Drugstore Fall Lips

Posted on December 10, 2013 by itsapplesandorangesblog

I’ve found my favorite (so far) Lip combo for this fall season! I know some of you may already be experiencing harsh winter like weather but here in sunny Fl its pretty much still starting to cool off.Ive been searching high and low on the hunt for the perfect lip color that would still be wearable for everyday use. In comes Milani easy liner for lips in “sugar plum”. I love the red/purple undertones it gives off and the application is as smooth as can be. After lining my entire lips with it I topped it off with Revlon’s Super Lustrous lipstick in “Black Cherry 477”. This is slightly sheer but blends beautifully on top of the liner to create a satin finish without all the cakeyness of a matte nor too shiny on the eyes.

Pros
-The liner is retractable and goes on super smooth!
-The lip liner is incredibly pigmented
-Price point of both items (drugstore brand)

Cons
-The lipstick is a bit too sheer on my lips to wear on its own (or may work if you arent looking for a dramatic look)

Enjoy!

-Ari

Fall Trend Alert- Animal Ears

Posted on November 25, 2013 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Hats and scarves are always staples to keep warm during these fall months and what better way to spice them up then with fun shapes and styles like animal ears! Youve seen it everywhere from instagram to every fashion and beauty bloggers post as of lately and it doesnt look like the trend is going anywhere for now. Paired with any fall attire this look is slowly creeping up and kicking the “beanie” craze to the curb with its more feminine and “cutesy” touch. Here are some of my favorite’s that I’ve seen on the market.

Zara Rib Knit Hat $15.90

ASOS Ears Headband $14.24

Missguided Lionela Animal Hat $17.59

Nasty Gal- Eugenia Kim Caterina Hat $258.00

Nasty Gal- Little Bear Wool Hat (Berry) $45.00

Claires- Studded Knit Beanie with ears $16.50

Click on the photos for links to the products and full details.

-Ari

Nip + Fab Cellulite Fix Review

Posted on November 22, 2013 by itsapplesandorangesblog

As mentioned in my previous post Nivea Serum Review my new-found 24-year-old body has come along with cellulite in the most heinous way! I loved nivea’s serum but after it finished I figured Id try other products in order to not remain stagnant and constantly switch it up. No products will get rid of cellulite completely but along with good diet and exercise products do exist that can improve the condition dramatically. I picked up Nip + Fabs Cellulite Fix a body sculpting gel that is supposed to help with those unsightly bulges and unevenness. This caffeine packed formula is supposed to help “sculpt” and reduce the appearance of the cellulite using ingredients like indian forskolin (which is thought to aid in cell rejuvenation).

Pros
-Gel Formula feels cool and hydrating against my skin
-It is fast absorbing and doesn’t need to be constantly rubbed in
-Non sticky
-Pleasant smell (sort of like roses)
-Easy to apply (application is smooth)
-Availible at drugstores like Target and online
-Obvious results and reduction (remember no product will get rid of cellulite completely)

Cons
-Price point is not comparable to the nivea brand but it is a more “high-end product” from the UK
-It is 150ml and I wish it came with more product!

All in all I will continue to try out different brands and consistencies. So far I prefer this over nivea’s serum because of the gel like consistency and my overall results and usage of the product. Cellulite be gone!

Nip & Fab at Target

Cellulite Fix

Tarte Maracuja Concealer

Posted on November 19, 2013 by itsapplesandorangesblog

True life: I am addicted to concealer! Haha no but seriously guys I am obsessed with concealer, I am constantly experimenting with different brands, looking for the best one that will brighten and conceal the darkness under my eyes without looking too cakey. I currently have about 7 different brands that I use on rotation, well make that 8 because I just bought the Tarte cosmetics maracuja concealer. Drum roll please….. It was love at first sight!

Last week while attending a skincare class at Sephora (which was great by the way) I found my way over to the Tarte section. My initial thoughts were to just try on the concealer but I fell in love with it and had to bring it home with me. Upon applying it in the store my first reaction was wow this has a very thick consistency,(It’s full coverage) it also sets pretty quickly which means it should be blended into the area before it dries too much (I suggest using a beauty blender or any type of sponge to blend it evenly).

The weekend rolled around and I was so excited to put on an entire face of makeup to get the full effect of the concealer. I wore it for about 6 hours on Saturday while I ran some errands and this product DID NOT crease what so ever! My under eye circles were covered up and it really brightened my under eye area. It totally lives up to its name and I would recommend it to anyone who wants to simply brighten their face, has dark circles, or imperfections that they want to conceal.

I chose Medium Tan for my skin tone.

It appears a bit too light on my hands but it is perfect on my face.

