Vanity Planet Rejuvenating Scalp Massager

Posted on June 30, 2017 by itsapplesandorangesblog

So I must admit, I can be easily convinced to buy things especially when you use key words like “rejuvenating and aids with hair growth”. SOLD! When I purchased the groove scalp massager from Vanity Planet I really had no idea what to expect. I’ve known for ages now that scalp massages help with blood flow to your scalp which can promote hair growth but who has the time and finger strength to do that every day? Laziness aside, this just wasn’t something I was doing on a frequent enough basis to make a difference in my hair. Along came this handy tool! It is relaxing and cuts out the work for you while speeding up the time frame in which it gets done. I have used it to shampoo/co wash my hair to really help eliminate dandruff and built up product. This baby can go right in the shower and while I wouldn’t dunk it in the water since its battery operated, the site does mention that it is water resistant. I’ve also used it in conjunction with oil masks. I pile on some of my favorite hair oils and help them penetrate by using the massager. You could even use it just for fun to relax. The only con I would say is that sometimes the vibrations feel very strong on my hand and they feel tingly. Switching hands or using a barrier (like a cloth) to hold the handle eliminates this issue for me. I don’t mind having to do that because I know that means the bristles are working hard! Speaking of the bristles they are a rubber like flexible material and don’t get snagged or tangled up in my curly hair which is a must. All in all I would highly recommend this to anyone who is lazy like me but still wants to incorporate scalp massages in their beauty routine. Link to item down below!

Groove Rejuvenating Scalp Massager

XOXO- ARI

L’Oréal Paris Advanced Haircare Extraordinary Oil

Posted on March 8, 2016 by itsapplesandorangesblog

L’Oreal is one of the tried and true OG brands for makeup and beauty items alike. With its classic packaging and solid reputation, you know you are getting good quality anytime you pop into your local drugstore and try one of their products. When we received this extraordinary oil hair care set, the experience was no different. This advanced hair care shampoo, conditioner, leave in crème and oil serum were sent by Influenster for testing purposes. At first I was hesitant seeing as not many products work well on curly hair. After its first use I knew it was a winner! This is great for the days when you are in need of a deep cleanse rather than just co washing. The leave in conditioner defined my curls while the serum helped to seal and lock all the moisture in.

Pros

Very light weight

Nourishing

Some curl definition

Delightful scent

Deep cleanse without over-stripping

Cons

Light weight- (this is also a pro depending on how much hold you are going for, it would be best to follow up with a heavier item for humid days)

Mainly great for a one day hair look (doesn’t last beyond for second or third day curls)

I would definitely repurchase this line in the future for the days when I need to start fresh from product buildup seeing as its cleansing and light weight. Here’s to #extraordinaryhair !

FullSizeRender

First Day Curls

Second day Curls

H&M Boho Chic

Posted on January 8, 2016 by itsapplesandorangesblog

For this holiday season I had the rare opportunity to see my sister and co-blogger! Since living in separate states can be difficult we always try and make the most of it when we do finally get together. This ootd post was taken on a random dirt road and I couldn’t be happier with the results! Make sure to also check out Gwen’s outfit from the same shoot for more rustic inspiration. The flowly boho maxi dress is from h&m and features a v-neck, tassled tie strings, a cinched waist and flowy ruffles and floral accents all around. It sounds like a lot for one dress but it looks beautiful due to the muted earth tones and meticulous placement of all of the dramatic parts. This dress (or something similar) can be transition from a casual day time event like brunch to a night out for dinner. I paired it with my Guess brown leather sandals and a top knot for a more off-the-cuff vibe. Links below and stay tuned for more pics from our family visit.

H&M Dress

XOXO- ARI

Gift Guide-Fashion + Accessories

Posted on December 10, 2015 by itsapplesandorangesblog

The holiday season is among us and what better way to show someone you care than to surprise them with something special. I’ve put together a very short list of some go to items this season that will be sure to put a smile on that special someone’s face. Some of the items can be unisex and can be mixed and matched.

Cashmere Scarf– Can be Unisex (lets face it the average guy will never go out and buy themselves a scarf)and is utilitarian as well.
Midi rings– These babies are comparable to bobby pins and hair ties (they seem to go missing randomly) so always keeping a fresh pair around to jazz up any outfit is key.
Funky socks– Because, they’re fun! (Unisex)
Fur pom-pom anything– Whether you go the key chain route or incorporate the trend in your hair tie this look is everywhere this season and can spice up a purse or overall aesthetic.
Flannel– Another unisex option that everyone can get on board with. It can be worn as is, thrown around your waist and goes with almost any and every look known to man.
String Lights/ Marquee Lights– For the inner hipster inside all of us these interesting lights are affordable and can liven any space up.

