Whitney, Author at Whitney Nic James

Lifestyle | What I Usually Wear to Work + Preparing for a New Season

September 6, 2017 by Whitney 6 Comments

If you don’t know by now that I’m a lover of kimonos, I’m not sure we’ve met. At least twice a week, and once on the weekend, I can be spotted wearing a kimono. Because most of my workdays are spent at my desk, running errands, or a little bit of both, kimonos are one of the easiest pieces for me to style. I’ve shared this many times before on WNJ, but when it comes to deciding what I’m going to wear during the work week, comfort and functionality come first, then style. That said, the outfit shown here is definitely a typical workday OOTD, turban included.

Related: Styling a Black & White Kimono

Turban: Amazon (same) // Earrings: H&M (old) // Bag: Marc Jacobs, TJMaxx (another option) // Sandals: Nordstrom Rack (another option)

I’m blessed to work in an environment that allows me to dress according to my personal style. If I’m having a bad hair day, and there are no meetings or office visits scheduled, I can simply wear a fashionable turban. That may not be a big deal for some people, but when I can dress without certain restrictions, I tend to work a lot better. Speaking of work, I’ve been quite busy with my 9-5 this summer, hence the sporadic posts. Now that the summer season is winding down, things are slowing down a bit and my schedule is becoming less hectic.

As the season’s change, don’t forget to take some time to slow down and catch your breath. #selfcare

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Related: 7 Practical Ways to Deal with Stress

I think it’s important to slow down a bit when the seasons change. If only to catch your breath to reflect on the previous months, taking a little time to pause is crucial. If you’re constantly rushing from season to season you’re not allowing yourself any time to reflect and potentially grow from the previous season. Here are 5 simple questions to can ask and answer right before the end of each season:

What were some of your favorite experiences this season?
What are something’s you wish went a differently?
What did you learn from these experiences?
How are you going to maneuver differently in the upcoming season?
What things are you looking forward to in the upcoming season?

Stop rushing from season to season. Give yourself some time reflect, then move forward.

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Kimono: Nordstrom Rack (another option) // Top: Good Luck Gem, Nordstrom Rack (same)

So tell me, how often do you slow down to reflect before entering a new season? How are you preparing for the upcoming fall season?

Thanks for reading, and be sure to share your thoughts below. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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* Linkups: Lookbook Linkup, Ageless Style Linkup, Style on the Daily, Fabulous Friday *

Auto Review | 2017 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring

August 31, 2017 by Whitney 3 Comments

The week of my birthday, I had to pleasure of test driving the 2017 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring. Becuase I’d already tested the 2016 Mazda CX-5, I was a bit skeptical at first. I thought to myself, how much different can this model really be? Well, to my surprise the 2017 model had a few noticeable differences and improvements. The first being the size of the SUV. At first glance, there was no doubt the 2017 model was a bit larger than last year’s. I also noticed this when I sat in the driver’s seat. The larger size definitely made for a more comfortable driving experience.

Related: 2016 Mazda CX-5 Review

The most significant change, however, was the sleeker design in the dashboard, as well as the upgraded center consoles in the front and back. When I’m driving, I like to have an easy place to store my keys, phone, and water bottle. The 2017 model made storing these items hassle free. Moving to the backseat, the console included not only 2 cup holders but also a place to hold your phone and ports to charge the battery. My 2 backseat drivers had found those features extremely accommodating!

See how the (@mazdausa) 2017 Mazda CX-5 compares to the 2016 model. #DriveMazda

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While driving, I also noticed that the engine of the 2017 Mazda CX-5 was very quiet. I’m not sure about you, but I’m not a fan of vehicles with loud engines. A quiet engine is a plus for both the driver and passengers. Check out more of my favorite exterior, interior, and safety features below:

Exterior

Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers
19-inch Alloy Wheels
Rear Roof Spoiler

Interior

Spacious 5-Passenger Seating
Push Button Engine Start
Power Moonroof

Saftey & Security Features

Blind Spot Monitoring
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Rear Privacy Glass
Lane Keep Assist

Check out the (@mazdausa) 2017 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring auto review! #DriveMazda

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So tell me, what do you think about the 2017 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring? Can you see yourself owning one?

