Summer Essentials: Splurge vs. Save

Summer Essentials Splurge vs. Save @rachmccarthy7


With the unofficial start to summer less than a week away, I brought back the always popular splurge vs. save to round up a few summer essentials. 

I don’t know about you, but I’m more than ready to break out my summer clothes…and have them stay out! Here are a few of my favorite summer essentials, at both the splurge and save price points:
  • Summer wouldn’t be the same without off the shoulder dresses and tops. I love the color of both the splurge and save orange dresses, it’s the perfect bright shade for summer. Another trend that I have been loving all spring is the eyelet detail and both the splurge and save version of the eyelet off the shoulder top is such a pretty and feminine top that could be dressed up with a skirt or down with jeans. 
  • You can’t start summer without a new swimsuit! I have been lusting over this splurge scallop swimsuit for over a year — I can never say no to scallop edges! But when I spotted this save version at a fraction of a fraction of the price, I couldn’t wait to share it with you! I think a black one piece swimsuit is so chic. And add the fun scallop details and you have a sophisticated yet fun suit to spend a summer day at the pool.
I took the red eye flight from LA Monday evening and arrived back in DC early Tuesday morning. Unfortunately, not much sleep happened on the flight and I spent yesterday packing to head back to California today. I know, totally crazy, right?! I honestly have no idea how I’m still awake! 

Be sure to drop by tomorrow for an entire recap of a fun event I attended in LA on Monday! Have a wonderful Wednesday, friends!

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Memorial Day Outfit Inspiration

Memorial Day Outfit Ideas
A little Memorial Day outfit inspiration for today’s Wednesday Wishes — I’m on a real kick this week with Memorial Day-inspired posts {you can see yesterday’s healthy take on potato salad HERE}! Whether you are spending this Memorial Day by the pool or BBQ, here are a few of my favorite perfectly patriotic pieces!



I always get excited for this time of the year — red, white and blue is one of my favorite color combinations of the summer and we are getting close to the unofficial kickoff! I put together two different outfits for today’s post — one that would be festive for a cookout or picnic and the other if your Memorial Day plans include the beach or pool:
  • I have been eyeing these chambray bow shorts for awhile now — they are also available in other colors/prints — and when I saw this cute ruffle sleeve top, I knew they would look so cute together. I can’t resist the combination of ruffles and bows! 
  • To complete the red, white and blue look for a cookout, I’ve included these star beaded earrings {could they be more perfect for Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day?!} and these ankle strap sandals. You have all the colors covered in this outfit without looking over the top.
  • As for a day at the beach or pool, I love this stripe swimsuit with the bow straps — I know, more bows! Paired with the embroidered pom pom cover up, this pool look was made for the patriotic holidays. And although this watermelon trinket tray isn’t totally applicable, I couldn’t help but share it given the recent news: Draper James, Reese Witherspoon’s brand, is now available at NORDSTROM. Hold. The. Phone. You may remember I wore the cutest green green dress from Draper James for Easter {see post HERE} and I raved all about the print, details and style. You can see the entire Draper James collection at Nordstrom HERE
  • Lastly, I have include this sunscreen, a summertime essential. Given my recent experience with the sun at my cousin’s graduation last weekend {I swear, I may be burnt forever!} I picked up some of this sunscreen for our trip to California next week. I’ve heard so many great things about the Supergoop brand, I’m looking forward to trying it out. I will keep you posted!
What are your plans for Memorial Day weekend? I would love to hear in the comments section below. Thanks for stopping by and have a wonderful Wednesday, friends!

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Spring & Summer Whites

Summer White Outfit Inspiration @rachmccarthy7

Although this week has been chilly for us on the east coast, summer temperatures are just around the corner. Memorial Day, the unofficial start to summer, is less than 3 weeks away which means it’s time to break out {if you haven’t already!} the spring and summer whites. Today, I’m rounding up a few of my favorites white pieces of the season. Of course, I couldn’t resist sharing two pieces that have a little color as well. I can never say no to fringe or pom poms!

