Search Results for: summer with nic

Personal Style | How to Style a Kimono 3 Ways

June 28, 2017 by Whitney 12 Comments

Kimonos are one of my favorite wardrobe pieces to style. The way they flow in the wind and gently cling to your shoulders is effortless. Simply put, my love for kimonos runs deep. So, when I was approached by my brother-in-style, Sam of samcperry.com, to collaborate with him on a kimono post, saying YES was a no-brainer; check out his kimono post here.

Kimonos can be styled in a plethora of ways. From the workplace to date night, to a casual weekend running errands, kimonos are the perfect accessory. If you’re unsure about how to style your kimono this season, today’s post on how to style a kimono 3 ways will definitely give you a few ideas.

Look 1

Kimono: Want & Need, Nordstrom Rack (similar) // Dress: Marshall’s (similar) // Necklace: oNecklace // Shoes: Kate Spade, DSW (same brand & similar style)

Look 1 is definitely a workplace or date night outfit. I’m not a fan of wearing heels, so to spruce up this look I added a pair of sparkly flats. I believe every woman should own at least 2-3 pairs of fancy flats, especially if you don’t wear heels often. Now, I could’ve let the black dress stand alone but instead, I added the kimono. This simple touch adds an element of sophistication and elegance.

Adding a kimono to your outfit instantly adds an element of elegance to your look. #wnjstyle

Click To Tweet

Look 2

Tunic: TJMaxx // Shorts: Torrid (similar) // Sandals: Birkenstocks, DSW (same)

It took me a few years to own a pair of short shorts. I’ve always loved my legs, but I never thought I’d find a pair of short shorts that would “work for me.” Fast forward to now, I’ve found a pair and you can’t tell me a thing! Adding the kimono to this look gave the outfit a more feminine and chic look. Look 2 is perfect for a summer barbecue, running errands or even a cute movie day date. It’s an effortless and easy breezy look and it’s one that I’ll be wearing throughout the entire summer season.

How to Wear a Kimono with a Pair of Shorts this Summer #wnjstyle

Click To Tweet

* Read Also, How to Style a Men’s Kimono

Look 3

T-Shirt: Target (similar) // Pants: American Rag, Macy’s / Necklace: oNecklace

On those cool summer days, wearing a kimono with a t-shirt and a pair of lightweight pants is a perfect option. Without the kimono Look 3 would be a bit boring, in my opinion. Still cute, but boring. The floral kimono adds a stylish element to a very basic look. This is yet another effortless summer outfit, perfect for several occasions.

How to Style 1 Kimono 3 Ways #wnjstyle

Click To Tweet

So tell me, which look is your favorite? Let me know!

Thanks for reading and be sure to let me know your thoughts below. Also, don’t forget to head over and read Sam’s post. Be sure to show him some love! Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

KEEP UP WITH ME

Instagram // Twitter // Snapchat // Facebook // Newsletter

* Linkups: How I Summer, Spotlight Weekly, Style Me Wednesday *

Personal Style | Black & White Floral Kimono

May 3, 2017 by Whitney 7 Comments

Even though it’s been a while since I’ve posted an outfit, not much has changed. I still LOVE wearing and styling kimonos! The one styled in this post is actually my latest kimono addition. I purchased it a few weeks back during a shopping trip. I desperately need(ed) to add some spring and summer pieces to my wardrobe, so I headed to a few places I knew would have just what I was looking for. Of course, Nordstrom Rack was my first stop.

Kimono: Nordstrom Rack (Another Option) // Black Bodysuit: Forever 21 (Similar) // Leggings: Vince Camuto, Nordstrom (Another Option)

Becuase I’ve been taking much better care of my body, thanks to eating healthier and being more active, I’ve shed a few pounds. Buying clothes and being in between sizes makes shopping trips a bit more strategic. I can’t grab an item and go straight to the register anymore. I literally have to try everything on, even bras. No complaints, but it’s something I’m getting used to. So imagine my surprise when I was able to comfortably fit a OSFA (one size fits all) black and white kimono, found in the regular women’s size section. Can you say, SHOCKED?!

Clothes shopping while in between sizes? Try EVERYTHING on in the store before you get home.

Click To Tweet

Clutch: Love, Cortnie (same) // Flats: Ted Baker, Nordstrom Rack (Same)

So tell me, what do you think about my new black and white kimono? Let me know!

