ASOS SWIM

Posted on June 9, 2016 by itsapplesandorangesblog

ASOS is literally my go to site whenever I am in need of special one of a kind pieces. This time around I wanted to treat myself to some stylish swimsuits for my tropical get away with my sister and mother. Not only did these suit me perfectly for the trip but they are also versatile for pretty much any water related event. With recent weight gain I desired more coverage with certain trouble areas and figured one pieces were the way to go. When looking for bathing suits I look for a couple of things, texture, details, and shape. I prefer feminine sweetheart neck lines that accentuate my bust with added surprises like the peplum to give the illusion of a curvier bottom half. I typically steer clear of added material to my chest seeing as it can draw the eye more to this area but could not resist this beautiful ruffle frill trim on this white polka dot suit! Sometimes it’s ok to let go of your style rules and it can pay off in the end. Lastly the scuba material really helps to create structure and sculpt any problem areas like the tummy. This white suit is unfortunately out of stock for the moment but the red peplum is still available in black. I have also linked similar items that may be of interest down below.

Disclaimer, if you are more into comfort versus style these wouldn’t be for you! I couldn’t exactly lift my arms with the shoulder straps and the scuba material peplum sucks you in for a tight fit perhaps not working well with water sport activities. These suits are meant to be admired and sun bathed in :0)

XOXO- ARI

ASOS Swim Suits- Here, Here, Here, Here, Here, Here

“A Bloggers Thanksgiving”- Top 6 Fashion Items We Are Thankful For

Posted on November 25, 2015 by itsapplesandorangesblog

As bloggers we are both inclined to always try new trends or styles in order to consistently stay abreast of all the latest and greatest. Although we love shopping and reviewing new things, there are those constant tried and true items that will always be staples in our lives and really stand the test of time. Here are our top 6 fashion items we are grateful exist in this world that make us look and feel our very best.

Top 6 things Ari & Gwen are grateful for this year-

Untitled #9 by ari-pena featuring a short sleeve v neck t shirt

Peplums/A-lines cuts- Neither of us were born with any God given curves on the bottom half and so we fake it till we make it! Peplums do a great job at hiding the tummy while giving the illusion of curves on the sides. A-lines cinch you in at your smallest point and then give the illusion of hips with the free flowing nature of the cut.
V-Neck- Whether it be in the form of a dress or top V-necks work great to elongate the neck and show off our greatest assets. Having a bigger chest sometimes makes it hard to rock a standard rounded collar because it may mess with your proportions.
Booties- As we both get older booties are taking the spotlight for most settings. Whether they are suede, leather or have some cut-outs they can be so versatile and much more comfortable than the alternative while still offering a polished look.
Nude Sandals/Heels- For when it is absolutely required to rock a heel you cannot go wrong with a nude staple sandal. We love a matte leather finish that can transition from the work place to night with ease. Can we also say legs for days?
Shapewear- We could write an entire blog post about this (we probably will sometime in the future). Not only does it suck you in all the wrong places, it also helps lift and accentuate the parts you are happy with. Not to mention it helps conceal your body with any sheer clothing and avoid that dreaded belly button outline we all hate.
Denim/Leather/Anorak Jacket- You guys get the hint, basically any jacket will do! Not only do they keep you warmer in cooler temps but they also complete a look in a way that no other item can. Drape it over your shoulders, tie it around your waist or keep it on your body the old fashioned way, a jacket can dramatically change the entire look of an outfit from boring to fabulous.

All in all we are thankful for one another and our families and can’t wait to reunite for Christmas. Our blog is going in a great direction and we cannot wait to see what the future will bring.

Love Ari & Gwen

Nautical Spring Look

Posted on March 30, 2015 by itsapplesandorangesblog

We are well into spring although the weather has taken an odd turn towards cold these last few days in Florida. With that being said the day time is still very enjoyable for a nice casual outing. I went to the farmers market with friends and spent a lovely Sunday relaxing and sampling amazing food and crafts. My oufit of choice was based around these awesome horizontal navy blue striped pants purchased from Primark on my recent trip to London. Not only are they versatile and appropriate for work and regular life (a must these days) they are also trendy and have a nautical flair perfect for spring and summer. I paired them with this Ralph Lauren peplum button up, nine west tassel flats and my Kate Spade bag that is attached to my body at all times. All american and preppy, perfect for the weather and any occasion. Links to similar items below!

Striped Pants
Ralph Lauren Shirt
Nine West Flats

XOXO -Ari

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.