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Lifestyle | What I Usually Wear to Work + Preparing for a New Season

September 6, 2017 by Whitney 7 Comments

If you don’t know by now that I’m a lover of kimonos, I’m not sure we’ve met. At least twice a week, and once on the weekend, I can be spotted wearing a kimono. Because most of my workdays are spent at my desk, running errands, or a little bit of both, kimonos are one of the easiest pieces for me to style. I’ve shared this many times before on WNJ, but when it comes to deciding what I’m going to wear during the work week, comfort and functionality come first, then style. That said, the outfit shown here is definitely a typical workday OOTD, turban included.

Related: Styling a Black & White Kimono

Turban: Amazon (same) // Earrings: H&M (old) // Bag: Marc Jacobs, TJMaxx (another option) // Sandals: Nordstrom Rack (another option)

I’m blessed to work in an environment that allows me to dress according to my personal style. If I’m having a bad hair day, and there are no meetings or office visits scheduled, I can simply wear a fashionable turban. That may not be a big deal for some people, but when I can dress without certain restrictions, I tend to work a lot better. Speaking of work, I’ve been quite busy with my 9-5 this summer, hence the sporadic posts. Now that the summer season is winding down, things are slowing down a bit and my schedule is becoming less hectic.

As the season’s change, don’t forget to take some time to slow down and catch your breath. #selfcare

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Related: 7 Practical Ways to Deal with Stress

I think it’s important to slow down a bit when the seasons change. If only to catch your breath to reflect on the previous months, taking a little time to pause is crucial. If you’re constantly rushing from season to season you’re not allowing yourself any time to reflect and potentially grow from the previous season. Here are 5 simple questions to can ask and answer right before the end of each season:

What were some of your favorite experiences this season?
What are something’s you wish went a differently?
What did you learn from these experiences?
How are you going to maneuver differently in the upcoming season?
What things are you looking forward to in the upcoming season?

Stop rushing from season to season. Give yourself some time reflect, then move forward.

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Kimono: Nordstrom Rack (another option) // Top: Good Luck Gem, Nordstrom Rack (same)

So tell me, how often do you slow down to reflect before entering a new season? How are you preparing for the upcoming fall season?

Thanks for reading, and be sure to share your thoughts below. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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* Linkups: Lookbook Linkup, Ageless Style Linkup, Style on the Daily, Fabulous Friday *

Personal Style | How to Casually Style a Sleeveless Vest this Summer

July 11, 2017 by Whitney 19 Comments

One of my favorite items in my closet is this black sleeveless vest. Whenever I wear it I feel chic, on trend and well put together. Like my collection of kimonos, a having at least one sleeveless black vest in your wardrobe is a must. This kind of vest is a timeless garment that can be dressed up or down. It can also be styled year-round.

Related: Sleeveless Vest + Black Dress

Top: Nordstrom Rack (similar) // Denim: JCP (another option) // Purse: Gifted // Vest: TJMaxx (similar & similar) // Shoes: DSW, Adrienne Vittadini (same)

On this particular day, I styled the vest with one of my go-to summer tops, as well as my favorite pair of jeans. Becuase I was headed out for a day date with hubs, I decided to wear a red lip. A nice pop of color on the lips is the easiest way to kick a basic outfit up a few notches. Adding an armful of bangles or beaded bracelets is also another way to amp up a basic outfit. So, I pulled out my beautiful Kambaba Jasper bracelet, c/o Joseph Nogucci, and layered it with a pair of bronze beaded bracelets I’ve had for years.

Every wardrobe needs at least 1 sleeveless black vest. It’s a timeless and classic piece. #wnjstyle

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Hubs was happy that I finally decided to style my latest pair of platform flats. He picked them out for me a while back and I’m so glad he did. I LOVE them! I’m telling you, platform flats and oxfords have become “my thing” this season. As I mentioned previously, I don’t wear heels that often. However, I like to have a little height every now and then. Opting for a pair of shoes with a slight platform is a nice compromise.

