Black and White

Posted on August 31, 2015 by itsapplesandorangesblog

It was my 26th birthday on August 21 and I wanted to go for a low key weekend getaway before the madness of graduate school ensued (cue the gray hairs). Tampa is not too far of a drive and it was perfect to just get out of my normal mundane world for a moment. I stayed at Le Meridian which used to be an old court house and is now transformed into a modern and chic hotel. It has beautiful scenery and Tampa’s downtown backdrop was perfect for photos. The ootd below was what I wore to the Tampa Museum of Art. With a new Andy Warhol exhibit it was definitely a must see. I opted for easy and lightweight seeing as it was scorching hot outside. This white long line button up top was a steal at Marshalls and I loved the “boyfriend fit”. I paired it with my big sun blocking hat from H&M and black lace up booties from Aldo which I later switched to sandals after walking around the museum for a while. The biker shorts are from forever 21 and provided just enough coverage seeing as I originally thought this top was a dress. I kept it clean with the black and white, no color and loved it! If you are ever in the Tampa area I would highly suggest Le Meridien Hotel and the Tampa Art Museum. Until next outfit…..similar links down below!

Similar Dresses- Here, Here
Similar Lace up Booties

Toodles, Ari

Red, White and Cool

Posted on July 4, 2015 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Happy Fourth of July!!! In spite of a lot of negative statements and sentiments being felt by some during these dubious political times, I am still happy to say I am proud to be an American and celebrate this day. The struggle to identify with one “culture” when you are first generation is hard but I think both me and my sister could say we got the best of both worlds and are better people for it. This great nation still has a long way to go with relation to race, immigration issues (just to name a few) but nonetheless its the place we call home. Its also great timing that Gwen has come back now from her 6 month stay in London to celebrate with all her close friends. Below is my OOTD for your standard BBQ or casual outing for this holiday. Plaid is so versatile and it doesn’t hurt that It incorporates the flags colors. I paired this #fabfound Marshalls dress with my Aldo lace up booties and some gold accessories. This piece could also be used to layer and could have been worn with shorts and a crop top as well. Heres to another great year and awesome fireworks! Links to similar items below and previous Fourth of July outfits for inspiration.

Similar Dresses from Forever 21 –Here, Here, Plus Size

Previous Fourth of July Posts – Here and Here

XOXO-Ari

Parc de Montjuic -Barcelona OOTD

Posted on March 21, 2015 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Barcelona was magical! This city was such a nice contrast to the gloomy city vibes of London. Although still a bit chilly, the sun was out and the vibes were friendly. We took a tour bus and made some stops along the way to explore the beautiful landscape. On this day we visited this park “Parc de Montjuic” and were able to capture some outfit of the day shots after we panicked on the cable cars up the mountain. I was wearing this knit zara black dress with gold accents and detailing. I stayed with my misguided leopard coat, aldo oxfords and tights from the day before and added some funky Pom-Pom socks from ASOS to keep my feet warm and spice up the look. Last but not least this jaw dropping huge pearl choker necklace from ASOS was the standout item. I love the way it makes a statement and can be paired with any simple silhouette. Links to items below as always.

ASOS Faux Pearl Choker

Aldo “Grummer” Oxfords

Missguided Leopard Faux Fur Coat

XOXO -Ari

How to Rock- Polka Dots & Stripes

Posted on December 1, 2014 by itsapplesandorangesblog

As some of you may know, mixing prints and patterns has got to be at the top of my all-time favorite things to do. There is nothing better than an outfit that takes all of the guess-work out for you. This mixed print dress is amazing! I found it on clearance on Asos.Com (seriously I stalk this website like no other) and it’s actually no longer available. The brand is River Island and the polka dots and stripes contrast make for a fun and flirty look appropriate for day or night (just switch up your shoes). Featuring a hidden zipper enclosure and slight a-line hem this dress is flattering on any shape. I paired it with my gold cap pumps (old season shoedazzle) and my clear acrylic chain link clutch for a youthful spin. You can opt for a cute pair of flats or even go for a pop of color like red or yellow to offset the monochromatic black and white. Links to similar items below!

Similar Dresses- Nordstrom, Modcloth, River Island, Paper Dolls, Yesstyle, Forever 21

Love

Ari

“Fall” into the 90’s- Sporty Look

Posted on October 15, 2014 by itsapplesandorangesblog

For the second post of the “Fall” into the 90’s 3 part series I wanted to go for a more sportier look then the first. I found this sweatshirt dress on clearance at H&M and have been able to style it so many ways ever since! In thinking about by the 90’s I went the more urban route and paired it with my nike air max sneakers, holographic clutch and can’t forget my tribal tattoo spiral choker set complete with ring and bracelet. I used to rock these chokers in so many different colors and styles back in the day! This dress is super versatile and can also be worn belted with heels for a chilly fall night out on the town. The cute yellow socks with heart print detail are from forever 21 and are best worn on a less cold evening since they are very thin. Check out the bottom for similar items and links.

Excuse the lack of nail polish…I am trying to grow these babies out!

