blogger style Archives - Whitney Nic James

Personal Style | Style Inspiration

December 7, 2015 by Whitney 25 Comments

Happy Monday! With the holidays right around the corner, hubs and I have been traveling to see his family in Delaware quite a bit. We’ve also been busy Christmas shopping, planning for the New Year, and of course spending time together in our cozy new apartment. I have a few more posts to share this month, then I plan to take a holiday break from December 21st – January 4th. I really want to spend time with hubs, our families, and friends during that time. So a brief blogging and social media break it is!

Let’s move onto today’s post. It’s a bit different than my normal OOTD posts, but it’s one I’m really excited to share. Style inspiration can come from any and everywhere. I definitely get inspired by the Personal Style Linkup outfits each week. Today I want to showcase 6 style bloggers who caught my eye last week. From pattern mixing to a fancy tulle skirt, there was so much great style to take in. Take a look!

Style inspiration, for any style, from 6 personal style bloggers! #wnjstyle

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1. Inspired by your…Sexy & Chic Holiday Outfit. | Kasi knows how to style just about any look but this sexy, chic and on trend holiday outfit is one of my favorites! I love the plunging neckline and the mix of color and texture throughout the outfit. Thanks for continuing to be a style inspiration, Kasi!

The Style Perk | Original Post HERE

2. Inspired by your…Flirty & Stylish Winter Outfit. | I love Rebecca’s style and the plum sweater and cute short leather skirt are the perfect duo! I love how she added a vintage-inspired belt, as well as a pair of purple wedges. The look is simple, a bit flirty and perfect for the season. Stylish as always, Rebecca!

Red Tag Chic | Original Post HERE

3. Inspired by your…Accessories. | I always LOVE the accessories Alice wears. In this outfit, her necklace, bracelet and ring are the perfect touches to the casual and chic outfit. Thanks for continuing to linkup and for being such a stylish inspiration, Alice!

Style Inspiration - Happiness at Midlife

Happiness at Midlife | Original Post HERE

4. Inspired by your…Fancy Tulle Skirt. | I don’t consider myself to be girly, but I’m so smitten with Anna’s pretty tulle skirt. It’s styled perfectly and she looks just darling in the entire ensemble. It’s a great outfit choice for the holiday season. Just lovely, Anna!

Happy Medley | Original Post HERE

5. Inspired by your…Casual Plaid Outfit. | Sandy is an expert when it comes to styling casual and chic outfits and this look is no different. I love the full length plaid shirt, worn as a cardigan, and the graphic tee and blingy statement necklace tie it everything together. I LOVE IT!

Sandy a la Mode | Original Post HERE

6. Inspired by your…Pattern Mixing. | Since I started blogging, Simply Chic has been on my radar. Her pattern mixing skills are on point and all of her outfits are fly and very practical. In this outfit, she’s looking good, as usual. I’m loving the braids too!

Simply Chic | Original post HERE

So tell me, which bloggers do you look to for style inspiration? Let me know!

Thanks for reading and be sure to link your recent outfit to my Personal Style Link Up below; can’t wait to see what you’re wearing! Until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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** Linkups: How I Fall, Sophisticated Style, Garay Treasures **

#FearlessWoman Feature | Kéla Walker of Kela’s Kloset

August 12, 2015 by Whitney 2 Comments

There are some people I instantly gravitate to online and usually, it’s because of their undeniably amazing personalty. That’s one of the many reasons I started following New York based style authority and TV Host, Kéla Walker, on Instagram and Twitter (and now Snapchat). This feisty, intelligent and delightful New Yorker is a joy to keep up with via social media. She produces valuable and timely (style and beauty) content on her blog Kela’s Kloset, shares great fashion and real life insight on Twitter, and invites us into her day-to-day life over on Snapchat. She’s the quintessential fashionista who’s down-to-earth and possesses real human qualities.

