Everyday Casual Look

Posted on June 8, 2015 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Sometimes low key basics can translate better than any other cool and curated outfit. On this regular day I didn’t really feel like fussing with coordinating a stylish over the top look, I just wanted to be comfortable, cute and most of all weather appropriate. My H&M boyfriend jeans are always my favorite go to for anytime I want to be comfortable yet still on trend. I paired them with an old blue and white pin stripe cotton button up that was light and breezy enough for the hot weather. These everyday low Target sandals completed the look. This casual ootd could also be replicated for the Fourth of July (considering the color scheme) or any other event not requiring so much effort. Accessories include my trustee Kate Spade purse (which I should have opted for my nude version instead but was in a rush) and my hair which was reaching for the heavens on this sticky humid day. Links to similar items below!

H&M Boyfriend Jeans
Similar Red Sandals
Similar Striped Shirt

Toodles- Ari

Makeup Forever-Blue Sepia Palette Review

Posted on June 3, 2015 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Today I bring to you this limited edition makeup forever eye shadow palette “Blue Sepia”. I found this lovely at my local Marshalls for the low price of $16.99 compared to its original price of $45! It is an older season item but can still be found online and or in stores like TJMAXX and Marshalls. Inspired by the 1950’s it features a petrol sparkling blue color that really makes your eye pop! I mainly was attracted to it because of the varying soft brown shades that I figured were perfect to use as a base or transitional colors for any shadow look. Two shades are completely matte and even perfect for use on your eyebrows! It also came with a mini double ended shader brush, crease and an angled eyebrow brush not pictured here as I could not find them after use. It is compact and perfect to throw in a travel bag for everyday neutral looks while having the black and blue color options to intensify it to your liking for night.

The pigmentation varies with each color (the darker matte colors show up a lot easier on my tan skin). Feel free to use a medium like fix plus or eye drops to intensify the iridescent or satin colors. Pictures below are with and without flash.

Until the next one, XOXO Ari

“Primarni” shoe palooza!

Posted on May 30, 2015 by itsapplesandorangesblog

I’m sure you all know by now that I am obsessed with Primark, or should I say “Primarni” (Londoners combine Armani and Primark giving the indication of just how un-designery the store is). I’m not one who fusses over labels, especially when it comes to buying seasonal trendy pieces, which is why Primark is my go to!

During one of my recent trips I noticed that they have a “wide fit” shoe section which made me jump for joy! I often have issues finding shoes that fit the width of my feet (I basically have flinestone feet, no judgement please). Now I’m not sure these shoes will last all an eternity but for the low price tag they are perfect for a season or two. Here’s a closer look at the three pairs I picked up…

These black ones will be perfect for a night out (I’m not a huge fan of 5 inch heels) or pair them with a cute midi skirt, at only £12.99 you can’t go wrong!

I think these tan ones are my favorite! These “tenners” (£10) feel incredibly comfortable and are just so easy to throw on with pretty much anything!

These baby pink flat sandals are absolutely adorable! They too are a pair you can wear with jeans, skirts and shorts! These babies were only £7.99!

As I mentioned before these might not be an investment for your collection but hey for some fun pairs of shoes to strut around in during the summer time I think they’re worth it!

(I would link these for you but Primark does not have a shopping option online, head out to your nearest one!)

Till my next shopping adventures!

xx, Gwen

Denim On Denim

Posted on May 25, 2015 by itsapplesandorangesblog

An ode to Britney and Justin, denim on denim is making a resurgence in the best way! Paired best with complimenting shades (both items being light or both being dark denim) this works well in a casual setting or even dressed up a little with heels and edgy jewelry. I was inspired by the button up denim shirt I purchased in London on my Primark shopping run. It was particularly tricky to match exactly since I don’t have such light jeans, but I made it work with my thrifted shorts of a slightly different wash. I brushed my curls out and went for a “cool” hipster vibe with my bowler hat and nasty gal cut out booties. Details and links below!

