Some pens are just pens. Others feel like they were designed for the version of you that shows up with quiet confidence and a sense of style that doesn’t beg for attention.
You don’t need to drop half your salary to get a pen like that. Vanderbilt New York has several options under $150 that look far more expensive than they actually are.
Let’s talk about seven standout writing instruments that blend charm, precision, and value.
1. Manhattan Club - Yellow & Silver
This one’s got sunshine in its DNA. The vibrant yellow barrel and crisp silver accents bring optimism and edge. It is a great fit for your summer notepad or daily journaling habit.
It’s playful, but still grown-up.
2. GL Shelborne - Grey & Gold
Textural, tactile, and quietly luxurious. This grey pen with gold detailing gives off a composed vibe, which is ideal for those who believe power dressing should extend to accessories, too.
A low-key luxury essential.
3. Shakespeare - Wood Finish with Gold
Rustic and refined at once, this pen offers an earthy take on sophistication. The wood finish feels warm and grounded, while the gold trim adds just enough flash to keep it elevated.
Think cabin office with a bourbon on the side.
4. Manhattan Club - Purple & Silver
Rich, regal, and slightly rebellious, the purple Manhattan Club pen adds personality without compromising on polish. If your style lives somewhere between classic and cool, this is your match.
Great for creatives and confident note-takers.
5. Lakeshore - Abalone & Silver
This pen doesn’t whisper, but it glimmers. The abalone pattern catches the light and attention, but the silver keeps things classy. An eye-catching companion for signing books, deals, or just doodling with flair.
A standout piece that’s still under $150? Yes, please.
6. GL Shelborne - Blue & Silver
This pen strikes the perfect balance between cool professionalism and casual elegance. The blue is rich but approachable, and the silver hardware keeps it sleek.
Use it for work, journaling, or when you want to look impressive without trying too hard.
7. Union Club - Brown Wood & Silver
For those who love tactile design, this brown wood-finish pen hits the mark. It’s timeless, understated, and feels like something that belongs in a leather folio next to handwritten ideas.
A nod to tradition, made fresh.
Budget-Friendly, Brand-Forward
You don’t need to spend like royalty to write with elegance. Every pen here offers Vanderbilt-level quality, design, and the best part all of them are under $150.
Whether it’s for yourself or someone deserving of a thoughtful gift, these pens are proof that great taste doesn’t have to come with a heavy price tag.