We Picked Two Giveaway Winners!!!!

Posted on June 10, 2014 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Darlene Rodriguez & Josmery from http://jomified.wordpress.com are the official winners of our giveaway! We surpassed our goal of 150 followers and decided to share the love with two people instead of just one! We have some great stuff coming up this summer and will be doing many more giveaways and contest in the future. Make sure to follow us on all social media platforms, we love feedback and comments and the goal is to be more interactive with our fellow bloggers and followers.

Winners Info- Go check them out!

Darlene Rodriguez, @poor_salieri

Josmery, http://jomified.wordpress.com, @jomified

Our Info: Itsapplesandorangesblog.com
Ari- Ig & Twitter _Ari_Pena
Gwen- Ig- Gwenzilla Twitter-Gwendi3
facebook.com/gwendi3
Pinterest- Gwendolyn Pena, Ariadna Pena

Thanks for entering, until the next one!

Ari & Gwen

Grand Opening OOTD-Gap At Millenia Mall, Orlando FL

Posted on June 2, 2014 by itsapplesandorangesblog

This weekend was a fun-filled event at the Mall of Millenia Grand re-opening of the GAP store. Held from 12-5pm the store featured select denim and dresses on sale for 50% off, snacks, musical talents from a DJ, photo booth and many raffles and prizes to be won. I went to check out the sales but also to be able to meet the lovely Fashion Guru Melanie Pace. She holds so many hats in the industry and is local born and raised here in Orlando! She was incredibly sweet in person and her website is now one of my newest obsessions to rave about. Check her out at http://blog.melaniepace.com/. I am wearing a matching striped suit from Target (old season), red pumps from forever 21, and my quilted Kate Spade bag to polish off the look. Top knot and camera in tow I captured these images to share with you guys. Links to items down below!

kate spade, matching set, mall of millenia, gap, melanie pace, forever 21, target, heels, stripes

Red Forever 21 Faux Suede Pumps- Here & Here

Kate Spade Crossbody/Shoulder Bag- Here, Here & Here

These suits are so Awesome!

: Premium Beaded Deco Shorts and Jacket- TOPSHOP

: Jacket & Mini Skirt in Jacquard- ASOS

: Blazer and Slouch Peg Pants in Stripe -ASOS

: Reclaimed Vintage Sweatshit & Shorts in Striped pattern-ASOS

-Love Ari

Go-To Curly Hair Products-Shea Moisture Line

Posted on May 17, 2014 by itsapplesandorangesblog

So as mentioned in one of my previous hair post, I have taken on the task to try and nurture my hair back to health after a long time of chemically damaging it with relaxers and heat. I still from time to time use rollers, or straighten it but for the most part wear it in its natural curly state. Its been quite a journey figuring out what works best for my hair type and I am still learning as I go along. My main concerns were affordability and using natural products (to bring my hair back to life). In comes Shea Moisture products! This nutrient rich line is certified organic, cruelty free, dosent incoporate parabens or sulfates and the list goes on and on! With ingredients like coconut oil, silk protein and even yucca its hard to believe that both of these products are under $15.00 each. The curl enhancing smoothie was my first purchase followed by the thickening growth milk that I use in conjunction together. This combination works wonders for me and depending on how much hair you have and how much you use, these products go a long way. They are available at drug stores and also linked below!

They are all taped up from the travel and usage they have gotten!

Pros- Conditions Hair, Restores Moisture & Shine, Minimizes Frizz & provides control. Be sure to “rake” this thoroughly through your hair as to not have any clumping in any one specific area. It wont flake but it will be a bit greasy if not spread evenly or if too much is used. It does not leave my hair hard at all! Super soft with control, whats not to love?

I added this thickening growth milk to the mix after realizing the smoothie was for thick hair. I personally have very thin hair and this adds volume and also helps soften it. I mix this and a the smoothie in my palm and apply it generously in a “raking” motion. This can be used on damp on dry hair as a styling cream.

Stay tuned for a step by step curly wash and go routine!

-love

Ari

Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie

Yucca & Aloe Thickening Growth Milk

Lauren Conrad “Style”

Posted on May 3, 2014 by itsapplesandorangesblog

When I was younger, I used to be an avid reader and would actually take on the tasks to finish lengthy materials super fast even if it meant getting some reading done at the dinner table or spending my summers at the local library. I loved where my books could take my imagination and how they made me feel. Throughout the years, school (in particular college) left a slight disdain for reading since it became more of a chore and not a hobby. I have made the choice today to get back to one of my favorite past times and enjoy reading just for the sake of it. Although it is more of a helpful guide versus a narrative “Style” by Lauren Conrad is a fun introductory easy read to get me back into the flow of things. I picked it up at my local Marshalls at a discounted price just merely based on the aesthetic appeal (great coffee table look) but quickly discovered that it actually had some awesome advice, guidelines, tips and tricks for the everyday girl interested in all things relating to fashion and beauty. Her simple yet chic look is broken down for even the basic beginner to be able to obtain as well as life and beauty hacks. From closet organization to choosing the right denim for your body type, this book has a little something for everyone and is an easy flowing read! Links below.