Similar Top
Similar Shorts
Bowler Hat

Love, Ari

Nike Leisure Wear OOTD

Posted on May 21, 2015 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Random fact about me: I am not into theme parks! I know it sounds preposterous considering I live in close proximity to all things magical at Disney and Universal but nothing about it appeals to me. I get sick on most rides and am apparently a bit afraid of heights (never really knew this until my trip to Spain going up the mountain Montjuic a couple of months ago). I was invited this past weekend to Busch Gardens in Tampa and to appease my family I went. I opted for my new favorite work out Nike capris purchased at TJMAXX, a white t-shirt and my old air max sneakers that would keep me comfortable and cool. The sporty athletic leisure look is cohesive with the ever popular 90’s resurgence and also plays up androgynous sex appeal in a woman. I’ve actually been complimented more by men wearing sport clothes then my normal attire. Next time ( if there is a next time) I would probably go for a wife beater or racer back to avoid ugly tan lines and also in a slightly darker color considering I got soaked in a water ride and gave the kids a show. Free wet t-shirt contest anyone? I ended up having a lovely day and enjoyed viewing the animals and spending time with family. Links to similar items below!

Men’s White Crew Neck T-Shirt- Literally anywhere! Walmart, Target etc

Nike Capris

Nike Air max

XoXo- Ari

nike,sports, leisure, athletic wear, white t-shirt, airman, ootd, fashion, blogger

Américaine fille à Paris – Part Une

Posted on May 6, 2015 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Bonjour les amis! What an amazing time in the city of lights! My long weekend was very well spent site seeing, eating and riding the metro all around Paris. Boy am I glad I grew up in NYC, the metro was a breeze to navigate! I knew my savvy subway skills would come in handy one day! (I still hate the MTA)

I arrived Saturday morning and headed straight into town. I walked along St. Germain blvd a famous strip known for its shops and cafes. Stopping at one of the most well known ones “Cafe de Flore” I had a glass of chablis & a quiche lorraine, so yummy! I then walked to the infamous cathedral Notre Dame. What a beauty! I continued my journey walking along the left bank and stopped at the Pont de l’Archevêché, one of the narrowest bridges in Paris and where people from all around the world have left their “locks of love”. Sunday consisted of the open bus tour which took us along all of the major sites such as the Eiffel Tower, Trocadero, The Louvre, Notre Dame, Arc de Triomphe and so many more. Ahhhh la Tour Eiffel, I caught a glimpse of it from afar and I squealed like a little girl! It was indeed magical especially at night during the light show. I also went on a boat ride along the river Siene admiring all of the beautiful bridges. I learned that there are 37 of them! Monday was my last day and there was no way I was leaving Paris without visitng the Louvre. What an amazing museum! Such significant works of art and sculptures, it really takes your breath away! In between all of the site seeing fun I of course stopped at cafes and grabbed tasty baguettes, gelato and pastries. I don’t know how French women remain so slim, all there is to eat consists of carbs. I pretty much had bread with every meal, well worth it in my opinion! Now for the fun part, photos!

I wanted to also mention that this was my first time traveling on my own. I will admit I was a bit anxious before leaving but once I arrived my fears were put to rest as everyone seemed welcoming. I stayed at this great hostel called Generator. Now I know what you’re thinking hostels are usually known to be a bit sketchy but Generator recently opened up (about three months ago) and the space is gorgeous! There’s a dining area on deck as well as a “chill lounge” and bar. The staff was beyond helpful and friendly. I would totally recommend it to anyone traveling solo.

Hope you all enjoyed this little sneak peak at my trip. Part deux is coming up next… Want a hint? It has to do with goodies I bought in Paris!

à la prochaine! , baisers – Gwen

Paris is always a good idea

Posted on May 2, 2015 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Another bank holiday has rolled around in England causing the urge to book a quick city break. I chose Paris! the city of lights, one of those most magical and romantic cities of all time (so I’ve heard). I am insanely excited! I wanted to quickly share with you all what I packed for my long weekend getaway. Focusing on makeup and some key pieces I felt were necessary. I also got some fun tips from “Parisian Chic” a style guide by Ines de la Fressange. Let’s begin!

Choosing what makeup to bring is always so hard for me, especially lipsticks I mean how can a girl anticipate what color she’ll want to wear for the next three days? (Champagne problems). I tried to focus on my holy grail products and a variety of what I consider to be classic lip shades.

