Pack w/ Ari for Puerto Rico!

So as some of you may already know my sister/co blogger and I live in two different states and don’t get to physically see each other that often (except for holidays and such). We have decided to take a “sisters” trip this weekend for some fun and relaxation in Puerto Rico! I am so excited to get away for a little bit and thought it would be awesome to share some packing tips for our 4 day, 3 night extravaganza. I will be going over some ways to best utilize your clothing and Gwen will go in further on another post on your makeup and hygiene products.

  1. First things first, assess how many days you will be gone and what type of climate you will be in. Google is your best friend on this matter.
  2.  If you don’t already have a set itinerary, have a general idea of what type of events/ outings you will be attending ie. mostly casual, conservative historical sites, festive night outs, or mostly beach bum days etc
  3.  Write down your basic clothing essentials so that you wont forget them and can easily check mark them once they are packed away (undies, bras, socks etc – Here is a List I like using for myself.
  4. Start with each day and run down the list of pre planned (or made up) activities that you will go through. For instance mine looks something like this.

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    I am repeating many items for sake of saving room in my carry on (my sandals, purses, makeup, pjs just to name a few). I then take photos of everything laid out on my phone for reference. This process helps me not over pack and bring exactly what I need for each day keeping in account all different types of scenarios that may occur. I am so excited for my trip and I hope this helped anyone who struggles packing a bag (I still do sometimes). Stay tuned for detailed outfits of the day from this trip!

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    Love

    Ari

Gap Boyfriend Denim Shorts

On my last post I shared my outfit from the grand opening of the Gap at Millenia Mall and getting to meet Melanie Pace. I was actually on the hunt for some boyfriend jeans but when I arrived I was distracted by the sale on all shorts! Naturally I gravitated towards the “boyfriend” section and fell in love with this light wash pair. They are super comfortable, 100% durable cotton and feature slight distressing/fringe and rolled up cuffs. I am still going back for the original long pair but these are a perfect addition to any summer wardrobe. I paired them with my studded Target sandals, a plain black button up from The Limited and my black crochet Old Navy purse that I’ve had for ages. For a different aesthetic throw on an actual white tee from your boyfriend (was going to be my second option). Check these bad boys out in all the different washes they have to offer. Links at the bottom as always!

 

gap, boyfriend, shorts, denim, ootd, sandals, target,

gap, boyfriend, shorts, denim, ootd, sandals, target,

gap, boyfriend, shorts, denim, ootd, sandals, target,

gap, boyfriend, shorts, denim, ootd, sandals, target,

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gap, boyfriend, shorts, denim, ootd, sandals, target,

gap, boyfriend, shorts, denim, ootd, sandals, target,

1969 Sexy Boyfriend Shorts

Similar Sandals- Here & Here

Similar Crochet Purses- Here & Here

Toodles

-Ari

Grand Opening OOTD-Gap At Millenia Mall, Orlando FL

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!

Red Forever 21 Faux Suede Pumps- Here & Here

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

These suits are so Awesome!

-Love Ari

Beautycon NYC

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Beautycon was in NYC this past weekend for the first time and boy was it fun! For those of you who aren’t familiar with what Beautycon is it is a fashion and beauty conference for the online community, such as bloggers and those who have Youtube channels and it is of course open to the public as well. Beautycon consists of interactive presentations, panel discussions and Q&A’s you are also given the chance to shop, learn about new products and most importantly be able to interact with some of the internet’s beauty icons.Ok on to the really exciting part which is meeting all of your beauty and fashion guru’s, I am thrilled to say that I was able to meet almost all of my favorites. Check out who they were down below! (Some of these photos were taken with my phone which is why they aren’t the best quality)

Amy Pham (Amypham.com)

Amy Pham (Amypham.com)

Teni Panosian from Missmavendotcom

Teni Panosian from Missmavendotcom

Carli (youtube: Carlibybel)

Carli (youtube: Carlibybel)

Brett ( youtube: Brettcap, he's also Carli's boyfriend)

Brett ( youtube: Brettcap, he’s also Carli’s boyfriend)

Raye ( youtube: itsmyrayeraye)

Raye ( youtube: itsmyrayeraye)

Chatting with Maya (youtube: Shamelessmaya)

Chatting with Maya (youtube: Shamelessmaya)

Dulce (youtube: Dulcecandy87)

Dulce (youtube: Dulcecandy87)

Nadia ( Blog: nadiaaboulhosn.com)

Nadia ( Blog: nadiaaboulhosn.com)

There was a pink carpet theme which I thought was super cute! I might have taken it a bit too far with the posing, I thought I was a celebrity for a moment.