This #FearlessWoman is also an award winning TV Host and producer and can often be seen on the side of a red carpet, chatting with the hottest celebs about style, fashion, and life in general. I’m very inspired by the positive and go-getter outlook Kéla has on life. Always uplifting and purposefully going after her dreams, Kéla Walker is certainly a #FearlessWoman to watch. Enjoy her interview and be sure to keep up with her on social media!

A #FearlessWoman is a one who moves forth and braves the elements. – @kelawalker

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What’s a typical day for Kéla?

I work in media so every day is different for me. One day I’m at my desk researching or producing elements for a segment. The next, I’m on location hosting said segment and then the day after that I’m editing the segment and crafting it into something for air. That’s during the day. At night, I’m likely covering some cool event for a major television outlet/ network (often up to three nights a week) or on the flip side I’m attending an awesome event which is always fun. Along the way I get dressed and document it all on KelasKloset.com

What inspired you to create Kéla’s Kloset?

A bunch of things inspired me to start Kelaskloset.com. For one, I didn’t see anyone who looked like me AND spoke to my style aesthetic in the blogosphere. I was already looking for a new challenge and something to inspire me so I thought why not try it. Also, I was bored with myself at the time and had a “kloset”‘full of clothes I wasn’t wearing because I wasn’t inspired in any way. Kéla’s Kloset ended up being just the jolt I needed to reinvigorate, giving myself and my “Kloset” a new sense of purpose.

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

My mom, Johanne Walker. Duh. I watched her consistently turn water into wine, making the impossible, possible. She’s the ultimate hustler and provided a great blueprint for my life.

Michelle Obama She’s such an awe- inspiring First Lady, on so many levels. She a shining example of how much black girls that rock turn into black women who rock.

Joslyn Walker- my little sister. Who I have admired since she was a toddler (I’m 11 years her senior). It sounds strange but ever since I can remember she has always marched to the beat of her own drum. She doesn’t care what you think of her or what the consensus is, she is unapologetically herself. That’s so awesome to me, because I know a lot of grown women who still can’t do that.

One piece of advice you have for women entrepreneurs?

Don’t knit pick your dreams and goals or get over occupied with perfection. Move forth in action. Learn and grow as you move and you’re sure to arrive at a place bigger than you ever dreamed. Also it’s so cliche but JUST DO IT and stop waiting on the right time. There’s no better time than the present.

What is your definition of a #FearlessWoman?

A #FearlessWoman is a one who moves forth and braves the elements (good or bad) to accomplish the goal at hand. That’s not to say she’s not scared or completely without fear but it’s will not deter her from moving forwarding and accomplishing said goal.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Happy. I don’t like to do that whole 5 year 10 year thing. Of course I have goals and visions but those are my plans which are no comparison to the ones God has for me. I learned a long time ago his are better so I like to say I see myself happy in 5 years because ultimate that’s all that really matters. If a few million people know my name by then and can watch me on national television, I’ll take that too.

7. How can we keep up with you?

Blog // Instagram // Twitter // Facebook // Snapchat (KelaWalker)

WNJ Beauty | Beauty Tips from Your Favorite Style & Beauty Bloggers

August 4, 2015 by Whitney 15 Comments

I always find summertime beauty tips and tricks helpful. I often look forward to the beauty issue of certain magazine just so I can read about the latest products, tips and beauty findings. I thought it’d be fun to invite 9 of my favorite style and beauty bloggers to share some of their summer beauty tips and tricks with you, along with a few tips from me too.

One thing we all have in common, we follow some kind of daily beauty regimen – it’s a must! I’m sure you’ve heard of most, if not all, of these fabulous ladies from somewhere on the internet. You may have even read about them here on WNJ. Either way, you’re in for a real treat; check it out!

Q: WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE BEAUTY TIP LEARNED IN YOUR 20’s, 30’s & 40’s?

Whitney (WJ) – In my late 20’s I understand the importance of washing my face, every night, before bed. My mother taught me this early on, and she was right! She also taught me not to use/put everything on my face; read labels and know what works for my skin type.