Links down below!! XOXO- ARI

Untitled #10 by ari-pena featuring a battery lamp

Hello From The Other Side

Posted on November 30, 2015 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Although we still have a month left in 2015 I can’t help but to think how fast time is going! It seems as though it was yesterday I was 13 years old and day dreaming about what life would be like when I was this age. As we enter into this holiday season it’s important to keep in mind positivity and never to take anything, especially time for granted. I experienced a lot of ups and downs this year and I can only hope next year will bring about similar life changing experiences. Here is yet another outfit of the day, and cheers to many more for next year! Links to similar items below.

Shirt Dress- Forever 21
Denim Button Up- Primark
Bag- Kate Spade
Puff Ball- Amazon
Timberland Boots

XOXO- Ari

Utility Jumpsuit

Posted on November 16, 2015 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Utilitarian is the perfect word to describe this amazing jumpsuit from Forever 21. Compared to a classic anorak jacket or trench, this color and fabric can be paired with almost anything and will look amazing! Featuring a long sleeve, button front, collar and slanted front pockets it is 100% cotton and impeccable quality. I paired mine alone with classic nude sandals and my everyday Kate Spade bag to really make the outfit the focal point. You can roll up the sleeves as I did and even the pant legs to go with some combat boots or flats. This is a great transitional piece (especially here for Florida) as the nights get a little cooler for the fall. I can see this paired with a long duster coat, or even a denim or plaid accent tied around the waist. I consider this an investment piece seeing as it can be worn all year round, it is great material and it’s in a neutral color. At only $40.00 it’s a steal from Forever 21! Links down below.

Contemporary Life in Progress Utility Jumpsuit
Similar Sandals

XOXO, ARI

Teen Vogue BTSS Event Turnout

Posted on August 9, 2015 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Below are the pictures I was able to get before and after the Sierra Marie youtube star mayhem ensued at the Teen Vogue back to school event at the Florida mall. As I previously blogged I was chosen for the VIP portion and was able to get a sneak peak into all the fun prior to the panel fashion show. I am so glad I was able to attend and receive goodies and a gift card to be able to implement some of the inspiration displayed at the event. Whether it be the 70’s vibe or mixing and matching prints (my favorite) this school year is sure to be one for the books! You to can be VIP at a teen vogue BTSS event at a mall near you! It was amazing to meet Elaine Welteroth (teen vogue beauty and health director) and revisit blogger/stylist Melanie Pace. Check out the link below for the rest of the mall tour and how to apply.

macys btss teen vogue back to school blogger fashion

Jacket- Primark I Shorts-Thrifted I Top- Forever 21

Props to fellow blogger Kiara Michelle she rocked it! Check her out at kiaramichelle.com

List of Events

Toodles,

Ari

North Face Killa

Posted on June 21, 2015 by itsapplesandorangesblog

The brand North Face brings back so many great memories of my past. Growing up in New York, North Face is an iconic staple to get you through any harsh weather conditions (especially the cold). From my coat to my book bag, hat and gloves, north face was where it was at in terms of style and what was on trend. This hip/fanny pack is one way I can rock it while now residing in scorching Florida. I stole it from my sister (and co blogger) who had stolen it from her best friend back when she was in high school. I guess you can say it’s endured a lot and yet still has so much life left to it. It is extremely roomy and can fit my entire wallet, keys, some cosmetics and my phone comfortably with still some room for more. I loved being purse-less for this comfy and casual day! I paired my bum bag with a white crop top and boyfriend jeans from H&M, target studded sandals and a plaid shirt to tie around my waist and cover my belly. This brand will always have a special place in my heart

North Face Hip Pack

Boyfriend Jeans

Target Sandals

XOXO- ARI

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

“Hello Lover” Fur Missguided Heels

Posted on February 23, 2015 by itsapplesandorangesblog

As best expressed by Carrie on Sex and the City their is nothing like a sexy taupe/nude sandal to elongate the leg and make anyone feel sexy. Add some delicate fur detailing and you’ve got the perfect heel to add detail and texture to any outfit. This look was put together short notice for a night out with friends. Since the temperatures were still on the chilly side I opted for a 3 quarter sleeve turtle neck tunic, sticking with the black theme I threw on some trustee short shorts to make the look more night club appropriate. It needed the extra “Ari” flare as I can’t ever go out without having some sort of statement item and I remembered I had these amazing Missguided faux fur heels that would go perfect and be just the pop I needed. I absolutely love the items on Missguided’s website but buyers be warned they do take forever to ship your item and have been known to have issues with shipping in general to the U.S. (from other reviews online). I will continue to purchase from this website in the future but keeping that in mind and not counting on items to be received quickly. Links to similar heels below!