Whitney Nic James

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Personal Style | How to Incorporate Prints Into Your Summer Wardrobe

June 13, 2017 by Whitney 6 Comments

With temperatures reaching above 90 degrees, for 3 days straight, it looks like summer is making it’s way to the East Coast. I’m not a huge fan of scorching temperatures unless I’m on a beach or near a pool, but I’m trying my best to prepare for the approaching season by adding some summer pieces to my wardrobe. As I mentioned in this post, I’m still shopping while in between sizes. This goes for my clothes and shoes so it’s a little frustrating at times, but I’m making it work.

* Read Also, How to Keep a Minimal Wardrobe Budget Friendly

Top: Blu Pepper, Nordstrom Rack (similar) // Sunnies: H&M (similar)

Over the weekend I decided to pull out my favorite pair of pants. I was skeptical about how they’d fit; after all, it’s been more than 2 years since I’ve worn them. Once I figured out they fit, it was on! I paired the flowy pants with one of my new sleeveless tops and threw on the most comfortable pair of sandals, EVER. My black Birkenstocks. Can I just tell you that I’ve been dying to have a pair of these sandals? For years I couldn’t fit shoes/sandals with straps of any kind; even if they were adjustable. They just weren’t comfortable. Fast forward 2 years and I’m down a 1/2 shoe size and I no longer suffer from swollen feet and ankles! #WontHeDoIt

How to Incorporate Prints Into Your Summer Wardrobe #wnjstyle

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Pardon my excitement… Let’s get back to the outfit, shall we? Pairing 2 loose-fitting clothing items can sometimes make you look heavier than you are. However, if your top has a flattering hemline like the one here, it works. Also if you’ve been trying to figure out how to incorporate prints into your summer wardrobe, start with a pair of pants like this and add a solid top. Simple enough, right?

* Read Also, More Plus Size Spring Fashion

Pants: Bobeau, Nordstrom Rack (another option) // Sandals: Birkenstock Essentials, Nordstrom (exact)

So tell me, are you going to incorporate prints into your summer wardrobe? Let me know!

Thanks for reading and until next time, stay blessed and be safe…XO!

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Filed Under: Style Tagged With: Nordstrom Rack, Summer Outfit

Personal Style | How to Style a Kimono and Jeans

May 31, 2017 by Whitney 13 Comments

Is it me or is the “Spring Weather” a little confusing these days? Most mornings I don’t know if I should grab a sweater, a kimono or a coat! In any event, I’ve been gravitating towards my collection of full-length kimonos. No matter the outfit, I have about 4 kimonos in constant rotation. The one I’m wearing in this post happens to be one of my favorites. It’s perfect for the fickle weather we’ve been experiencing; not too heavy, great length and the perfect fit.

* Read Also, How to Style a Men’s Kimono

How to Style a Kimono and Jeans

How to Style a Kimono and Jeans

Kimono: TJMaxx // Denim: JCP // Tote Bag: Marc Jacobs, Nordstrom Rack (Similar Style) // Flats: Vince Camuto, Nordstrom Rack (Same in Black)

How to Style a Kimono and Jeans

Becuase my wardrobe is more on the minimal side wearing a kimono and jeans, or a kimono with a pair of black leggings, has become somewhat of a uniform. As I mentioned in a previous post, creating a work uniform saves so much time and energy in the mornings. But guess what? I’ve also learned that creating a weekend uniform isn’t such a bad idea either!

* Read Also, 3 Ways to Simplify Your Wardrobe

How to Style a Kimono with a Pair of Ankle Length Jeans #wnjstyle

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Most of my weekends are spent running errands, attending events for family and friends, going to church, or taking day trips with my husband. Having a few key wardrobe pieces to mix and match is a definite time saver. Sure, you can add different accessories or have several pairs of shoes to choose from, but having the foundation of an outfit already planned is key. This may sound a little boring, but trust me when I tell you there are several ways to restyle a kimono and a pair of jeans.

A kimono and a pair of jeans is the perfect weekend uniform. #wnjstyle

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How to Style a Kimono and Jeans

Kimono and Jeans

Kimono and Jeans

So tell me, do you have a weekend uniform? What do you think about styling a kimono and jeans? Let me know!

Thanks for reading and be sure to let me know your thoughts below. I absolutely love reading and responding to your comments! Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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* Linkups: Visibile Monday, Lookbook Linkup *

Filed Under: Style Tagged With: denim, flats, Forever 21, JcPenny, kimono, Kimonos, Nordstrom Rack, TJMaxx, Vince Camuto

Personal Style | All Black Outfit + Keeping a Minimal Wardrobe Budget Friendly

May 7, 2017 by Whitney 14 Comments

When it comes to personal style, all black outfits are my go to choice. The chicness of an all black outfit will never go out of style; it’s timeless. Chic and timeless are 2 words I keep in mind while shopping for my growing minimal wardrobe. While I love to add funky accessories and style trendy pieces every once in a while, I prefer to keep the majority of my clothing simple.