Cheryl (CV) – I’m 29 so I haven’t gone through all the beauty tips for various age ranges, but I can say that a good tip would be to continue to moisturize and wear sunscreen. Great makeup starts with great skin care!

Alison (AL) – Now that I’m in my 40’s, exfoliation is my new best friend. Cells don’t turn over like they used to when I was younger, so my skin tends to look dull. I exfoliate twice a week with St. Ives Apricot scrub to keep my skin glowing.

Adrienne (AR) – Summertime heat and/or working out at the gym can cause body breakouts on your back, shoulders, and chest. Using a body wash that contains Salicylic Acid keeps my body breakout-free.

Must read beauty tips for your 20’s, 30’s and 40’s! #wnjbeauty

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Chakayla (CT) – Less is MORE! I have finally become comfortable with sporting natural makeup or no makeup at all. I am totally channeling my inner Parisian.

Antionette (AB) – In my 30’s, I started having babies, so exercise was very important for me to get my body back in shape. However, I should have started exercising earlier because unfortunately, it wasn’t enough. My baby is now 19 and I am still carrying “baby fat”. Eating right and exercising before, during and after pregnancy is vital and don’t buy into that “eating for two” jazz because it will be harder to take the weight off afterward.

Glenda (GH) – Now in my late 40s, I have discovered to embrace my natural beauty. I’m free from hair dyes and I use very little makeup. The less I place on my skin and hair, the better it feels and looks. Also, because I exercise 4 to 5 times per week, I drink lots of water and herbal teas. In my 40s, I learned to embrace my natural beauty.

Molly (MS) – My FAVORITE beauty tip is to fill in your EYEBROWS and put on mascara! Your eyebrows and eyelashes are absolutely the best way to really make your face POP and seem more awake!

Ashley (AC) –My favorite beauty tip I recently learned is the power of face serum. Serum not only clears up dark marks on your face, but it can add an amazing glow and some formulas even decrease wrinkles.

Vivi (VN) – A great beauty tip I learned in my 20’s and 30’s is to use lukewarm water (leaning towards cold) to wash your face and cool water to rinse. Helps with the skin elasticity.

Beauty tips to get you ready for summertime! #wnjbeauty

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Q: FAVORITE BEAUTY & STYLE MAGAZINE?

VN – In Style Magazine.

AR – Lucky Magazine.

AB – Essence and In Style are my favorite beauty and style magazine.

GH – For beauty, Darling Magazine because it talks about beauty apart from vanity. For style, I’m beginning to really enjoy Porter Magazine.

WJ – Essence for beauty and style because the magazine represents women of color, all shades, complexions and sizes, and showcases us in a positive and beautiful light.

Q: FAVORITE BEAUTY ICON & WHY? (blogger, celeb, etc.)

CV – Although I focus more on fashion and style, when it comes to beauty, I would have to say that Mila Kunis always brings it — from her makeup to her hair. And Lupita Nyong’o knows how to work her beautiful skin as well.

AC – My mother is always the woman I look to when it comes to beauty. Everyone always guesses that my mother is at least 20 years younger than she actually is because of her clear skin and little to no wrinkles. She taught me from the time I was a child to drink water and wash your face day and night.

MS – Audrey Hepburn. She was always full of class and style and looked beautiful with OR without makeup!

Solange Knowles is the queen of a beautiful and natural face! – @chakaylajtaylor

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CT – Solange Knowles! She totally understands that her face and skin are a canvas for her amazing ensembles. She is the queen a beautiful, natural face.

AL – Kate Middleton, she’s such a natural, classic beauty.

WJ – Besides my mother and grandmother, I’d have to say Jennifer Lopez. Her skin is supple, always glows, and she doesn’t wear a boat load of makeup. Her skin looks gorgeous and healthy, with out without makeup.