All in all, I was very impressed with the 2017 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring upgrades. The SUV looks better, drives smoother and quieter, and has more interior space. If you’re in the market for a new vehicle and you want to drive something sophisticated, comfortable, sleek and safe I’d definitely think about purchasing this 2017 model. Thanks for reading and as always, be blessed and stay safe!

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WNJ Travels | The Dominican Republic, Dreams Punta Cana Resort & Spa

August 31, 2017 by Whitney 5 Comments

As I mentioned in my last post, Darrius and I spent 5 days in the Dominican Republic celebrating my 31st birthday. Our home for those 5 glorious days was Dreams Punta Cana Resort & Spa. Approximately 25 minutes from the airport, the palatial all-inclusive resort was breathtaking at first glance. Once we drove past the huge brass gates, our eyes were fixed on the beautifully landscaped surroundings, as well as the pristine outdoor lobby. We were greeted with a glass of champagne, then escorted to the front desk. Darrius, a hospitality professional, and expert, immediately mentioned how accommodating and knowledge the staff was. I couldn’t agree more!

Outdoor Lobby

King Room with Pool View (Photo Credit)

Views from the Balcony

Our room was almost identical to the one pictured above. The only difference was our room had a gorgeous view of the garden and sandy beach. Darrius and I were very impressed with the cleanliness of the rooms, as well as the huge shower/tub. I forgot to snap a picture, but that shower was massive!

We arrived later in afternoon on the first day, so we spent most of our time lounging and napping. We did, however, venture to the other side of the resort for dinner. Of the six à la carte restaurants we chose to dine at the international buffet, World Café,. From sushi to pizza, to fresh fruit and the decadent dessert bar, the options were endless! World Café was our choice most mornings as well because it’s the only restaurant on the resort to serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

We made it a point to visit a new restaurant each night for dinner. My favorite meal was from Oceana. The salmon literally melted in my mouth, and the shrimp Cesar salad was divine! Darrius was a huge fan of his mussels appetizer from Seaside Grill, as well as the hearty beef stew prepared at the Bordeaux. Below are the restaurants we visited, along with a brief description.

Oceana – Á La Carte Specialties & Fresh Seafood

Seaside Grill – Grilled Steaks & Hamburgers

Bordeaux – Delectable French Cuisine

World Café – International Buffet

Aside from eating VERY well, we also made time to enjoy the lovely beach and pool area. The older I get, the more I become a beach lover. We spent hours at the beach, just relaxing on our beach bed and playing in the ocean, on our first full day. The beach beds were heavenly, and the unlimited food and drink service was superb! The fresh paella, warm breeze, and sun rays made for such an enjoyable experience.

We decided to spend a day a the pool later in the week. From the swim-up bar to the poolside lunch, Darrius was in his world! While lounging and swimming, we met a few nice families from Atlanta and California and a newly married couple from Virginia. It never fails; whenever we go somewhere we meet at least one new person, couple or family. I guess we both have friendly faces?

The one day we decided to go off the resort was to enjoy a morning in the middle of the ocean. Yep, our speed boating and snorkeling excursion placed us smack dab in the middle of the Atlantic. This adventure was a bit outside of my comfort zone. Not because I can’t swim, but because I’ve never been swimming so far out in the ocean! Putting my reservations aside, we decided to let Darrius drive the speedboat, which was a very smart decision because I probably would have only driven 6 MPH the entire time. When it came to snorkeling, I must admit that I shocked myself. I fearlessly jumped out of our boat and went for it. The experience was one I will NEVER forget!

Afterwards, we zipped off to a shallow, and absolutely gorgeous, island for rum and coke and swimming. We frolicked in the water for about a 30 minutes or so, chatting with the other travelers from England, France, and Canada. The day couldn’t have been more perfect. The excursion was certainly worth every dime! Below are a few pictures of our adventure. I haven’t uploaded them from the excursion CD to my laptop just yet, but I think you can get a sense of how much fun we had.

