Whitney, Author at Whitney Nic James

#WNJBeauty | Current Beauty Favorites + A Giveaway

February 24, 2016 by Whitney 17 Comments

I’m excited to host my first 2016 Current Beauty Favorites Giveaway today on the blog! This year I want to make an effort to share some of my beauty favorites with you through quarterly giveaways. I figured since this has been a pretty brutal winter for most of us, introducing my current winter beauty favorites would be a treat! These items, along with a few others, have been in my skincare arsenal since the cold weather has arrived. Let’s take a look!

Must have winter skin and body products! #wnjbeauty

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1. Carol’s Daughter Almond Cookie | Not only does this product smell amazing, but it really works wonders for the skin! I use the Almond Cookie a few times a week to moisturize my skin after a shower. Mixed with Shea Butter, Coca Butter and Jojoba Oil, this product locks in moisture and leaves you skin feeling smooth and smelling delicious!

2. Carol’s Daughter Body Jelly | I use this product daily. Immediately after my shower, while my skin is still damp, I lather up – especially on my elbows, knees, and feet. This natural product includes Sweet Almond, Jojoba and Soybean. Using this sometimes takes place of Vaseline. It’s smooth, has a sweet smell, and doesn’t leave you feeling too greasy.

3. Biossance Face Oill | I’ve been a fan of Biossance since the company sent me a sample of their Revitilizer skin serum. After reviewing and using the product for months, my skin has changed for the better. It’s more smooth, the complexion has evened out, and it looks brighter and healthier. “The Nourisher” face oil is said to protect skin from moisture loss, while helping the skin firm, hydrate and achieve a radiant glow!

Enter the #WNJBeauty giveaway today!

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4. Sephora Peal Face Mask | Whenever my skin is tired and needs a boost, I pull out the perfecting and brightening Pearl Mask from Sephora. Once I remove the mask I rub in the excess product, which leaves my face looking AND feeling rejuvenated. It’s the perfect mask to bring dull skin back to life!

5. Dead Seas Oasis Treatment Mask | I purchased these masks at TJ Maxx back in December. Perfect for all skin types, this dead sea spa treatment mask draws out dirt and impurities from your face. It also helps firm and moisturize, which is a must during the winter months. I switch between these masks and the Sephora brand each month, and sometimes weekly. I like to have a routine for my skin, but switching up my masks every now and then doesn’t hurt.

So tell me, what are your current beauty favorites? Let me know!

Be sure to enter the giveaway below, and don’t forget to leave a comment. I can’t wait to share more of my current beauty favorites here on the blog, as well as on my YouTube Channel. Feel free to share this giveaway with your readers and friends – best wishes! Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

* GIVEAWAY ONLY OPEN TO U.S. RESIDENTS *

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Personal Style | Wearing a Kimono…Again

February 23, 2016 by Whitney 12 Comments

Surprise! I’m wearing an all black outfit AND a kimono….again. LOL! Wearing all black never goes out of style and when it comes to wearing a kimono, they’re pretty much a wardrobe staple. I absolutely love flouncing around at work, in the house, or out and about in these comfortable frocks. As mentioned in this post, kimonos are a wardrobe must have. Trust me.

KIMONO: TJ MAXX (ANOTHER OPTION) // PANTS: TARGET (SIMILAR) // BLOUSE: NORDSTROM RACK // SHOES: BLOOMINGDALES, KENNETH COLE (SAME)

This outfit, worn to church, made me feel like a boss. Something about the nude pumps, chic semi-flare pants and the fit of the kimono gave me an extra dose of swag. As much as I dislike using that word, I feel that its use is necessary in this instance. Have you ever worn at outfit that made you feel this way? I’ve said in the past that clothing can definitely have a positive affect on your mood – this outfit is a perfect example.

Dress up an all black outfit with a colorful kimono! #wnjstyle

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I’m also a fan of the minimal yet statement jewelry/accessories I paired with the outfit. When I wear curly hair, I’m all about big earrings. This pair from H&M added just the right amount of umph I needed. The over-sized purse has become a favorite and I found it very handy for church. My iPad, notebook, wallet and umbrella fit perfectly. All in all, this outfit is probably one of my favorites. Although it’s simple, and includes several pieces that I wear often, it fits my personal style. Simplicity goes a long way.