How to Casually Style a Sleeveless Black Vest this Summer #wnjstyle

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Kambaba Jasper Beaded Bracelet c/o Joseph Nogucci: (same) // Gold Beaded Bracelets: Gifted (similar)

So tell me, do you like how I styled my sleeveless vest? Do you have one in your closet? Let me know!

Thanks for reading and be sure to share your thoughts with me below. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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* Linkups: Fabulous Friday, Visible Monday, Lookbook Linkup, Mix it Monday, Style Sessions, Style Me Wednesday, On Trend Tuesdays *

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

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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

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* 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

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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!

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

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

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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!

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Personal Style | April Spring Style Recap + Adding Color to My Wardrobe

June 8, 2016 by Whitney 17 Comments

Most of my spring style, on and off the blog, has been simple, chic and of course, minimal. I’ve worn stripes, neutrals, prints and some of my favorite accessories. I’ve also re-styled a few items more than once. Although I’ve been staying pretty neutral with my color choices, I did throw in some color. Wearing the purple dress (below) was a nice change of pace for my wardrobe.

The decision to stick wih neutrals just seemed easier and more realistic for my lifestyle. However, the more I thought about my minimal wardrobe transition, I realized that it’s OK to wear color when trying to achieve a minimal sense of style. Neeless to say, I’m really excited to see what outfits I come up with in the upcoming months!

You can still wear color when trying to achieve a minimal sense of style. #wnjstyle

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Black & White // Burgundy & Black

Original Post

So tell me, what do you think about my April Style Recap? Let me know!

Thanks for reading and be sure to add your recent outfit to this week’s Personal Style Linkup. I can’t wait to see what you’re wearing! Until next time, be blessed and satay safe…XO.

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An InLinkz Link-up

** Linkups: Garay’s Treasures, Trend Spin, Classy Monday, Throwback Thursday, Ageless Style, Posh Classy Mom **

Personal Style | Winter Style Recap

April 6, 2016 by Whitney 10 Comments

I don’t know about you, but I’m SO excited to enter into a new month, season, and quarter. As far as the weather forecast it may no feel like spring, but according to the calendar spring is here! That said, it’s only right to check out my winter style recap and see a few of my favorite outfits. It was a cold, sometimes warm, and long winter. My wardrobe consisted of black, prints, and layers. I was slowly transitioning into my minimal style and also working from home quite a bit, so a lot of my outfit choices were pretty simple. However, I had to add some “umph” to my looks with prints and cute flats.

Original Post // Original Post

I worked hard to ensure my outfits matched my personality and lifestyle. Comfort, style and practicality were my main concerns when getting dressed. Weather I wore my black maxi, my favorite pair of ankle length denim, or a sheer sexy blouse, I made sure those 3 elements were present. If it wasn’t comfortable, it was a no-go. Of course the outfits had to be stylish! Deciding on practical clothing for whatever I’d be doing, or wherever I’d be going, that day was also important.

Comfort, style & practicality are important factors when planning your outfit. #wnjstyle

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If there was a lunch date or dinner date with hubs later that day, I’d amp up the chic and add a subtle hint of femininity – hence the sheer blouses and cardigans. If I knew I’d be in the house all day working comfort trumped everything. That’s where the maxi dresses and comfy leggings came into play. All in all, my winter style worked well for my lifestyle and I really enjoyed mixing and matching several pieces from my closet. I also enjoyed switching up my hair from time to time. A simple hair change can do wonders, trust me!

A quick and simple hair change can do wonders for your personal style! #wnjstyle

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Original Post // Original Post

Original Post // Original Post

So tell me, what was your winter style like? What are you looking forward to wearing this season? Let me know!

Thanks for keeping up with me last season, and I hope you stick around for what’s to come this spring and summer! I’ll be back to posting new outfits (and style linkups) and much more this month, but until then be sure to keep up with me on social media. You can pretty much find me everywhere! I’m also really into Snapchat these days, so feel free to follow along with me (@wnicjames). Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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* Linkups: Trends Spin, How I Spring, Style Me Wednesday *

Personal Style | 2015 Personal Style Recap

December 21, 2015 by Whitney 31 Comments

Happy Monday! I wasn’t going to post again until next year, however there are still a few posts I want to share; my 2015 Personal Style Recap is one of them. This year I’ve really come into my own in more ways than one, but especially style-wise. I have never been more comfortable in my own skin or with my personal style choices. I’ve searched, tried and experimented with several styles (stores, brands and designers) and I’ve finally figured out what works for me. Let’s take a look at some of my favorite outfits from 2015.

