kimono Archives - Whitney Nic James

Personal Style | Blue Floral Kimono and Converses

June 6, 2018 by Whitney 8 Comments

I’ve been on the hunt for a few spring and summer kimonos. During a recent trip to Nordstrom Rack, I found just what I was looking for! Kimonos are one of the most versatile wardrobe staples, and I think every woman should own at least 3; one for casual wear, one that’s a bit fancier, and one that’s a solid color. During my shopping trip, I actually purchased 2 solid kimonos, a black and a tan, and then this blue floral one. I immediately thought of 3 different ways to wear it, so I knew it was a solid purchase.

Personal Style | Minimal Everyday Outfit + 3 Tips to Help Find Your Personal Style

February 20, 2018 by Whitney 6 Comments

It’s taken me a while to figure out my personal style. While some aspects of my style may evolve as I mature, I have a pretty good grasp on what I like to wear and what’s right for my body type. My lifestyle is active, my work environment is casual, and my closet reflects that. Sure, there may be an occasional business professional or fancy event I have to attend. When that time comes, I’m prepared. But for the most part, my style is minimal, chic and no-fuss. Give me a kimono, like this one from Forever 21, a pair of leggings, a comfy flat or sneaker, a pair of hoop earrings and I’m good to go!

RELATED: What I Usually Wear to Work

So, how can you figure out your personal style? It’s really not that difficult. The process can actually be quite enjoyable! Read ahead for 3 quick and easy tips to help find your personal style.

Kimono: Forever 21 Plus (similar) // Cap: Ivy Park (same) // Sneakers: Converse, Chuck Taylor’s (same)

Consider Your Everyday Lifestyle
- Figure out what your every day looks like. Are you active? Always on-the-go? Do you work in an office that requires you to sit behind a desk? Does your industry call for you to dress business-casual or more business professional? Do you work from home? These are a few questions to ask yourself to help get you thinking about your personal style.
Find Inspiration
- Pinterest, Instagram, and fashion magazines are the perfect go-to’s when looking for style inspiration. Take it a step further and create a mood board for your personal style. As you shop for new pieces to add to your wardrobe, use the mood board as a reference guide to help keep you on track.
Re-organize & Clean-out Your Closet
- Once you complete steps 1 and 2, head to your closet and figure out what pieces you already have and what pieces you need. Write down the needs, keep the haves and donate or toss what you no longer need.

3 Tips to Help Find Your Personal Style #wnjstyle

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So tell me, what do you think about my personal style tips? Thoughts on my outfit? Let me know!

Thanks, as always, for reading and commenting and until next time, be blessed and stay safe.

Love & light…xo!

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* Linkups: Visible Monday, Style on the Daily, Fabulous Friday, Hello Monday, Trend Spin *

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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 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 | How to Style a Kimono and Jeans

May 31, 2017 by Whitney 13 Comments

Is it me or is the “Spring Weather” a little confusing these days? Most mornings I don’t know if I should grab a sweater, a kimono or a coat! In any event, I’ve been gravitating towards my collection of full-length kimonos. No matter the outfit, I have about 4 kimonos in constant rotation. The one I’m wearing in this post happens to be one of my favorites. It’s perfect for the fickle weather we’ve been experiencing; not too heavy, great length and the perfect fit.

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

Kimono: TJMaxx // Denim: JCP // Tote Bag: Marc Jacobs, Nordstrom Rack (Similar Style) // Flats: Vince Camuto, Nordstrom Rack (Same in Black)

Becuase my wardrobe is more on the minimal side wearing a kimono and jeans, or a kimono with a pair of black leggings, has become somewhat of a uniform. As I mentioned in a previous post, creating a work uniform saves so much time and energy in the mornings. But guess what? I’ve also learned that creating a weekend uniform isn’t such a bad idea either!

How to Style a Kimono with a Pair of Ankle Length Jeans #wnjstyle

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Most of my weekends are spent running errands, attending events for family and friends, going to church, or taking day trips with my husband. Having a few key wardrobe pieces to mix and match is a definite time saver. Sure, you can add different accessories or have several pairs of shoes to choose from, but having the foundation of an outfit already planned is key. This may sound a little boring, but trust me when I tell you there are several ways to restyle a kimono and a pair of jeans.

A kimono and a pair of jeans is the perfect weekend uniform. #wnjstyle

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So tell me, do you have a weekend uniform? What do you think about styling a kimono and jeans? Let me know!