Find it here on Amazon

Barnes & Noble

-Love

Ari

Designer Spotlight- Kate Spade New York

Posted on April 23, 2014 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Being a fan of “Kate Spade New York” is something that has come with age and experience. Her sophisticated lady like aesthetic, appeals to those who like your classic all american tailored looks with a touch of fun and sparkle in the mix. Her clothing allows for casual lunch dates to corporate office savvy looks all with great detail, color and of course quality. From graphic prints and the classic hallmarks (three-leaf clover and quirky quotes like “live colorfully”) Kate Spade New York expands in categories like clothing, jewelry, shoes, eyewear, bedding, gifts, stationary etc. Kate Brosnahan Spade set out to first design the perfect handbag and has now broadened into the power house company it is today in just 18 years! Both Gwen and I love this brand and can only wish to own more pieces! Along with my phone, iPad cases and wallet check out my previous way I styled my classic nude chain link Kate Spade purse. Their new collection “21 days in Monaco” features neutrals with pops of red and fun bright patterns. Featured on the site is also the official Kate Spade New York blog in which each column offers differing insight, tutorials and even tips from their brand stylist Brad Goreski (former Rachel Zoe associate). I love everything this classic brand represents and the beautiful products that allow me to transition from a quirky adolescent to a young flourishing lady who doesnt have to give up that special quality she loves in an outfit. Here are some items on my current wish list….oh to dream!

Shop this look!

Paris and the Single Girl Book Clutch $328.00

Victory Goal Taza $298.00

Grand Tour Wicker Camera Bag $298.00

-Ari

February Ipsy Glam Bag Review

Posted on February 21, 2014 by itsapplesandorangesblog

The time has come again for my monthly Ipsy Glam Bag, this is my second one ever and I must say I am much more pleased with this one than my January edition. This time around it included more full sized items and actual products that I love and will use often. First things first is the constant incorporation of a new makeup bag, plain pink with white trim and I love it! This one will probably be re-gifted as well or used for traveling purposes. I received lashes from jcatbeauty, a body butter from pacifica, zoya nail polish, pop beauty lip gloss and a shadow tint from ‘tini beauty. Check out my pics and reviews below and also the Links at the bottom for products. Enjoy!

J.Cat Beauty “EL 20”
Lashes + Glue
These are very thick but still very soft to the touch, I may cut them in half to use as accent lashes instead of a full glam look. I usually prefer a slimmer band but nonetheless these are still great lashes.

Pop Beauty -“Fuchsia Freesia”
This mini gloss is perfect to throw in your bag and your’e out the door! The sheer tint is great over another color to mix or alone by itself for a natural flushed pink pout. Although I did not see the advertised “plumping” effects I did feel the moisture from the avocado and jojoba oils used in said product. I love it!

Pacifica Body Butter- “Hawaiian Ruby Guava”
This body butter is super moisturizing and smells like heaven on earth! Like all pacifica products it is 100% vegan and cruelty free. This isn’t for someone afraid of a strong scent you will be smelling like a tropical dream for the entire day!

‘Tini Beauty-Eyeshadow Tint “Spiced Rum”
I have never heard of this line until now and they offer an array of nail products, eyes and lips as well. This eyeshadow tint is creamy, blends well and can be used as a base or by itself for a subtle look (on my skin tone). The packaging on the site is very cute with all of the products sporting an alcohol related theme i.e., “dry gin top coat”. Very cool concept!

Zoya- “Odette”
This pretty purple is perfect for an everyday mani. It was a nice consistency and one coat is good enough for a nice finish. Ive always liked Zoya polishes and Im glad to add this to my collection!

-Love,
Ari

Pacifica “Hawaiian Ruby Guava” Body Butter
Zoya “Odette” Nail Polish
‘Tiny Beauty “Spiced Rum” Eyeshadow Tint
J. Cat Beauy Eyelashes
Pop Beauty “Fuchsia Freesia” Lip Gloss

Green with Envy

Posted on January 9, 2014 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Hey Everyone! So, I was visiting my sister in Florida a few weeks ago (oh how I miss the sun, and my sister of course) we were able to sneak in some photo shoot time, which is great for me since I hardly ever post outfit of the day entries. I never bring much clothing with me when I travel to Florida because I know I am going to shop while I am there, and boy did I shop! While everyone was off at work I drove myself to The Florida Mall and had a grand ole’ time. Forever 21 was of course my first stop and I managed to score some great pieces that were on clearance. I put together an outfit that I absolutely love (under $100 might I add).

-The Black peep mesh peplum top is perfect for adding curves to a not so curvy figure (such as mine) and the mesh adds a little sex appeal to a classic top.
-The Green pencil skirt gives this outfit the pop of color it needs.
-The black and gold studded boots are a favorite of mine (from my look for less post) and they give the outfit a nice edge to it.

Black and gold clutch is from H&M
Gold and black earrings are also from Forever 21

To all of my plus size ladies there is ALWAYS a way to put an outfit together while keeping some money in your pockets!

Till next time!
-Gwen
Links to Items Below:

Forever 21 Skirt

Peplum Top’s Here and Here

Similar Booties

Similar Earrings

Similar Clutches- Here and Here

On Sale Today!- Forever 21 Cutout Booties

Posted on January 1, 2014 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Dont miss out on these amazing Forever 21 cut out booties! Perfect dressed up or down these babies are super comfortable and can be paired with so many different looks. They are now on sale for 50% on forever 21’s website and originally priced at $39.80. Check out how I styled mine below. Target denim button up, Forever 21 mustard pencil skirt and loose waved curls for a simple casual day. At the advice of online reviews I sized down and got a 5.5 and they fit perfect! I do have to agree with those that wrote they run big, half size down did the trick for me! Links below.

Forever 21 Cutout Booties

Target Denim Tunic

Similar Mustard Skirt

Love, Ari

OOTN- Urban Flannel Flair

Posted on December 24, 2013 by itsapplesandorangesblog

I visited the mecca (Forever 21) just over two weeks ago and scored this cute little sweatshirt on clearance! I repeat I found a size small on clearance people, this is big news! Usually for the most part I steer clear of the clearance section from forever seeing as it is normally cluttered and hard to sift through. This bad boy was staring up at me and begging to be taken home. I paired it with my go to Zara dark wash jeans, as well as old season Target plaid booties. The contrast between the two different plaid prints made for an interesting and comfortable urban fall look. Links to similar items below!

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