Category: Wednesday Wishes

Best Beauty Finds of 2015

by Rachel McCarthy
best-beauty-products
Happy Wednesday! I have been meaning to post this for at least two weeks now and keep forgetting! As we start a new year, I definitely want to incorporate more beauty posts into the rotation. So, to kick this new category off, I wanted to share some of my favorite beauty discoveries of 2015. I have purchased {and in many cases, re-purchased!} all of these items and have loved each of them! 



Clarisonic Brush with Cashmere Cleanse Brush & Gentle Hydro Cleanser: One of my favorite beauty finds of 2015 has to be the Clarisonic brush. I had debated purchasing one for awhile and much to my surprise, my mom bought me one last February! Needless to say, I was pretty excited. I have super dry and sensitive skin and have found this brush and cleanser to be the best thing that has ever happened to my skin!

Bond No. 9 – Washington Square Park: This is by far my favorite scent of all time! It is definitely more of a fall/winter scent so I am always anxiously awaiting the cool weather to be able to wear this! With scents of purple rose, amber, leather and geranium {just to name a few!} it has the warmest scent that will truly last all day. It is priced on the higher side, but my current bottle {which I just ran out of!!} has lasted me over 2 years {**although I do only wear it during the colder months**}. It’s definitely worth the investment!!

diptyque “Baies” Scented Candle: I never was much of a candle enthusiast until I met my husband. I always saw candles to be HUGE fire hazard and I was way to cautious to ever actually burn one haha! But then I was introduced to this candle and since then, I am most assurdedly a candle enthusiast. Or maybe just a diptyque enthusiast 😉 The mixture of roses and black currant combine for the freshest scent. I am on my third candle in the past year {oops!} and I am still not sick of it. It’s the perfect candle for your bedroom or bathroom!

CND Weekly Nail Polish: I have mentioned my love for this polish in a few posts {see here} and I still can’t stop talking about it! This weekly polish lasts just about a week and only takes about 10 minutes to dry {win-win}! One of the things I hate most about polishing my nails is the dry time. I cannot stand just sitting around doing nothing while my nails dry! This polish was definitely invented to compliment the hectic lifestyle! Currently my favorite colors from CND are this soft pink {#135} and this red {#158}. Still trying to get my hands on this dark purple {159}!

Essie Gel Setter: When I can’t find a CND weekly color that I’m in the mood for, I usually use this gel setter. In my experience, I find that the polish doesn’t dry quite as quickly and it doesn’t last as long as the weekly polish, but the plus side is that you can use any regular polish you have in your collection. My current favorites include this basic, everyday nude color {ballet slippers} and this bright pink {pansy}!

Pink Lipstick: Lancôme Lip Crayon {#200}, NARS lipgloss {turkish delight} and YSL {#31}. Well, I couldn’t just pick one pink lipstick because I have too many favorites! And, as far as I am concerned, you can never have enough pink lipsticks! Typically I like to use this lip crayon as a base and put this lipgloss over top for a glossy appearance. So that only counts as one, right? 🙂 And although I have a few favorites when it comes to bright pink lipsticks, this YSL color definitely takes the cake. Not only is it the perfect color but it’s also much creamier than other YSL lipsticks, making it so much easier to apply. 

Beautycounter Foundation & Face Oil: You may remember several months ago I did a review of Beautycounter products {see post here}. And since sharing my amazing experience with you back in June, I haven’t stopped using these fabulous Beautycounter products! I think it’s safe to say I am addicted! Both the foundation and face oil are a perfect match for my dry and sensitive skin and above all, the products are safe. I also use the daily body lotion and it smells absolutely amazing!

L’occitane Dry Skin Hand Cream: My skin is always so dry, but in the winter, it’s just awful! I recently discovered this dry skin hand cream and I’m obsessed with it! There is a pretty high percentage of shea butter in this hand cream so it makes your hands super soft. Just recently, I have been mixing this cream with a little of the Elizabeth Arden 8 Hour Miracle Oil. Use this oil on your face, body or hair and it leaves your skin moisturized for up to 12 hours! It truly has been a miracle for my hands!

Moroccanoil Luminous Hairspray Medium: This is my favorite hairspray of all time! Not only does it smell SO good, but it’s light and flexible and doesn’t leave a sticky residue like so many hairsprays do. This is definitely my go-to when it comes to hairspray!

Thanks so much for stopping by and see you tomorrow for an all new outfit post!

