YSL Vox Box Review

Posted on July 27, 2015 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Luxury cosmetic brands are typically out of my reach seeing as I can’t justify spending the same amount on one thing versus being able to obtain more items (more is more people). In comes influenster! They have graciously sent over the YSL vox box including two brand new YSL cosmetic products to test out for our readers. Disclaimer* Although these items were sent for review, my opinions and thoughts are mine. To start off, the touche eclat blur primer serves many purposes. It can be used as a luxurious base for any foundation or alone to even out the skin tone on a makeup-less day.

Touche Eclat Blur Primer

               Pro’s                                                                                                              Cons
-Super velvety and smooth                                                         -Shimmer/Glitter is very visible worn alone
-Non-comedogenic                                                                    -Slight residue feeling
-Blurs imperfections and minimizes large pores

The second product sent over was the Touche Eclat Blur Perfector. This compact is meant to transform from a balm to a powder to soften the skinds imperfections, mattify and set makeup.

Touche Eclat Blur Pefector

Pro’s Cons
-Beautiful Packaging -Not great to initially set makeup with (I prefer a setting spray
-Universal for all skin-tones
-Minimizes pores
-Can be used for touch ups throughout the day
(not to initially set makeup)

If I were to repurchase one item it would definitely be the perfector seeing as it doubles as a compact and works great for so many purposes.

Toodles, Ari

L’Oreal Stylist Brow Plumper

Posted on July 23, 2015 by itsapplesandorangesblog

I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again “I need full and thick eyebrows”! It’s so hard to grow them out especially in the summer where covering them up with bangs isn’t really an option due to the sweltering NYC heat. A few months ago I tried the Maybelline Brow Drama, but as I stated on my post I wasn’t a huge fan of the brush and felt that it didnt distribute any color on my brows. As you know this makeup addict will continue the search for the perfect product… In comes L’Oreal!

L’Oreal stylist brow plumper is a fiber infused gel which adheres to the brow hairs creating a fuller but natural look. The mascara like wand fills in the sparse areas for an even coating throughout your brow hairs. First you start off with clean brows. Then work the wand in upward strokes following the shape of your natural hair. Comb through to blend and voilà your brows will begin to appear plumper.

I still love to fill in my eyebrows using pencils but for days when I’m in a rush and can’t take the time to sculpt and carve them out the L’Oreal stylist brow plumper is the way to go! I purchased my first one while in London and was hoping that it would be available in the U.S as well. Just my luck I found it at my local Rite Aid a few days ago. Medium/Dark was the shade I thought would suit me best.

Hope you all enjoyed this mini review. What are some of your favorite brow enhancing products?

Until next time!

xx, Gwen

Mac “Stone” Lipstick

Posted on July 21, 2015 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Having been a cult favorite for some time now, Mac cosmetics has finally come out with some of their signature lip pencils in lipstick form. The color “Stone” is a sexy matte greyish taupe brown that is so on trend right now! This color is muted on its own for everyday use or can be vamped up with some gloss on top for a sexy night transition. I personally would not wear it unless I had a full face just because it makes my skin tone look a little sickly on its own. With a nice highlight and blush, cat eye and bold lashes this lippie is sure to call everyone’s attention. Check it out on Mac’s website or try it on in store! Link down below.

Mac “Stone” Lipstick

Toodles, Ari

Out with the old, in with the new Summer Fashion!

Posted on July 15, 2015 by itsapplesandorangesblog

The unbearable summer heat has reared its ugly head and it has come at a particularly opportune time in my life. I am turning 26 this August and have been giving away or selling old gently used clothing that don’t fit my new aesthetic that I am trying to go for. No I am not giving up my crop tops for good (never gonna happen), but I am going for a more neutral palette in my wardrobe with sophisticated pieces that can transition in my different life roles easier. Some key pieces that one can invest in are a good pair of sunnies (to ward off the harmful rays), a long line loosely fitted tunic that can be paired a million ways, comfortable sandals and shorts that don’t scream twerkathon. This one is particular is hard for me seeing as my body shape does look better with tighter options. As we age I think the key is going for more tailored classic shapes that can complement our body types and shift the focus. I picked some summer items that inspired me below. What are some pieces you are looking to incorporate in your closet this summer? Comment down below!

Untitled #9 by ari-pena featuring gold flat shoes

XOXO, Ari

Sunny Days

Posted on July 13, 2015 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Ahhhh summer, it always feels like a long time coming especially in places where there are such harsh winters. It’s so interesting to see how when the sun is out everyone’s mood instantly lights up, goes to show we all need some vitamin D in our lives. Although sun exposure brings out the bright side in all of us we need to make sure we protect the skin we’re in, after all it is the only one we’ve got.