Q: HOW CAN WE KEEP UP WITH YOU LADIES?

Alison – Blog // Instagram // Twitter

Glenda – Blog // Instagram // Twitter

Ashley – Blog // Instagram //Twitter

Chakayla – Blog // Instagram // Twitter

Vivi – Blog // Instagram / Twitter

Molly – Blog // Instagram // Twitter

Cheryl – Blog // Instagram // Twitter

Adrienne – Blog // Instagram // Twitter

Antionette – Blog // Instagram // Twitter

So tell me, what are some of your favorite beauty tips and tricks? Comment below and share with us!

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#FearlessWoman Feature | Patrice J. Williams of Looking Fly on a Dime

July 29, 2015 by Whitney 4 Comments

You may remember Patrice J. Williams from last week’s 8 Thrifty Bloggers You Should Follow post. This New York based #FearlessWoman is a style blogger, entrepreneur, TV Host, author, and all around inspiring woman. Her blog Looking Fly on a Dime provides readers with helpful style and thrift tips, as well as an in depth look at Patrice’s fashion-forward style. But that’s not the only place you can find her thrift and style tricks. Published in 2014, Patrice also has a book on Amazon entitled, you guessed it, Looking Fly on a Dime! It’s like the thrifting Bible; a definite must read!

Another useful and must have item is her I Don’t Pay Retail canvas tote bags. I carry mine at least once a week while grocery shopping, thrifting, or to work. Lucky for my WNJ readers, you can purchase this awesome tote for 20% off (now – August 5th) by using the WHITNEYJAMES coupon code at check out. Be sure to grab one ASAP! I know you’ll love and use it, and I’m sure you will enjoy reading the rest of Patrices’ feature. Read on and be inspired!

1. What’s a typical day for Patrice?

I wear so many different hats, so I don’t have a typical day. It all depends on what projects I’m working on and what’s the top priority. If I have an on-air segment I’m prepping for, my day is usually consumed with contacting publicists for samples, picking up clothes from stores or showrooms, securing models and emailing my producer back and forth. Other days I’m researching future blog posts and ideas for YouTube and even reaching out to brands I would love to work with.

2. What inspired you to create Looking Fly on a Dime (blog and book)?

I created the blog after being laid off from my job at a fashion magazine. I wanted to use my style experience in a way that was relatable for the average woman who loves to look her best but doesn’t have the type of cash to drop on all designer everything. Last year I released the book Looking Fly on a Dime: How to Find Fabulous Fashion at Any Thrift Shop & Make the Cheap Look Chic, because I wanted to compile everything I’ve learned over the years about thrift shopping and even fashion tips. I’m all about taking the intimidation factor out of fashion and that’s exactly what the blog and book are about.

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

I love Tina Fey. She’s funny, ballsy and has succeeded in the sexist world of comedy without taking her clothes off or taking low blows at marginalized groups. She’s not afraid to poke fun at the boys and call them out.

Hillary Clinton: You either love Hillary or you don’t. I don’t always agree with her politics, but I respect that she’s always made her aspirations clear. Her husband was the Commander in Chief, but we all knew she wanted that role, had the chops to do it and she just might make that happen in the near future.

My grandmas: My first time walking in a pair of heels was when I tried my grandmother’s {my mom’s mom} shoes on. She loved ladylike dresses and a gaudy fur coat. And while I wasn’t close to my father’s mother growing up, she had a serious flare for fashion. Her closet was full of sequins, bright colors and beaded handbags, some of which are now in my closet. They both had tough upbringings, but they loved to dress their best, I think fashion was their expression of individualism and freedom.

4. One piece of advice you have for women entrepreneurs?

Don’t be embarrassed by your mistakes, learn from them. It’s inevitable you’ll stumble and make bad business decisions or sometimes in spite of doing everything right, stuff just falls apart. That’s where you learn the lesson. If you just beat yourself up, that’s only a pity party. But when you can take a step back, see where things when wrong or what you could have done better, that’s when you find the lesson and even preparation to do things better in the future.