When it comes to style, simplicity goes a long way. #wnjstyle

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Purse: F21 (Similar) // Earrings: H&M // Watch: Thrifted, 2nd Avenue

So tell me, do you enjoy wearing a kimono? How often do you style yours? Let me know!

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

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Personal Style | Denim and Leopard Print

February 22, 2016 by Whitney 37 Comments

Wearing denim and leopard print is probably one of my favorite combinations! This weekend I was able to style this combo for a day of errands, lunch and hanging out with hubs. I’ve been dying to wear this jacket, purchased from Macy’s a few seasons ago. Since the weather was just right, not too cold and not too warm, I figured it’d be the perfect jacket to wear.

Denim: JCP (Another Option) // Jacket: Calvin Klein (Another Option) // Flats: Tesori (Another Option)

I like to fill my wardrobe with clothes that can easily be mixed and matched. Of course I have some wardrobe items that are specifically for formal occasions, but the majority of my options can be worn any day. This outfit is the perfect example! Not only is this a great outfit for the weekend, but it can also work for a casual date night, a shopping trip or even a day of working from home.

Styling denim and leopard print is the perfect outfit combo! #wnjstyle

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Clutch: Thrifted, Goodiwll (Another Option) // Earrings: Thrifted, 2nd Avenue

So tell me, are you a fan of the denim and leopard print combo? Does your wardrobe consist of many mix and match options? Let me know!

Thanks for reading! Be sure to link your recent outfit to my Personal Style Linkup below. Until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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** Linkups: How I Fall, Throwback Thursday, Sophisticated Style**

#WNJSocial | 5 Reasons Why You Should Use Snapchat

February 17, 2016 by Whitney 6 Comments

Of all the social media platforms, Instagram and Snapchat are my absolute favorites! As I’ve said many times before I’m a very visual person, so it makes sense that these are two of my favorite apps. To be honest, I was late to the Snapchat party. It wasn’t until my 13-year-old sister gave me an intense lesson that I began to consider joining. Once I read Gorgeous in Grey’s comprehensive how-to use Snapchat guide for adults, I was sold. I downloaded the app and haven’t looked back since! So of course, I’m going to do my best to convince you to hop on the bandwagon. Here are 5 Reasons You Should Use Snapchat!

1. Show the Real You | I love this app because it’s a great way to show people “the real you.” Sharing snippets of your day allows an instant behind the scenes look at what your days are really like. We live in an world where seeing how others live their lives is interesting to us. We also enjoy sharing (some of those) moments with others. Well, at least that interests, sort of. For that reason Snapchat is a must!

2. Inspire & Uplift | Snapchat is another platform where you can inspire and uplift others through your verbal messages, snaps (pictures) and quotes. Yes, you can type messages on the pictures you upload. It’s a great way to share positive messages, rants, or even songs with your followers. As with any platform, I believe you should be careful what messages you’re sending out into the social media universe. What you share says a lot about what you stand for and what you believe in.

5 reasons you should use Snapchat. #wnjsocial

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3. Promote Yourself | Have something to sell? An event you want people to attend? A product you want us to try? Snapchat is a great way to share and promote that! Many companies don’t use Snapchat the correct way, in my opinion, but I think it’s a genius way to promote and market your brand/or product. You have a captive audience, so what better way to promote your blog, product, event or services using yet another social media outlet?

Using Snapchat is a GREAT way to promote your brand or product. #wnjsocial

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4. Get Instant Feedback | I love being able to interact with friends, readers and others. Snapchat makes it so easy to do so! You can comment/reply to a persons snap, as long as they have that option available. Most Snapchat users, at least the ones I follow, do have this feature available. It’s a great way to get instant feedback about an idea, product or question you may have. Don’t have any feedback to give? You can simply start a conversation or let the person know you like whatever they’ve shared!

5. Follow Your Favorite Celebs & Brands | Since I was young I’ve had an interest in knowing the in’s and out’s of certain celebrities. Questions like what do they eat for dinner or what products do they use everyday always seemed to run through my mind. As far as brands, I’ve always been fascinated with the behind the scenes process of how things are created, made, etc. The celebrities and brands I choose to follow answer those questions, and much more! Just another reason why you should use Snapchat, just saying.

So tell me, are you on Snapchat? If so, what are your thoughts about this social media outlet? Let me know!