Related: 3 Ways to Make Having a Minimal Wardrobe Easier

All Black Outfit

All Black Outfit

All Black Outfit

Blouse: Edista, Nordstrom Rack // Necklace: Nordstrom Rack // Leggings: Philosophy, TJMaxx // Glasses: Local Beauty Supply Store

Building a minimal wardrobe is a process and it’s one that, in my opinion, will never stop. For a while, I was good with the amount items I had in my closet. I rotated and restyled several pieces, and still do, but as seasons change and as my style evolves so does my wardrobe.

Building a wardrobe never stops, but that doesn’t mean it has to be an expensive process. #wnjstyle

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So how do I keep my minimal wardrobe budget friendly? Here are 5 tips:

  1. Create your own definition of a minimal wardrobe and do what works for you. 
  2. Purchase certain items, like accessories and outerwear, at the thrift store. 
  3. Keep a running list of what you already have and what you need. 
  4. Purchase items offseason to avoid paying full price. 
  5. Only purchase what you’re going to wear right now.
    • not what you’ll wear when you get to a certain size or when you lose a certain amount of weight
5 Ways to Keep a Minimal Wardrobe Budget Friendly #wnjstyle

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All Black Outfit

All Black Outfit

Purse: Arcadia, Gifted // Flats: Vince Camuto, Nordstrom Rack (similar style)

All Black Outfit

So tell me, what do you think about my chic and timeless all black outfit? How do you keep your wardrobe budget friendly? Let me know! 

Thanks for stopping by and until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Filed Under: Style Tagged With: All Black, minimal wardrobe, Minimalism, Nordstrom Rack, shopping

Personal Style | Black & White Floral Kimono

May 3, 2017 by Whitney 7 Comments

Even though it’s been a while since I’ve posted an outfit, not much has changed. I still LOVE wearing and styling kimonos! The one styled in this post is actually my latest kimono addition. I purchased it a few weeks back during a shopping trip. I desperately need(ed) to add some spring and summer pieces to my wardrobe, so I headed to a few places I knew would have just what I was looking for. Of course, Nordstrom Rack was my first stop.

Black & White Floral Kimono

Kimono: Nordstrom Rack (Another Option) // Black Bodysuit: Forever 21 (Similar) // Leggings: Vince Camuto, Nordstrom (Another Option)

Black & White Floral Kimono

Becuase I’ve been taking much better care of my body, thanks to eating healthier and being more active, I’ve shed a few pounds. Buying clothes and being in between sizes makes shopping trips a bit more strategic. I can’t grab an item and go straight to the register anymore. I literally have to try everything on, even bras. No complaints, but it’s something I’m getting used to. So imagine my surprise when I was able to comfortably fit a OSFA (one size fits all) black and white kimono, found in the regular women’s size section. Can you say, SHOCKED?!

Clothes shopping while in between sizes? Try EVERYTHING on in the store before you get home.

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Black and White Kimono

Clutch: Love, Cortnie (same) // Flats: Ted Baker, Nordstrom Rack (Same)

Black & White Floral Kimono

So tell me, what do you think about my new black and white kimono? Let me know!

Thanks for stopping by! I’ll be filling you in some more, as far as what I’ve been up to during the past 2 months, little by little in the coming weeks. In the meantime, be sure to join my weekly mailing list. I’ve been sending out Friday emails for 3 months now; it’s a great way to see what I’ve been doing, get a dose of inspiration, and find out some of my monthly favorites. So until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Filed Under: Style, WNJ Style Tagged With: flats, kimono, Leopard Print, Love Cortnie, Nordstrom Rack

Personal Style | Dressing for Your Body Type with Confidence

February 20, 2017 by Whitney 8 Comments

Learning how to dress for your body type can do wonders for your confidence! This is something I’ve been working to perfect for the past several years, and I finally think I’ve got it down pat. I pretty much know what clothes, materials and what designers/brands work well for my body type. Granted my weight fluctuates from time to time, but overall my body type really doesn’t change that much. I’ve also learned how to accentuate some of my best physical features, including my legs.

