What price beauty?

In this economy, we have all found ways to get our beauty and fashion fixes for less, relying on low-cost alternatives for everything from pricey jeans to expensive shampoo. Still, there are always some things that are just too good to give up. Check out these staff picks to find out our current favorite affordable luxuries and must-have indulgences.

OLD FAVORITE: Lancôme Flash Bronzer Airbrush, $28 for 4 ounces

NEW FAVORITE: Neutrogena Micro Mist Tanning, $10.99 for 5.3 ounces

This drugstore self-tanning spray brings home the gold at less than half the price. The odorless quick-dry formula offers a sunny day-at-the-beach faux glow without the mess or harmful rays.

MUST-HAVE SPLURGE: Renova (prescription), about $120-$140 for 60 grams (Costco)

This wrinkle reducer is not your typical plump and pamper skin soufflé. Its most beneficial ingredient is basic science. The emollient form of tretinoin (also known as Retin-A), not only sloughs off old skin cells to diminish fine lines, but it actually stimulates the growth of collagen. Drugstore retinoid products are just cheap imitators.
-- R.J. Ignelzi

OLD FAVORITE: Philosophy Amazing Grace Perfumed Shave Gel, $15

NEW FAVORITE: Suave Professionals Humectant Conditioner, $2-$3

I used Amazing Grace because the great smell dulled my senses into thinking that maybe leg-shaving was less drudgery. But on the advice of a girlfriend, I traded scents for cents and found that hair conditioner works great as a frugal follicle de-fuzzer. Really, no smell can make this chore less of a snore.

MUST-HAVE SPLURGE: Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation, $58

There's no Armani hanging in my closet, but I don't feel well-dressed if I'm not wearing this award-winning fab foundation. All the skin superlatives – flawless finish, dewy feel, etc. – fit this makeup perfectly to its last decadent drop. People will compliment your skin, not your makeup.
-- Susan Shroder

OLD FAVORITE: Tigi S-Factor Smoothing Shampoo, $24 for 6.76 ounces

NEW FAVORITE: Garnier Fructis Haircare Fortifying Shampoo, Sleek & Shine, $4 for 13 ounces

Let's get this straight: Both products do wonders for taming frizzy, curly hair, but for the price, you can't beat Garnier's offering. Combine it with the Garnier's Sleek & Shine Conditioner, which also goes for around $4, and you are on your way to the silken hair of your dreams.

MUST-HAVE SPLURGE: Benefit You Rebel Lite SPF 15 Tinted Moisturizer, $30 for 1.7 ounces

Not sure if this actually counts as a splurge since Benefit is known for its frugal yet funky cosmetics. Still, plunking down $30 in one pop can be a dicey proposition in this economy. The good news is this product does triple duty, moisturizing as well as providing sun protection and sheer cover. Also, the small tube should last you several months.
-- Jennifer Davies

OLD FAVORITE: Frederic Fekkai Glossing Shampoo, $35 for 16 ounces

NEW FAVORITE: Suave Professionals Sleek Shampoo, $2.50 for 14.5 ounces

Suave is among the most economical (and best-selling) drugstore shampoos. Though I can't say for certain if it really adds luster to dry hair, it smells nice and seems to work just fine. Best of all, you can buy Suave for under $1 if it's on sale at the grocery store and you have a coupon.

MUST-HAVE SPLURGE: Kérastase Resistance Expanseur Extra-Corps, 3.3 ounces for $29.

Spray this on your hair from the roots to the ends after towel-drying. It adds a light hold without feeling sticky like hair spray, helps control frizz and adds volume when drying. Maybe I desperately need it to counteract the effects of shampooing with Suave, but this product works wonders.
-- Jenifer Goodwin

OLD FAVORITE: James jeans, $180 at Neiman Marcus

NEW FAVORITE: Old Navy jeans, $30

There's never been anything that fits as well as James jeans, but Old Navy comes the closest. They have a variety of different styles, from boot cut to skinny, and the price won't make you feel guilty for having more than one pair.

MUST-HAVE SPLURGE: Phytomer Ogenage Initial facial lotion, $79 for 1.6 ounces at Salon Bordeaux

I don't wear much makeup, so it's important that I have good skin. I've tried drugstore moisturizers, but they caused breakouts and left my face feeling oily.
-- Nina Garin

This is one in an occasional series looking at affordable luxuries