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Here are my outfit details:
Crop top from Forever21
Striped midi skirt from Asos (curve)
Clog sandals from Maguba (If you live in the NYC area Shoe Market, Tani, DNA footwear and Soula have a small selection of Maguba shoes)

One more thing, I received a huge goodie bag from NYX cosmetics and will be doing a giveaway once we reach 150 followers. I will post the rules as soon as that happens!

Makeup Heaven!

Makeup Heaven!

My outfit pieces are no longer available but here are links to similar items.

Asos Curve Midi
Simplybe Midi skirt
Crop Top
Maguba Bologna clogs

Till next time
-Gwen

To Tokyo

Memorial weekend has come and gone and with it came an opportunity to get away, perhaps relax and enjoy family and friends company. I don’t typically do the usual BBQ setting but this is my first year being a godmother and attending such family oriented festivities. Memorial weekend brought me down to Miami to visit him and also get the chance to reconnect with old pals for some fun in the sun. I love the combination of black, white and leopard and felt inspired by my new crop top from H&M. This look is similar to an old club look of mine and can be recreated with different pieces to convey the same effect. The crop mesh top with Tokyo emblazoned on the front can be paired as a I did here with a high waist skirt or even jogging pants for a more sporty look. The striped skirt and leopard heels are both old season Forever 21. Links & options down below!

leopard,ootn, ootd, forever 21, hm, h&m, stripes, mixing prints, fblogger, blog. fashion

 

I purchased the top in store only two weeks ago but it is not on the site! Check your local H&M and you may score the exact one. Here are some similar options

Here, Here, Here, Here & Here

Similar Heels- Here, Here and Here

Similar Skirts- Here & Here

Fl Fashion Weekend 14′ – Show time!

Although I’ve worn this “Blaque Market” skirt a couple of times already I was hesitant to feature it on the blog since it is not available anymore on KARMALOOP.COM where I purchased it a while ago. However every time I have worn it, it draws attention from all sources and I knew that it was what I had to rock for the Downtown Orlando Fashion Show. For the press party I went more casual but I wanted to pull out all the stops for the actual show. This hoop/cage skirt is reminiscent of a laundry basket (or so the uneducated eye guesses) but it’s actually a take on a pretty common item of clothing that was worn by women in the 18 century. Granted they wore these under their skirts for the effect, but today I am rocking mine on the outside and loving it! Below I included some links as to the history of the skirt & some similar items that may be of interest to add to your wardrobe as a costume (or like me for everyday use). I paired mine with a basic bodycon from forever 21 and my heel-less heels. Scroll down to check it out!

karma loop, cage, skirt, forever 21, ootn, outfit of the night, fashion, fashion week, orlando, heels, lipstick, makeup

Me, Fashion Stylist "Sweet Tilly" and Editor Mellisa Thomas

Me, Fashion Stylist “Sweet Tilly” and Editor Mellisa Thomas

@FaboPiano and @BuddyBlues -Super awesome musicians!

@FaboPiano and @BuddyBlues -Super awesome musicians!

My buddy for the night...make sure to check out his blog he's super awesome and clearly one of the most fashion forward dudes you will ever encounter!! pedro from pedrodrigo.com

My buddy for the night…make sure to check out his blog he’s super awesome and clearly one of the most fashion forward dudes you will ever encounter!! pedro from pedrodrigo.com

karma loop, cage, skirt, forever 21, ootn, outfit of the night, fashion, fashion week, orlando, heels, lipstick, makeup

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Blaque Market Site

History

Etsy Similar Skirt

Etsy Similar Skirt

Nasty Gal Similar Dress < I so want this!!!!!

Similar Heels

Bodycon Dress

Love Ari

Downtown Orlando Fashion Week 14′- Day 1 OOTN

Florida Fashion Weekend kicked off May 9 with a two day event filled with fashion and fun. I was happy to be able to get on the media list for the pre- show mixer hosted at Jai Gallery to get a look at the models before hand. I have never attended an event like this before and had no idea what to expect. I went with these bold yet sophisticated statement making basketball shorts that I recently ordered from ASOS. This “river island” piece kills the tough task of making shorts chic by adding a touch of sheer element. Everyone and everyone was giving me compliments the entire night and I even got mistaken for one of the models (correction because of my shorts clearly not my height, a girl can only dream). I paired them with a white quilted crop sweater from H&M and my amazing shoe cult by nasty gal heels. Sleek straight hair and my go to Phillip lim bag completed my overall aesthethic and I was ready to take on the night! Stay tuned for pics from the actual show. Links to items below!

downtown orlando fashion show ready in fl fashion week

asos, river island, phillip lim, target, h&m, pullover, sweater, sheer, basketball shorts, heels, nasty gal, shoe cult, fashion, orlando, downtown,

Awesome Performance by a live band!