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winter neutrals

by Rachel McCarthy
winter-neutral-outfit-ideas

cozy grey sweater {currently 50% off!} | crystal statement earrings | round sunglasses {under $15!} | bracelet watch | grey nail polish {desert moon} | grey tassel handbag {on sale!} | leopard print scarf | OTK boots {similar, less expensive here} | NARS lipgloss {turkish delight} | Lancome lip crayon {bite the bullet} | white skinny jeans


Current color crush: grey. Do you find yourself gravitating to certain colors and becoming completely obsessed with them, or is that just me?! Call me crazy, but I just can’t get enough of this color right now! Not only can grey be used as a neutral, but it’s also more fun than the standard black and white. I think my obsession probably started when I saw this trench from this post. Since then, I have seen so many sweaters and accessories that I have fallen in love with — all of which happen to be grey!

Grey might be my current color of the moment, but I’m all about these two pinks when it comes to lips! I have these matte Lancome lip crayons in a few colors {see this post} and I just love them! They are easy to apply and super smooth. For a glossier appearance, I finished the look with my favorite pink lipgloss — I wear this all the time! This is the ideal neutral lip and is what I wear to work most days. Simple with just a hint of color, it’s perfect! 

What is your current color crush? Hope you all have a wonderful Wednesday and see you tomorrow!

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New Year, New Workout Clothes

by Rachel McCarthy
winter-workout-clothes

Nike tank | pink fitness tracker | headbands | running shoes | pink water bottle {love this & comes in 14 colors!} | hair ties {comes in 8 colors!} | workout tights | North Face parka | workout bag | reflective running gloves {on sale!}


As I mentioned in yesterday’s post {you can read it here in case you missed it!} the new year is the perfect opportunity to start fresh — and that includes adding to your workout wardrobe! I would probably live in workout clothing if it were acceptable and I would probably have enough outfits to last me a lot longer than I care to confess! Don’t get me wrong, I don’t discriminate when it comes to clothes, but there is something exciting about purchasing new workout clothes. 


I’ve included some of my new year, new workout essentials for today’s post, which will allow you to achieve all your workout goals in the new year. Because let’s be honest, the workout goes SO much better when you like what you’re wearing…right?! Of all the workout clothing I have, I’m personally most obsessed with running leggings and tights. And I’m absolutely loving this black, white and sleek theme! Of course, an outfit for me isn’t complete without a little pink, and how cute is this water bottle?! Have any of you tried these bkr glass bottles? I’ve had this pink one on my wish list for while and I would love to hear if any of you have tried this brand! Lastly, you may remember these hair ties that I included in a Christmas stocking stuffer post last month. I actually received a few colors for Christmas and I LOVE them! They pull back my hair so well and don’t leave the usual “hair tie line” that most hair ties seem to. They even work with my now shorter hair! 

Thanks for stopping by and have a wonderful Wednesday!


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Prepping for a Cozy January

by Rachel McCarthy
cold-weather-outfit-ideas
turtleneck sweater | red camp socks {comes in 4 colors!} | pom-pom hat {I have it in pink!} | lipstick {color: fashion pack} | mittens {on sale!} | green hooded parka {on sale!} | dark wash denim | beige colorblock scarf | winter duck boots | leather beige tote {I’m obsessed with this!} 


The arctic temperatures have yet to hit us here in the Washington, D.C. area, but with January just around the corner {and after taking a look at the extended forecast!} it’s probably a good idea to start planning for some cooler air! In that spirit, today I am sharing a cute and cozy look to prep you for those inevitably colder January days!


Although, I must admit, some of my favorite clothes are of the winter variety. There is something so comfortable and cozy about big sweaters, fuzzy hats and warm scarves. Or maybe it’s because I grew up in Ohio and I was always prepared for the cold weather! Regardless, I definitely have a love for these winter clothes. 

These red camp socks are some of my favorite socks I own — not only are they comfortable, but super cozy to wear with snow boots! And speaking of snow boots, the Sperry Duck Boots allow you to look perfectly stylish in the snow. The best part about these boots: they come in 12 different colors and patterns {and I’m pretty sure I love them all!}. Truly something for everyone!


Happy New Year and wishing all of you a wonderful 2016! See you back here on Monday!


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Creating the Perfect NYE Look

by Rachel McCarthy
new-years-eve-outfit-ideas
black jumpsuit | red lipstick {#401} | statement earrings | sparkly clutch | silver pumps | crystal cuff {under $40!} | red nail polish {color: wildfire…last 1 week & dries in 10 minutes!} | sequin jacket {on sale!} also here
It’s been awhile since I did a true outfit inspiration post with all the gift guides, so I wanted to share this New Year’s Eve outfit idea with you today! New Year’s Eve is the perfect excuse to wear sequins and sparkly accessories. How gorgeous are these statement earrings?! Can you believe they are only $16?? These are definitely on my wish list. And although the lace detailing on this jumpsuit is the perfect detail, if it is a bit chilly, this sequin jacket would be so fabulous over your shoulders! Lastly, I have mentioned this nail polish before, but it is my absolute favorite! I’ve been wearing this every week since Thanksgiving and I have yet to get sick of it! It’s the perfect Christmas red, stays on about a week and dries within 10 minutes! I can’t get enough of it! And it comes in other fabulous colors too! It’s definitely something to check out 🙂

I will be sharing one last post for the week tomorrow and then I’ll be back on Saturday for some post-Christmas sales. See you tomorrow and have a wonderful Tuesday!