So tell me, have you ever been to Punta Cana? Does my experience make you want to book a trip? Let me know!

This trip was very special for us because it was our first out of the country trip together. It was also our first official vacation since we’ve been married. Our honeymoon was a bit unconventional, which we both thoroughly enjoyed, but this trip to Punta Cana seemed like a “real” honeymoon. I can’t wait to share many more adventures with Darrius, and I look forward to those travel experiences with you all as well. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Lifestyle | Black Rachel Roy Tunic Dress + Life Lessons at 31

August 29, 2017 by Whitney 8 Comments

A few weeks ago, I celebrated my 31st birthday. To say the celebration was enjoyable is an understatement! My husband and I traveled to the Dominican Republic and enjoyed 5 relaxing fun-filled and glorious days in Punta Cana. While there, I wore a black Rachel Roy tunic dress, also known as my “birthday dress”. I wanted something flowy, lightweight and short, and this option was perfect!

We spent most of our days lounging by the beach or the pool, but I did get a chance to sneak off one morning to indulge in a little “me time”. I sat on our patio and filled a few pages in my journal. I like to reflect on my past year around my birthday. While some of my reflections will remain private, below are a few things I’ve learned over the past year about faith, marriage, life, and finances.

Related: 50 Life Goals

Shift Dress: Rachel Roy, Macy’s (same) // Sandals: Melissa, Nordstrom Rack (another option) // Clutch: Love, Cortnie (same)

FAITH | Without my faith, I am nothing. God has always been the center of my life, but since turning 30 I have worked extremely hard to build a personal relationship with Him. Through daily devotionals, praying with my husband, and setting aside time in the morning and evening for Bible Study, I am constantly growing into the woman God has called me to be. It’s an ongoing transformation, but I am so happy that I’ve made deepening my relationship with God a priority. Because of this decision, several areas of my life have improved greatly.

Related: Spiritual Wellness | Forgiveness & Grace

MARRIAGE | Ever since I was a little girl I dreamed of becoming a writer, a wife, and a mother. I never dreamed of the perfect wedding day or the perfect dress. My focus was always the marriage itself, as well as building a family. I’ve always seen positive displays of love, so I’ve always known what real love looks like. With Darrius, I have that. The love we share is a godsend and it’s something I do not take for granted. Our marriage is built on a solid foundation; God is at the center. I have learned to make our marriage a priority, which in turn has made me a better wife and partner. As I grow in Christ, I know that our marriage will only continue to thrive and get better.

Life is short. Life is a gift. Life is to be LIVED. #wnjinspired

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LIFE | Life is short. Life is a gift. Life is to be LIVED. Although not perfect, God has blessed me with an amazing life. I pray over my life daily and make a conscious effort to keep certain energy at bay. I understand the importance of surrounding myself with uplifting, genuine, and purpose driven people. Looking at my circle today, it blows my mind at how diverse, yet similar we really are. Our day-to-day lives may be different, but our intention to be the very best human beings possible and our love for one another is the same.

FINANCES | Money has always been a touchy subject for me, but that’s because I never took the time to really understand it. For the past year or so, I’ve made it a point to learn more about money. I’ve read books, listened to podcasts, as well as discussed my finances with trusted individuals. All this in hopes to become educated so that I’m able to make wise financial decisions for myself, my businesses, and our family.

Black Turban: Amazon (same)

So tell me, what are some lessons you’ve learned thus far about faith, love, life, and finances? Also, what do you think about my black Rachel Roy tunic dress? Let me know!

I don’t claim to have all the answers, nor do I know it all. However, the lessons shared are just a few things that I know for sure. As I embark on this, my 31st year, I anticipate great things! I hope you stick around. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…xo!

