Whitney Nic James

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Personal Style | Styling Floral Pants, Again…

December 16, 2015 by Whitney 4 Comments

Floral, leopard print and stripes. Whatever the pattern, more than likely, I’ll style it! I’ve been into prints for years and these floral pants are one of my favorite pairs to wear. I styled them earlier this fall with a chunky sweater, but this time I opted for a softer and more feminine look by pairing them with a semi-sheer top. Looking back, I’m actually a bigger fan of this look than the previous. Something about it makes me feel pretty and even a bit flirty.

Floral Pants OOTD

Floral Pants: Ralph Lauren, Lord & Taylor (Another Print Option) // Blouse: Daniel Rainn, Nordstrom Rack (Similar Option) // Heels: Calvin Klein, Bloomingdales (Similar Pair)

Styling Floral Pants

OOTD Styling Floral Pants

This outfit is perfect for an evening date, holiday party or networking event. It’s stylish, the heels are actually comfortable, and it’s functional! As I’m sure you know, I enjoy mixing and matching items in my wardrobe. That’s one of the reasons I’ve been purchasing more quality and versatile pieces these past few seasons. When building (or revamping) your personal style, it’s all about investing in transitional wardrobe pieces and remembering the importance of quality over quantity. 

Invest in transitional wardrobe pieces and remember quality over quantity. #wnjstyle

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Floral Pants OOTD

Purse: F21 (Another Option) // Earrings: Target (ON SALE – Similar Pair)

Floral Pants - OOTD

Outfit Floral Pants


So tell me, are you a fan of styling floral pants? Let me know!

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

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Filed Under: Plus Size Style, Style, WNJ Style Tagged With: Bloomingdales, F21, Lord & Taylor, Nordstrom Rack, Personal Style

#WNJDrives | 2016 Kia Sorento Review 

December 15, 2015 by Whitney 7 Comments

As mentioned in this post, hubs and I traveled to his home state of Delaware for Thanksgiving. The following weekend, we headed back to Delaware for a baby shower. Aside from road tripping, we’ve both been quite busy for the past few weeks. Because of that I wanted to make this trip as comfortable and stress free as possible, for the both of us. I also wanted a smooth and easy drive so at the last minute, I reached out to the lovely people at Drive Shop. Thankfully I was provided with a beautiful 2016 Kia Sorento SXL AWD the next day, just in time for our road trip.

2016 Kia Sorento SXL AWD

2016 Kia Sorento

Kia Sorento 2016

When the driver pulled up with this vehicle, I was immediately impressed. Further examining the Sorento I opened the door and fell in love with the deep red leather seats, the comfortable drivers seat, and the easy to use 8-inch touchscreen display. I remember testing a Sorento a few years back and was rather pleased. However the 2016 model blew me away! Check out some of the awesome features: 

– 19” Alloy Wheels

– Blind Spot Detection

-Side Curtain Airbags

(1st & 2nd Row)

-Surround View Monitor 

– Full Time AWD (All Wheel Drive) 

– Heated & Ventilated Front Seats

– Heated Leather Steering Wheel

– Blue Tooth Wireless Capability

– Navigation System & Sirius XM Satellite Radio 

2016 - Kia Sorento

Kia Sorento - 2016

Charging Station & Electrical Outlet Station in Back Seat

Kia Sorento 2016 review

Needless to say the drive to Delaware and back was smooth, safe and so relaxing. I even caught hubs napping in the passengers seat a few times – he never falls asleep while I’m driving, lol. On our way home, we stopped to grab a few things from Whole Foods. There was still tons of space left in the trunk after storing our suitcase, a few miscellaneous items, water and 3-4 bags of groceries. Looking back it was as if the trunk was laughing at us like, “that’s all you got?!” LOL!

2016 Kia Sorento Review

@Kia’s make safe, family friendly, good looking cars. Read this 2016 Sorento review! #wnjdrives

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This car was the perfect road-trip companion, to say the least. Kia is easily becoming one of our favorite brands. After riding this beauty for a few days, hubs and I are strongly considering this vehicle as our next car purchase. All weekend I raved about how comfortable and safe I felt. The only negative thing I can say about my experience was that I wish I was able to drive it a bit longer, lol.


So tell me, what are you driving? What do you think about the 2016 Kia Sorento SXL AWD? Let me know! 

