Style Archives - Page 33 of 45

Style | Wearing Shorts on the Weekend + Style Linkup

July 6, 2015 by Whitney 38 Comments

This weekend was absolutely wonderful! It was also humid, very busy and rainy, but nonetheless it was wonderful. I spent most of the days with family, which is always a great thing. Knowing that I was going to be busy I decided to wear shorts and a lightweight tunic on Saturday. Hubby and I joined my family at the River Hill 4th of July Parade. My little sister rode in the parade while representing her title, Miss American Teenager, Preteen. It was a lot of fun and she, of course, had a ball riding in a drop top white mustang. 😉

Tunic: Sejour, Nordstrom (Same) // Shorts: Target

Wearing shorts is something I haven’t always been a fan of. But over the past few years, I have embraced my body and shape and wearing shorts has been part of that journey. Regardless of your size, shorts during the summer months is a must. As long as their appropriate and fit nicely, I say go for it!

Regardless of your size, shorts are a summer wardrobe must have. #wnjstyle

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Clutch: Love, Cortnie // Sneakers: Nike Fit Sole, DSW (Another Option)

Speaking of wearing shorts, my favorite linkup from last week was Cheryl of Oh to Be a Muse. I love Cheryl’s easy breezy outfit, and not to mention her hair! She always styles herself perfectly, head to toe, regardless of the season. She’s true to her personal style and looks great in these Zara shorts!

Cheryl | Oh to Be a Muse

So tell me, are you a fan of wearing shorts during the summer months? Let me know!

Don’t forget to show off your personal style by linking your recent OOTD pots(s) below. Be sure to link your outfit back to this post. Also, visit the other bloggers who’ve linked up and say hey. I’ll be sharing my favorite linkup next Monday! Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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** Liknups: How I Summer, Let it Shine, Trend Spin **

5 Truths | What I Know for Sure About Blogging After 5 Years

July 3, 2015 by Whitney 9 Comments

I was chatting with my Mom the other day and I realized that I’d been blogging for about 5 years now. ~~WOW!~~ I still can’t believe it sometimes. When I started blogging I had no clue how many opportunities would present themselves and I didn’t know how much about myself I’d learn. It’s always rewarding looking back and realizing that this hard work really is paying off. So today I thought it’d be helpful to share 5 what I know for sure about blogging tips.

1. It Takes a Village. I wouldn’t have started blogging if my husband hadn’t nudged me to publish my thrift store findings and tips. Without my parents constant support and idea sessions, I’d have no direction. My 13-year-old sister pours ideas out on a daily basis, and she’s a big help when it comes to editing my content. Even my grandmother has chimed in on the edits and content ideas. My fellow bloggers (in and outside of the DMV area) have helped me articulate blog post ideas, and of course you (the readers) have given me SO much support throughout the years. From emails, tweets, messages, blog post comments, and even stopping by at events to say hi have been a source of inspiration…it means the world to me. And I would not be such a dedicated blogger without my entire village. THANK YOU!

2. It Takes Time. Like most of us, I had that microwave mentality when I first started blogging. I just knew I was going to be an overnight sensations. HA! Not even. It takes time and endurance to be a committed, trusted blogger. The quality of your content depends on your consistency and effort, and taking your time is a big part of that. Also, valuing your time is crucial. Are you attending certain events to be seen or is there really a purpose to you being there? If there isn’t, you could be spending your time doing something to enhance your craft. Be mindful of how your spending your time as a creative (entrepreneur) and take your time when working to get to the top of your game.

If you don’t have a tribe/village behind you as a blogger, you need to get one ASAP. #wnjblogs

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3. It’s All About Relationships. At the core, I’m a loner. I don’t prefer crowds, but you’d never know it. When I socialize and network, I make it a point to meet 3 new people wherever I am. And by meeting them I mean getting (~~and remembering~~) their full name, business name, and walking away with a business card. Building relationships with (the right) people is also a key factor in being successful. Relationship building takes time, and it also requires a follow up with the people you’ve met. Mattieologie has some great tips on how to be taken seriously when you haven’t made it yet that you may find helpful. She also has a podcast (Ask Mattie) that answers a lot of questions you may have about blogging. Check it out!