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last minute christmas sales & shipping deadlines

by Rachel McCarthy
christmas-sales-2015

Since we are just about a week out from Christmas, I wanted to share with you some last minute gift ideas that are currently on sale along with some shipping deadlines. It’s hard to believe we are at the cut off point for shipping, but after hearing about all the backups companies are facing on the news yesterday, it’s probably a good idea to pick up those last minute gifts now! 

While browsing the endless gift guides every store seems to have this year, I came across these pointy toe booties and was absolutely obsessed! Not only do I love the chain details on the back, but how amazing is that heel?! I know, it’s not something that totally fits me, but I’m all for incorporating some funky pieces into your look every now and then 🙂 Also, can you believe the Clarisonic cleansing system is on sale?! When I was searching for it last year for myself, I could never find it on sale! So if it’s on someone’s wish list or even your own, you should definitely think about taking advantage of this sale!

I also found some amazing pieces that are currently on sale at Tory Burch! Not only do I love these boots but doesn’t this chunky turtleneck sweater look so cozy?! Tory Burch is also offering free shipping and returns on all orders until 12/20!

In case you do still have some more shopping to do, here are the latest shipping deadlines to mark on your calendar to make sure your gifts arrive before Christmas:

Anthropologie: order by 12/21 at 11:59 p.m. EST for standard shipping
Banana Republic: order by 12/21 at 11:59 p.m. EST & free shipping on orders over $50
BaubleBar: order by 12/18 at 11:30 p.m. EST for 3rd day shipping
J.Crew: order by 12/21 at 11:59 p.m. EST for standard shipping
J.Crew Factory: order by 12/21 at 11:59 p.m. EST for standard shipping
Macy’s: order by 12/22 at 5 p,m. EST for standard shipping {free with $99 purchase}
Nordstrom: order by 12/23 at 5 p.m. EST for free standard shipping on qualifying purchases 
Old Navy: order by 12/21 at 11:59 p.m. EST & free shipping on orders over $50

Thanks for stopping by and happy shopping!


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My Favorite Holiday Pieces

by Rachel McCarthy
dressing-for-the-holidays
Happy Wednesday! I’m taking a break from the gift guides today to talk about some of my favorite festive pieces for the month of December. As soon as Thanksgiving is over, I find myself incorporating more red, plaid, sparkle and festive holiday accents into my wardrobe. Does anyone else do that?! Exhibit A: rarely do I wear red nail polish, but for the last three weeks, I’ve been rocking the red nails! 


{P.S. For those of you that are looking for a fabulous red for the holidays, I have been using the CND weekly polish in “wildfire” and I absolutely love it! Not only does it dry in less than 10 minutes without the LED or UV lights, but mine has been lasting just about a week! I have it in a few other colors as well and highly recommend it!}


There is no doubt I love faux fur on pretty much anything, but how gorgeous is this wool and faux fur blend coat?! I especially love the mix of the navy wool and the black faux fur. And this clutch! It’s quite the steal. And since December is the perfect month to break out the plaid — how cute would these slippers be on Christmas morning?! Last but not least, a red dress is an essential piece to have in your closet for this time of the year and I love the texture of this v-neck dress! 


What are some of the ways you incorporate holiday cheer into your wardrobe leading up to Christmas? Thanks for stopping by and have a wonderful Wednesday!


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Beauty Queen Gift Guide

by Rachel McCarthy
beauty-gift-guide
drybar blow dryer | diptque ‘baits’ candle | pink polka dot travel bags | bond no. 9 ‘washington square park perfume | clarisonic mia 1 | T3 curling wand | jo malone peony & blush body cream | butter LONDON nail polish set | Bobbi Brown ‘instant party’ set | gold makeup brush set
This week’s Wednesday Wishes is all about the beauty queen on your gift list. It seems like there are always so many choices when it comes to beauty products, it can almost be overwhelming! But today, I’ve compiled a list of a few items that are perfect for even the pickiest of beauty queens!

I have been searching for a curling wand that actually holds the curl in my hair for awhile now, and this may just be it! With three interchangeable barrels and the ability to self-regulate the temperature to prevent over or under-heating, this wand truly seems amazing! Have you ever tried any of the T3 curling wands? I would love to know about your experience! 