Thanks for reading and be sure to leave your comment below. Until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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

Filed Under: Lifestyle, Style Tagged With: Auto Review, Kia, Road Trip, travel

Personal Style | #ThatBlogLife + Wearing Black and White

December 15, 2015 by Whitney 12 Comments

This t-shirt and these photos make me chuckle for two reasons – (1)  I’m usually wearing black and white “in real life” and (2) 9 times out of 10 I’m doing something on my phone or iPad for WNJ, a social media client or for Fearless Woman, I am. I’ll admit that I have gotten better about checking my phone every few minutes, however most days between 9-5 I’m working on something. I guess it’s safe to say that I am indeed about #thatbloglife. 

Black and White OOTD

T-Shirt: That Blog Life (Purchase Here) // Sweat Pants: (Another Option) // Cardigan: Jessica Simpson, Macy’s (Another Option) // Flats: Tesori, Nordstrom Rack (Plain Black Option)

That Blog Life

Black and White Outfit

Wearing black and white along with a cute and clever t-shirt is stylish, for sure. And although #thatbloglife is a cute and catchy phrase, some may wonder what being about #thatbloglife really means. For me, it means 3 things.

1. Being productive, not busy. | For awhile I had this concept all wrong. I was constantly “busy” thinking about what to share next, talking about my next move for the blog/brand and joining any and every blog related Facebook group or chat. Now my mindset has shifted and I understand the difference between being busy vs being productive. I’m now busy being productive. I don’t just think or talk about what’s next; I make an Action Plan and get it done. I join and participate in groups and chats that are useful and aligned with my purpose.

Blogging is the perfect platform to share your passion(s) and fulfill your purpose. #wnjinspired

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2. Being committed to fulfilling your purpose through sharing useful and uplifting content. | Earlier this year, I made a commitment (to myself) to fulfill my purpose through blogging. I’ve always had a passion for writing and helping others, but I’ve learned how to infuse passion and purpose in order to make an impact. Some may think you can’t for fill your purpose through blogging, but I beg to differ. Blogging is the perfect platform to share your passion(s) with the world while fulfilling your purpose and uplifting others.

3. Being committed to serve an audience. | Serving an audience goes hand-in-hand with my purpose. It’s very important (to me) that I’m serving my readers while fulfilling my purpose. I want to show and share content that inspires and interests you and every time I’m able to do that, my heart is full.

Wearing - Black and White

Earrings: Thrifted // Clutch: Fly By Night Boutique // Bar Necklace: oNecklace (Purchase Here – 10% OFF)

OOTD Black and White

Wearing Black and White


So tell me, what does being about #thatbloglife mean to you? Are you a fan of wearing black and white outfits “in real life” too? Let me know! 

I must give a shout out to my web designer Kim (Her Name is Kim) for creating these amazing t-shirts. The fit is so accurate and the material is soft and moves with you. I love that! For the first time I was able to order a plus size tee in my size that actually fit! #WINNING Also, being able to style an item that embodies my lifestyle is a major plus. Be sure to visit That Blog Life and grab yours! There are several goodies to pick from. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Filed Under: Plus Size Style, Style, Uncategorized, WNJ Style Tagged With: blogging, flats, inspiration, Nordstrom Rack

Personal Style | Denim and Sheer Blouse + Onecklace

December 14, 2015 by Whitney 27 Comments

Happy Monday! Is it me or are you confused about the weather lately?! I mean 65-70 degrees in December, not the norm for this time of year. I am however enjoying the fickle weather as much as possible. So much so that I decided to pull out my favorite pair of ankle length denim and sheer blouse this weekend. I wouldn’t normally wear a sheer blouse this time of year but hey, 70-degree weather can make you re-think your wardrobe choices.

OOTD - Denim and Sheer Blouse

Sheer Blouse: Nordstrom Rack (Another Option) // Denim: JCP (Another Option) // Flats: Tesori, Nordstrom Rack (Plain Black Pair)

OOTD Denim and Sheer Blouse

Denim and Sheer Blouse

I also decided to wear my oNecklace bar necklace. They were kind enough to send me this and another personalize option a few weeks ago. This casual and chic weekend outfit was the perfect opportunity to wear my “Fearless Woman” necklace. I thought that was the perfect phrase to get engraved on the necklace. Since it’s inception, the Fearless Woman movement has been growing, thanks in large part to your engagement and support. Shamelessly plugging my movement, I opted to engrave the phrase on a necklace. I couldn’t be more pleased with the outcome!

