Whitney Nic James

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Personal Style | I am a Fearless Woman + OOTD Linkup

June 8, 2015 by Whitney 31 Comments

If you’ve been following along with me for a while you may have seen the #FWIAM hashtag floating around. I actually introduced the series back in March to celebrate Women’s History Month. To my pleasant surprise the series was a hit! Since then I’ve been asked when I’m going to do another series like that. Well, the wait is over. I’m bringing back my #FWIAM series for this summer! I have a plethora of women entrepreneurs, bloggers, educators, mothers, wives and single women lined up and ready to share their fearless stories with you all. I cannot wait!

#FearlessWoman - Plus Size Style

Dress: Junarose // Hat: Flea Market // Flats: Steve Madden (similar)

I am a #fearlesswoman

Why is this movement so important to me? I feel it’s imperative to celebrate, uplift and inspire women, as well as show that being fearless in today’s society is the only way to achieve your goals and reach your fullest potential. Ever since I turend 28, I’ve really been embracing my fearless journey. The journey has been paved with many bumps, u-turns and lessons, but I’m fearlessly determined to continue living a life full of purpose. I want to be an example to all women that adapting a #FealressWoman attitude does wonders for your confidence, productivity, and others.

As women, it’s our responsibility to uplift, celebrate and inspire other women. #FWIAM

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I’ve been blessed to be surrounded by such amazing women growing up. My mother and grandmother are the source of my fearless inspiration. They’re women of faith and distinction, but above all they’re women of purpose. Watching them throughout the years has helped shape me into the woman I am. I only wish I can be half of what they’ve been to me to my children one day. My younger sister is also one of the main reasons I’ve vowed to live this #FWIAM lifestyle. I want her to see me as an inspiration. I want to show Taylor that living a purpose driven life is the only life to live.

Summer Style - Print Dress

Watch: Charming Charlie // Studs: Target // Bless the World Armband: Bridgeway Community Church (Columbia, MD)

Summer Style - OOTD

Speaking of Fearless Women, meet Sandy of Sandy a la Mode. She and her adorably stylish mini-me were my favorite linkups from last week! I’m a sucker for leopard print and gold, so their outfits stuck out to me for sure. I love seeing Sandy’s outfits and when her little princess gets in on the stylish action, I love it even more. How cute are they?!

Sandy - Mommy + Me

Sandy a la Mode


So tell me, what is your definition of a #FearlessWoman? Let me know below!

Feel free to join the 300+ Fearless Woman Private Facebook Group, here. We’d love to have you! Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Linkups: How I Spring, Monday Mingle, Sophisticated Style, Lisa a la Mode, WIW, Let it Shine, Style Me Wednesday

Filed Under: Inspiration, Style Tagged With: #FearlessWoman, blogger style, inspiration, Plus Size Outfit

Lifestyle | Minted Invitations for Spring & Summer

June 5, 2015 by Whitney 5 Comments

Yesterday I received some very exciting news – my dear friend Kamille got engaged! When she sent me a picture of her ring I immediately called her, squealing with excitement and holding back tears. I felt like I’d been proposed to, LOL! I love love, but above all I enjoy seeing my friends genuinely happy. I also enjoy weddings, especially the planning part. I can’t wait to hear all the plans for her and Rae’s big day!

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Kam’s Ring

In thinking about the wedding planning (and all the festivities that come with it) I started thinking about Minted.com right away. That’s the perfect place for wedding invitations and announcements. I actually used Minted for our holiday cards last year. They were absolutely beautiful! So when I went browsing on their site recently, I came across the prettiest invitation samples. Here are a few of my favorites.

Wedding Invitations Minted

Big City San Francisco

Wedding Invites - Minted

Midnight & Gold Foil

The one thing I love most about Minted is the versatility in designs. From floral and abstract to simple and classic, the design options are endless. No matter your style Minted has something for you. I also like that you can personalize an invite with a picture. Lastly each order comes with the mailing envelopes, which are made of amazing quality and can be personalized as well. 

Minted - Wedding Invitations

Waverly Florals

 


So tell me, what do you think about my favorite Minted invitations? Have you ever ordered from them? Let me know!

Be sure to check back here next Friday for a $50 Minted giveaway, just in time for those spring and summer event invitations. I’ll also showcase my Minted order, courtesy of the company. Have a great weekend, everyone. Be blessed and stay safe…xo!

Filed Under: Lifestyle, Style Tagged With: Minted, weddings

Style | More Plus Size Spring Fashion + Fancy Pants

June 4, 2015 by Whitney 17 Comments

The weather has been a bit dreary lately, but I refuse to let my wardrobe suffer because of it. This week, I’ve been determined to still have fun with my clothes and wear enjoyable plus size spring fashion. Styling these pants and adding a funky designed clutch to the mix did the trick yesterday, wouldn’t you agree? After all, who doesn’t love a loud pair of fancy pants?!

Plus Size Shopping Nordstrom

Blouse: Daniel Rainn, Nordstrom // Pants: Nordstrom Rack, BOBEAU (Another Option)

Plus Size Spring Fashion

I wore this outfit to the Goodwill breakfast in DC yesterday morning. I knew I had to go back to work afterwards, so I wanted to be comfortable yet chic. I think I nailed it! When people see me, I want my personal style to speak volumes, without scaring them away. I like to wear outfits that say “Whitney” without being obnoxious. For the event, I also wanted to be sure I was appropriate. Nothing too tight, short, and nothing that would restrict my movement. Mission accomplished!

Style should be fun, personal, and always appropriate. #wnjstyle

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Clutch: Love, Cortnie (Other Options) // Flats: Steve Madden Outlet (Similar) Watch: Charming Charlie

I was smitten with the nice compliments I received on these Steve Madden flats. I purchased them on our recent trip to NC at the Charlottle Preium Outles. This purchase was super sporadic. I walked into the store thinking I’d help hubby pick out a pair of shoes. 20 minutes later, I find myself memorized by the sparkles and glitz on the flats. Of course I had to try them on and of course they fit! The hard part was deciding on which color (gold, pewter or black). So I did the most logical thing and purchased all 3 colors, lol! I ended up receiving a discount on the 3rd pair. That made my purchase feel better. I’m a firm believer that if the shoe fits, and it’s comfortable, wear and buy it in all colors. Momma taught me that!

If the shoe fits and it’s comfortable, wear and buy it in all colors! #wnjstyle

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Fancy Pants - Plus Size Fashion


 So tell me, what do you think about my fun and funky plus size spring fashion outfit? Do you buy all colors of an item if you love it? Let me know! 

Thanks for reading and commenting! Also, huge thanks to my blogger boo Vivi for snapping these pics. Be sure to linkup to my Personal Style Linkup. Until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Filed Under: Plus Size Style, Style Tagged With: flats, Love Cortnie, Nordstrom, Nordstrom Rack, plus size shopping, Steve Madden

#WNJInspired | How to Get and Stay Motivated

June 2, 2015 by Whitney 9 Comments

It seems like just yesterday I was posting about vision boards and sharing some of my goals for 2015. Looking back, I am very pleased with my progress. I’ve been able to accomplish a number of the goals I set, and most of them I’ve checked off earlier than expected. However, there are still quite a few things left on my “to accomplish” list/vision board. Learning how to stay motivated to do so isn’t always easy, but it has gotten easier as I’ve gotten older. Here are 5 tips to help you get and stay motivated!

How to Stay Motivated

1. Write it down. | This tip is crucial, and it works! I’m always writing (or typing in my phone) something down. From personal thoughts, to tasks or grocery lists, to blog/business ideas, I’m what you call a “jotter”. I’m always jotting something down. I guess being a writer, it comes naturally. But lately I’ve taken writing things down more seriously. Thanks to Myleik Teele’s Learn More to Earn More Journal, writing down lists is much more effective and specific these days. Using this journal, I follow Myleik’s suggestions on “how to” journal and make lists. One side of the journal is for lists/tasks, and the other is for ideas, reminders and random thoughts. The journal comes with an in depth outline from Myliek, so following this was easy. Writing things down gets the ideas out of your head, on paper, and holds you accountable to make it happen. Try it.

Writing things down gets ideas out of your head, on paper and holds you accountable. #wnjinspired

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2. Find & Stick to a Routine. | Like most humans, I’m a creature of habit. I thrive on routine. It keeps me on track and on task. Creating a routine and sticking to it is a sure way to stay motivated. Sure, things happen and plans change. When that happens roll with it and do your best to get back to your regularly scheduled program. Krystal of the Feisty House has some great tips on routines and staying on task!

How to Stay Motivated - #MyTaughtYou

3. Find a Mentor. | I don’t know how many times I’ve been told to “find a mentor in your field.” For years it was tough to find someone I could trust and someone I actually looked up to and believed in enough to be a mentor. I did eventually find that person, thank goodness, and I actually have several mentors to this day. Some of my mentors are aware, while others aren’t. I call those my “virtual/in my head” mentors. I follow them on social media for inspiration, watch their (FREE) webinars and videos on YouTube, and actually tweet out to them from time to time. Having both types of mentors is extremely helpful and imperative in the quest to stay motivated. If you’re looking for a mentor, make sure their goals and morals are aligned with yours. Send a short email or message, letting them know a little about you and how you’d like them to help. I’ve found that people are willing and available to help, but you have to make the first move. Ask and you shall receive.

5 ways to get and STAY motivated. #wnjinspired

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4. Stop Watching TV. | This has been tough for me to do, but I can already see how it’s helped keep me motivated on my goals. I’m a huge TV buff, especially reality TV. And while it’s a struggle for me to peel myself away from a show, in order to accomplish my goals I have to spend more time working on that than feeding my mind with what’s on TV. I’ve started recording my “must watch” shows and binge watching them on the weekends. That way I’m using the time during the week to get more work done, but I still allow myself some time to enjoy my guilty pleasures. I’m still working on this…the struggle is real!How to Stay Motivated

5. Revisit & Tweak Your Goals. | Goals are great, but there maybe times you need to change your approach (or certain goals in general). That said, don’t be afraid to revisit your vision board or goal list and tweak somethings. As you go throughout the year you may find some goals need more time than you allotted for. Tweak it. You may have a listed goal that isn’t in line with your current vision. Tweak it and make the new goal fit your lifestyle. It’s OK to change/or rework your goals. As long as your constantly going after something positive and trying to better yourself, that’s all that matters.


So tell me, how do you stay motivated? What are some tips you have on the topic? Let me know below! 

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Filed Under: Inspiration, Style Tagged With: blogging, inspiration, motivation

Style | May Style Recap + Style Linkup

June 1, 2015 by Whitney 33 Comments

June 1st already, huh? I cannot believe it! Of course, we must take a peak at my favorite outfits from last month. Looks like I wore a lot of thrifted goodies, huh?! From dresses to menswear, my May style recap is quite thrifty. I also made sure my style was comfy and chic; key elements to the perfect spring/summer outfit!

thrifted dress

Wearable Art

All Black Outfit - Nordstrom Rack

More All Black

I must say my favorite look is the “Wearable Art” shift dress. Whenever I wear this dress, I feel amazing! I also LOVE the Egyptian inspired print, and it’s perfect for styling for any season! I also like the hair I added to the look, lol. Something about curly hair just makes me feel sassy and extra confident. During the spring and summer months, I’ll definitely be wearing more fun styles like that!

Macy's Emme Plus Size Show

Macy’s Event OOTD

Style Tip: Hit the #thrift store to spruce up your spring & summer wardrobe! #wnjstyle

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Casual Thrifted Outfit - OOTD

Menswear (from April but still LOVE this!)

Before I go, I can’t forget to share my favorite linkup from last week. The casual and stylish outfit worn by the blogger behind Fashion Fairy Dust caught my eye, for sure! I love the lace vest and statement necklace. What a great way to add some personality and style to a casual look?! I’ve been a fan of her fun, eclectic, yet practical style for a while. So glad to share her latest OOTD!

Fashion Fairy Dust - OOTD

Fashion Fairy Dust


So tell me, what’s your favorite OOTD from my May style recap? What do you think about my face linkup look from last week? 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! Check out my favorite linkup from a few weeks ago here! Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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[inlinkz_linkup id=531623 mode=1]

** Linked Up: Sophisticated Style, How I Spring, Mix it Monday’s, Monday Mingle, Let it Shine, Manic Monday, Garay Treasures **

Filed Under: Personal Style Linkup, Style Tagged With: 2nd Avenue, dresses, menswear, Personal Style Linkup, Plus Size Outfit, thrifted

Event Recap | Macy’s Emme Plus Size Fashion Show in Columbia, MD

May 21, 2015 by Whitney 14 Comments

Have you ever been to an event and had the time of our life?! That happen to me last week at the Macy’s Emme Plus Size Fashion Show. Held in Columbia, MD at the Mall in Columbia, the show included plus size spring trends, cute snacks and treats, and was hosted by leading plus size model and speaker, Emme! Since participating in the #MacysEmme Twitter chats for the past few months, I was already inspired by Emme’s positive attitude and vicious personality. As an avid speaker on positive body image and self esteem, her mission to awaken the inner magnificence inherent in each of us has been spread throughout the Twittersphere, and beyond!

Plus Size Fashion - Macy's Emme

Soft Pants Trend

Among the many trends that graced the runways, the soft pants, maxi dress and all white trends really caught my eye! It’s no secret that I’m all for comfort and chic, so these trends were perfect. From American Rag to I.N.C., each model sashayed down the runway in her stylish and trendy outfit. I was so intrigued by the prints and patterns! I actually have a pair of American Rag soft pants on during the show, so I felt right at home.

I must admit that I was surprised that the skirt trend was at the top of my list. I think the scuba material won me over! Scuba is a great material for plus size shoppers; it’s very forgiving, soft, and doesn’t cling like other materials. Emme was wearing an all white scuba-like dress during the event and looked so comfortable and fashion forward. So much so that I had to let her know after the show! 😉

Macy's Emme - Plus Size Fashion Show

(Scuba) Skirt Trend

 

Macy's Emme Plus Size Fashion Show

White Trend

Scuba is a great material for plus size shoppers. It’s very forgiving and doesn’t cling! #wnjstyle

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The all white trend is perfect for spring and summer weddings, outdoor garden parties and dressy work functions. The models even showed off a few pair of sexy white heels, like the one above. I’m usually not a fan of the white shoe, but the cut out peep-toe heeled sandals above have me reconsidering this trend! Oh yea, if you’re wondering that IS Blogalicious creator Stacey Ferguson rocking the all white belted dress; fabulous, right?!

Macy's Emme Plus Size Show

Blouse: Daniel Rainn, Nordstrom Rack // Pants: American Rag, Macy’s // Flats: Same & Libby, Target

 

Macy's Emme Fashion Event

Blogger Love!

 


So tell me, what do you think about the plus size spring trends at the Macy’s Emme Show? Anything catch your eye? Let me know! 

It was such a pleasure running into my fellow DMV bloggers, some I’ve known for a while and others I consider my new blogger boo’s! I was also thrilled to meet new faces like Danica, Jennifer of Curvy Connect Magazine and of course of Emme, the lady of the hour. Being surrounded by these lovely ladies was nothing but sheer joy. And to have my ladies, Mom, little sis and Mama (grandma) there to join in on the fun was the icing on the cake!

Macy’s put on yet another fantastic fashion show and hearing Emme share her nuggets of body positive wisdom was priceless! Hear a snippet of her goodness, as well as some of the looks coming down the runway, below. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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 *I am a member of the Everywhere Society and Everywhere has provided me with compensation for this post. However, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*

Filed Under: Columbia, Events, Style Tagged With: Macy's, plus size shopping

Event Recap | Macy’s American Icons Fashion Event

May 20, 2015 by Whitney 12 Comments

Last Thursday I made my way to Northern, VA for the Macy’s American Icons Fashion Event. From snapping my #AmericanSelfie to trying on the seasons hottest trends, I had such an enjoyable time! I was thoroughly impressed with the styles Macy’s had to offer and even more impressed with the different shapes and sizes of the models. This variety provided shoppers with a realistic vision of how certain clothing items fit.

Macy's American Icons - American Selfie

Photo Booth Fun! #AmericanSelfie

Another plus? The fashion show included menswear too! I got so many great ideas for hubby just by taking in the different styles. As I mentioned in this post, Macy’s also partners with veterans who served with Got Your 6. Stephanie and Melissa, both Got Your 6 activist, did a great job representing this cause and explaining in more detail what it’s all about.

PicMonkey Collage (1)

Plus size, straight size AND menswear!

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Stephanie & Melissa

After the event there were mini makeovers and tons of socializing. There were also great snacks, including my new favorite soda from Jones. Their cream soda hit the spot! I shopped around a bit and used my $10 Macy’s gift card they so graciously handed out to the attendees. It was the perfect excuse for me to grab a few summer wardrobe pieces for my upcoming trip to Charlotte.

Macys American Icons

Mini makeovers, & snacks!

PicMonkey Collage (2)

Spring and summer’s latest trends, and GREAT shoes too!


So tell me, did you attend one of the Macy’s American Icons fashion shows? What do you think about these summer looks? Let me know!

Always a fan of Macy’s, it was an honor to attend and cover this event. Can’t wait to share my next fashion show recap with you tomorrow! Until then, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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** Linkups: Shoe & Tell **


 I am a member of the Everywhere Society and Everywhere has provided me with compensation for this post. However, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

Filed Under: DC & Northern VA, Events, Style Tagged With: events, Macy's, plus size shopping

Lifestyle | Go, Play, Create, Work with the ASUS T300 Chi

May 19, 2015 by Whitney

I’ve spent the last few days getting to know my new tech toy – the ASUS T300 Chi! Truth be told, I’ve been searching for a new computer for a while now. So when I was given the opportunity to try out the new ASUS I was thrilled! It really is one of the easiest devices to use…and it can do so much. One of my favorite features is the detachable tablet. I’m constantly on the go and a laptop isn’t always practical. Being able to detach the screen and use it as a tablet is a dream come true! The T300 really is the perfect all-around 2-in-1 device.

asus T300 chiAnother plus? The laptop comes with Windows 8.1 and has a super fast Intel Processor! Not sure about you, but those elements are extremely helpful. I love using Windows 8.1 at work, so using it for my home device to is a real treat. Here’s some more interesting and helpful facts about the ASUS T300 Chi: 

  • 12.5″ Display
  • Responsive touchscreen
  • As a laptop, it’s thinner than MacBook Air (1.65cm)
  • Super strong magnetic hinge (connects screen to keyboard)
  • Exceptional Battery Life
  • Very affordable, $699.00
  • Storage — 128GB ISSD
  • Quiet and fan-less
  • Dual Speakers
  • Stylus Pen

I’ve definitely been able to Go, Play, Create, and Work with this new device. It’s been a breeze editing blog posts, updating social media and checking emails. The T300 has traveled with me to the park, church, on car rides and more! Being able to use the tablet has been a life AND space saver when preparing to pack my bag for a work day. With the dual speakers and near perfect built in camera, it’s also been a great tool to use for listening to webinars on-the-go, recording video content, and engaging in Google Chats.

asus T300 chi

Using the T300 as a laptop has also come in handy while working on creating posts at home. I’m able to easily use the device to view and share my latest posts, and also read through some of my favorite blogs as well. The laptop fits on my desk, dresser or table top with ease, without it taking up so much room. While blogging and browsing other sites, I often use my headphones to listen to Spotify too. Gotta have some tunes going while working and creating, right?!

ASUS T300 Chi Laptop

Lastly, taking the device with me to work has been an easy task. Again, it’s so lightweight and easy to pack in my work bag. I actually opt to use the T300 sometimes while working on my 9-5 tasks. I find it easier to use during certain projects. I can talk on the phone to clients, send out emails, and listen to my work playlist at the same time. And of course, it takes up less space then a huge desktop!

ASUS T300 Chi Tablet

I’m more than thankful for the T300. It came right on time, as I desperately needed a new laptop. I highly suggest the ASUS T300 Chi if you’re looking for a lightweight, easy to carry and use device. Until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe…XO!


I participated in the ASUS campaign as a member of bLink Marketing Network. I was provided a free computer from ASUS to review but all opinions are my own. Comments submitted may be displayed on other websites owned by the sponsoring brand

Filed Under: Lifestyle, Style Tagged With: ASUS, Sponsored Post, style, technology

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