Awesome Performance by a live band!

 

One of Misly Beltinor's Lovely Models

One of Misly Beltinor’s Lovely Models

asos, river island, phillip lim, target, h&m, pullover, sweater, sheer, basketball shorts, heels, nasty gal, shoe cult, fashion, orlando, downtown,

Feeling myself and I cant be bothered!

Free samples of "Onli" Beverages and Sparkling Water. My fav was the hibiscus pomegranate aronia flavor!

Free samples of “Onli” Beverages and Sparkling Water. My fav was the hibiscus pomegranate aronia flavor!

asos, river island, phillip lim, target, h&m, pullover, sweater, sheer, basketball shorts, heels, nasty gal, shoe cult, fashion, orlando, downtown,

asos, river island, phillip lim, target, h&m, pullover, sweater, sheer, basketball shorts, heels, nasty gal, shoe cult, fashion, orlando, downtown,

asos, river island, phillip lim, target, h&m, pullover, sweater, sheer, basketball shorts, heels, nasty gal, shoe cult, fashion, orlando, downtown,

baskbetball

River Island Basketball Shorts

H&M Quilted Sweatshirt

Similar Booties- Here, Here, Here and Here

Urban Safari

Finally found an awesome utility vest! Although it is not in the original khaki finish that I wanted (still on the hunt for that) this olive tone is neutral and also pairs with everything easily. This Marshalls find is from the brand “Willow & Clay” & it features front zipper closure, two zip pockets on the chest, two cargo style pockets towards the bottom and drawstring capability on the inside to tighten from the waist for more of a flared look. I love love love the accessibility and roominess of this vest! Instead of tools, I was able to carry my phone and other personal effects securely and comfortably. You can rock this over a pair of shorts (denim or cotton blend), crop top and timberland’s as I did for a more urban appeal. One can also substitute the timb’s for combat boots or sandals and a regular tank top or three-quarter sleeve. The possibilities are endless with this number and coming in at a cool $30.00 whats not to love? The high waist beige shorts are old season forever 21, crop top is from ASOS, timberland’s are classic wheat nubuck style, the gold blue face watch is Marc Jacobs and the pom-pom socks are from ASOS. Links to items below!

utility, vest, safari, timbs, timberlands, ootd, crop top

forever 21, willow & clay, timberlands, curls

utility vest, cargo, olive, willow & clay, forever 21, outfit of the day

timberlands, timbs, ootd, khaki, crop tops

timberlands, girl, cute, ootd, fashion, vest, fashionista, orlando, florida

details

Similar Vest- Here, Here & Here

Asos Crop Top

Forever 21 Shorts

Wheat Nubuck Timberlands

Similar Pom Pom Socks

Marc Jacobs Watches- Here & Here

-LOVE Ari

Duo Spring Looks

Spring is upon us and although the temperatures may vary considerably depending on your location, the following are two looks based off staple classic spring pieces and trends. I bought this crop top from TJMAXX and I instantly fell in love with the scallop detailing and fresh mint color (also available in navy, blue and coral). It also features full button closure in the back. I paired my new find first with old season taupe forever 21 pants and floral chunky heels (also forever 21). The combination of neutrals and florals with a pop of color also inspired a more flirty look featuring these old season forever 21 floral shorts and charlotte russe nude pumps. Both looks are appropriate for warmer weather and the different patterns are kept to a minimal keeping the focus on the lovely top. Links to items below! Also stay tuned for my sisters post on a fresh spring face look!

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– ❤ ARi

 

TJMAXX Scalloped Top

Similar Floral Shorts- Here, Here & Here

High Waisted Trousers

Similar Taupe Pumps

Similar Floral Pumps

Midi Skirts

Spring is right around the corner and I am already looking for my must have pieces, one of them being the midi skirt which I have become utterly obsessed with! I love the versatility of it, one minute you can be casual by pairing it with flats or sandals and the next you can have a night out on the town with a pair of booties, strappy heels or wedges. They come in a variety of colors, patterns and lengths making them wearable for all shapes and sizes. I personally prefer the more flared out style (A line) as opposed to the tapered kind. Here are a few of my favorites:
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I was able to get my hands on a black and white striped midi from Asos and I am just dying for the warmer weather to return to the big apple.
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Below are some links as to where you can find a cute midi to suit your style (both plus and regular sizes).
Asos skirts (curve) Here Here Regular: Here Here
Simplybe: Here Here
Modcloth: Here Here

Etsy also has some really cute ones just type in “midi skirt” in the search box.

Not so patiently waiting for spring…
-Gwen