4. Learn, Be Social & Enjoy the Ride. I don’t like school/classroom settings. I get that, understand it and I’ve accepted it. However, I love to learn. It’s like air for me; a necessity. Learning tips and tricks form other successful bloggers, as well as the in’s and outs of entrepreneurship has been awesome, especially since the beginning of the year. Attending seminars (online and in person), traveling to conferences and meeting like-minded people has allowed me to step outside of my comfort zone and really grow. Deciding to blog with a purpose and with intention was the best decision I’ve made, and since I’ve done that I’ve been enjoying the ride a lot more. Be social, get out there and find classes and activities that will enhance your career and better you as a person. It’s worth it, trust me.

5. Everyone will not wish you well, and that’s OK. This is the toughest pill I’ve had to swallow, but in some strange way it’s been satifying. I have become more aware of those people around me and have made a conscious effort to only have people in my circle who not necessarily agree with everything I say, but respect me and want the best for me. Time is everything and spending it with people who have your best interests at heart is crucial. Everyone won’t be on your team and everyone won’t root for you. It’s fine. Accept that, understand that it’s part of life, and don’t take it personal. Don’t let it break you; keep going and remember your purpose.

Time management and consistency are key factors in achieving success of any kind. #wnjblogs

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So tell me, what do you know for sure about blogging? Anything I mentioned resonate with your journey? Let me know!

As I said yesterday, be sure to sign up for my newsletter. I’ll be sending out free printables and resources for blogging and entrepreneurship. It’s something I’ve been wanting to do for a while, so why not now?? As always thanks for reading and keeping up with me on social media. Until Monday, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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** Linkups: Garay Treasures **

#FearlessWoman Feature | Amy Arnold of Straight A Style

July 1, 2015 by Whitney 14 Comments

I’m sure you know this by now, but I’m constantly inspired by fellow creatives and entrepreneurs. So today I’m pleased to introduce you to yet another one of my #FearlessWoman inspirations, Amy of Straight A Style. I’ve been a blog reader and fan of Amy’s for months. Aside from her effortless and fashion forward style, I’m also intrigued by her blogging consistency and transparency in her posts. She’s more than just fashion; she’s a wife, an entrepreneur in the making, and someone who makes the latest fashion trends work for her. I’m always impressed and inspired by style bloggers who can do that. Be sure to check out her interview below, as well as her latest post on the blog. Enjoy and be inspired!

What’s a typical day for Amy?

I work as an Admission and Enrollment Coordinator at a local university. I have a degree in secondary mathematics education, so although I no longer teach high school math, I love that my job keeps me in education and connected to students. I really enjoy it. Of course I often blog at night or in the morning before work. If it’s a day I need to take outfit photos, I will meet my husband during lunch or after work. I love to cook, so we eat at home most nights. In general, we are pretty boring and normal.

What inspired you to create Straight A Style?

My blog started as a personal one called The Real Arnolds. I never intended to be a fashion blogger. I have always loved clothing and style, and so I incorporated it into my personal blog. It just slowly evolved into what you see now, culminating in a recent name change and site makeover.

Who are 3 of your top women inspirations, famous or non famous, and why?

What a hard question! I know this may sound cliche, but my Nana and my mother are definitely two of them. My Nana was an artist with very distinct and amazing style. She influenced us all, especially my mother. I was very close with her and am very close with my mom. They are both amazing women, style aside, and inspire me every single day. I really don’t know that I can pick just one more woman. In general, I admire women. I love how we build each other up and relate to one another. This blogging community has been such a great example of that for me, and I am really thankful to be a part of it.

One piece of advice for women entrepreneurs.

One thing that sticks out as the most helpful to me in this blogging journey was a conversation with a dear friend. I was expressing worry over whether or not my thought life was out of balance in relation to blogging. The reality is a fashion blog is all about you, so you kind of think about yourself a lot. It’s strange, and I was struggling with it. She told me that my blog was sort of like a part-time job, and it was okay for me to think of it that way. I spend a lot of time thinking about my job, so it would be natural for me to spend time thinking about my blog too if it was a job. Thankfully it’s a really fun job with lots of perks, so it doesn’t even feel like one, but her words helped me put it into perspective.

What is your definition of a #FearlessWoman?

I would say that a #FearlessWoman is not one who doesn’t have fear, but instead she is one who doesn’t let her fears have the final say. We all have fear. I don’t think we can say we don’t. It’s what we do with them and how we handle them that make us fearless.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

In five years, I hope to have a family. I’m so happily married. My husband is an incredible man. We are currently experiencing some difficulty having a baby. It’s funny because I was never a woman who saw myself as particularly motherly. We were not in a rush to have a child. After dating long distance all through college, we wanted to enjoy being married and take our time having kids. Infertility is not a road you ever imagine walking down though. Yet, here we are. Whether we are able to have a child naturally or we ultimately adopt, we are open to whatever God has planned for us, and I look forward to seeing it unfold. I have fear about it all for sure. So I’ll keep you posted!