5. What is your definition of a #FearlessWoman?

A #FearlessWoman feels the fear but she does it anyway. There’s nothing wrong with being afraid, but the fearless woman keeps moving because she sees her goal ahead of her. I always get a bit nervous before sending off proposals or approaching people for big meetings, but I take a deep breath, say a little prayer and make it a point to wow them!

6. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

In 5 years I’d love to have released a style book through a major publisher and have a successful fashion show where I help women look their best without spending a ton. I’d also love to be happily married and maybe have another cat. Chauncey needs a playmate.

7. How can we keep up with you?

Blog // Twitter // Instagram // Book // Tote Bag

Thrifted Style | 8 Thrifty Bloggers You Should Follow

July 23, 2015 by Whitney 8 Comments

I’ve been dying to create a list like this forever! So today I’m beyond thrilled to share my list of 8 Thrifty Bloggers You Should Follow. In the past I’ve done some Thrifty Friend Features and they’ve been a lot fun, and seemingly helpful to those who’re searching for thrifty tips and tricks. I’ve actually featured quite a few of the thrifty bloggers on this list, so some may sound familiar. Nonetheless, this list is a must read and share. Let’s get into it!

8 Thrifty Bloggers You Should Follow, ASAP. #thriftwithnic

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1. Looking Fly on a Dime. Patrice is the thrifting queen. She’s even written a book on thrifting! She’s a definite thrift/style and entrepreneurial inspiration and it’s been a pleasure getting to know and follow her over the years. She’s been featured here on the blog before, and next week she’ll be sharing her #FearlessWoman story with us. Just goes to show that Patrice is much more than just fashion; she’s a woman living with purpose and is on a mission!

2. Thrift & Shout. Lindsey always has the best finds and she’s kind enough to showcase them over on the blog. I was drawn to her fashion sense, and cute haircut, a while back and I’ve been a fan ever since. I featured her as my first Thrifty Friend back in 2013 and she gave some very helpful thrift tips. Be sure to follow her for thrift inspiration and a dose of amazing style!

3. Style is She. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting Atlanta based thrifter and stylist NeShanta and believe me when I say, she’s has an amazing and positive spirit. I just LOVE her! She shares the best thrifted fashion on her blog and is always ready and willing to share great thrifitng (and entrepreneurial) advice. NeShanta is a gem; be sure to check out her online shop too!

4. A Collected Gentleman. When I stumbled on Isiah’s site I immediately showed hubby. His thrifted style is impeccable and so well put together! It’s quite refreshing to see a young man take pride in his style, and Isiah does just that. He also shares a lot of inspirational and uplifting messages through his posts. A blogger with a purpose is something rare, but he fits the mold perfectly. Check him out and be sure to take a look at his WNJ feature as well.

NeShanta | Style is She

5. DE Divah Deals (Fashion & Fun After Fifty). I call Antionette my big sis; no worries, she knows it. We met through the Bloggers Like Me group and have been friends ever since. Last year we had the opportunity to thrift together and I also made the trip to DE to for a Goodwill Fashion Show she invited me and hubby to. It’s always a blessing to find genuine people along this blogging journey and Antionette is definitely one of those people. She also give great blogging 101 tips too; check out her other site Blogging with Blake!

6. Thriftanista in the City. Troy is a great thrifter to follow because not only does she have GREAT finds, but she’s also really good at DIY fashion. That’s a skill I’d LOVE to have, lol. She shares great thrift tips and is always so chic and fly with her OOTD choices. I can just tell she too has an amazing spirit. One day, we’ll meet and thrift til we drop…I’m sure of it. Be sure to join her interactive thrift group on Facebook too!

