Daily face routine….hidden product fiend!

Posted on March 27, 2013 by itsapplesandorangesblog

The way I see it, if your not combatting acne, aging and stress signs then they are winning (and Im not going down like that). This review is my un biased opinion on these products and how they have benefitted my skin and or face throughout the usage of them within the past months to a year. Feel free to check out my sisters nightly routine as she gives a general run down of some products she uses to maintain her skin as well.

I have combination skin with certain areas that tend to over dry (surrounding my mouth and my cheeks) and areas that get oily (usually around my nose and chin). I get the occasional acne flair up usually when I go to the gym or once a month right around that “precious” time in a females life. My main concerns for myself are acne prevention and treatment, retaining moisture without being oily and last but certainly not least sun care and protection at all cost! This is the major key to preventing sun spots, aging skin and obviously the many types of skin cancer. It is the ultimate secret that Ive learned from working in the past with aestheticians …use sunblock every singe day and your 50 year old self will thank you later for it.

Cleanser- Amazing smooth feel, it only dries me out a little but the smell is amazing!
Toner- I can feel it tightening those pores especially with a heavy amount on a cotton ball on my problem areas like my nose.
Moisturizer- Its a little thick so it works great as night cream. Rub it in with only your fingertips working in an “upward” motion
These products are 100% Vegetarian and not tested on animals.

Alba Botanica Pore Purifying Pineapple Cleanser, Complexion Balancing Hibiscus Toner and Smoothing Jasmine & Vitamin E Moisturizer

Good old noxema- You cannot go wrong with this stuff! Ive been using it since middle school and it cleanses my face while giving me an invigorating fresh clean scent and feeling. I live by this. Point blank.
Face Brush- I purchased this at sephora but it can be bought anywhere. It does feel sort of scratchy on my skin so I dont advise it if your skin is very sensitive.

Noxema Original Cleansing Cream
& Sephora Face Brush

Neutrogena Face Scrub- I use this when I feel as though my skin is breaking out a lot or if Ive been overdoing it with my makeup and need to scrub off the dead cells on the surface that make me look “cakey” The beads are awesome, but I only recommend doing this once a week as its drying to my face.

Neutrogena Oil Free Acne Wash -in Pink Grapefruit

Argan Oil & Tea Tree Oil- This could be another post all in itself. The benefits of these two combined (tea tree for acne and argan for overall amazingness) are indescribable. Do yourself a favor and pick these up. The tea tree oil is very potent and strong so use sparingly as well as the argan due to its priceyness.

Josie Maran- Argan oil
All natural Tea Tree oil

Camomile Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover- My sister put me on to this and it does a great job at removing all my makeup not to mention the creamy texture is cooling and soothing to the eye.

Camomile Waterproof Eye- Makeup remover by The Body Shop

This product by shea moisture is a little difficult to work with (meaning the consistency) but I feel as thought it is worth it for all the uses you can get from it. Just like the argan oil, it can be used on your skin, hair, cuticles, face etc. I like to mix it with one of my essential oils in order to make it an easier medium to work with.

Shea Butter infused with Coconut & Hibiscus- Brightening and Toning

I am currently out of the following products but I am running to the store (or amazon) to buy them immediately as they are also integral parts of my routine.

Cetaphil Derma Control Line- I just recently discovered these and only bought travel sizes to try them out. Boy was I in love! The cleanser is extremely gentle and dosent dry my skin out and of course the spf lotion is essential in fl. Both are items I will be purchasing again to use when my face needs a gentler approach.

Cetaphil Derma Control Foam Wash and SPF Moisturizer

This is the holy grail of face sun protectant! I discovered this at my old job and have been hooked ever since. It can be purchased online or at specific retailers like spas and medical grade offices that offer aesthetic services. This product glides on smoothly, dosent break me out, smells amazing, and best of all contains all the main ingredients needed when looking for a good SPF (like zinc and protection against UVA, UVB and UVC rays). It is a little pricey but a little goes a very long way and this product (when only used on face) can last a while. If you ever get the chance, I highly recommend this to anyone (even senstive skin).