Personalized @oNecklace_com pieces are great choices for gifts! #wnjstyle

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I’ve been a fan of oNecklace for a while now. I have another necklace that reads “Nic James” and another with a monogrammed “WNJ”. These pieces are very meaningful and I’m very thankful that they’ve gifted me these items over the years. With the holidays coming up, I think these personalized statement pieces make the perfect Christmas gift. Even for a birthday, anniversary or a just because gift, anything personalized automatically makes the gift that much more special!

Onecklace

Onecklace Bar Necklace: Purchase HERE (10% Off)

Denim and Sheer Blouse - OOTD

Earrings: Thrifted // Purse: Fly By Night Boutique // Nefertiti Ring: Purchased in Egypt // Watch: Charming Charlie (Another Option )

Denim and Sheer Blouse OOTD


So tell me, are you a fan of sheer blouses? What about personalized jewelry? Let me know!

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

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Filed Under: Personal Style Linkup, Plus Size Style, Style

#WNJInspired | 5 Things You Must Do to Prepare for the New Year

December 9, 2015 by Whitney 12 Comments

In order to prepare for the New Year there seems to be a laundry list of things to do! While this process can be overwhelming, it doesn’t have to be. Take a few moments and figure out what it is you need to get done before 2016. What’s at the top of the list? It can be something as simple as cleaning out your pantry. In case you need help figuring out where to start, here are 5 simple things to prepare you for 2016!

Prepare for the New Year

1. Schedule Time for Self-Care. | Scheduling time for self-care is something I’ve starting working on already. I’ve made 2 spa appointments, a facial and a massage, for next year. Take time to schedule a few self-care related appointments for 2016. Once a month is very realistic to make time for a facial, massage, hair appointment, or even a yoga class. You can even set aside time to read, catch up on your TV shows or do an at-home spa day for yourself monthly. Whatever you consider a self-care day, make the time.

** Related Post: The Importance of Self Care 

2. Clear Out. | It’s time to clear out your closet, pantry or bathroom cabinet(s) – out with the old, in with the new! If you still have spring or summer clothes in your closet, I won’t judge you. However, I will say it’s time to switch to your late fall/winter wardrobe. If you can’t fit an item, it’s time to get rid of it. When it comes to your pantry, check the expiration dates on all of the canned goods and packaged items.

3. Donate. | If you have you clothes, shoes, accessories or even books that you no longer want, head to your local Goodwill (or thrift store) and donate those items. If you find that you need a few more items to replace some of the things you’ve donated, try thrifting those replacements first. It’s a great way to save money and you’d be surprised at the affordable and useful gems found at the thrift store.

** Related Post: Thrift Shopping Tips 

Prepare for the New Year

5 things you must do to prepare for a productive 2016. #wnjinspired

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4. Unsubscribe. | Throughout the year we all subscribe to certain stores and blog newsletters/email lists. At the time it seems like a great idea, but once your inbox becomes full of sale announcements and unrelated/random messages it becomes junk. My rule is this – if I haven’t shopped at a store or visited a blog/website in the last 60 days, it’s time to unsubscribe. Keep your inbox clean and clutter free in order to see those important messages that come through.

5. Reevaluate. | Reevaluating your wardrobe, habits, lifestyle and even your circle of friends is an important step to take when preparing for the New Year. After you reevaluate you may find that somethings and people don’t need to trickle over into 2016. That’s OK. With each season in your life it’s natural to let somethings go. Don’t be afraid to sit down and really think about what and who needs to stay and go.

** Related Post: The Importance of a Solid Starting Five 


So tell me, what do you do to prepare for the New Year? Let me know!

As always, thanks for reading and following. I truly appreciate the support here on the blog, through social media, and even by sending emails. Until next time, stay blessed and be safe…XO!

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Filed Under: Inspiration, Lifestyle, Style Tagged With: inspiration, self care

Personal Style | Style Inspiration

December 7, 2015 by Whitney 25 Comments

Happy Monday! With the holidays right around the corner, hubs and I have been traveling to see his family in Delaware quite a bit. We’ve also been busy Christmas shopping, planning for the New Year, and of course spending time together in our cozy new apartment. I have a few more posts to share this month, then I plan to take a holiday break from December 21st – January 4th. I really want to spend time with hubs, our families, and friends during that time. So a brief blogging and social media break it is!