Sunscreen/Sunblock is an essential tool in blocking out harmful rays that can cause major skin damage, such as discoloration, sun spots and skin cancer. Most people think sunscreen/sunblock should only be applied when going to the beach or on a hot summer day but the suns rays can also penetrate through clouds causing exposed skin to burn. Now the difference between the two is that Sunblock actually blocks out the suns rays due to the titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. Sunscreen absorbs the UV radiation and reduces the amount that reaches your skin, making it so that you can still tan whilst using sunscreen.

I wanted to share with you all some of my favorite sunscreens. I recently picked up the Dr. Dennis Gross dark spot sun defense. It has an SPF of 50 and has been formulated with vitamins C & E which also help even out skin tone. What I love about this is the consistency of it, it has just the right amount of thickness and my skin soaks it right up. Another selling point for me was the ability to reduce the appearance of dark spots. I am one of those people that is constantly picking at my face, which then leaves me with dark spots. Here’s a closer look at it. I bought mine at sephora, you can find yours Here

These are some other sunscreens I have tried and thoroughly love.

sunscreen by gwendolyn-pena featuring Supergoop!

Happy Summer everyone and don’t forget to protect your skin!

xx, Gwen

#Madereal

Posted on July 10, 2015 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Its been a few days now since I’ve been back in NY settling in and sorting out the awful jet lag. Since arriving, I’ve been trying to get into the swing of blogging again and figuring out what summer events I will be attending. It just so happened that Ari tagged me on @yoli_stylista’s instagram post advertising the Madereal event. I quickly rsvp’d, as I was sure it would be a great one.

“Wearemadereal” is a group of women who work together to empower and inspire other female entrepreneurs. Through hard work, dedication and sacrifices they have collaborated together creating a Vodka, called Made Real. It is designed to bring together driven women, offering a casual and relaxed vibe for those occasions where ideas are being exchanged.

These women live by the motto “We inspire, and get inspired”. I am always glad to be a part of a female dominated movement. It is important that we support each other in all endeavors whether it be blogging, styling and Vodka making.

The event was a pre Vodka launch, held at the Rooftop at the McCarren Hotel in Williamsburg. Three separate booths were set up, one for nail painting, another for hair styling/ braiding and the last booth had post cards you could write a note to a woman that inspires you and the team would mail it out for you. Such a great idea! The best part of it all was of course the Vodka tasting. My favorite drink was the “Mint Condition”. Here are a few photos I was able to snap (I was enjoying myself a little too much and wasn’t able to capture it all but I hope you all get my drift)

So there you have it my friends be sure to follow @wearemadereal on Instagram and stay tuned for more upcoming events. Also be sure to support and purchase a bottle here: Madereal . I am one who isn’t a huge fan of Vodka but I could honestly say it was the smoothest I’ve had in a long time!

xx Gwen

Red, White and Cool

Posted on July 4, 2015 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Happy Fourth of July!!! In spite of a lot of negative statements and sentiments being felt by some during these dubious political times, I am still happy to say I am proud to be an American and celebrate this day. The struggle to identify with one “culture” when you are first generation is hard but I think both me and my sister could say we got the best of both worlds and are better people for it. This great nation still has a long way to go with relation to race, immigration issues (just to name a few) but nonetheless its the place we call home. Its also great timing that Gwen has come back now from her 6 month stay in London to celebrate with all her close friends. Below is my OOTD for your standard BBQ or casual outing for this holiday. Plaid is so versatile and it doesn’t hurt that It incorporates the flags colors. I paired this #fabfound Marshalls dress with my Aldo lace up booties and some gold accessories. This piece could also be used to layer and could have been worn with shorts and a crop top as well. Heres to another great year and awesome fireworks! Links to similar items below and previous Fourth of July outfits for inspiration.

Similar Dresses from Forever 21 –Here, Here, Plus Size

Previous Fourth of July Posts – Here and Here

XOXO-Ari

A love note to London

Posted on July 3, 2015 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Here I am laying in my room enjoying a cuppa tea (how English of me). Six months ago I arrived in England and I now leave an honorary Londoner (if you’ve been reading my posts lately you might have noticed a bit of a change in my vocabulary). Time has just flown by and strangely enough I have never felt more at home, than well at home.

Walking down the streets during my final days here, I take in the now familiar aroma of your hazy air and reminise on when I first arrived, a fresh-faced American ready to take on a new adventure. I remember how mysterious your gray skies were and how your perpetual clouds never ceased to fill me with hope (hope of a sunny day that is). I welcomed the inevitable rain everyone but I seemed to moan about, that is until I experienced your massive droplets wearing nothing but a jumper, you cheeky London.

In your little pubs, I found warmth and comfort. Their home cooked food and rustic environment left me craving more every time.
You will never know what you’ve done for me. You have turned me into a complete outsider, drained my wallet with your currency system, tested me with your dry humour but I fell in love with you just the same.
There is beauty everywhere your eyes turn from gorgeous parks, to street markets booming with people and an extensive array of foods. I have fallen in love with all of it!