Clear Choice- Sport Shield SPF 45

Most of the products with the exception of the oils, sunscreen, and makeup remover can be purchased at any drug store near you.

Clear Choice- Sport Shield SPF 45

Josie Maran- Argan Oil

The Body Shop- Camomile Eye- Makeup remover

Toodles,
Ari

Pretty in Pastels

Posted on March 24, 2013 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Easter is right around the corner and what better way to start representing spring then with gorgeous fresh pastels. I bought these wide leg shorts from Asos a while ago and have been waiting to style them. They go great on casual days with a simple tank top, chunky accesories and sandals or as I styled it here for windy days, loafers and a tucked in button up. As always they are high waist and the mint color really accentuates any skin tone. My striped button up is from Forever 21 and so is my chunky flower necklace. I purchased my Michael Kors loafers at TJMAXX and the neutral tone goes with anything! Pastels can be paired with both neutrals, or color blocked with other pastels to make for perfect spring time look. Im looking forward to rocking these all spring long!

Button up- Forever 21

Nightly skincare routine.

Posted on March 22, 2013 by itsapplesandorangesblog

I have a serious question for everyone. How difficult is it to get up from your amazingly comfortable bed after a long hard day to cleanse your face? I can only speak for myself when I say (while letting out a huge sigh) EXTREMELY! We all know how important is it to maintain our skin looking and feeling as youthful as possible so, I found a little trick which works for me when I’m having a lazy night. I like to keep makeup removing wipes in my night stand drawer, all I have to do is literally stretch my hand out, open the drawer and in less than a minute I am wiping my face. I personally like the Neutrogena makeup removing wipes. It removes the dirt, makeup and oils accumulated on my face during the day and I can go to bed in peace.

Now for my actual nightly routine:
I have recently started using the Cetaphil and I love it, it gives me such a squeaky clean feeling.
I then use the Seaweed clarifying toner from The Body Shop to remove anything my cleanser might have left behind.
And lastly I apply my philosophy Hope in a jar moisturizer which really hydrates and gives my skin a smooth finish.

What’s your night time skin routine?

Bought one item at Target… Yes it is possible

Posted on March 17, 2013 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Hey Guys! So I walked in to Target looking for one specific item (as we all do) no, but seriously I marched straight to the aisle didn’t find what I was looking for and headed right towards the exit. That was until the clearance section caught my eye with the Prabal Gurung collection just sitting there waiting to be taken to a nice home (I swear I heard them call my name). Lucky for my pockets most of the items left were really small sizes, but I did manage to snag this amazing faux leather collared, half lace covered shirt, for only $24.95! Although I love wearing bright colored clothing I am a total sucker for black statement pieces. I walked out of there feeling like a million bucks!

Excuse the wrinkles, this baby needs some TLC

$10 off? YES PLEASE!

Top layer of lace.

Leather & lace combo is so fab!

Run to your local Target and get your Prabal Gurung fix! All of the items are between 30%-50% off.
You are so welcome,
Gwen

Casual & Chic

Posted on March 16, 2013 by itsapplesandorangesblog

On this lovely saturday morning I plan to sleep in and indulge in all things “bad” for me. Since Im not going anywhere special I opted for my version of a “casual” look. I have been dying to wear these heels anywhere, even now to walmart! My basic v-neck white long sleeve shirt is from target while the denim vest was purchased at old navy. The olive cargos are ridiculously old (you can ask my sister)…I think Ive had them since the 8th grade! Im not sure if I should be admitting that on here but hey..what can you do? I found some similar versions below. Lastly my leopard and gold hardware heels are from forever 21. They are super comfortable despite their “edgy” look.