Dressing for Your Body Type

Dressing for Your Body Type - Plus Size Fashion

Dress: Want & Need, Nordstrom Rack (Exact) // Shoes: Kenneth Cole, Bloomingdales (Another Option)

Plus Size Fashion - Dressing for Your Body Type

Although I was taught at a very young age to love my body, there were times where I didn’t feel 100% comfortable with showing off my legs. I didn’t think wearing dresses above or at the knee, or even wearing shorts, was the best way to dress for my body type. Once I started experimenting with different styles, lengths and materials I found that dressing for my body type could very well include a few short dresses and shorts. I realized that shorter dresses, with a little flare at the bottom, worked wonders on my body type! 

Learning how to dress for your body type can instantly boost your confidence! #wnjstyle

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Because I took the time to experiment with clothes, I was able to become comfortable with showing off my legs. I realize now that my legs are one of my best features! I just had to figure out what to wear that would make me feel comfortable and confident enough to show them off. The concept of dressing for your body type takes time, but once you’ve figured it out your self-confidence is elevated. Trust me.

Dressing for your Body Type

How to Dress for Your Body Type

Plus Size Fashion - Dress for Your Body Type

So tell me, do you know how to dress for your body type? What body part(s) do you like to accentuate the most? Let me know! 

Thanks for reading and until next time, stay blessed and be safe…XO!

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Filed Under: Style Tagged With: Nordstrom Rack

Personal Style | Grey Sweater and Black Leggings

February 6, 2017 by Whitney 14 Comments

This grey sweater and black leggings look is definitely my kind of outfit! While not a fan of cold weather, I am a huge fan of cold weather attire. When I saw this cozy, cute and affordable sweater in TJMaxx a month ago, I knew it had to be mine! Frantically scouring the racks, I found the last of my size and placed it in my cart. Mission accomplished! I was so sure the sweater would fit, I didn’t even try it on. That’s very unlike me. I always like to try on items before purchasing, but in this case I went with my gut and purchased it anyway. In the end it worked out in my favor.

* See Also, Burgundy Sweater & Black Leggings

Grey Sweater and Black Leggings

Grey Sweater and Black Leggings

Sweater: Eight Eight Eight, TJMaxx (Another Option)  // Leggings: Nordstrom Rack  (Another Option) // Flats: Tesori, Nordstrom Rack (Exact, Size 6) // Beanie: Borrowed

Grey Sweater and Black Leggings

Before this purchase, I’d been looking to add a grey sweater to my wardrobe for quite sometime. It’s not secret that I wear leggings, a lot, so over-sized sweaters and tunics have become a wardrobe staple. When wearing leggings your top should cover your bottom. I also think wearing tops that flare out a bit or have slits on the side look very flattering on my figure when styling them with leggings, or even straight leg jeans/bottoms.

Learning how to dress for your body type is key when it comes to personal style. #wnjstyle

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Aside from warm and cozy sweaters, I’m also a fan of stylish winter coats. Now let me clarify; I’ll choose to wear a fly cape over a heavy, bulky coat any day! I detest being hot, so capes are usually my go-to winter outerwear choices. However when the temperatures are disrespectfully low, I can suck it up and deal with a heavy, yet stylish, winter coat. This DKNY coat was a Valentine’s Day gift from hubs 2 years ago. He was tired of me wearing only capes and “heavy cardigans” during the winter and then complaining about being cold. Nice gesture, huh?

Plus Size Winter Coat

Coat: DKNY, Macy’s (Similar Style)

Grey Sweater and Black Leggings

So tell me, what do you think of my grey sweater and black leggings outfit? Also, how do you feel about heavy winter coats? Let me know! 

Thanks for stopping by today! Your readership and comments are always appreciated. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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** Linkups: Hello Monday, Mix it Monday, Let it Shine, Pink Sole, Visible Monday, Lookbook Linkup, Ageless Beauty, WIW **

Filed Under: Style Tagged With: black, Leggings, Nordstrom Rack, statement necklace, TJMaxx

Personal Style | Melissa McCarthy Floral Tunic and Denim

November 28, 2016 by Whitney 23 Comments

At the beginning of the season, I decided to browse the Nordstrom Rack website for some new tops to add to my fall/winter wardrobe. Knowing that I’d probably find a lot of spring and summer items on sale, that’s where I looked first. After only browsing for a few minutes, I spotted this vibrant Melissa McCarthy floral tunic. I didn’t care how much it was, I just knew I had to have it!

I’d already figured out how to wear the top at least 3 times and thankfully, it was in my size. There was nothing left to do but add it to my cart! I knew the item would fit, thanks to trying on a few Melissa McCarthy items before, so I was very pleased when the floral masterpiece arrived at my front door. I tried it on immediately and of course, it was perfect.