90’s Sporty Fashion by ari-pena featuring genuine leather handbags

-Ari Baby, “Please say the Baby”

eShakti custom tailored dress

Posted on October 7, 2014 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Hello there lovelies! Yes, as you can already tell this is another eShakti post, except I (Gwen) will now be showing you the dress I was sent and my overall thoughts on the ordering process. First order of business, check out this paisley print swing dress which I paired with a belt to cinch my waist, some knee high flat boots and a woven cardigan.

As Ari mentioned in her post we were contacted by this online clothing shop and were thrilled because this was our first custom tailored outfit being sent to us. Jane Carter was who I directly emailed with and she was such a pleasure to work with! I was having issues placing my order for the dress and she gladly processed it for me. What’s wonderful about this site is not only do they have sizes ranging from 0-36 they also customize your clothing item, all you need to do is send them your measurements! This is so great for those of us that have trouble fitting into certain clothing items, I mean lets face it most pieces are created for one body type when in the real world women come in various shapes and sizes. When will designers finally get this through their heads? (Moving on because this could turn into an ugly rant).
All in all I am giving eShakti my stamp of approval! Customer service was on point, shipment was received in a timely manner and best part of all the dress fits me perfectly!

*The dress I received is no longer in stock but I will link similar ones down below

Till next time,
-Gwen

Tulip print dress
Floral a-line

*Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored post. Ari and I always share our own personal thoughts and opinions on items we review or share with you.

Modcloth: Day and Night

Posted on June 27, 2014 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Modcloth is one of my absolute favorite websites, not only do they have a great selection of clothing, accessories and shoes they also offer a wide range of sizes making it a super easy one stop shop for just about everything you need.
I believe I have mentioned before that I absolutely love striped clothing! Modcloth’s Coach Tour Dress in navy stripes is definitely right up my alley. Check out 2 looks I’ve created down below, the left side is more day time appropriate while the right side can lead you to a fun night out on the town.

Modcloth Day & Night by gwendolyn-pena featuring a leather charm

The Coach Tour Dress has a fold-over collar along with gold buttons on the side which gives the dress a polished look. It also has a cinched waist, perfect for those of us who need a little extra help in that department.
Day look: I think this dress is super casual and perfect for some vacation fun. I added a bright yellow flat sandal and a turquoise crossbody bag to give the outfit a little pop! (who doesn’t love a little color!) I decided to keep everything else a bit more neutral by adding some all black sunglasses, a tan leather strapped watch and some small yellow flower earrings.
Night look: Although this dress has a casual feeling to it changing up a few key accessories can make a beautiful transition into an evening look. I still kept some bright colors in mind but I switched the yellow flat sandals for a yellow peep toed wedge, more evening appropriate yet, still comfortable. For the bag I went with a smaller neutral colored clutch, I feel this gives the look a very soft and feminine touch. Accessories are also key in making an outfit, I opted for a rose gold watch and super cute anchor stud earrings, making the dress appear a bit more nautical. Last but not least, a nice red lip really adds a touch of sophistication to this look.

If stripes aren’t your cup of tea Modcloth has so many other styles and patterns to offer. Check some of these out:

Polka Dot Dress
Solid Print Dress
Floral Plus Size Dress
Maxi Plus Size Dress

Xo,
-Gwen

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

Blaque Market Site

History

Etsy Similar Skirt

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

Similar Heels

Bodycon Dress

Love Ari

Classic Fall Look

Posted on January 13, 2014 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Although the cold weather was very short lived, here I have a fall appropriate outfit for those lovelies that have to endure actual cold temperatures during this season. Even though Im back in my shorts and tops for the moment, it was great to make use of some of my autum pieces that Ive had in my closet. This knit a-line shift dress is old season from target (Kirna Zabete line) and I paired it with classic patterened tights and high black wedge boots. If its really cold and a turtle neck wont suffice, I threw on my old cozy peacoat. The pastel pink softens the look and contrast the subtle leather details in the dress and boots. Last but certainly not least my new beautiful bag was purchased at Marshalls! Such an amazing find. This Kate Spade chain link bag is neutral and the quilted pattern makes me feel like I have my own little Chanel. I love the simplicity and classic appeal that it will bring to any outfit from here on out. Links with similar items below, and check out my sisters previous autumn fashion inspiration looks Here, Here & Here

Similar Dresses ASOS, Missguided and Zara

Beautiful Pink Peacoat Options, ASOS, Missguided, Nasty Gal and Zara

Patterned Tights- Target, H&M

Kate Spade Bag

Quick OOTN Inspiration

Posted on October 14, 2013 by itsapplesandorangesblog

This is a quickie post seeing as I didn’t get too many photos, but I wanted to share this awesome little number I got at forever 21! Perfect for a night out this sexy dress features a geometric print with a waist cutout and exposed zipper. For only $15.80 I thought it was a steal and a complete easy look to throw on in a hurry. I paired it with red mary jane pumps from target, but it can also be played up with Neon’s as pictured on the forever 21 site. Links Below!