Cargo Pants

Denim Vest

Swatch Watch

Have a lovely saturday babes!
-Ari

Forever alone & Forever 21

Posted on March 2, 2013 by itsapplesandorangesblog

I went out alone for the first time last night! It was sort of liberating…yet scary at the same time. Who knew you could have fun rollin with a clique of 1? It was freezing last night and the 180 lounge was hosting a fashion show by the lovely studio by keliann. I got to meet Kaylani from viva_glam_kay (from instagram). She was super sweet and gracious even though I felt like the only creeper (alone wanting a picture). Overall the night was fun/socially awkward and my outfit was a hit!. I am wearing a coral zippered jacket from target (purchased on clearance so its not available on the site anymore), polka dot bustier from forever 21 and my new houndstooth high waist leggings that Im obsessed with! (forever 21). Normally I am against wearing leggings as pants but I had to make an exception for these considering I felt like I was slaying in them (high waist & tight =super confidence booster)

Im loving my new found boldness. Go ME!
-Ari

“I always say shopping is cheaper than a psychiatrist “

Posted on February 23, 2013 by itsapplesandorangesblog

What person in the world is able to walk into Target and only purchase one item? Exactly, no one is. I took the trip with my cleaning supply list in mind and of course left with all of these cute finds. Boots, nail polishes & stickers, lip gloss and a wallet. I can’t even imagine what I would have walked out with if the Targets in NY were as big as the ones in Florida.

Revlon Nail Color in Trendy, Maybelline Color Whisper in Coral Ambition, Essie nail color in Snap Happy, Maynelline color show fashion prints in Metal Prisms, Merona zip around coral wallet and Mossimo paka ankle booties.

Revlon Nail Color in Trendy, Maybelline Color Whisper in Coral Ambition, Essie nail color in Snap Happy, Maybelline color show fashion prints in Metal Prisms, Merona zip around coral wallet and Mossimo paka ankle booties.

This is what my wallet looked like after the purchase… just kidding this is the inside of the Merona wallet.

Close-up of the booties details.

Now for my beloved Rite Aid purchases. I don’t believe there are Rite Aid’s in Florida so HA! Beat you guys there! Sorry Ari. They ALWAYS have the best sales. This time around I snagged a 40% off all of the Revlon products and a BOGO (buy one get one half off) sale on the Organix brands. The other items were regular price. I cannot wait to try the Kate Moss by Rimmel lipstick as well as the Physicians Formula natural nudes.

Organix Biotin & Collagin Shampoo & Conditioner (for full and thick hair) Revlon Nearly Naked Foundation in Warm Beige, Revlon Photoready BB cream, Physicians Formula Natural Nude eyeshadow palette and the Kate spade edition lipstick by Rimmel # 110.

From top: Organix Biotin & Collagin Shampoo & Conditioner (for full and thick hair) Revlon Nearly Naked Foundation in Warm Beige, Revlon Photoready BB cream, Physicians Formula Natural Nude eyeshadow palette and the Kate Moss edition lipstick by Rimmel # 110.

Here’s a tip: Check your weekly circulars for great discounts on all of your beauty products at your local pharmacy.
-Gwen

Bright colors on winter lips.

Posted on February 10, 2013 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Hey Guys! Winters in New York City are cold, snowy, dreary and dark so what better way to spruce up a winter day than with a nice pop of spring color! So, with that being said I went on a “I need the new Maybelline color sensational vivids hunt” which not so coincidently live up to their names. I managed to find my top four favorite colors (after trekking it through heaping mountains of snow, just kidding but I did go into a few different pharmacies to find the shades I wanted). Well, here they are: Shocking Coral, Vibrant Mandarin, Vivid Rose and last but certainly not least Brazen Berry. These colors are amazing! The texture of this line glides on smoothly and does not give you that “I have on a pound of lipstick” sensation. My two best words to describe them would be light and creamy, however they remain intensely pigmented. Below you will find hand and lip swatches with and without flash. Ok, Without further adieu,here go the pictures of these gorgeous colors.