7. Fashionably Employed. Jen is another blogging pal and has really great style tips for those of use who work a 9-5 but still want to be cute and stylish. She does a great job of dressing for the workplace and always provides useful tips on style and life in general. She’s also one of my favorite bloggers to collab with. We’ve collaborated a few times and it’s always fun to work with other bloggers who enjoy their craft. I’ve featured her as a Thrifty Friend so be sure to check it out!

8. Melodic, Thrifty & Chic. Eclectic, funky and fashion forward are just a few words I’d use to describe Anna’s style. She thinks outside the box when it comes to style and knocks it out of the park every time! Her blog is another refreshing take on fashion and I love that she is not afraid to be herself and express that through her personal style. It’s genius…and fun to watch. Take a look at her thrifty feature here!

Thrifted fashion is suppose to be fun, easy and always unique! #thriftwithnic

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Lindsey | Thrift and Shout

So tell me, do yo follow any of these thrifty bloggers? Who’re some of your faves? Let me know!

Thanks for reading and be sure to visit these amazing thrifty bloggers. Until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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#FearlessWoman Feature | Shanna of Because Shanna Said So

July 22, 2015 by Whitney 6 Comments

Today’s #FearlessWoman is style blogger Shanna of Because Shanna Said So. I was immediately drawn to Shanna’s fashion-forward and relatable style, but as I started following her even more I found myself falling for her fun and down-to-earth personality. I also admire a woman who loves her husband and kids and Shanna definitely fits that to a tee!

Shanna has been blogging for a while now and although in her latest post she let us know that she’s taking a well needed blogging break, I still had to introduce her to you all because the content that is up and live is great. I appreciate her honesty in letting her readers know that it was time for her to take a timeout – I respect that and totally understand the need to take a breather here every now and then. Enjoy this interview and be sure to catch up on her latest posts; I’m sure you’ll be inspired!

What’s a typical day for Shanna?

Right now, because we are in the summer months, I am running around to different camps for my girls, having breakfast/lunch dates with my girlfriends in between, pool time, spending weekends with friends and family and squeezing in work/blogging. This is a busy time, but my favorite. I am enjoying every single crazy & chaotic moment.

What inspired you to create Because Shanna Said So?

One of my IRL life friends mentioned that I should start a blog four years ago to share my style and affordable finds. I truly started it on a whim and as hobby when I was still working full time in marketing. I am mostly self taught and have grown on my own by making friends in the blogging community.

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

My mother, grandmother and best friend from elementary school because each have distinct characteristics of being both nurturing and strong minded women. They have always been there for me and believed in me no matter what.

One piece of advice you have for women entrepreneurs?

There is a LOT of competition out there. Find your voice and believe in yourself. If you love what you do and stay humble things will work themselves out. Don’t give up if you have a passion. And remember, it does take money to make money.

What is your definition of a #FearlessWoman?

To not worry about what others will think and just be YOU!

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I definitely don’t see myself still blogging. Hopefully, a full-time stay at home mom watching my girls excel in academics and sports. This “blog” world is short term. What matters most to me is my family and being mom.

How can we keep up with you?

Blog // Bloglovin’ // Instagram // Twitter // Facebook

#FearlessWoman Feature | Glenda Harrison of So What to Twenty

July 15, 2015 by Whitney 9 Comments

It’s time to meet another #FearlessWoman! As always, I’m very excited to introduce you to today’s feature. However I’m particularly thrilled about today’s #FearlessWoman, Glenda Harrison. I’ve been a So What to Twenty blog reader for months and I always leave Glenda’s blog with style and life inspiration. She is the true definition of a style blogger being more than “just clothes”.

Glenda, a mother, wife and entrepreneur living in California, does a great job of seamlessly intertwining real life inspiration into her stylish posts. Her style is feminine, fun and refreshing. She enjoys being a lady and loves to dress like one; I LOVE that! Enjoy her thought provoking and colorful interview below and don’t forget to visit her blog. Be inspired!

What’s a typical day for Glenda?