Style Inspiration - Style Bloggers

Let’s move onto today’s post. It’s a bit different than my normal OOTD posts, but it’s one I’m really excited to share. Style inspiration can come from any and everywhere. I definitely get inspired by the Personal Style Linkup outfits each week. Today I want to showcase 6 style bloggers who caught my eye last week. From pattern mixing to a fancy tulle skirt, there was so much great style to take in. Take a look!

Style inspiration, for any style, from 6 personal style bloggers! #wnjstyle

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1. Inspired by your…Sexy & Chic Holiday Outfit. | Kasi knows how to style just about any look but this sexy, chic and on trend holiday outfit is one of my favorites! I love the plunging neckline and the mix of color and texture throughout the outfit. Thanks for continuing to be a style inspiration, Kasi!

Style Inspiration - The Style Perk

The Style Perk | Original Post HERE

 

2. Inspired by your…Flirty & Stylish Winter Outfit. | I love Rebecca’s style and the plum sweater and cute short leather skirt are the perfect duo! I love how she added a vintage-inspired belt, as well as a pair of purple wedges. The look is simple, a bit flirty and perfect for the season. Stylish as always, Rebecca!

Style Inspiration - Red Tag Chic

Red Tag Chic | Original Post HERE

3. Inspired by your…Accessories. | I always LOVE the accessories Alice wears. In this outfit, her necklace, bracelet and ring are the perfect touches to the casual and chic outfit. Thanks for continuing to linkup and for being such a stylish inspiration, Alice!

Style Inspiration - Happiness at Midlife

Happiness at Midlife | Original Post HERE

4. Inspired by your…Fancy Tulle Skirt. | I don’t consider myself to be girly, but I’m so smitten with Anna’s pretty tulle skirt. It’s styled perfectly and she looks just darling in the entire ensemble. It’s a great outfit choice for the holiday season. Just lovely, Anna!

Style Inspiration - Happy Medley

Happy Medley | Original Post HERE

5. Inspired by your…Casual Plaid Outfit. | Sandy is an expert when it comes to styling casual and chic outfits and this look is no different. I love the full length plaid shirt, worn as a cardigan, and the graphic tee and blingy statement necklace tie it everything together. I LOVE IT!

Style Inspiration - Sandy a la Mode

Sandy a la Mode | Original Post HERE

6. Inspired by your…Pattern Mixing. | Since I started blogging, Simply Chic has been on my radar. Her pattern mixing skills are on point and all of her outfits are fly and very practical. In this outfit, she’s looking good, as usual. I’m loving the braids too!

Style Inspiration - Simply Chic

Simply Chic | Original post HERE


So tell me, which bloggers do you look to for style inspiration? Let me know! 

Thanks for reading and be sure to link your recent outfit to my Personal Style Link Up below; can’t wait to see what you’re wearing! Until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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[inlinkz_linkup id=589092 mode=1]

** Linkups: How I Fall, Sophisticated Style, Garay Treasures **

Filed Under: Plus Size Style, Style Tagged With: blogger style, Personal Style Linkup, Style Inspiration

#WNJDrives | 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Car Review

December 3, 2015 by Whitney Leave a Comment

Last month I had the pleasure of test driving the 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport SE AWC for a week. I’ve driven an Outlander before and although I was a fan of the look and interior, I wasn’t 100% sold on the actual driving experience. However this time, I was very pleased! The car drove very well, I didn’t feel the bumps on the road like last time. Above all I felt very safe. My experience with the Outlander Sport was enjoyable and one I wouldn’t mind having again.

** Previous Outlander Review HERE

2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport

Source

2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport

As a certified music junkie the first thing I do is check the sound system in any car. Knowing that I was able to listen to my iTunes and Apple Music playlists while driving was such a treat. I don’t mind the radio, especially Sirius, however being able to control what you listen to is always my favorite option. Thanks to the Bluetooth capabilities, it was possible to pick and choose my tunes. Another plus, the sleek design. Let’s be honest, we all love to drive around in a nice looking car. This sporty vehicle was indeed a looker!