Stay Warm Friends,

~Gwen

From Left: Brazen Berry, Vivid rose, Vibrant mandarin & Shocking coral

From left: Shocking Coral, Vibrant Mandarin, Vivid Rose and Brazen Berry

Shocking Coral (no flash)

Shocking Coral (flash)

Vibrant Mandarin (flash)

Vibrant Mandarin (no flash)

Vivid Rose (flash)

Vivid rose (no flash)

Brazen Berry (flash)

Brazen Berry (no flash)

New Years FUN!

Posted on January 4, 2013 by itsapplesandorangesblog

So it’s a New Year and with that comes the promise of new beginnings and new adventures to come for 2013. 2012 brought about many changes for me and its going to be fun seeing everything come together. I celebrated both with my family and then friends at a small gathering. Per usual, I was overdressed and in ridiculous heels, good times!

Cropped high/low black top w/ faux leather sleeves: Love Culture

-In my opinion the main focal point of the outfit is the amazing pants Im wearing! They are high waisted shiny metallic pants purchased at Forever 21. They are still available on the site! Super comfy and an affordable option when you feel a little fancy.
http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=bottom_pants&ProductID=2030631977&VariantID=

My amazing heel-less black platforms were purchased on a trip to NY over the summer at rainbow. They resemble many different designer versions (steve madden, jeffrey campbell etc) but I got them for less then half those prices! I love popping into little random stores like rainbow even though it may be hit or miss just because when you do find something its usually an awesome score like these heels! Got so many compliments on these babies, and I only tipped over a couple of times.
http://www.rainbowshops.com/Curved-Back-Platform-Pumps/3110004064846,default,pd.html?dwvar_3110004064846_color=RUST&start=58&cgid=all-shoes

http://www.stevemadden.com/Item.aspx?id=95107&np=163_382

http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=22902662

The total cost of my new years eve outfit was around $70 including the heels! Proving that you can be thrifty even for the really special occasions.

Heres to this year being full of new and amazing opportunities (both in life and for my closet).
-Love Ari

Reunited and it feels so good.

Posted on January 3, 2013 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Oh the holidays, they can either make or break you. Fortunately for me this time around I had my amazing sis get away from the freezing temperatures of NY and come visit us here in the sunshine state. I missed her so much and my wallet definitely suffered as we made up for lost time shopping our lovely brains out. Stay tuned for haul pics of those many items purchased (yes I bought myself a lot of christmas gifts, I deserve them!) Here are some snip-its of our experimental outside photo shoot. Enjoy!

-Love Ari baby (please say the baby)

For my first look I went with a semi-fall ish outfit since it was nice enough to bare some skin but yet still appropriate for fall boots and blazers.

My sparkly gold top was thrifted while the light weight grey floral blazer was on clearance for $10 at target! I love stalking my local two target stores and waiting and watching items that I see them continually mark down. The thrill of the hunt!

The shorts are old grey high-waisted (a must have for my body shape) trousers from forever 21. I am currently craving these babies http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=bottom_shorts&ProductID=2030186690&VariantID=

The most recently purchased item were these amazing high buckled boots. They are half pleather and half suede. They are so chic with a wedged heel and super comfortable to walk in. They also fit my calf area nicely with or without jeans which is typically a major problem for me with boots. I also got them on sale when forever 21 was having a 30% off all boots sale a couple of weeks ago. Love, love and love.

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=shoes_boots&ProductID=2030186726&VariantID=

Lastly this is my favorite Jason wu straw bag from his original target launch. I pair it with basically anything I own since its so neutral and casual. It’s so beat up and It’s no longer available in stores but I’m most certainly sure they probably have some floating out there on eBay.

The next look didnt photograph as well but I still desperately wanted to share these pants with the world before they completely sell out on asos. This skinny trouser is the perfect menwear inspired piece but with a major twist! The sexy side mesh inserts with polka dot print make for an unexpected element. Everytime Ive brought these babies out Ive received so many compliments. They are worth the investment for dates, causal outings, even sexy evening wear! I paired them with a satin button up from forever 21 and a set of black gold capped heels as well as flats for a more casual spin on the look. It’s still currently on sale on asos reduced from $50 to $30. GO GET IT NOW!