How can we keep up with you?

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Personal Style | Another Black and White Outfit + a Statement Necklace

June 30, 2015 by Whitney 20 Comments

Have you ever worn outfit and felt really cool? LOL. Well, that’s how I felt in this black and white outfit. Worn for an outdoor date night, it’s the epitome of an easy, breezy, and stylish outfit. You shouldn’t be surprised that I’m wearing yet another black and white outfit. After all, this color combination reigns supreme when it comes to picking out my OOTD’s. And really, can you blame me? Styling a black and white outfit is probably the most chic and easiest thing to do, style-wise.

T-Shirt: Nordstrom Rack // Pants: Sejour, Nordstrom (Another Option) // Flats: Steve Madden (Similar) // Clutch: Love, Cortnie (Same)

By adding a statement necklace, I gave the look a little umph. I love a good umph with any outfit and statement necklaces (and jewelry in general) is the easiest way to do add that element. Some of my favorite bloggers are statement necklace obsessed too. Lately they’ve inspired me to try different pieces that I wouldn’t normally go for. For example, Ty of Gorgeous in Grey has an amazing collection and after seeing it, I was ready to up my statement necklace game…like for real! LOL!

Add a little “umph” to your look with a statement necklace. #wnjstyle

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I purchased this piece (and the earrings) from the Aldo Accessories store in Columbia Mall. It’s funny because as much as I’m a jewelry lover, I don’t frequent the store like I should. I did however stop in this past weekend and purchased this item. I was looking for a bodacious necklace to add to a plain white dress. Their prices are really reasonable, options are endless, and they always have a 2 for 1 sale. My kind of shopping! 😉

Necklace: Aldo, Columbia Mall (Another Option) // Earrings: Aldo, Columbia Mall (Other Options) // Sunnies: Ivanka Trump: Nordstrom Rack

So tell me, are you a fan of black and white outfits? What about statement necklaces? Let me know!

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

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Personal Style | Sheer Blouse, Statement Necklace & Personal Style Linkup

June 29, 2015 by Whitney 43 Comments

Happy Monday, friends! If you haven’t noticed, I’ve decided that Summer 2015 is all about being casual, comfy and chic. Therefore most of my outfits will consist of a lot of basic wardrobe pieces. Today’s outfit proves that my #CasualSummer is in full effect!

Blouse: Daniel Rainn, Nordstrom Rack // Leggings: Vince Camuto, Nordstrom // Flats: Steve Madded (Similar) //Purse: Nine West (Old)

This sheer blouse and statement necklace were among the few purchases I made a few days ago at Nordstrom Rack. I’m getting very particular about my style these days. The less fuss, the better! Again, I’m all about basic and simple wardrobe items. Although far from basic, I decided to add a statement necklace to this look and topped it off with my $4.99 tortoise readers from eBay. Hubs actually suggested I add them to complete the look. I think he was spot on with that addition!

Adding a statement necklaces or a pair of cute glasses really gives a simple outfit personality! #wnjstyle

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Glasses: eBay // Necklace: Nordstrom Rack

Speaking of casual and chic and wardrobe basics, take a look at Rachelle from Pink Sole. Her look was my favorite from last week’s linkup! She effortlessly styled her top with a cute skirt and a sensible pair of chic blush heels. I LOVE this look and it’s perfect for a #CasualSummer. Rachelle is always so fly and so simple with her style; her style is easy to digest, practical, and always stylish.

Rachelle | Pink Sole

So tell me, what’s your take on my sheer blouse and statement necklace outfit? Let me know!

Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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#FearlessWoman Feature | Mattie James, Influencer & Content Creator

June 24, 2015 by Whitney 9 Comments

Today’s #FearlessWoman feature is someone I often refer to as a BFF in my head. My husband knows this to be true, lol. Mattie James, the Life & Style Influencer and Content Creator behind Mattieologie, has been on my radar since I started my blog journey. Not only do we share the same last name, pretty cool I know, but we also share the same philosophy about life – Live What You Love. Along with her zestful approach to life, Mattie is also a devoted wife, mother and successful entrepreneur.

* Editors Note: Mattie’s website is now mattiejames.com. *

Mattie shares great tips and life hacks on how to juggle life as a busy mom, as well as how to effortlessly achieve being an on-the-go #FearlessWoman. Good, bad or in between, Mattie is candid about many of her life happenings, yet she still manages to have a sense of mystery about her. It’s really a perfect balance and I believe that mystery is what keeps readers coming back for more. Mattie has inspired me to become a more intentional content creator and a better human being overall; for that I’m forever grateful. Read ahead to find out more about this Atlanta based entrepreneur – I’m sure you’ll be inspired afterwards!

What’s a typical day for Mattie?

I try to get my day started by 6-6:30 a.m. the latest. Depending on whether or not the baby had us up a couple times during the night, I usually hit that goal. I wash my face, drink some water and then pray for about 10-15 minutes. I take the next 5 minutes to journal what I’m grateful for. By then, if Hubs and Babyologie are still sleep, I’ll get 15 minutes of yoga in, shower and have a quick breakfast. By then, an hour has passed and I get the baby ready for her day. By 8, she and her father are out the door. I then answer any emails I need to and start attacking my things to do list. I send my tasks over to my assistant, Krissy, the night before and she has it ready to go in our Evernote chat by 7 a.m. each morning. I’m at my laptop until noon and in the afternoon I like to do active tasks – film video, finish work at a coffee shop, visit cute boutiques in the city for inspiration and potential posts, etc. By 5, I wrap up work and get dinner ready. Once 6:30-7 p.m. hits, I’m in full wife and mommy mode.

What inspired you to create Mattieologie?

Growing up, I was always really into magazines and books. I’m certainly my mother and father’s child. My mom subscribed to many magazines and my dad was never without a book. I loved the photography and layout elements of magazines, and my Dad introduced me to books Think & Grow Rich and How To Read Twice As Fast. As I look back, ingesting that kind of content in my formative years is how I got to creating the kind of content I do for my blog today. I love having flexibility and being able to create my own schedule to maximize the time I have with my family. The goal of creating a blog was always to have my own business.

Who are your top 3 women inspirations, famous or non-famous, and why?

My mom. She’s like one of the most likeable human beings on the planet. But the powerful thing about my mom is that she’s likeable AND respectable. Not many people can balance those two things. And her commitment to presentation – be it her home or outfit – is always impressive.

My sister, Maya (of MayaElious.com). She’s an entrepreneur herself with a fantastic blog. But it’s cool to see the person you grew up in the same house as, bring the things she said she was going to do to life. There’s power in that. Ultimately, we all want to accomplish the things we say we will.

Sarah Jessica Parker. Obviously, for SATC fan reasons. But as I’ve watched her grow she’s always been incredibly down to earth and delightful. She treads the line of being stylish & funny PERFECTLY. Society has a way of telling a woman that she can only be one of these things – funny or stylish. SJP rewrote the rules and conquers both seamlessly.

One piece of advice you have for women entrepreneurs?

Respect the process. I get it. We have AMAZING ideas that we want to get out NOW. Like, yesterday. But we have to respect our idea by respecting the process to bring it to life. I know. Some of us still have 9 to 5 jobs. Some of us are wives. Some of us are moms. But don’t short change yourself for the sake of time. And on the other side of that coin, once you’ve gone through the process of making something good, put it out there. Don’t overthink, just do. Start and get better as you go along. Sometimes the process is that simple. So, respect that.

Don’t overthink, just do! Start & get better as you go along. – @themattiejames

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What is your definition of a #FearlessWoman?

Someone who moves forward with her ideas and plans regardless of fear. Fear is inevitable because we’re human. A woman without fear isn’t impressive. A woman who pulls it off regardless of fear? That’s someone I want to know and learn from. Making things happen takes the kind of strength and courage which makes fear null and void.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Smarter than I am now. I honestly just want to be doing EXACTLY what I do now on a larger scale, helping more women. An office space would great, too. I’d like to have another baby and take 2-3 family vacations a year without having to worry about rushing home for “work.” Happy, fulfilled, grateful, active – that’s exactly where I see myself.

How can we keep you with you?

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Personal Style | Wearing Stripes and Nikes

June 23, 2015 by Whitney 38 Comments

It seems like I’ve been wearing stripes a lot more than usual these days. I do love a good print, but I’ve never really been one to go straight for stripes when shopping. Like many women, I had the silly idea that stripes made me look too big. Depending on the garment and the size of the stripes, this is true. However, this lightweight striped tunic does the opposite – it actually slims me. So there was no doubt that I had to purchase the top when I saw it at Nordstrom.

Tunic: Sejour, Nordstrom (Same & ON SALE) // Leggings: Philosophy, Marshalls // Purse: Gifted

There’s actually a funny story about this tunic. I purchased my first tunic while vacationing in Charlotte, North Carolina. Hubby and I were shopping at the South Park Mall and of course, we had to stop in Nordstrom. I saw the item, tried it on and knew I had to have it. I was sold! I ended up wearing the garment out to dinner while still in Charlotte and unfortunately, it ripped. I was so irritated, especially since I’d purchased the last one in my size. Fast forward to a few weeks ago, I was still thinking about the tunic. I finally found the tunic in my size online, ordered it, and all was well with the world.

Worn the right way, stripes are a wardrobe must have! #wnjstyle

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I ended up styling this outfit for a casual day at work, and thanks to my sneakers from Kicks USA, the look was complete. I’m a huge fan of sneakers during the warm months, especially a stylish and comfy pair. These Nikes were the perfect touch for a work appropriate, casual Friday look.

Sneakers: Nike, c/o Kicks USA (Same)

Watch: Charming Charlie (old) // Armband: Bridgeway Community Church

So tell me, what do you think about styling stripes? Are you a fan? Let me know!

Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Lifestyle | 5 Things Dad Taught Me

June 22, 2015 by Whitney 7 Comments

Happy Monday, everyone! This weekend was a great one, but the highlight was spending Sunday afternoon/evening with my Dad. The family headed over for dinner and game night and of course, we had a ball! I don’t just celebrate my Dad on Father’s Day, but having a special day set aside to do so is such a treat. Watching him enjoy his children and family really made my day. My Dad is an easy going guy; very even tempered, patient, and extremely hard working. He’s also the sweetest man I know and has taught me what to look expect from a husband. Being a man, it’s OK to be tough. But having and allowing your sweet and gentle side come across from time to time is important too.

I’m very thankful for my Dad’s tough and gentle nature. I remember living with my parents while in college; every morning Dad came in before leaving for work to say good morning and kiss me on the forehead goodbye. Some mornings I’d be like, ~~for real tho~~?! Lol…but I appreciated it so much and I know that he has and will always care. Sure, I get a good morning kiss and hello from hubs every morning, but I do miss my Dad in the morning every now and then. I could go on and on sharing memories and lessons, but here are the top 5 things Dad taught me.

1. Dare to be Different. Following the crowd has never been my style, and I get that from my Dad. In high school he drilled this in my head and although I didn’t always get it then, now I do. And I’m so glad I’m a traveler of the road less traveled. Not only has it gotten me pretty far in life, but it’s also made me a wiser person.

2. Raise Your Hand. This one is pretty simple, yet something I’m still learning to do. My Dad (and Mom) have always been there for me and have provided me with whatever I need to succeed. However, at times I find it difficult to ask for help. Especially from my parents. I think sometimes I want to be so strong and handle everything on my own that I forget that having parents is a blessing. They’re there to help and make life a little easier. Of course I’d never take advantage of them, but when I need help (with anything) I know I can raise my hand and ask. I may not get the exact help I want, but I always get the help I need.

3. If it Makes You Happy, Do it. Over the past few years there have been a few tough decisions I’ve made and thanks to my Dad, I was able to make them. I sometimes find myself concerned with what others may think or how they may feel about certain decisions. However thanks to my Dad, I have learned that I have to make me happy first. I have to live with the decisions I make. And as long as I’m not hurting anybody, doing what’s best for me is the best option. Period.

4. Be Consistent. My Dad is the most constant person I know. Like, for real. He’s been the same kind, gentle, patient, yet strong man ever since I can remember. He’s also always worked hard and provided his family with the best. The older I get, I’ve learned that being consistent is something rare these days. While this may be true, being consistent never goes out of style. Just ask my Dad.

5. Enjoy Life. As hard as he works, my Dad enjoys life. He enjoys traveling, getting a relaxing manicure and pedicure (my Dad stays fresh), and just relaxing and chilling at home. I’ve learned that life gets busy and life is too short not to enjoy it. Vacations, staycations and moments to woo-shah are key to staying happy…and living a better quality of life.

So tell me, what has your Dad taught you? Let me know!

I’ll be resuming the Personal Style linkup tomorrow, so be sure to come back and check it out. Until then, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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** Linkups: Small Victories **

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