2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport review, thanks to @mitsucars and @driveshop! #DriveMitsubishi

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Noteworthy Features 

– Spacious 2nd Row AND Trunk

– Steering Wheel Controls

– Handsfree with Bluetooth

– All Wheel Control (AWC)

– Sirius Digital HD Radio

– Touchscreen Navigation

– Panoramic Sunroof 

– Rearview Camera

2015 Outlander Sport

AM/FM Radio, CD, Sirius & Bluetooth 

2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport

2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport


So tell me, have you ever driven the 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport?  If not, what car do you currently drive? Let me know! 

Thanks for reading! I’ll be back soon with another auto review. Hubs and I are out of town this weekend, once again, and I’ll be test driving another ride. Follow along with us on social media searching the #WNJDrives hashtag, or on Snapchat at @wnicjames. Until next time, be blessed and be safe!

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

Filed Under: Lifestyle, Style Tagged With: Car Review, Drive Shop, Mitsubishi

7 Fabulous & Budget Friendly Gifts Under $50 for Female Entrepreneurs from Nordstrom

December 1, 2015 by Whitney 19 Comments

Believe it or not it’s time to start holiday shopping. I must admit that I haven’t started just yet, but I have a list and plan to get things going by the weekend. If you’re like me and have been stalling a bit to get your shopping started here’s a quick and easy gift guide, perfect for the female entrepreneur in your life. Weather a creative or corporate entrepreneur, these gift ideas are perfect. More importantly, they won’t break the bank. I made sure each Nordstrom item was under $50 – thank me later. 😉

The perfect gifts for any female entrepreneur from @nordstrom, under $50!

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Gifts Under $50

1. Voluspa Scented Candles | As a female entrepreneur you probably have a home office (or space where you do your work) and to be honest, you may spend more time there than at your 9-5 office. Of course you want that area to look and smell good, which is why these mini Voluspa candles are the perfect addition to your home office/space. They smell simply divine!

Nordstrom Gifts Under $50

Voluspa Mini Candles| Purchase HERE

 

2. Kate Spade Lined Journal | If you’re anything like me you’re constantly jotting down ideas and notes. Why not use a pretty journal to do so? This blank journal is the perfect size to fit in your purse or tote!

 

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Kate Spade Journal | Purchase HERE

3. Kate Spade Thermal Travel Mug | Weather you’re a coffee or tea drinker, every female entrepreneur needs a fancy to-go mug. I love this Kate Spade option because it’s chic and easy to carry around while out and about during meetings or appointments.

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Kate Spade Polka-Dot Thermal Travel Mug | Purchase HERE

4. Rifle Paper Co. Note Cards | Note cards are perfect for writing professional and personal thank-you notes. You never know when you need to send a little handwritten note to someone. It’s personable, professional, and very thoughtful!

Paper Co. Blank Note Cards | Purchase HERE

 5. ‘Good Vibes’ Desk Sign | My mother, a fellow female entrepreneur, is obsessed with cute office supplies. She has a collection of the fanciest notebooks, pencils, and paper clips, similar to these below. These Kate Spade clips are perfect to add to your desk! They have cute sayings on them and can be used over and over again.

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He Said, She Said Desk Sign | Purchase HERE

6. Reversible Tote Bag | I have this tote (and detachable wristlete) and I absolutely LOVE it! It’s very durable, stylish, easy to carry to work, and great for travel. The reversible aspect makes the tote 2 bags in 1 and the bonus wristlete is great for carrying during a night out on the town. Perfect in every way!

Gifts Under $50

Reversible Tote (with wristlete) | Purchase HERE

 

7. Lilly Pulitzer Planner | This planner is not only pretty, but super spacious and perfect for keeping you organized and on track during the New Year. My mother ordered this planner for 2016 and is LOVING everything about it. The spiral design makes the planner very functional and easy to write in. The pages really are beautiful too as well!

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Lilly Pulitzer Jumbo 17-Month Agenda | Purchase HERE


So tell me, what do you think about my picks? What are some gifts under $50 you think a female entrepreneur would love?  Let me know!

Thanks for stopping by and be sure to tweet me if you decide to purchase one of the 7 items above; I’d love to see. Until tomorrow, stay blessed and be safe…xo!

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Filed Under: Lifestyle, Style Tagged With: Gift Guide, gifts, Nordstrom

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