Thanks for reading and be sure to follow me on Snapchat (here), if you’d like. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Personal Style | 7 Work from Home Wardrobe Must Haves

February 16, 2016 by Whitney 15 Comments

Yesterday was another snowy and icy Monday here in Maryland. I’m pretty sure a lot of us were either off or worked from home, due to the “wintery mix”. As mentioned in this post the weather has caused me to work from home a lot more lately. So today I want to share a few (more) of my Work from Home Wardrobe Must Haves.

1. Comfy Sweaters & Tops | Wearing comfortable clothing is a must for me, especially when I’m working from home. I move around quite a bit so wearing comfy swearers, tunics and flowy tops is perfect. I purchase most of my “work at home tops” from Nordstrom Rack, Marshall’s and of course, the thrift store. I usually rotate my top, creating a uniform of sorts. It makes getting dressed in the mornings a lot easier when I already know what I’m wearing.

2. Statement Jewelry | It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of statement jewelry. Even if I’m working from home, I always wear at least one statement piece. I thrift most of my pieces, but I also purchase pieces from the jewelry department at Macy’s, JCPenney or Nordstrom Rack.

3. (A Few) Maxi Dresses & Skirts | I love a good maxi dress (or skirt), especially during the warmer months. Having a few maxi options handy on my work from home days is another way to ensure getting dressed is simple and easy. Maxi dresses are also great layering pieces during the cooler months.

7 must have work from home wardrobe items! #wnjstyle

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4. Comfy Shoes | Although I prefer bare feet or sometimes socks while in the house, comfy shoes are important to keep close. If I have to run errands, head out for some lunch or just walk to the mailbox downstairs, I reach for one of my many pairs of cute and comfy flats.

5. Handbags (Clutches, Backpacks & Large Handbags) | Again, you never know when you may need to slip out of the house. Therefore an array of handbags to choose from is a must. I usually reach for one of my backpacks (like this one) or a big tote bag, but there are times when a simple clutch will do.

Even when working from home, keep it cute and stylish! #wnjstyle

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6. Cardigans (Longs and Short) | Cardigans are very important items in my work from home wardrobe. I tend to get cold often so I always keep a cute cardigan, long or short, handy.

7. Thick Leggings | When I’m not wearing skinny leg denim or stylish sweatpants leggings are my thing, like this pair. Not only are they slimming, but they pretty much go with several of my tunics and tops. I have approximately 5 pair of leggings and just like many of my other wardrobe items, they’re in constant rotation.

So tell me, what does your work from home wardrobe consist of? Let me know!

Thanks for reading and be sure to let me know more about your work from home wardrobe. I can always use more suggestions! Be sure to link your recent outfit to my Personal Style Linkup below. Until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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** Linkups: How I Fall, WIW, Mix it Monday, Garay Treasures, Trend Tuesday, Small Victories **

#WNJDrives | 2016 Kia Optima Car Review

February 11, 2016 by Whitney 4 Comments

Just before the New Year I had to opportunity to test drive a 2016 Kia Optima LX Turbo. Hubs and I aren’t in the market for a new car immediately, however we plan to purchase a new car within the next 2 years. So whenever I have a chance to test drive a vehicle, I’m excited! I’ve become very found of the Kia brand over the past year and after driving the Optima for a week, it’s safe to say that a Kia purchase just might happen in the near future.

I put this car to the test, traveling up and down 95 for meetings and other wok related events, as well as driving my usual routes in and around Howard County. The sleek and sophisticated design caught my eye at first glance and once inside, I was very impressed with the space. The car is compact, but not so small that you don’t feel comfortable. Once I became acclimated with the car, I noticed one thing for sure – this car gets OUT! Now of course I wasn’t speeding recklessly, but the need for speed was met while cursing down 95. Below are a few important features of the 2016 Kia Optima:

– Push Button Start / Smart Key & Trunk

– Dual Front Advance Airbags

– SIRIUSXM Satellite Radio

– USB/Auxiliary Input Jack

– Steering Wheel Controls

– Rear Parking Assistance

– Bluetooth Capabilities

– Navigation System

– 12 Volt Outlet

Again, I’m not usually a fan of compact sport-like cars, but driving this Kia swayed me a bit. I had plenty of room to stretch and felt very safe while driving. Because I’m constantly on-the-go, I’m always pleasantly surprised when there’s a place to charge multiple electronic devices in a vehicle. Hubs and Mom were equally impressed with the features and also loved the chic design and Platinum Graphite color.

