CarolLeeCalling's Splurge or Save Collection on LTK

Splurge or Save

By CarolLeeCalling

✨ Splurge or Save? Let’s talk pants!

One of my most asked questions this summer has been: “Is there an affordable version?” So today, I’m comparing my favorite Ruti pants with a fantastic Amazon alternative.

💛 The Splurge – Ruti Pants
• I’ve been wearing these on repeat all summer and will continue into fall and winter.
• Cotton sateen fabric with a more structured, elevated feel.
• Available in multiple lengths, making them a great option if you’re taller.
• Worth the investment if you’re looking for a forever staple.

🤍 The Save – Amazon Pants
• Lightweight nylon fabric that’s comfortable and travel-friendly.
• Available in multiple colors and sizes.
• You can buy several pairs for the price of one Ruti pant!
• Easy to dress up or down and perfect for year-round wear.

The best part? Both are comfortable, flattering, travel beautifully, and look great now with sandals or sneakers and later with boots.

So... are you Team Splurge or Team Save? Let me know below! 👇

#LTKootd #LTKdayinmylife #LTKgrwm

$✨ SPLURGE OR SAVE — CONCEALER EDIT ✨ Ok… this is a GOOD one 👏 If you’ve been using (or eyeing) the Natasha Denona concealer… we need to talk. Because YES — it is a ride or die for me. I’ve used it for years and it just hits every time. It’s easy, blends beautifully, doesn’t crease, and gives that brightened, slightly glowy under eye that looks so natural. BUT… I found a SAVE 👀 The Catrice concealer is SUCH a good alternative. And while they’re not identical… they are VERY close in performance. Same easy blend, same brightening effect, plays well with your makeup — and at a fraction of the price 🙌 Honestly… I reach for both. And when I travel? The Catrice is always in my bag ✈️ So it really comes down to this — where do YOU want to splurge and where do you want to save? Are you team splurge or save on your concealer?? 👇 #LTKBeauty #LTKstorytime #LTKselfcare$

SPLURGE OR SAVE — POCKET BLUSH 💄

Ok… this one might surprise you.

I tested MCo Beauty vs. Rhode pocket blush side by side and on the skin… they look almost IDENTICAL. Same glow, same blend, same beautiful finish.

The trick? Apply to your hand first, then stipple on with a brush — it gives you the prettiest, most controlled application. And if you go in too heavy, just soften it with your foundation brush.

Here’s where it gets interesting…
MCo Beauty will save you about $15 😳
You could almost get THREE for the price of ONE Rhode.

#LTKBeauty #LTKvlog #LTKselfcare

Summer skin tint showdown ☀️✨
If you want lightweight, glowy skin this summer but DON’T want heavy foundation… these are two REALLY good options.

✨ SPLURGE: ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint
This has been one of my OG favorites for years. It’s super lightweight, spreads beautifully, gives the prettiest glow, and makes skin look fresh and healthy.

✨ SAVE: Versed Mood Lighting Glow Drops
Such a GOOD drugstore find and honestly gives very similar vibes. This sold out constantly last summer and I totally understand why. Lightweight, glowy, easy to wear, and looks beautiful on the skin.

Both formulas:
✔️ Thin lightweight consistency
✔️ Blend effortlessly
✔️ Work beautifully with other makeup
✔️ Give glowy skin without looking greasy
✔️ Don’t crease or feel heavy
✔️ Perfect for summer, vacation, and everyday makeup

These are perfect if you want your skin to still look like SKIN… just glowier, fresher, and more even ✨

#LTKselfcare #LTKBeauty #LTKOver40