Another item that is on my wish list for Christmas is this makeup brush set. I have needed new brushes for awhile now {I seem to have a hodgepodge of brushes currently!} and I love that this set includes each and every brush you could possibly need! The pretty gold accents are just a bonus 🙂

Do you have any beauty queens on your holiday gift list? I would love to hear if you have any ideas for them in the comments section below!

Have a wonderful Wednesday, everyone!

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Stocking Stuffers Under $30!

by Rachel McCarthy
stocking-stuffers-under-$30
invisibobble hair ties | emerald stone stud earrings | cozy blush socks | felt panama hat | personalized whiskey rock | iDecoz home button emoji stickers | gold S’well water bottle | Tory Burch body cream, sold out but this Tory Burch perfume is $28! | monogram mug | holiday red lipstick | pave cuff | rose gold watch | alphabet tray | cozy slippers | leopard foldover clutch | “festive brights” lip set

It’s Wednesday and that means another holiday gift guide! Out of all the gift guides I share during the holiday season, I think stocking stuffers is by far my very favorite. I have found so many cute ideas and they are all under $30! From the beauty lover, to the mixologist to the entertainer — everyone on your list is covered!

When I was searching around for items to include in this gift guide, one of the first things I came across were these bright pink hair ties. Does anyone else remember something similar to these from when you were younger?! These hair ties come three in a pack and are available in 11 different colors! They are designed to minimize breakage and that annoying crimping! These are definitely on my wish list!

Perfect for the social media guru in your family, you can decorate your phone with these cute emoji home button stickers from iDecoz. Priced at $4.99, they are the perfect item for a stocking stuffer! I also found these tech stickers that can go on anything from your phone, laptop or tablet — completely removable too! 

P.S. I apologize that the Tory Burch body cream is sold out! Believe it or not, this 1.7 ounce size was sold only at Sephora and Macy’s and was completely out of stock before I could even publish the post 🙁 Sephora does allow you to sign up for an email notification for when it is back in stock and Macy’s does still have the 7.6 ounce bottle in stock for $52. Lesson learned: you need to be quick when ordering around the holidays!

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With Thanksgiving tomorrow {!!!}, that means that Black Friday is only a day away! Below, I’m sharing some Pre-Black Friday Sales to get you started a little early! And be sure to check back Friday for a complete list of Black Friday Sales!

J.Crew: 30% off your purchase & extra 40% off sale styles with code HOLIDAY
J.Crew Factory: 50% off everything {prices as marked} & free shipping on orders of $50 or more with code SHIPGIFTS
Madewell: 25% off entire purchase with code CALMDOWN
Old Navy: 40% off  $100 {online only} with code EARLYBIRD
Shopbop: 15% off orders $250+, 20% off orders $500+, 25% off orders $1,000+ with code GOBIG15
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Gift Guide for Guys: all under $50!

by Rachel McCarthy
gift-guide-for-him-under-$50
1. | 2. | 3. | 4. | 5. | 6. | 7. | 8. | 9. | 10. | 11.

Another Wednesday Wishes, another holiday gift guide! And today it’s all about the guys! Personally, I have the hardest time coming up with gift ideas for my husband and dad; they are definitely the hardest to buy for on my list! I’ve complied a list of some of favorite gifts and they are all under $50!

When shopping for my husband, I typically stick with business related clothing gifts because that’s pretty much all he wears! This gingham dress shirt is one of his favorites — it can easily be worn for work or more casually with jeans or khaki pants. It comes in 10 different colors and is a non-iron shirt, can it get any better?! The monogrammed cufflinks are also a great gift that adds the perfect personal touch! 

When it comes to finding the perfect gift for my dad, I usually start off with golf and workout gear. There are SO many fitness trackers on the market it’s hard to know which direction to go {well, at least for me!} I found this fitness tracker that transmits your average heart rate, estimated calorie burn, total steps, distance traveled and total exercise time to a fitness app on your phone — all for $40! This definitely seems like a steal! 

Lastly, for those of you who have a mixologist on your shopping list this year, there are so many fun gifts for your home bar, including these whisky stones and this cute antler bottle opener! Perfect for stocking stuffers!

Have you started your Christmas shopping yet? I have a few gifts purchased…I’m really trying to be done with holiday shopping early this year! In case you missed it, you can see my first gift guide of the season here 🙂

I have seen so many gift guides from some of my favorite retailers this season, including Nordstrom, J.Crew and Anthropologie. Great gifting inspiration and they have gifts at every price point — it’s definitely something to check out! Thanks for stopping by and have a wonderful Wednesday!

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MORE GIFT IDEAS UNDER $50