The 2016 @Kia Optima is perfect for young professionals and college students! #wnjdrives

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I can definitely see this car being a great option for a young professional on-the-go, or even a college student. The price of this model, including the features mentioned and a few others, is $27,415. With all the driving I did I was surprised that I din’t have to fill up the tank. The Fuel Economy is listed at 32 MPG. Not bad, at all!

So tell me, have you ever driven a 2016 Kia Optima or another Kia model? Let me know!

As always, thanks for reading and commenting. If you’re in the market for a new ride I highly suggest you checking out the Optima, or another Kia model. The more I drive these cars the more I understand the high satisfaction rate among many consumers. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

P.S. Don’t forget to link your recent outfit to my Personal Style Linkup, HERE!

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* Drive Shop provided me with this vehicle to test drive. All opinions are my own. *

Personal Style | 5 Winter Wardrobe Must Haves from Nordstrom

February 10, 2016 by Whitney 7 Comments

This winter weather will be around for a while longer and I think my wardrobe could use a few more items to help get me through. Of course I’ve been browsing the Nordstrom website and I found a few items that I’d love to add to my minimal and functional wardrobe. I’m in the process of making my current wardrobe even more minimal and these 5 items will be great additions. Here are my 5 Winter Wardrobe Must Haves from Nordstrom.

1. New Balance Running Sneakers | I’ve become a lot more active since the New Year and because of this, I’m in need of a new pair of running shoes. I do have a pair that I use for indoor activity, and to style when wearing casual outfits. But I don’t have a pair specifically for running/walking. These pair of New Balance sneakers below are not only cute, but perfect for my new found active lifestyle.

Nordstrom Must Haves - New Balance Sneakers

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2. Melissa McCarthy Long Grey Cardigan | I love wearing long (and shorter) cardigans to work, as well as during the weekends. This Melissa McCarthy option is perfect for work and play. The color is great, the material is soft and I’m sure it will be flattering on my figure.

Shop HERE

Wardrobe must haves from @Nordstrom to last you through the last few weeks of cold weather. #wnjstyle

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3. Faux Leather Handbag | I haven’t purchased a black handbag in a while and this faux leather choice seems big enough to house all my purse necessities. It seems large enough to carry to work also, so that’s a plus. I like the subtle design on the front and the detailing on the sides as well.

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4. City Chic Skinny Ankle Length Denim | As mentioned in this post, I’m a huge fan of straight leg/skinny ankle length denim. The fit does wonders for my shape! This particular City Chic pair has been in my cart for a few weeks, so I think I need to make the purchase ASAP. I can wear these all year and the styling options are endless!

Shop HERE

Shop @nordstrom for quality closet must haves! #wnjstyle

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5. Sejour Leather Jacket | The last time I had a sleek leather jacket was during my college days, thanks to my mom. I’m definitely in need of a lightweight leather jacket. I would go for the faux option, but the leather jacket I had in the past seemed to last for years. Personally a leather option seems more durable. Purchasing this Sejour jacket in either black or grey would enhance my wardrobe, for sure!

Shop HERE

So what do you think about my last few Winter Wardrobe Must Haves? Let me know!

Thanks for reading and commenting. If you get a chance, head over and link your recent outfit to my Personal Style Linkup HERE. Until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Personal Style | Maxi Dress and Sneakers

February 9, 2016 by Whitney 4 Comments

For the past few weeks I’ve been gravitating towards sneakers. It’s not surprise really, since I’m already a huge fan of sneakers. So whenever I get the chance to style a pair, I’m a happy girl! These grey Pumas were a Christmas gift from hubs. They were the perfect addition to my maxi dress and sneakers outfit. I decided to wear this comfy and warm ensemble a few Sunday’s ago to church. I’d usually feel weird wearing sneakers to church, but not at Bridgeway. Being able to dress comfortably, yet still presentable, at our church is something I truly appreciate.

Maxi Dress: H&M (Another Option) // Cardigan: Lord & Taylor, Gifted (Another Option // Necklace: Purchased in NY // Clutch: Goodwill, Thrifted

Wearing sneakers with a dress is something I do more in the summertime, but I’m realizing this combo can work all year! Wearing a maxi dress and sneakers adds a nice contrast. You can wear a dress with heels anytime. Why not have fun and switch it up a bit by adding your favorite pair of stylish sneakers to the look? A quick shoe change is just one more way you can stretch and maximize your wardrobe.

Stretch your wardrobe – try a pair of stylish sneakers with a casual maxi dress. #wnjstyle

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