I wake-up about 6 a.m. and I lay in bed listening to quiet mediation music for about 30 minutes. This is my way of ushering the day in gently. Then I rise to have a tall drink of water and a nutritious snack to give me fuel for my workout with Fitness Blender. I believe there is a definite connection between the mind and body, so after I workout, my mind is completely clear. I use this time to journal and write my goals for the day. Once I’m done with this, I shower and have a healthy meal. If I’m not posting on the blog and promoting the post for the day, I’m working on my upcoming book called, A Place Called Peace. I typically dedicate the entire morning and early afternoon to writing, whether it be for the book or the blog. On some days I use this time to also respond to email request from marketing and PR that represent clothing stores and designers. By mid-afternoon, it’s time to be Mom, so I commit the rest of the day tending to my son’s school activities; one son is a senior in high school and is involved heavily in music, and my youngest is an athlete. Then there’s the cooking of dinner, the nagging to get homework done, etc. After a full day, I look forward to a long, hot candle-lit bath, and then crawling into bed with a good book.

Since I have to switch gears during each day from entrepreneur to writer to mom and wife, it is important for me to have times to myself throughout the day. Sometimes I’ll treat myself to lunch out with a girlfriend or alone. I enjoy my time alone. I like to sit and people watch or just spend the time in my own thoughts without the interruption of social media.

This is a typical day, however during Southern California’s many fashion weeks it’s an entirely different ball game. Then I have several shows to attend – some in Orange County, others in Palm Springs and then of course, Los Angeles.And, on occasion, I attend and report on events which take place at or in conjunction with my college Alma mater – the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising.

What inspired you to create So What to Twenty?

I had just been through a very difficult experience in my life with an illness, while simultaneously working for a place that I loathed. I don’t want to give too much away because it’s in A Place Called Peace, but after praying, God answered my prayer and I was freed from bondage. I decided it was time to re-entered the fashion world as a writer. I use to write for a local So Cal newspaper as a fashion and lifestyle columnist and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience of writing, but I gave it up to start a non profit organization to support women fighting cancer. To make a long story short, I started So What to Twenty because it was an outlet for me to write again and to write about the field I have always loved.

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

#1: My mother. She spent the last 6 months of her life fighting pancreatic cancer. She had such a gentle and quiet spirit. She was so very brave. She is my hero.

#2: Esther in the Bible. I think about what her uncle Mordecai spoke to her during her time as queen…“Perhaps you have been made queen for such a time as this.” That is such a profound statement. It makes me stop and wonder about my position in life and what more I can do to help any given situation. I love how Esther used her lot in life, and the favor with the king to save her people. Her story of making an unwanted life circumstance work in her favor resonates with me in a very deep way.

#3: The new Glenda. I know that sounds extremely conceited, but let me explain. The Glenda prior to 2014 wasn’t fully developed into the woman she needed to become. It wasn’t until recently, I discovered my value and worth as a woman. I found this out by delving deep within into a place where many of us don’t want to venture. Yes, there was a great deal of hurt and pain, but when it was all said and done…once I removed all the gunk, I found out I am one heck of a woman. I can say it proudly. Before I discovered my value, I allowed others to place their determined sum on me, and often that sum was worthless. Unfortunately, prior to 2014, I believed I was worthless. I don’t any longer. Now I know I am BLESSED, A TRAILBLAZER, PROMISING, BEAUTIFUL, INSPIRING AND UNIQUE.

One piece of advice you have for women entrepreneurs?

To thy own self be true. I can truly say I’m operating in my gift in writing and fashion. Both have been passions of mine since I can remember. Though I began strictly as a fashion writer, my life experiences have allowed me to take So What to Twenty in a deeper direction. I often speak of life situations but I use fashion as a visual. That is why my tag-line is, Where Life and Fashion Intersect. Fashion is so much more than clothing, it is a true life experience. Fashion is a part of your overall style. In my opinion, you can’t talk about fashion without intertwining life experiences. In essence, your endeavors should be in alignment with your own gifts and passions. If you’re doing what you are truly passionate about, people will know it immediately because your verve will spill over into everything you do.

