Summer Stash

Posted on June 23, 2014 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Our vacation is officially over! Ari and I are super sad that we are no longer laying on a beautiful beach in Puerto Rico, alas reality has kicked in.
I wanted to talk more in detail about one of my recent purchases at Sephora, by the title of this post I am sure you all know I am referring to the Summer Stash makeup kit. This is the absolute perfect little set you can take along for travel or if your purse is small and you aren’t able to fit your normal sized products. Below are swatches and detailed explanations of each item’s function, lets get started!

Summer Stash $45 (worth $123)

The makeup bag included a Urban Decay all nighter makeup setting spray, Make up forever aqua eyes waterproof eyeliner, Stila foil finish eyeshadow in Kitten, Deborah Lippmann nail lacquer in Mermaid’s dream, Josie Maran coconut watercolor cheek gelee, Nars travel size bronzing powder in the color Laguna, Buxom divine goddess luminizer in the color venus, O.C.C stained gloss in the color new wave and lastly a Marc Jacobs mini lash lifter mascara.

From left to right: Buxom Luminizer, O.C.C lip stain, Stila foil eyeshadow, Nars laguna bronzer (which doesn't show u on my hand now that I have a tan) and Makeup forever's aqua eyeliner

From left to right: Buxom Luminizer, O.C.C lip stain, Stila foil eyeshadow, Nars laguna bronzer (which doesn’t show up on my hand now that I have a tan) and Makeup forever’s aqua eyeliner

The products above were either hard to swatch, in liquid form or I haven’t had the chance to try them out. I will say that I was not a fan of the Josie Maran cheek gelee, not sure if my skin is too pigmented for it but there was hardly any color payoff when I tried it. Also the Marc Jacobs Mascara was a bit flaky on me, it is a gel form so I am guessing that’s what caused it not to stick to my lashes. The Urban Decay all nighter spray is a product I have used before and loved and lastly I have not tried the Deborah Lippmann polish but I am sure I will love to use it as an accent nail color.

The essentials for my trip were the Urban Decay all night setting spray which worked great for those hot and sweaty days, the Nars laguna bronzer which I only used the first few days before my tan, the Buxom luminizer for a quick cheek bone highlight and lastly the O.C.C lip stain which was a perfect bright pink.

Even though there were two products I wasn’t a huge fan of I still believe the kit was a good deal and would definitely purchase something like this again.

Hope this mini review helped any of you thinking of purchasing this kit or any of the full-sized products.

I’ll leave you with this quick shot of the beach we were able to capture, because it’s the beach and who doesn’t love the beach.

Isla Verde, Puerto Rico

Until next time,
-Gwen

Sephora Summer Stash

Gwen packs for Puerto Rico

Posted on June 13, 2014 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Hey Everyone! So as you previously read my sister and I are going on a very much needed trip. We are so excited to see each other and will hopefully be able to snap a few photos of us together.
Although my packing technique is not as organized as Ari’s I’d like to believe that it is also a good method when trying to figure out what to bring along with you on a trip. So what I generally do is look at all of my products (hair, skin, makeup) and say to myself “will I really use this?” if my answer is no I obviously keep looking, if my answer is yes I place that item aside. Now another thing to consider when traveling is the climate of your destination as well as the duration of your stay. I snapped a few photos of what I will be taking for this trip (Sorry they are not tucked in neatly in my suitcase, I still haven’t officially packed Yikes!)

Suncare

First order of business is of course suncare! Sunscreen/Sunblock is very much needed when out and about in the sun all day.

Personal Hygiene

I know that most hotels and resorts provide lotion, shampoo conditioner and all that good stuff, but I personally like to bring my own things. I normally just buy small clear bottles and pour the product in.

Hair Care

Because we are going to be in the pool or beach most of the time, curly hair will be the way to go.

Skincare

My skin hasn’t been behaving lately so I am taking a small bottle of acne cleanser and of course can’t forget my dirt, oil and makeup removing wipes.

Makeup

This may seem like a lot of products but I did add a few items for the nights when we get all dolled up for a night on the town. My daytime essentials will most likely be my cc cream (which has spf), mascara, my brow wiz, a peachy blush and a lip butter or stain. Also check out a great travel piece for storing small items (like makeup) that Ive mentioned in a previous post from Sonia Kashuk. It is affordable and available at any target near you in varying prints and styles.

Hopefully this helped all of you traveling this summer to get an idea of what you should or shouldn’t bring with you.

Puerto Rico here we come!
Hasta Luego
-Gwen

*If you are curious about any product I posted or would like a review please comment down below. Thanks a bunch!
Xo

Pack w/ Ari for Puerto Rico!

Posted on June 11, 2014 by itsapplesandorangesblog

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.

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.
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
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.
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.

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!

Love

Ari
Share this <3
Tweet
Share on Tumblr
Like Loading...

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

Gap Boyfriend Denim Shorts

Posted on June 8, 2014 by itsapplesandorangesblog

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!

1969 Sexy Boyfriend Shorts

Similar Sandals- Here & Here

Similar Crochet Purses- Here & Here

Toodles

-Ari

!!!!!!GIVEAWAY TIME!!!!!

Posted on June 4, 2014 by itsapplesandorangesblog

So weve slightly surpassed our goal of 150 followers since the last giveaway at 100 and we couldnt be more excited!! Blogging is something that is not only a hobby for us but something that we truly enjoy doing. With time we hope to expand and continue to work on our craft to be able to reach different audiences. As a small token of appreciation we want to offer a giveaway prize to one of our followers for being a part of the beginning of this lovely journey. The rules are simple,

1.Like this post before June 10, 2014
2. Comment (on this post) on something you would like to see on the blog, or something you already currently enjoy about our blog.

That’s pretty much it!

NYX Goodies

The winner will be chosen through a generator and will receive some makeup goodies from NYX given to Gwen at NYC’s Beautycon Event. There is no way we could hoard and keep all these products to ourselves! Check out her previous post on that event as well as our previous 100 follower giveaway where one lovely winner received an awesome high end sample makeup set from ULTA. Make sure to comment and like before June 10th where we will be announcing the winner. Good luck & a big thank you to all of our followers! Next goal…200!

Love, Gwen & Ari

Itsapplesandorangesblog.com

PS. We are now on bloglovin! Go check us out …http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/12340193

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

Beautycon NYC

Posted on May 28, 2014 by itsapplesandorangesblog

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)

Teni Panosian from Missmavendotcom

Carli (youtube: Carlibybel)

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

Raye ( youtube: itsmyrayeraye)

Chatting with Maya (youtube: Shamelessmaya)

Dulce (youtube: Dulcecandy87)

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.

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!

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

Posted on May 27, 2014 by itsapplesandorangesblog

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!

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!

Posted on May 11, 2014 by itsapplesandorangesblog

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!

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

@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