I have had the opportunity to break out the white jeans {last seen in Monday’s post} but I will have to stick to mostly white accessories until I get some sun. But when that summer glow does arrive, I especially have my eye on this eyelet one shoulder top and these scallop shorts. Both are so fun for summer! Until then, here are a few of my favorite accessories:
  • Starting with two of the more colorful pieces, even though they are not pure white, I couldn’t resist include these fun summer pieces in the round up. The fringe sandals would be such a cute addition to your summer shoe collection and the pom poms on this panama hat are so different from the usual sunhats, and it’s under $45! 
  • Every summer, I seem to have this thing for fun clutches. Although this white bamboo clutch isn’t necessarily a statement maker, it is different and would be the perfect clutch to carry with your sundresses all summer long. If you are looking for a color, this clutch is also available in natural, blue and black.
Have you started incorporating white into your wardrobe yet? Do tell! As always, thanks for stopping by and have a wonderful Wednesday!

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Graduation Gifts Under $200

Gift Ideas for Graduates @rachmccarthy7


High school and college graduations for the class of 2017 are just around the corner and today I’m rounding up a few of my favorite gifts for the graduate that are all under $200!



Graduation gifts can be tough. I think high school graduation can be a little easier since some people like to buy necessities for the graduate’s college dorm room. But when it comes to the college graduate, they will be heading into the real world and will definitely be in need of some adult essentials. Although money is always an option, some people {including me!} like to give a gift that will actually serve a purpose for the graduate down the road, so here are a few of my favorites:
  • Girls are a lot easier than guys, at least in my opinion. Jewelry is always a fantastic gift idea and something like these pearl studs or this initial necklace are a great way to remember the exciting day. Watches are also a great gift, especially for graduates that are heading to the 9-5 real world. And that works for both girls and guys!
  • Personalized gifts are some of my favorites — both to give and receive! — and I love the idea of these custom city cufflinks and custom city tie. Whether the graduate is off to a new city post-graduation or just to remember his college town, the cufflinks and/or tie would make a memorable gift.
  • Lastly, a work bag will be essential for the girls and guys that are heading to an office job. A spacious tote is perfect for the girls {and I love the name of this one!} and a sturdy briefcase for the guys.
  • And just one note about this perfume: I think perfume always makes for a special gift whether it be Mother’s Day, a birthday, anniversary or even a graduation gift. The reason I included this particular scent is because it’s my new obsession! I received a sample from Nordstrom and used it for the first time this weekend and absolutely fell in love. A citrusy, floral scent with a touch of basil makes for a great fresh spring and summer perfume. I’m not one to ever change up my perfume, but I could really see myself wearing this one!
Do you have any graduates to shop for this year? Thanks for dropping by and have a wonderful Wednesday!

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Mother’s Day Gifts Under $100


Halfway through the week, friends! Can you believe it’s time for a Mother’s Day gift guide already? The last time I shared a gift guide it was December and we were preparing for Christmas (which feels like it was only a week ago!). Where does time go?! Regardless, the day to celebrate all the moms out there is just around the corner and I’ve complied a few of my favorite pieces under $100 !



Where to begin with all this pink? The love for this color is one of the many things I share with my mom so I couldn’t resist keeping to the color theme. Plus, there are a ton of fabulous pink pieces out there at great price points! Of all the people on my list to buy gifts for, my mom is probably the easiest. We have very similar tastes which makes picking out the perfect gift pretty easy. Although, it is difficult to pick favorites from this set, but here are a few:
  • I have been seeing THESE bow slides everywhere, but mostly in the plain pink. Although the all-over pink is great, I love this striped version. It would go with so much in your closet, you will be able to wear it all spring and summer long. Don’t they look so comfortable?!
  • I’ve included a few beauty-related gifts in the collage because it’s the perfect day to pamper mom! This silk pillowcase, strawberry sugar scrub and lip kit would all make fabulous gifts. I have a similar silk pillowcase {mine is leopard!} and I swear by it. Since switching, my hair is healthier {my hair was growing longer on one side than the other for a while before this pillow!} and it also helps with keeping your skin healthy and wrinkle free! I highly recommend these pillowcases, and it makes a great gift for mom too!
As always, thanks for dropping by and happy shopping!