Thanks for stopping by! I’ll be filling you in some more, as far as what I’ve been up to during the past 2 months, little by little in the coming weeks. In the meantime, be sure to join my weekly mailing list. I’ve been sending out Friday emails for 3 months now; it’s a great way to see what I’ve been doing, get a dose of inspiration, and find out some of my monthly favorites. So until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

KEEP UP WITH ME

Instagram // Twitter // Snapchat // Facebook // Newsletter

Lifestyle | 23 Songs You Need on Your Workout Playlist

November 10, 2016 by Whitney 8 Comments

Earlier this summer I made the decision to take control of my health. I was fed up with feeling sluggish, sick of getting bi-weekly migraines and I was over having zero energy. So, from the beginning of July to the end of September I began walking at least 1 mile 5 times a week, weekends included. I worked my way up to almost 3 miles and incorporated frequent Nike+ Training workouts into my routine. My progress was slow and steady and I was beginning to notice subtle changes in the energy, as well as the shape of my body. Unfortunately “life happened”. I found myself unable to dedicate much time to consistently working out. Instead I focused my energy elsewhere for a few months. Although it was necessary for me to do so, I really missed working out.

You owe it to yourself to live a healthy and happy life! #selfcare

Click To Tweet

Thankfully things have slowed down a bit, which means I can finally get back to my workout routine! I never thought I would miss working out. The feeling I get after I finish a 2 mile walk, as corny as it may sound, is amazing. I also feel a little pain and I’m usually exhausted, but finishing workout is an amazing feeling nonetheless. One thing that will definitely get me back on track is creating the perfect workout playlist. I cannot walk, run or do any type of exercise without good music. I usually separate my list into 3 parts – Warm Up, Workout & Cool Down. Different songs and tempos for each phase of my workout is a must. That said, here are 23 songs perfect for any workout playlist!

23 songs you need on your workout playlist, ASAP. #wnjplaylist

Click To Tweet

WARM UP

Body Party | Ciara
Be Alright | Arianna Grande
Controlla | Drake

WORKOUT

Sorry | Beyoncé
Hello, Good Morning | Diddy – Dirty Money & T.I.
Get Right | Jennifer Lopez
Freedom | Beyoncé
Go Get It | Mary, Mary
Win Again | Nicki Minaj
Get Your Money Up | Keri Hilson
Alright | Kendrick Lamar
Something New | Zendaya
24K Magic | Burno Mars
Push It | Rick Ross
Get it on the Floor | DMX
Brighter Day | Kirk Franklin
No Limit | Usher
Crazy | Kehlani
Champion | Nicki Minaj, Nas & Drake
Say Yes | Michelle Williams, Beyoncé & Kely Rowland

COOL DOWN

Phone Down | Erykah Badu
I Bet | Ciara
Hindsight | Pieces of a Dream

So tell me, do you like my workout playlist? What are some of your favorite songs form your workout playlist? Let me know!

As you can probably tell, I like to listen to a little gospel during my workouts. I find that hearing an uplifting song throughout my workout really keeps me going. Ending with a smooth jazz song is also something that may seem a little different. Because I usually end my workouts with stretching, I think it’s a perfect choice! Be sure to let me know what kind of music you listen to during your workouts; I’m always up for adding more songs. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

KEEP UP WITH ME

Instagram // Twitter // Snapchat // Facebook // Newsletter

Personal Style | September & October Outfit Recap

November 2, 2016 by Whitney 8 Comments

November is here and the temperatures are slowly but surely beginning to feel like fall. I’m a huge fan of this season! Aside from the boots and capes, I love to feel the crisp fall air and nothing beats a cup of hot chocolate…with extra marshmallows, of course. I spent part of the weekend switching out some summer items and replacing them with chunky sweaters and knits. Looking back, I had a pretty stylish September and October. Here’s a quick outfit recap featuring my favorite looks!

Outfit #1 // Outfit #2

I had fun styling a few prints and playing with accessories, but I pretty much stayed true to my simple style. Contrary to what some may think, minimal styling can easily be achieved during any season. Because of this, I plan to continue styling minimal outfits well into the fall and winter seasons.

You can achieve a minimal and simple style during any season. #wnjstyle

Click To Tweet

Styling different prints and playing with accessories make minimal styling fun and unique. Wearing all black and mostly solid colors are staples for my personal style, but I do know how to make an outfit fun. After all, minimal style should never be boring.

* See Also, Minimal Wardrobe Lessons

Outfit #1 // Outfit #2

Outfit #1 // Outfit #2

So tell me, what was your favorite outfit? Let me know!