Melissa McCarthy Floral Tunic and Denim

Plus Size Winter Outfit

Cape: Harvé Benard, Thrifted (Another Option) // Sunnies: H&M (Similar Option) // Clutch: Love, Cortnie (Same)

Melissa McCarthy Floral Tunic and Denim

Have you ever had an item of clothing that you just KNOW you’re going to wear constantly? Well, that’s how I feel about this tunic. It’s the most comfortable top I own and the oversized fit is perfection. Anything that’s flowy and not tight to my body, I’m a fan. The fact that it was on sale for less than $40 is also a major plus!

If you don’t love it and if you can’t wear it at least 3 times, don’t buy it. #wnjstyle

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These days I’m very particular about what I purchase. If I don’t love it and if I can’t see myself wearing it more than 3 times, I’m not going to buy it. Of course, I make exceptions for accessories, shoes and some one-of-a-kind pieces, but for everyday wardrobe items that’s my rule.

Winter Outfit Details

Melissa McCarthy Floral Tunic and Denim

Tunic: Melissa McCarthy, Nordstrom (Other Options from Designer) // Denim: JCP (Another Option) // Flats: Sam Edelman, Nordstrom Rack (Cute Option)

Plus Size Winter Outfit


So tell me, what do you think about my Melissa McCarthy floral tunic? Do you follow the same rule as I do when shopping? Let me know! 

I can’t wait to read your responses! I hope you all had an enjoyable holiday weekend and until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Filed Under: Style Tagged With: denim, H&M, JCP, Leopard Print, Love Cortnie, Nordstrom Rack

Personal Style | 5 Reasons Why Having a Minimal Wardrobe Makes Life Easier

November 15, 2016 by Whitney 20 Comments

Before I started my minimal wardrobe journey, I did a lot of research. I said that I would take things slow and I promised myself that I would do things my way. Months into this new personal style change, I can say that I’m very pleased with my progress. I’m starting to see how this small change has made my life a lot less stressful.

It’s safe to say that creating a minimal wardrobe has made my life a lot less stressful. I don’t know many people who wouldn’t want to make their lives less stressful, so here are 5 reasons why having a minimal wardrobe will make your life easier.

Related: The Start of My Minimal Wardrobe Journey

5-items-every-minimalist-closet-should-have-6
1. Less Stress | How many times do you wake up in the morning and stress about what you’re going to wear? Most of that stress probably comes from having too many options. Creating a minimal wardrobe can easily cut your wardrobe in half, which will make getting dressed in the mornings a lot less stressful.

2. Less Expensive | Over the past 8 months I’ve spent less on my wardrobe than I have in years. In the beginning, I got rid of a lot of unworn items and refilled my closet with certain key pieces, but once that process was over the spending dwindled. I no longer have the urge to make compulsive purchases because I know exactly what I have in my wardrobe, and I know exactly how to style (and re-style) each piece.

3. Less Stuff | Having less stuff makes #’s 1 and 2 possible. Need I say more?

Having a minimal wardrobe makes life a lot less stressful. Here’s why! #wnjstyle

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creating a minimal wardrobe

Having a minimal wardrobe

Denim: Torrid (Another Option) // Sweater: Bobeau, Nordstrom Rack (Another Option) // Purse: Nine West, Gifted // Flats: Same Edelman, Nordstrom Rack

denim-and-black

4. More Freedom | Having a minimal wardrobe gives you the freedom to be creative. With just a few key pieces you’d be surprised at how many different outfits you can create using accessories, shoes and more. I find that I actually have more creative freedom with less clothing options. Sounds strange, I know, but it’s true! Just take a look at how many ways I’ve restyled the same pieces this year.

5. More Time | Having fewer clothing options frees up your time in the mornings, and in the evenings, to get more things done. Think about it… You probably spend about 20-30 minutes going back and forth with yourself about what to wear to work. Imagine having fewer choices to choose from. You can literally cut your morning “getting ready” time in half if you already know what’s in your closet, and how to style those items.

5 Reasons Why Having a Minimal Wardrobe Makes Life Easier #wnjstyle

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Minimal Wardrobe Outfit

Original Post

wearing all black

Original Post

having a minimal wardrobe

Original Outfit

If you take a look at the outfits above, you’ll see how I styled 2 of the same sweaters, in different colors, 4 different ways. Thanks to accessories, shoe choices, different pants/bottoms and hairstyles, each outfit is perfect for a separate occasion. If this isn’t an example of a how building a minimal wardrobe can help create an easier and more simple lifestyle, I don’t know what is!


So tell me, do you think having a minimal wardrobe could help make your life a little easier? Let me know! 

Thanks for reading and don’t forget to let me know your thoughts on creating a minimal wardrobe. I’d love to know your thoughts! Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Filed Under: Lifestyle, Style Tagged With: minimal wardrobe, Minimalism, Nordstrom Rack

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