Thanks for reading and be sure to let me know your thoughts below. I absolutely love reading and responding to your comments! Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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* Linkups: Visibile Monday, Lookbook Linkup *

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.

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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!

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Personal Style | 3 Ways to Make Having a Minimal Wardrobe Even Easier

February 22, 2017 by Whitney 11 Comments

Since embarking on my minimal wardrobe journey, I’ve never been less stressed when it comes to figuring out what to wear each day. I literally have 5 work outfits. I rotate the items, change up the jewelry/shoes and go about my day. When it comes to weekend-wear I rotate 3 outfits, depending on what we have planned. Doesn’t get much easier than that, right? Well, here are 3 more ways to make having a minimal wardrobe can be even easier.

Related: The Start of My Minimal Wardrobe

Kimono: TJMaxx (Another Option) // Shoes: Via Spiga, Amazon (Exact)

1. Stop Using the Iron | Since creating a minimal wardrobe, I’ve started purchasing clothes made with certain materials. This tactic has saved me a lot of time in the mornings when getting dressed. Fabrics like spandex, wool, polyester-blends, and certain knits are great if you want to avoid ironing. These materials also have a tendency to be wrinkle-free. Granted, some items may need a touch up here and there, but for the most part, my closet consists of ready-to-wear garments that don’t need to be ironed.

2. Write Down Your Outfits | Knowing what you have makes shopping for clothes and getting dressed a breeze. I keep a notebook in my dresser drawer and it’s filled with all of my work, weekend and workout outfits. In the same notebook, I’ve written down sample outfits that I can wear for certain events, as well as my shoes and the outerwear. Granted I don’t write down every single item I own, but what I do write down keeps me on track especially when it’s time to shop for different seasons.

3. Buy More Than One | Even before creating a minimal wardrobe I did this. Having more than one of something you wear often just makes sense. Take black leggings for example; I have 5 pairs in rotation. 3 pair are the heavy spandex material and 2 are some kind of cotton spandex blend. They’re all thick enough to be worn with just a t-shirt, although I rarely do this, and they’re sturdy enough for me to wash weekly. I also have 2 more pairs that I wear on the weekends or while I’m walking/exercising.

How to make having a minimal wardrobe even easier! #wnjstyle

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Clutch: Thrifted, Goodwill (Another Option)

So tell me, do you do any of these things? Let me know!

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Personal Style | Wearing Stripes and Nikes

June 23, 2015 by Whitney 38 Comments

It seems like I’ve been wearing stripes a lot more than usual these days. I do love a good print, but I’ve never really been one to go straight for stripes when shopping. Like many women, I had the silly idea that stripes made me look too big. Depending on the garment and the size of the stripes, this is true. However, this lightweight striped tunic does the opposite – it actually slims me. So there was no doubt that I had to purchase the top when I saw it at Nordstrom.

Tunic: Sejour, Nordstrom (Same & ON SALE) // Leggings: Philosophy, Marshalls // Purse: Gifted

There’s actually a funny story about this tunic. I purchased my first tunic while vacationing in Charlotte, North Carolina. Hubby and I were shopping at the South Park Mall and of course, we had to stop in Nordstrom. I saw the item, tried it on and knew I had to have it. I was sold! I ended up wearing the garment out to dinner while still in Charlotte and unfortunately, it ripped. I was so irritated, especially since I’d purchased the last one in my size. Fast forward to a few weeks ago, I was still thinking about the tunic. I finally found the tunic in my size online, ordered it, and all was well with the world.

Worn the right way, stripes are a wardrobe must have! #wnjstyle

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I ended up styling this outfit for a casual day at work, and thanks to my sneakers from Kicks USA, the look was complete. I’m a huge fan of sneakers during the warm months, especially a stylish and comfy pair. These Nikes were the perfect touch for a work appropriate, casual Friday look.

Sneakers: Nike, c/o Kicks USA (Same)

Watch: Charming Charlie (old) // Armband: Bridgeway Community Church

So tell me, what do you think about styling stripes? Are you a fan? Let me know!

Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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See Also: 3 Tips to Help Find Your Personal Style

RELATED: What I Usually Wear to Work

*THIS POST DOES INCLUDE AFFILIATE LINKS*

Related: Styling a Black & White Kimono

Related: 7 Practical Ways to Deal with Stress

Related: The Start of My Minimal Wardrobe

THIS POST DOES INCLUDE AFFILIATE LINKS