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Bright & Sunny

Spring and Summer Yellow Outfit Inspiration @rachmccarthy7

Happy Wednesday! Doesn’t this bright yellow just instantly put a smile on your face? It sure does for me and has me so excited for the warmer spring and summer temperatures! Although I personally don’t wear a ton of this bright hue, it is a color that can put you in a good mood. Here are a few of my favorite yellow pieces that will make your spring and summer wardrobe just a little more happy…

  • These tassel earrings have been on my wish list {also available in other colors} and although they can’t be purchased yet, you can pre-order them here and receive them by the middle of May. You can bet I already have my name down for these! 
  • With picnic, pool and beach season upon us, this lemon cooler was just too cute to not include! The cooler has a top zip closure, it’s water resistant and insulated and it’s only $32! 
  • Although this dress is a little on the pricey side, I just can’t get enough of all it’s details: the length, silhouette, tassels and eyelet fabric. The possibilities are endless when it comes to wear this dress over the next few months: bridal and baby showers, weddings, summer parties and barbecues and more!
Thanks for stopping by and have a wonderful Wednesday!

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Black & White: Splurge vs. Save

black and white outfit inspiration @rachmccarthy7


Another splurge vs. save and today it’s all about the classic black and white. I don’t know if I’m noticing it more or brands are knocking off more designer pieces, but these designer lookalikes seem to be everywhere these days. And although the colors might be a classic combination, these splurge and save styles are super trendy and are perfect candidates for save options!

I always enjoy putting these posts together. With each post, I get more and more determined to find an exact match for less! Although, I must confess, this week’s was pretty difficult. I can’t even begin to count the numbers of drafts I went through searching for the perfect save item. I think it probably has to do with the fact there are A LOT of cold shoulder black tops and one shoulder white tops, for example, out there right now. It was tough deciding which to share! 

Of all the pieces in today’s post, I think the favorite has to go to the cold shoulder dress. Talk about the perfect LBD for spring and summer! And with it’s under $70 price tag, it’s a pretty good deal — especially compared to the splurge version. And although this dress might be a little more on the trendy side, it would be easy to dress up with sandals and jewelry or more dress down casually with flats. Versatile dresses for the win!

It’s difficult to pick a second favorite, but my love for pearls runs deep and when I saw these save sandals, I just knew there must be a designer pair that was similar. Needless to say I had no idea that there would be that big of a price difference! Although there are some slight differences between the two sandals {I do love that cute bow on the splurge version!} I think the save version is enough like the splurge to justify all the money you could save!

And speaking of saving money, Shopbop’s Event of the Season starts today through Friday. Receive 20% off orders under $500 with code EVENT17 and 25% off orders over $500 with code EVENT17. You can find some of my favorite Shopbop finds below. Happy Shopping!



Do you enjoy these splurge vs. save posts? I would love to hear in the comments section below. Have a wonderful Wednesday, friends!

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Shades of Blue Under $100

Blue Spring Outfit Inspiration @rachmccarthy7
Happy Wednesday! We are back to the color theme for today’s Wednesday Wishes and one that I’m particularly excited about. I would never consider myself to be a “blue person” but each season the color grows on me more and more. For spring, there are so many pretty shades of blue, fun accessories and cute clothes, I couldn’t help but to devote an entire post to this shade. And best part, everything is under $100! You know how much I love a good deal 🙂

One of the main reasons this color is growing on me is because of the variety of shades in the blue family. From denim and chambray to sky blue to royal blue, there are so many fun ways to incorporate this color into your wardrobe. Here are a few of my favorite blue finds that are under $100:


  • Chambray has always had a place in the spring and summer wardrobe. Mix that with two trends {off the shoulder and cropped flares} and you have two seriously cute pieces. This off the shoulder dress not only has bows on the sleeves but also has a tied waist which is perfect for definition. With the side slits and longer length, this dress is a total steal at $88! These cropped chambray pants are a great way to elevate your casual look. Style it with a shirt tucked in to show off the cute bow at the waist and you are set!
  • When it comes to shoes, both of these styles are must-haves for this spring and summer. The ankle lace up sandals are not only a huge trend but look so comfortable with the platform. And how fun is this light blue/lavender color?! Another hot trend that I have also mentioned is the slide sandal. Easy to slip on, these cute blue suede ruffle sandals make for a cute addition to a spring look. And they are under $60!
  • Last but not least, accessories! I always have a difficult time picking a favorite kind of accessory, but it’s a close race between these beaded tassel earrings and this chevron clutch. Although, I have found a new appreciation for baseball hats on the weekends — it makes getting ready for errands super easy!! — and this hat might be too cute to pass up. It’s difficult to see, but yes, it says “gym now wine later”! I thought it was too fun to not include!
What are your favorite pieces? Thanks for stopping by and have a wonderful Wednesday!

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Colorful Easter Outfit Inspiration

Easter Sunday Outfit Inspiration @rachmccarthy7
Outfit One: sweater | lipstick | earrings | skirt | bow sandals {under $90 & available in black, too!} | bow bag

Outfit Two: dress {on sale!} | earrings | bag {only $35!} | lace-up sandals | lipstick

It’s hard to believe Easter is just a little over 2 weeks away. Where is this year going?! Easter Sunday is the epitome of “Sunday best”, so today I’m sharing two bright and cheerful looks for the holiday that can also be worn throughout the season. 



I always feel like Easter is a hard holiday to dress for: the weather could be beautiful or it could be cold and snowing {let’s hope that’s not the case this year!}. Since the weather this time of the year can be up and down, I have one outfit that would be perfect for a colder Sunday and one for warmer weather. Since Easter is a little later this year, I’m hoping that we all can opt for a warmer weather look!
  • We all know my love for pink runs deep and the first outfit has so many pretty shades in one look. For me, it’s hard to pick a favorite piece when it comes to this outfit, but it would be difficult to not rank THESE bow sandals close to the top of the list. Anything with a bow and I’m sold! 
  • Speaking of shoes, I do love THESE lace-up neutral sandals in the second outfit. This is a great neutral sandal that can be worn all spring and summer {and even into the first part of fall} and it’s perfectly on-trend with the lace-up style. 
  • Another trend for spring that I mentioned a few weeks ago is bold stripes. Isn’t THIS dress fun? I love that there are so many colors in the dress and that’s easy to dress more conservatively with neutral accessories or with hot pink accessories if you are living on the edge 🙂
Whether you lean more towards outfit one or outfit two, all of these pieces would make for functional, colorful and trendy additions to your spring wardrobe. Which outfit is your favorite?

Thanks for dropping by and have a wonderful Wednesday!

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Staple Spring Pieces: Splurge vs. Save

Spring Outfit Inspiration on a Budget A Blonde's Moment

There is no better way to start off a Wednesday than with an all new splurge vs. save! This week, I’m sharing a few spring staples, at both price points. 


You can’t talk about spring’s hottest trends without mentioning a few of these items. Here are a few of my favorites:
  • Bell sleeves and ruffles go with spring like peanut butter and jelly. I can’t get over the price difference between THIS splurge bell sleeve top and THIS save top. And same goes for the chambray dress: THIS designer version is more than $400 more than THIS save version. Personally, I think I like both save versions better!
  • Since there is no denying my love for shoes, I couldn’t help but to include both of these pairs in the post. Lace-up sandals and slide loafers are both trends for spring and after seeing the save versions of both of these, I knew I had to include both in the post! The splurge sandals are so similar to the save sandals, the only striking difference is the tassel on the save version. And when it comes to the slide loafers, they are pretty similar too. With the exception of the number of tassels and a slightly different shade of beige, these are almost clones of each other!
  • Lastly, I will never pass on the chance to share a leopard find with you and the clutches are no exception! I have loved THIS splurge clutch for years, but since I already have a similar style from Mark and Graham {you may remember it from THIS post}, it was never economical to purchase one so similar — especially at that price. But, with THIS save version, I could totally justify the under $50 price tag. Now, do I reallllly need another leopard clutch? 🙂
What are your favorite spring staples? Do you like more from the splurge or the save side? Thanks for stopping by and have a wonderful Wednesday, friends!

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