This picture was taken on hour 4 of wearing the concealer.

Isn’t Sephora’s new tote super cute? I received a bunch of samples from the skincare class and I also bought some face cleansing sponges.

During the Skincare class we were asked what was our must have beauty product, I of course answered concealer (well for the time being, it changes every so often)
So I would love to know what are some of your favorite beauty products. Feel free to share in the comment section below!

Well that is all folks!
And always remember
“What you do, the way you think, is what makes you beautiful”- Scott Westerfeld

Tarte Maracuja Creaseless Concealer

Much Love,
-Gwen

Lust Vs. Must- Fall Sweaters

Posted on October 30, 2013 by itsapplesandorangesblog

I am loving a statement sweater for this upcoming fall season! Embellishments, tailoring, style and type of material all make for eclectic looks that can be incorporated and worn throughout the season. Some of my favorites would be classic v-neck cuts, embellishments (to avoid having to overload with accessories), long lengths and chunky knits. One doesnt need to spend lots of money to achieve this classic fall look, check out my previous D.I.Y sweater post and see how I made a $2.00 pullover into something wearable and fun! D.I.Y Studded Sweater Below are picture links to some sweaters that im lusting after this season and ones that could fit into any modest budget and are a “must”.

At only $12.45 on H&M Website this sweater is perfect alone or D.I.Y’ed with at home embellishments as I did on my target pullover. (See Link Above)

This mesh angora blend top is perfect for warmer fall climates (like Florida) where the temperature allows for it. $59.95 H&M

Forever 21 Spiked Sleeve Sweatshirt at $27.80

River Island for Asos-Frill Shoulder Sweater $62.29

Zara- Long sweater with elbow patches & front zip features $79.99

Zara- Long sweater with elbow patches & front zipper features $79.99

Forever 21 Chunky Color Blocked Cardigan $16.50

Top Shop – Knitted croc front sweater $96.00

Stay warm lovelies!

-Ari

The Look For Less

Posted on October 24, 2013 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Hey guys! What a chilly day today in the big apple. It is officially time to bring out the boots! With that being said I’ve been looking for some black and gold studded rocker-ish boots, and guess what? I found them!!!!! I was deliriously excited until I saw the price tag ($1,350). These Chloé boots are to die! I just can’t bring myself to pay more for boots than I do for rent!

Sooooo as you know my bargain loving self went hunting for a close second and where better to look than Forever21. These black faux leather studded booties do not disappoint! Now they do not have the exact design but come pretty close with the studded detailing and gold buckles. They are super comfy which is a plus and the best part is they were only $42.80!

Don’t you just love it when you find something you love at such a good price? That is called happiness in my book!

So remember ladies and gents there is ALWAYS a dupe out there for an item you have got to get your hands on. Yes I know sometimes you would rather have the original but not when you have to sacrifice your life (I would become the woman who lived in her shoe).

Here are my new bad boys. I’m going to wear these for Drake’s concert on Sunday. I hope he likes them!

Steal booties

Splurge booties

Stay warm my friends!
– Gwen

L’oreal LaLaque

Posted on October 18, 2013 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Hey guys! Here’s a quick post on one of my new favorite lip products.
I know that the Fall is upon us and dark lip colors are typically worn during this time of year but I can’t seem to stop loving my reds. I’m sure some of you are “rule” breakers as am I and wear whatever color you feel suits you best. L’oreal has recently released some new lip colors called “laLaque” and “leMatte” and I was able to snag 2 of the Lalaque’s (which have a glossier finish) at my local Rite Aid. The tubes have a marker look to them but the product inside appears more crayon like. These lipsticks also have a retractable twist on the upper part of the tube. The colors are extremely vibrant and match the packaging perfectly. The formula glides on smoothly creating a shiny but not too wet of a look. Take a look for yourself…

Left: Number 413
Lacque-onic
Right: Number 414
I Lacque you a lot

(With Flash)
Left: #414 I lacque you alot
Right: #413
Lacque-onic

Same as up top but with no flash

And there you have it my friends, you could never go wrong with a bright or darker shade of red at any time of the year!
Until next time,
-Gwen

Phillip Lim

Posted on October 15, 2013 by itsapplesandorangesblog

One of the most anticipated collaborations with Target caused quite the stir this year, yes you guessed I am referring to the 3.1 Phillip Lim collection. I myself was one of those who arrived at the store at 8 am when they opened and it was indeed madness! All of the handbags were gone by the time I entered the store (I was towards the back of the line, people had been standing there since 6 am, I know crazy new yorkers). I almost lost my cool, until I called up my sis and asked her to purchase the yellow crossbody top handle bag (Good thing she lives in a small town and was literally the only one there at 8 am) crisis averted! I managed to pick up some clothing items in store and was able to order the large purple tote online.