Thanks for reading and I hope you’re all enjoying the first week of November. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

KEEP UP WITH ME

Instagram // Twitter // Snapchat // Facebook // Newsletter

WNJ Beauty | 4 Carol’s Daughter Products Perfect for Fall and Winter

October 13, 2016 by Whitney 6 Comments

I’ve been a fan of Carol’s Daughter products for a while now. Late last year my good friend and I won a $100 Carol’s Daughter giveaway. So of course, I went crazy! I ordered my favorite items, as well as some other items I’d been wanting to try. After that experience I kept using my favorites and added 2 new products to the mix; the Mimosa Hair Honey and the Acai Foaming Face Wash. I’ve been using those 2 products, along with the others below, for months now and I couldn’t be happier. The products can be used year-round, but I find that I use them more during the fall and winter months. That said, here are 4 Carol’s Daughter Products to try during the fall and winter seasons!

Related: 11 Ways to Pamper Yourself at Home

1. Mimosa Hair Honey | Without weighing your hair down, the Mimosa Hair Honey is the perfect product for any style and any hair type. It keeps your hair looking healthy and shiny and it’s great for everyday use. I use the product to help smooth my edges, as well as to moisturize my scalp. It also smells really good!

2. Acai Clarifying Foaming Face Wash | I’ve never been a fan of foaming face cleansers until I tried this one. The foam is soothing, revitalizing, non-drying and a little bit goes a long way. After using the product my face feels super soft and refreshed. I used to think foam cleansers left your face dry, but that’s not the case with this product.

4 must have @carolsdaughter products for fall and winter. #wnjbeauty

Click To Tweet

3. Almond Cookie Body Butter | The smell of the Almond Cookie Body Butter is simply divine! The scent is very warm and sweet and includes Sweet Almond Oil, Shea Butter, Cocoa Butter and other natural ingredients. My mother and sister love this product just as much as I do and we all agree that it’s perfect for all skin types. If you’re looking for a good smelling product that helps nourish your skin naturally, give it a try!

4. Body Jelly | You may remember this product from my Summer Beauty Must Haves post. I literally cannot go a day without using my Body Jelly. Right after I shower, while I’m still damp, I lather up. Afterwards, my skin looks and feels SO good. The product melts into your skin and leaves you with such an amazing glow. This product helps repair dry and itchy skin without leaving you oily and greasy.

So tell me, have you ever used these, or any other, Carol’s Daughter products? If so, which ones? Let me know!

I love Carol’s Daughter products and I especially love that the products work well for men too. My husband uses the Almond Cookie Body Butter and Body Jelly just as much as I do! As always, thanks for reading and be sure to let me know some of your favorite fall and winter beauty products. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

KEEP UP WITH ME

Instagram // Twitter // Snapchat // Facebook // Newsletter

#WNJDrives | 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 SE

October 12, 2016 by Whitney 2 Comments

As you know, I had the pleasure of test driving several cars over the summer. The 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 SE is the last car I tested during Summer 2017 and to my surprise, I enjoyed driving it! My first reaction was, “WOW. That’s a small car.” I wasn’t sure how I felt about the size, but I quickly got over that once I saw/heard about the features. And the size actually came in handy when trying to find a parking spot.

Not only was I impressed with the Apple CarPlay feature, but I also appreciated the Bluetooth hands-free feature with steering wheel controls. I’m in the car A LOT during the week for work, as well as for my own personal activities. So being able to safely talk while driving it necessary. I thought the inside would feel a little tight, due to the fact that the car is so compact, but I was wrong. The inside has plenty of room. My passengers didn’t complain either; they all rode very comfortably. Here are some of my other favorite features:

– Bluetooth Hands-Free with Steering Wheel Controls

– 6.5” Display Audio with Smartphone Link

– Push Button Start/Stop Engine Switch

– Apple CarPlay & Android Auto

– Power Windows & Door Locks

– Steering Wheel Audio Controls

– Child Safety Rear Door Locks

– Rearview Camera System

– 12 Volt Accessory Outlet

– Front Seat Heater

– Fog Lights

* See Also, 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander

The one thing that irritated me a bit was having to open the glove compartment to hook up my phone. I mean, you don’t have to use the cord if you don’t want to use certain features, but I did. I found a way to close the glove compartment and still have my phone plugged up. It worked for the week, but what if I had to do that everyday? Can you imagine the wear and tear that might have on the cord? But hey, that was my only complaint. Nothing’s perfect, right?

Check out this review on the 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 SE. #wnjdrives

Click To Tweet

This list price for the 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 SE is $17,830.00. Talk about affordable! It’s perfect for those who want a compact car with a lot of trunk space. My 14-year-old sister actually asked our parents if she could get this as her first car. She said it was cute, affordable, safe and perfect for teens! I have to agree. It really is the perfect car for a younger demographic. You can get about 37 MPG which is approximately 2.7 gallons per 100 miles. If you’re only driving to and from work/or school, you’ll be just fine. If you’re always on the go (like me) and do a lot of car traveling on a daily basis, you might want to consider another option.