So, here’s to the drunken nights with the wonderful new friends I’ve made which funny enough are all Austrailians living in London (Insert Aussie & British joke here). Your underrated pastries in local coffee shops (which I have unashamedly had loads of). Here’s to the beautiful strangers I met the gaze of on the tube. Here’s to the amazing history that took my breath away time and time again. Here’s to you London!

I will never forget this amazing time we spent together. You helped put a sparkle back in my eyes and I will now return to the big apple with a new sense of pride and accomplishment. I am so lucky to have been able to call you home, if only for a mere six months.

I don’t believe I ever mentioned why I was in London, But I’ve been a nanny to a little girl for the past two and a half years and her family asked me to come over with them to help with the transition period. The biggest thank you goes to them! And to that wonderful cheeky little girl who will always remain in my heart!

So it is with a massive sigh and images of “look left”, “look right” & “Mind the gap” all fluttering through my mind that I must bid you farewell. London, It’s been brilliant! ❤️

xx Gwen

London Eats

Posted on July 2, 2015 by itsapplesandorangesblog

For this post I thought I’d switch things up a bit and mention a few of my favorite places to eat in and around London. It is now coming down to the wire my friends (1 short day left) such a bitter sweet feeling, but anyways on to the delicious food.

Before arriving lots of people warned me about how “bad” the food is in England but let me inform you that it is not! I mean you can’t go wrong with fish and chips, a Sunday roast because who doesn’t love meat, potatoes & Yorkshire pudding? If you don’t fancy typical English dishes hop on the tube to any of the food markets and you’ll find a huge variety from all over the world! Here are a few of my favorites!

The Bolingbroke (Clapham) – Sunday Roast

Granger & Co. (Notting Hill) – Ricotta hotcakes, banana & honey comb butter.

Borough Market (London) – Beef Curry & Paella (yes I mixed the two because why not?)

Camden Market: (Camden) Gluten free Tacos & Horchata/ Agua de coco

Kettners (Soho) – Afternoon tea

The Regency Cafe (London) Easy Peezy English Breakfast (only thing missing is black pudding but I am not a fan)

Fish and Chips (Camden Lock)

Bangers and Mash (prepared by my boss)

I also want to mention The Black Swan (Pub located in Surrey) for the best Sunday Roast outside of London!

I also want to mention that the Indian food in England is the best I’ve ever had, so good that I’ve never had the chance to take a photo of it. An amazing place to go to is Tayyabs in London as well as Aladin on Brick Lane rd.

I know this is outside of our normal posts but I could not pass up on sharing some of the wonderful places my mouth has had the pleasure of meeting. Hopefully this didn’t make you all too hungry. Maybe this could be of help for anyone traveling to England in the future. Take care lovelies

xx, Gwen

Coming to America

Posted on July 1, 2015 by itsapplesandorangesblog

My flight back to New York is only 3 days away! (I’m such an emotional wreck). I have been organizing and packing over the last couple of days and as I was putting together my handbag I thought I would give you guys a glimpse at my must have flight items.

During a long flight something to read be it a book or magazine is great to keep yourself occupied.

Music- either an iPod, iPad or where ever else your music is stored, oh and you must not forget your headphones. Mine are from the brand Frends.

I like to carry a notebook in order to reflect on my journey or jot some notes down. This cute pineapple one comes from Paperchase (UK).

Flushable wipes (self explanatory, especially for us ladies)

EmergenC- this is a good vitamin C packet to take before flying as you’ll most likely be around a sick person along with all of the recycled air, which doesn’t help the cause.

Hand sanitizer- once again trying to keep germs at bay. This Soap and Glory one smells amazing!

Chewing gum– my ears pop when descending and landing, chewing gum really helps my ears from becoming filled with air. My favorite is sweet mint from Orbit.

Hand cream- keeping hands nice and moisturized is very important! Another Soap and Glory favorite! This cream is also considered a hand mask.

Hydrating Face cream or mask- your skin looses a lot of is moisture and can become really dry with such high altitude so once again it is vital to help your skin retain some of it by adding in a hydrating face cream or a mask. I’ve packed the Sephora brand Honey sheet mask and the Nuxe creme fraiche 24 hour moisturizing mask.

Eye mask– undereye areas are also delicate and can become quite dry, placing eye cooling masks can also help keep them fresh looking. I’ve got the Skyn Iceland hydro cool firming eye gels which really help de-puff the under eye area.

Hydrating spray face mist– a mist also works if you prefer a quick spritz of freshness every few hours or so. The Evian facial mist is great for a quick refresher!

Lip balm– we can’t forget the lips! The key word for this post is obviously hydration and your lips should also be nice and moist for the duration of the flight. My current favorite has been the Nuxe Reve de miel lip balm.
This might seem like a lot of products but this is a routine that I am pretty much used to. I also make sure I carry a large tote to ensure I can bring along all of these items. I am currently using my Longchamp tote. It is super comfortable to wear and ultra roomy!
There you have it guys! I hope this post was helpful for any those of you planning on taking a summer holiday (or during any season really).