Both of these bags are super versatile and can be paired with an every day casual look or in a more dressed up way.
Here are some easy looks I created…

Easy Breezy! This could easily be worn on the weekend on your down time or during the week while running errands. Using the bag as a crossbody comes in handy while running around NYC.

Casual: Phillip Lim Boom sweatshirt & top handle crossbody bag
h&m tapered sweats

This look can easily be paired with pumps for a dressed up look for the office or some booties for a night out to dinner. Wearing the bag off of one shoulder gives it a sleeker look.

Dressy: Phillip Lim Leopard silk sleeved sweater, top handle crossbody bag and Old Navy corduroy blue skirt

Another weekend winner! Large totes are great because you can literally throw everything in them! Deadline coming up? grab your tote, throw in your laptop and headphones then head to your nearest coffee shop to get some work done.

Casual: Old Navy striped sweater with blue elbow patches, Target burgundy leggings & Phillip Lim tote

This outfit could also be worn to work or out for a business meeting, (the dress is knee length). This tote is perfect for carrying paperwork to and from the office.

Dressy: Forever21 Peplum dress & Phillip Lim tote

Here are the links to the same or similar outfit pieces:
(NOTE: Phillip Lim pieces are sold out online, but your local Target might have some left)

H&M Sweats
Blue Curduroy Skirt
Old Navy striped sweater
Burgundy Bottoms
Forever 21 peplum dress

And there you have it guys, a few ways to dress up (or down) your 3.1 Phillip Lim bags.

Hasta Luego!
-Gwen

OOTD-The Makeup Show

Posted on October 1, 2013 by itsapplesandorangesblog

This outfit was put together very last minute as what I had originally planned to wear to this event didn’t quite work out. I wanted to keep it a little more dressy and girly than your average casual outfit considering I was going to The Make Up show not only to shop but hopefully to network and meet one of my favorite youtube gurus @nicoleguerriero. Heels were a must and I opted for this low pair from target Ive previously featured so I could stand and walk for an extended period. My top is Michael Kors via Tjmaxx and the high waist black and gold shorts are from forever 21. Threw on my new Phillip Lim satchel (my baby) and I was off to the show!

Mustard Bag -Phillip Lim for Target
Dotted Top- Michael Kors via TJmaxx
Printed Black & Gold Shorts- Forver 21 (old season)
Studded Red Heels- Target

Target Red Studded Heels

Black & Gold Shorts- Forever 21

Phillip Lim for Target Satchel

I had so much fun at The Makeup Show!

-Ari

The Makeup Show Goodies- Z Palette

Posted on September 29, 2013 by itsapplesandorangesblog

I had the pleasure of attending “The Makeup Show” here in Orlando Fl on Sept 28. For it being my first time at a makeup expo, I was not disappointed at all! I loved the setup and all the booths were filled with amazing products all at discounted prices. I also got to meet one of my favorite beauty youtube gurus @nicoleguerriero (go check her out she is amazing!) I had an awesome experience and definitely look forward to attending more events like this in the future.

My first purchase was the Z- Palette in size large and leopard print. For those who don’t know the z-palette is a customized makeup palette that allows you to use your own products and have them all in one convenient location. Great for traveling, this little palette is available in different prints/solid colors, I was sold once I heard the discounted price. The process goes as follows

1. Pick out the makeup in your collection that you would like to combine (perhaps your “everyday look”). Make sure they are in pots (sometimes hard to tell if they are glued well, look for the metal rim).

2. Depot by prying or using the oven or flat-iron method (I used solely prying them out with a thin kitchen knife)

3. Clean off the glue from the back of the pot, stick on palette if it is metal or if not use the provided stickers to adhere the items to the palette. You can also use a sharpie to label your product on the back.

4. Enjoy your customized palette!

Leopard Print Z- Palette with magnetic stickers inside.

Find the edge of the pot and work your item of choice (be careful with knives) into it.

Pull off the pot and clean off the excess glue with acetone or “goo gone”.

This one didn’t actually need a sticker, but for the purposes of this I used one. Adhere it to the back of the pot.

Place them wherever you’d like on the palette

Here Is my work in progress!

I used an old maybelline neutral quad, and my favorite blush from a Sonia Kashuk palette. I can totally see this being a favorite of mine when I spend long weekends locally or travel anywhere else. Such a cool concept that I’m glad I was sold on. I can use all the help I can get to organize my cluttered life.

Instructions on how to depot (oven or flat-iron method)

Z Palette Website

Stay tuned for my outfit post for this event!

Love, Ari