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* Linkups: Style on the Daily, What I Wore *

Spiritual Wellness | Forgiveness + Grace

July 26, 2017 by Whitney 8 Comments

We often think of forgiveness as something we extend to other people, but how often do we forgive ourselves? How often do we extend ourselves the grace we so generously extend to others? Not sure about you, but forgiving and extending myself some grace is something I constantly work on.

At the top of 2017, I made a few declarations. I declared that I would (1) lose a certain amount of weight, (2) gain a certain amount of followers, (3) spend time nurturing old friendships, and possibly, foster new ones, and (4) save a certain amount of money. I am pleased to have made improvements in some areas, but not all. The “not all” part really irritates me. I have been tirelessly working to achieve certain goals, and to know that I have fallen short in some areas does not sit well with me.

Related: 7 Practical Ways to Deal with Stress

Dress: Want & Need, Nordstrom Rack (Another Option) // Flats: Melissa, Nordstrom Rack (Same Designer, Another Option)

Thankfully, my attitude has changed. Granted I have not met certain goals, but I have decided to extend myself some grace. I have also forgiven myself for making a few missteps along the way. Not losing those pounds, saving that amount of money, or spending time with a few friends is not the end of the world. While my intentions were good, and my heart was in the right place, things happen. Life happens, and that is OK. Thankfully, God has granted me a 2nd (3rd and 4th) chance to “get it right”. Now, it is up to me to get back on track.

Don’t forget to extend yourself the same grace and forgiveness that you extend to others.

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Related: 11 Things You Should Do Every Day

Through personal Bible study, and talking to my husband (and certain family members), I have realized that being so hard on myself is not healthy. Feeling guilty or disappointed is natural, but you should not let those feelings fester. Settling into unhappiness and disappointment can quickly lead to depression. That is a road no one wants to go down. Instead, be patient with yourself, forgive yourself, and extend yourself a little grace. Afteall, if God can forgive you, and if He can constantly extend grace and mercy towards you, daily, why can’t you do the same for yourself?

Be kind to yourself, forgive yourself, and be patient with yourself.

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Bracelets: Monet, Macy’s (Another Option)

So tell me, have you been too hard on yourself lately? What do you need to forgive yourself for? Let me know!

As always, thanks for reading and commenting. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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* Linkups: Visible Monday, Style Me Wednesday, Fabulous Friday *

Auto Review | 2017 Ioniq Hybrid Limited

July 19, 2017 by Whitney 4 Comments

After test driving the 2017 Ioniq Hybrid Limited for a week, I can confidently say this car is one of my favorite test drives to date! I wasn’t sure how I felt about the compact hybrid at first, but once inside I was extremely impressed. The gray interior was smooth, the driver’s seat was exceptionally comfortable and the quiet engine was a major plus! There were times I didn’t even know the car was on; that’s how quiet the engine was. When I opened the trunk, I was pleasantly surprised by the massive amount of space. I would’ve never guessed the trunk was that spacious.

* Read Also, 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Review

This 5 passenger hybrid handled the Howard County roads well. Not only did I feel safe, but I also felt in control the entire time. As I ventured to Downtown Baltimore over the weekend, I felt like the Inoiq was gliding down 95. The ride was so smooth! Parking on the crowded downtown sidewalks was a breeze. I zipped in and out of my parking space like that! But don’t let the small body fool you; this car has A LOT of get-up and go! Check out some the key features, including a brief video showcasing the phenomenal sound system, as well as my list of pros and cons.

KEY FEATURES

HID Headlights, LED Daytime Running Lights & LED Taillights
* Wireless Device Charging for Compatible Smartphones
Android Auto(TM) & Apple CarPlay(TM) Integration
* Integrated Memory System (IMS) for Driver’s Seat
Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Leather Seating Surfaces with Power Driver’s Seat
7-inch Color Touchscreen Audio Display
Hyundai Blue Link Telematics System
Bluetooth Handsfree Phone System
* Lane Departure Warning
Rearview Camera

* Price with Additional Features, $31,460.00

PROS

AMAZING Sound System
Power Tilt & Slide Sunroof
Very Spacious Trunk

CONS

Not the most Spacious Backseat
- made to seat 3 but realistically seats 2 people, semi-comfortably
- not much knee or leg room

So, what do you think about the 2017 Ioniq Hybrid Limited? Let me know!