Cape & Leggings // 80’s Inspired // Thrifted Kimono

Thrifted Menswear // Crazy Pants // Wearable Art

On my 2015 vision board I pinned a few images that reminded me to explore and express my personal style. As a budding entrepreneur, blogger and new wife, defining my personal style has been very important to my personal development. I wanted to be sure I was purchasing clothing that fit my lifestyle, not a trend. I wanted to be happy with my outer appearance just as I was with my inner self. No matter how you try to spin it, your inner and outer go hand in hand. If you look good and dress for yourself, you feel great on the inside.

Figuring out your personal style makes you feel great on the outside AND on the inside! #wnjstyle

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Tunic Dress // Sheer Blouse // Black & White

Black Maxi // Jumpsuit // Lounge Wear

My 2015 personal style recap shows that I wasn’t afraid of embracing color, print and different styles. It also shows that I have somewhat of a cohesive style. Comfort, practicality, chic and stylish are the words that come to mind when look back at my 2015 style. I also realize that I’m a fan of casual wear, with a stylish twist. Comfy flats, beanies, hats, bold accessories, flowy clothing and neutral colors are definitely my thing!

Being confident with your outer appearance is just as important as what’s inside. #wnjstyle

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Sequin Hat // Thrifted Tunic // Tees & Vest

Leather Leggings // Blog Life // Chic in Black

So tell me, what do you think about my 2015 Personal Style Recap? How has your personal style changed this year? Let me know!

I always thank you for reading and linking up, so today is no different. THANK YOU for all your support this year. I truly appreciate you linking up every Monday and sharing my #OOTD posts. It means the world to me, really. Be sure to linkup to the last Personal Style Linkup of the year below and check back this week for my last few posts of the year. Until then, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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** Linkups: Sophisticated Style, How I Fall, Garay Treasures, Let it Shine **

Personal Style | Colorful Plus Size Shift Dress ft. Nordstrom Rack

July 28, 2015 by Whitney 25 Comments

I’m all for colorful, stretchy, printed shift dresses…all year! Plus size shift dresses have become one of the easiest garments to style and shop for. During the warmer months I tend to gravitate towards dresses, especially maxi’s and tunic dresses. So when I saw this Maggy London beauty on sale online at Nordstrom Rack I knew it had to be a wardrobe addition. Another reason I was drawn to this dress was the versatility; this garment can be worn during any and every season.

Dress: Maggy London, Nordstrom Rack (Same & On Sale) // Shoes: Via Spiga, Bloomingdales (Same – On Sale in Store)

I’ve been searching for a stylish black backpack, ~~preferably one to fit my broad back~~, and thank goodness I found the perfect match. I was browsing TJ MAXX last week and there it was, on sale and in near perfect condition. It was ALL MINE!

The perfect casual and chic #ootd for sightseeing and hanging out! #wnjstyle

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This backpack was the perfect addition to this casual chic outfit. I actually wore this OOTD while hanging out with hubby in downtown Old Ellicott City (MD). Although our main purpose was to snap pics, we ended up walking around for a while. It’s the perfect quaint and historic location to visit for a day trip. There are tons of cute shops and restaurants and the cobblestone streets give off that ideal historic vibe.

Black Studded Backpack: T.J.Maxx (Another Option)

Sunnies: H&M (Same) // Gold Cuff: Thrifted // Watch: Charming Charlie// Sunnies: H&M (Same)

So tell me, what do you think about my plus size shift dress? What’s your favorite go-to casual chic outfit? Let me know!

Thanks for stopping by today! If you signed up for my newsletter, THANK YOU – I hope you enjoyed the free info I sent your way yesterday. More freebies and a few announcements to come so be sure to sign up today. Until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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