Amazon — into the search bar, curious to see if it would improve my results. To my surprise, I found exactly the aesthetic I was looking for.
Here's how the trick works: type a major furniture brand name — like West Elm — into Amazon’s search. Instantly, you’ll see a mix of products similar to the brand’s aesthetic. From mid-century modern furniture to bohemian-inspired home decor, Amazon curates a range of items that capture the look of some of my favorite home brands, often for a lot less.
I also tried this trick on Amazon with a number of popular fashion brands and was pleased with the results, although I've found this shopping hack tends to work best for home and furniture brands.
For instance, searching for West Elm brings up a range of budget-friendly options, from swivel armchairs and fluted dressers to arched mirrors, trendy lighting and textured bedding inspired by the brand’s mid-century flair. Another brand I tried typing in was Serena & Lily, known for its modern coastal aesthetic. Amazon recommended a mix of jute rugs, rattan furniture and quilted bedding that are similar to the brand's vibe.
While interior designers often caution against buying "fast furniture" — a.k.a. inexpensive, mass-produced pieces that may not always stand the test of time — investing in high-end furniture isn't always realistic when you're on a tight budget. Whether you’re drawn to a particular style or trying to track down a specific piece of furniture, I think this shopping hack is worth a try. You might even uncover some budget-friendly versions of buzzy products — like alternatives to Restoration Hardware’s Cloud Couch.
So next time you’re facing a price tag that's out of your budget, try searching for the retailer’s name on Amazon and see what hidden gems you discover!
Alyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries.