WNJ Style Archives - Page 2 of 10

Personal Style | My Take on Black and White Minimalism

May 18, 2016 by Whitney 33 Comments

When I decided to do the whole minimal style thing I vowed to do it my way. Of course I plan to continue incorporating the “minimal colors” like black, white and neutrals. However, I’m determined not to be boring with my outfit choices. This outfit could have easily gone the boring route, but adding a hint of my fun personality with the accessories made all the difference. That’s why this outfit is my take on black and white minimalism.

Blouse: Nordstrom Rack (Similar) // Pants: Nordstrom Rack (Similar) // Clutch: Love, Cortnie

I’ll be the first to throw on a simple/basic outfit. The less fuss the better! However, I’m a stickler for adding a unique touch to every outfit; that’s where personal style comes in. Therefore, when deciding to wear this outfit, I made sure to add a bold clutch, a pair of trendy metallic heels and a unique necklace.

Black and white is the perfect color combination for a minimal wardrobe. #wnjstyle

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I wear black and white several times a week and its my go-to color combo for many events. The colors are easy to style and can be worn in many variations. Simply put, black and white is the perfect color combination to add to any wardrobe.

Shoes: Kenneth Cole, DSW (Similar) // Necklace: Macy’s // Watch: Charming Charlie (Another Option)

So tell me, what do you think about my take on black and white minimalism? How often do you wear black and white? Let me know!

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

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Personal Style | The Start of my Minimal Wardrobe

March 10, 2016 by Whitney 8 Comments

For the longest time, I’ve been toying with the idea of creating a minimal wardrobe. About 2 1/2 years ago I started going through my closet more frequently and figuring out what I really wore often. After doing this I realized that I only wore about 50% of what was in my wardrobe. At this time I was big on thrifting, so the number of thrifted items packed in my closet was astronomical. Well, probably not that bad, but you get the picture.

It was then I realized it was time to cut back on my random thrifting trips and possibly give the whole minimal wardrobe thing a try. Before you read on, here’s my definition of minimalism, which is a combination of two definitions I stumble upon recently from Joshua Becker, Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus:

Minimalism – A lifestyle designed to inspire others to live their best lives while owning fewer possessions, as well as a tool that can help you achieve freedom. (i.e. financial freedom, freedom from fear, worry, overwhelm, etc.)

When hubs and I downsized to our new apartment, I already had the idea of a minimalist lifestyle in my mind. I knew I had to research a little more first; I don’t like to jump into things and change my routine without researching. Even after the research phase, I’m all about subtle changes here and there. So the whole downsizing decision kick-started my minimalism quest and I decided to start with my wardrobe. Below are 3 things I’ve realized during the process.

Minimizing your wardrobe should be a gradual and well thought-out process. #wnjstyle

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1. Minimizing your wardrobe doesn’t have to be drastic. | You don’t have to throw out or give away everything you own; it’s not that serious. This decision should work for your lifestyle, period. If your lifestyle calls for more than 9 pieces in your wardrobe, so be it. If you need 21 pieces to create a minimal wardrobe, great! It’s all up to you and no one should dictate how many items you should or should not have in your closet.

2. A minimalist wardrobe saves time AND money. | Deciding to create a minimal wardrobe saves time in the morning when getting dressed, as well as MONEY. Just think about the money you’ll save on clothing, shoes, and accessories when shopping. Deciding to “go minimal” takes time and careful planning, but in doing so you’re sure to have a couple coins left over in your bank account. Can’t beat that!

3. Minimalism doesn’t have to stop with your wardrobe. | If you decided to go this route as far as your wardrobe, why not try a full on minimalist lifestyle? Get rid of the clutter and unnecessary items in your closet, kitchen cabinets, bookshelf, bathroom, etc. Freeing up space in other areas of your home will help you feel more at ease. Once you have that down pat, you can even try the minimalism approach in other areas of your life too!

Creating a minimal wardrobe saves time AND money. #wnjstyle

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Minimal Wardrobe & Lifestyle Reference Links

So tell me, do you have a minimal wardrobe? Have you thought about living a minimalist lifestyle? Let me know!

All in all, I’m on a quest to continue living a God-centered, happy and simple life, while living with less. I’ll be sharing more of my thoughts and changes as I go through this process. If you have any tips, links or suggestions that may help, feel free to send them to me. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Personal Style | Black Maxi Dress and Sheer Cardigan

March 8, 2016 by Whitney 16 Comments

With the temperatures warming up I’ve been happy girl lately! That means I can wear my favorite black maxi dress more often, as well as more sheer tops/cardigans. I think it’s safe to start making subtle changes to my wardrobe. I’m not ready to pull out the sandals or anything, but maxi dresses and sheer garments are a good start!

Black Maxi: H&M (Similar) // Cardigan: Thrifted, 2nd Avenue // Purse: F21 (Another Option)

This is the kind of outfit I’d wear while working from home or even out to run errands. The decorative earrings and sheer cardigan also make this outfit perfect for a casual date night with hubs. It’s lightweight and chic, the perfect date night combo. Since I’ve become a fan of stretching and maximizing my wardrobe, it’s no surprise that this is my 2nd time wearing this maxi during the winter. FYI, I plan on getting a lot more wear out of this black maxi dress during the upcoming spring season as well!

Maxi dresses are the perfect spring wardrobe must have! #wnjstyle

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So tell me, how often do you wear a black maxi dress or any maxi for that matter? Are you a fan like me? Let me know!

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

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Personal Style | Casual Weekend Outfit

March 7, 2016 by Whitney 26 Comments

Happy Monday! I was MIA last week due to a nasty virus, but I’m back today to share yet another casual weekend outfit. I spent most of the weekend with my family. We had quite a busy Friday and Saturday, so once Sunday arrived I was determined to make that a day of rest. After my little sisters Heart of Charity Pageant on Saturday, I needed a full day to regroup. I was able to squeeze in a few errands as well, hence wearing this casual weekend outfit.

Top: Thrifted, 2nd Avenue // Pants: Sejour (Similar) // Flats: Tesori, Nordstrom Rack (Another Option) // Purse: Gifted

I’m sure you’ve noticed that I’ve been living in casual outfits here lately. Be it working from home or running errands, I’m a lot more active these days and wearing cute and comfy outfits seem to be my go-to. With all that’s going on in the different areas of my life, my style has become much more practical and comfortable.

Believe it or not, the season you’re in can effect your wardrobe. #wnjstyle

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I’ve come to the conclusion that this is a season of preparation for me. Weather I’m helping to prepare for family events, planning my #FearlessWomanIam website reveal and first event, or prepping for things in my personal life, I’m definitely in the planning and preparation mindset. Looking back on recent outfit choices, it’s evident my wardrobe reflects this season.

Earrings: eBay // Sunnies: H&M

So tell me, does your wardrobe reflect the season your in? What’s you idea of the perfect casual weekend outfit? Let me know!

As always thank you for reading! Be sure to linkup to today’s Personal Style Linkup below – I can’t wait to see what you’re wearing! Until then, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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** Linkups: Classy Monday, How I Fall, Mix it Monday, Sophisticated Style, WIW **

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**

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.

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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!

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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!

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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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