What is your definition of a #FearlessWoman?

A #FearlessWoman / brave woman is one who isn’t afraid of being vulnerable. We all hurt, cry, laugh, need support, need companionship, guidance, etc. It is good to voice these things. This society constantly tells us otherwise. Fearless to the world is acting like you are always on your A-game…that your stuff doesn’t stink. Right? Well guess what, I’m not to proud to ask for help and I’m not to proud to say that sometimes things are fairly middling. There is amazing and uncompromising strength in being real. I totally dig being around people who are just being themselves without that iron curtain being drawn around them. Dig?

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I see myself sitting at my desk, which over-looks a garden, in my beautifully decorated home, while cranking out my next book. It is my desire to be a successful, full time book author/writer. The End.

How can we keep up with you?

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#FearlessWoman Feature | Leslie Hendricks Young of Bloggers Like Me & Fashion Du Jour

July 8, 2015 by Whitney 4 Comments

When I started blogging there were a handful of bloggers I leaned on for advice, tips, and just regular everyday inspiration. Leslie Hendricks Young, founder of Bloggers Like Me (BLM Girls) and Fashion Du Jour was one of those few people. She’s still someone (and one of the few bloggers) I can call a friend to this day. The BLM Girls is a collaborative of women sharing ideas, building relationships, and celebrating each other through blogging, social media and meet ups. Leslie is not only the head of this ever-growing community, but she’s also the mother of 4 beautiful children, the God-fearing wife of a preacher, freelance writer, blogger, and stylish women entrepreneur on the go living in California.

Leslie is truly a woman of God and lives her life with purpose. She’s done an outstanding job of bringing together a community of female bloggers and given us a platform to talk and grow through the world of blogging, business and much more. I’ve worked with Leslie on several occasions and she’s always full of wonderful ideas and is ready and willing to help others at a moments notice. She loves being a mommy and a wife and I’m forever grateful for her advice on how to maneuver through life as a young newly married Christian wife. She is without a doubt a #FearlessWoman and it’s a pleasure to introduce her to you all. Enjoy the interview and be inspired!

What’s a typical day for Leslie?

A typical day begins with getting out of bed, washing my face brushing my teeth and drinking a bottle of water. I make myself a cup of coffee, say a short prayer and begin waking the kids up.

What inspired you to create Fashion Du Jour and Bloggers Like Me (BLM)?

I was inspired to create Fashion Du Jour because I’ve always enjoyed dressing up and I wanted to begin documenting my outfits. I also wanted to share spiritual tidbits with women and thought using fashion as a vehicle would make sense. I started Bloggers Like Me because I found that there were so many successful bloggers who I could not relate to. From what it appeared, they had money to blow and no responsibilities. I could not relate. It was a struggle to find other bloggers who were living my reality so one day I decided to start a group for bloggers like me.

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

I am inspired by many women for different reasons. I am inspired by Michelle Obama for her courage to be herself even when the whole world wants her to conform to be and acting like someone she’s not. Case in point, her appearance on Black Girls Rock. I am inspired by mothers/wives raising families with 4 or more kids in a loving and patient way! Period. There’s nothing more to be said. Third, I admire my mom. She got saved in her latter years and has changed her life. I am proud of her and I thank God that she now knows in whom her trust and faith should lie.

One piece of advice you have for women entrepreneurs?

A piece of advice for women entrepreneurs is to never stop learning and don’t be afraid to ask for help. There’s power in setting your pride to the side.

What is your definition of a #FearlessWoman?

My definition of a #FearlessWoman is someone who knows who she is and where she’s going.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

In 5 years from now, I see myself in better shape in every area of my life. I will have a strengthened family, faith, healthy and purpose. I will continue to put in the daily effort it takes to get there.

How can we keep up with you?

Blog // BLM Girls // Facebook // Twitter