For clothes I pretty much chose basics ie; jeans, a denim button down, striped t-shirt and a little black dress for a night out. Two pieces I want to give special attention to are my faux leather jacket and side slit blouse. I purchased them both at Newlook.

A motorcycle inspired jacket can easily transform an outfit into chic and edgy. I love the contrast of pairing it with something a bit more feminine to balance out the asthetic of the look.

This side slit blouse is all the rave in London (I’m assuming it is back home as well). I love the slight sexiness it posses as you’re mostly covered up in the chest area but can show off a bit of skin without being too much.

If you haven’t already noticed I am pretty much obsessed with wearing black. Normally I am all about color but lately black pieces have taken over my wardrobe. Wearing black makes me feel like I’m in a classic piece (even if it’s only a plain black t-shirt). This was also confirmed while reading the “Parisian Chic” book.

Stay tuned for my Paris adventures!

xx Gwen

Im in love with the COCO

Posted on April 29, 2015 by itsapplesandorangesblog

It is approaching the unbearably hot and humid temperatures that we all have a love hate relationship with here in Florida. Fair Disclaimer- I will be wearing less and less clothing in my fashion posts! On this day it was a particularly sticky one and I needed to be comfortable to walk around outdoors and explore. I found these awesome American Apparel high waist shorts with floral detailing at a local thrift shop. They are old season but I found some links below of the exact identical item if you are looking for a similar outfit. You can’t go wrong with denim shorts, a crop top (featured here before from Nasty Gal), any neutral cross-body like my favorite vintage Salvatore Ferragamo one and my pink Converse chuck’s that I’ve had since the 9th grade. Easy no brainer outfit perfect for what is sure to be a scorching summer. P.S this coconut was the best thing ever!! Links to items down below.

Similar Nasty Gal- Crop Top
Denim Floral Shorts- Here & Here

XOXO ARI

All roads lead to Rome

Posted on April 22, 2015 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Whilst in the UK I figured I would take advantage and travel around Europe as much as my pockets will allow me to. Italy has always been on my top places to visit list, but having to choose what city to fly to was the hard part. So we chose Rome, the capital of Italy, one of the oldest continuously occupied cities in Europe and home to an amazing array of historical sites. I thought I would share some photos of my time there as well as a quick look at two comfy outfits I wore while site seeing.

This city is absolutely breathtaking! To be amongst some of the most intricate and greatest works of architecture is such a humbling experience! Oh and I can’t forget to mention how delicious the food was! Splendido!

Before leaving I needed to pick up some lighter pieces of clothing and where better to find quick basic pieces than Primark! (I apologize for not having close ups of these outfits, but I’m sure you can still get the idea of what I’m wearing). I opted for comfort as we were going to be doing loads of walking. A cardigan is a must as there are times of the day when it feels a bit chilly or a gust of wind brushes by (especially while on the tour bus). I also picked up loose fitting tank tops and casual pants, once again perfect for walking.

I hope you all enjoyed my quick look into an amazing holiday! Have any suggestions as to where else I should visit? Leave them down below!

xx Gwen

Just Fab Heels

Posted on April 20, 2015 by itsapplesandorangesblog

My thoughts when casually strolling through Just Fabs website after seeing these shoes were “I NEED THESE NOW” and “ADD TO CART IMMEDIATELY”. I had never had a just fab membership prior to this purchase and because of being a first time subscriber I got a major discount on this unique pair of heels. They are a cross between a pump, sandal and gladiator style and add major interest to any outfit. I will admit I had a hard time at first pairing these with anything in my wardrobe because they are such a standout focal point and they were competing with my other elaborate choices. I finally settled on the basics, denim boyfriend shorts from the Gap, grey turtle neck and round eye sunnies to ward off the rays. They are a bit high and the arch is killer so I wouldn’t recommend these for a night out or to be walking or standing for too long, but the strap going all the way up the calf provides a great supporting feeling. Also I had trouble adjusting the straps to be as tight as possible (hence why some of them are slipping) I wish it would have come with more pre-punched holes. I absolutely love these and they will remain in my closet as my “art for my feet” knockout stars that I can pull out when I want to stand out. Links to items below!