Thanks for reading and be sure to leave your thoughts below. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Personal Style | How to Casually Style a Sleeveless Vest this Summer

July 11, 2017 by Whitney 18 Comments

One of my favorite items in my closet is this black sleeveless vest. Whenever I wear it I feel chic, on trend and well put together. Like my collection of kimonos, a having at least one sleeveless black vest in your wardrobe is a must. This kind of vest is a timeless garment that can be dressed up or down. It can also be styled year-round.

Related: Sleeveless Vest + Black Dress

Top: Nordstrom Rack (similar) // Denim: JCP (another option) // Purse: Gifted // Vest: TJMaxx (similar & similar) // Shoes: DSW, Adrienne Vittadini (same)

On this particular day, I styled the vest with one of my go-to summer tops, as well as my favorite pair of jeans. Becuase I was headed out for a day date with hubs, I decided to wear a red lip. A nice pop of color on the lips is the easiest way to kick a basic outfit up a few notches. Adding an armful of bangles or beaded bracelets is also another way to amp up a basic outfit. So, I pulled out my beautiful Kambaba Jasper bracelet, c/o Joseph Nogucci, and layered it with a pair of bronze beaded bracelets I’ve had for years.

Every wardrobe needs at least 1 sleeveless black vest. It’s a timeless and classic piece. #wnjstyle

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Hubs was happy that I finally decided to style my latest pair of platform flats. He picked them out for me a while back and I’m so glad he did. I LOVE them! I’m telling you, platform flats and oxfords have become “my thing” this season. As I mentioned previously, I don’t wear heels that often. However, I like to have a little height every now and then. Opting for a pair of shoes with a slight platform is a nice compromise.

How to Casually Style a Sleeveless Black Vest this Summer #wnjstyle

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Kambaba Jasper Beaded Bracelet c/o Joseph Nogucci: (same) // Gold Beaded Bracelets: Gifted (similar)

So tell me, do you like how I styled my sleeveless vest? Do you have one in your closet? Let me know!

Thanks for reading and be sure to share your thoughts with me below. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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* Linkups: Fabulous Friday, Visible Monday, Lookbook Linkup, Mix it Monday, Style Sessions, Style Me Wednesday, On Trend Tuesdays *

Personal Style | Wearing Stripes + 4 Questions to Ask Before Buying Something New

July 3, 2017 by Whitney 17 Comments

So, I’m still trying to get my minimal wardrobe down pat. I took a break from shopping and organizing my closet for about a month or so, in order to focus my attention elsewhere. But as of last month, I’m back in action. This striped blouse, purchased for just $7.99 at Macy’s, is actually one of my latest minimal wardrobe additions. Wearing stripes for me comes as natural as wearing leopard print and as much as I love solids, styling prints every so often is a must!

* Read Also, How to Style 1 Kimono 3 Ways

Blouse: Macy’s // Bodysuit: F21 // Leggings: Philosophy, TJMaxx (another option) // Necklace: Purchased in NY // Shoes: Vince Camuto, Nordstrom Rack (similar style)

Before deciding to purchase this blouse I had to come up with at least 3 ways to wear it. Regardless of the sale price, if it didn’t serve a purpose in my wardrobe, and if it didn’t make me happy, I wasn’t going home with it. Gone are the days when I purchase an item “just because” it’s the right price. My budget and my closet can no longer afford it.

:: SHOPPING TIP :: Before purchasing an item, make sure you can style it at least 3 ways. #wnjstyle

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I approach shopping for new wardrobe items, shoes and accessories included, differently these days. It’s taken some getting used to and there are times when I find myself slipping back to my old ways of shopping, but more often than not I catch myself. To help keep me on track I have 4 questions, in the Notes section of my phone, that I often refer to each time I go shopping for something new. You may find them helpful.