Photo & Magazine DIY Display

Posted on February 9, 2016 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Hey there lovelies! I thought I’d switch things up a bit by showing you all my latest project. I moved in with my best friend a few months ago and wanted a fresh look for my new bedroom. Pinterest became my best friend as I hunted for a way to display my photos from my time away in Europe and some of my favorite books and magazines. Here’s what I came up with…

For the magazine & book display I purchased the Ribba series picture ledge from Ikea but, I believe they are no longer sold online. This is the closest match I found Mosslanda Ledge. For this you will need a level (to make sure the shelf is straight) and a power drill. This ledge is so multifunctional, you can display anything you’d like on these. I paid $14.99 for this long one but the one they have available online is only $9.99!

For the hanging photo display I purchased nylon invisible hanging wire along with the cup hooks at my local hardware store (which you can also do) or take a trip to your local Home Depot or Lowes. Invisible Wire, Hooks. Now for these hooks all you need is a strong arm (I had my roommates uncle help me ensure they were pressed tightly against the wall) you then tie the nylon wire to each end, not giving it too much slack and ta-da you’ve got yourself an easy and cool way to hang photographs. Add some cute wooden “clothes” pins and you’re good to go!

I hope you all enjoyed this mini DIY project. Have any of you worked on something fun lately? Please share down below!

xx, Gwen

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

Nail Cuticle Tattoos

Posted on June 17, 2015 by itsapplesandorangesblog

The little details are what make life that much more interesting. This statement could not be any truer with regards to fashion and accessories. Trends like midi rings and small dainty jewelry are spot on because they are feminine, interesting and don’t overwhelm your look. These nail cuticle tattoos do just the trick! I found them on ASOS and was immediately smitten with the idea of sprucing up my nails more than just stacking rings together. It’s a way to be ornate without having to fully commit to getting some actual permanent ink. These stick on tattoos are perfect for a concert, party or even just worn casually with a great manicure. They are applied just as any other temporary tats and come off with water in the shower. Links at the bottom!

ASOS Nail Cuticle Tattoos

XOXO, Ari

Sunglassspot Sunnies

Posted on June 12, 2015 by itsapplesandorangesblog

As many of you may have caught on already the hype about Sunglassspot.com is too real! This awesome website features designer inspired sunglasses as well as fun decorative sunnies for the climbing temps! At only $5.00 a pair you cannot beat the quality or design. You can change up your look every day and protect your eyes from the harmful rays of the sun while always staying on trend! The following picks were a combination of mine and my sisters. The plan was to each get three and now that we’ve received them, we want more! Check out how my picks look on my face below and make sure to check out the site for more stylish options.

Sharp Rimless Bottom Clear Lensed Cat Eye

Round Metal Trim High Pointed Tip Cat Eye Mod

Retro Round 50mm Pearl

Sunglassspot

XOXO, Ari

What is Love?

Posted on February 14, 2015 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Happy Valentine’s Day everyone! (but really I’m all for celebrating love at any given day of the year). In this post I wanted to focus on a type of love that is slowly but surely being spoken of more often and that is: self LOVE.

Recently I purchased an Alex and Ani (Click here to read their story) bangle but, of course was having a hard time deciding which symbol to choose from (they are all so lovely) that is until I came across the path of life one. Alex and Ani describe it as “Emblematic of life’s zenith and nadir moments, the Path of Life is representative of an infinite number of possibilities and expressions of Love. Illustrating life’s twists, turns, and unexpected winds, wear the path of life’s charm to proudly celebrate your own willingness to travel towards life’s fruitful moments”. This really resonated with me as I purchased it right before making the big move to England. What also rang true in my heart was how it represents infinite possibilities and expressions of Love. Leading to my point of self love and how there are so many way to express it to oneself. For example: Having “me time”, treating yourself to something you’ve really been wanting, pushing yourself but also being considerate and realizing you are doing the best you can and so many more, the list is infinite!

(I also have the “Best Friends half one which I gifted to one of my amazing girlfriends)

Having someone to love and care for whether it be a partner, parents, siblings, friends is one of the most amazing gifts of life but it all begins with you.

I have the original Path of life charm but for Valentine’s Day Alex and Ani have created the heart version if it.

Alex and Ani heart Path of Life

Alex and Ani Path of Life

Love,
-Gwen