So tell me, what do you think about the 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 SE? Let me know!

Thanks for reading and commenting. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

KEEP UP WITH ME

Instagram // Twitter // Snapchat // Facebook // Newsletter

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

#WNJInspired | 5 Things to do at Night to Prepare for the Next Day

September 29, 2016 by Whitney 17 Comments

If you subscribe to my newsletter you probably remember me saying that this summer was “a wild one”. I can honestly say that I’ve gone through just about every emotion there is over the past 3 months. Despite the wild and craziness of the season, my saving grace has been my evening and morning routines. Having set routines makes navigating through my days so much easier. Therefore, I want to share a few of my “night before” tips with you. Here are 5 things to do at night to prepare for the next day!

1. Clean up your surroundings. | I always tidy up before heading to bed. When everything is in order and in place, I can breathe easier. Plus it helps to know where things are when you’re trying to head out the door in the morning. Spending 5-10 minutes in the morning frantically looking for your car keys or phone, when you’re probably already running late, is no fun – trust me.

2. Make a list. | When I jot down a few reminders for the next day I feel like I’m already 5 steps ahead. It doesn’t have to be anything elaborate; a short list of 3 or 4 reminders will do. I often list 3 people I need to email/or call the next day on a post-it and stick it on my computer screen.

3. Pick out your clothes. | This is something I’ve been doing since I was in grade school. My husband does the same thing. Hang your next day outfit in the front of your closet, or even on the outside of your closet door. Place your shoes, jewelry and any other accessory you’ll need on the dresser or somewhere visible. This simple task will save you so much time in the mornings.

5 things to do at night to prepare for the next day. #wnjinspired

Click To Tweet

4. Set your alarm. | Thanks to the iPhone iOS 10 upgrade, the ‘Bedtime’ feature reminds me when I need to go to bed in order to get at least 6-7 hours of sleep. Since I’m working on consistently going to bed and waking up at a certain time during the week, this feature is the perfect way to keep me on track.

5. Unplug. | After you’ve set your alarm, put your phone on silent and place it face down on your dresser. Also, turn off the TV or laptop. The worst thing you can do is sleep with those on. The bright light from both is distracting and makes it harder for you to get a good night’s sleep.

So tell me, what things do you do at night to prepare for the next day? Anything I mentioned above? Let me know!

I hope you find these tips helpful. Doing these 5 simple things has really helped me prepare for a productive “next day”. I plan to share my morning and evening routines with you in the near future, but in the meantime feel free to follow me on Snapchat. I often share snippets of my routines over there. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

KEEP UP WITH ME

Instagram // Twitter // Snapchat // Facebook // Newsletter

Personal Style | Styling a Thrifted Blouse and Denim

September 21, 2016 by Whitney 14 Comments

When’s the last time you went thrifting? If I’m being honest, I haven’t (really) been thrifting in ~~months~~. I know… Crazy, right? Well, that changed a few days ago. I had to urge to add some new pieces to my wardrobe for the fall, so I figured a quick thrift store trip wouldn’t hurt. 7 items and a few dollars later, I walked out with this sheer animal print thrifted blouse and a few other items. Mission accomplished!

* See Also: Thrifted Dress + Kimono

Blouse: Thrifted, Value Village // Flats: Aldo Brand, Nordstrom Rack ( Another Option ) // Necklace: oNecklace

Although this thrifted blouse is sheer, it’s still great for fall styling. It’s the perfect layering piece, which is why I decided to layer it over a black bodysuit. I’m all about comfort and style whenever I’m figuring out what to wear, but especially when it comes to work-wear. I’m often running errands or out and about during the day so I like to look presentable and chic, without compromising my comfort.

You can still wear your sheer pieces in the fall. They’re great layering pieces! #wnjstyle

Click To Tweet

When styling a piece like this thrifted blouse, it’s important to remember to wear something fitted at the bottom. Because the blouse is flowy and over-sized, a fitted or slim pair of pants/denim helps balance out the look. Staying in the neutral family, I topped off the outfit with a pair of nude flats and one of my favorite purses. The subtle gold tones in the purse bring out my gold necklace and studs.

Denim: JCP ( Another Option )

So tell me, do you like my thrifted blouse? When’s the last time you visited your local thrift store? Let me know!

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

KEEP UP WITH ME

Instagram // Twitter // Snapchat // Facebook // Newsletter

« Previous Page