Whitney Nic James

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Personal Style | Casually Styling Platform Converse Sneakers

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Converse is my favorite sneaker brand. Their sneakers are always comfortable, stylish, and affordable. They seemingly last for a lifetime, so the cost per wear is never an issue. For years, these classic sneakers have been a wardrobe staple. The platform pair worn here have quickly become one of my go-to pair for everyday outfits.

Related Post: Leopard Print + Faux Leather

Styling Converse Sneakers - Casual Outfit

Platform Converse Sneakers

Converse: Converse Outlet (same)

Styling Converse Sneakers - Casual Outfit

When styling an everyday outfit, or any outfit for that matter, I keep the following in mind:

  1. Comfortability
    • The fabrics must be soft and breathable
    • I shouldn’t have to constantly rearrange my clothes throughout the day
  2. Functionality 
    • I should be able to walk, bend, stand, etc. in the outfit
    • My movements shouldn’t be restricted due to my outfit choice
  3. Personal Style
    • The outfit must be true to my personal style
    • I have to feel good about myself when wearing the outfit
3 Things to Keep in Mind When Styling Any Outfit #wnjstyle

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Styling Converse Sneakers - Casual Outfit

Tunic: Nordstrom Rack, RDI (same tunic, different print) // Denim: Lane Bryant (same) Purse: Nordstrom Rack, Marc Jacobs (similar)

Styling Converse Sneakers - Casual Outfit

Styling Converse Sneakers - Casual Outfit

Tell me…what’s important to you when styling an outfit? Let me know by commenting below!

Until next time: be blessed, stay safe, and take care of yourself. Talk soon!

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Personal Style | How to Add Color to Your Wardrobe

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It’s no secret that I love wearing black. But lately, I’ve been adding more color to my wardrobe. It’s been a gradual process, but I’m enjoying it. I’ve never been opposed to color, I think I just got comfortable wearing mostly black.

See Also: How to Create a Signature Style

Black clothing is effortless when it comes to styling, and it’s such a chic and powerful color to wear. Styling colorful clothing takes more effort, for me anyway. But I’ve found a few ways to make adding color to my wardrobe both fun and practical. Check out 3 tips on how to add color to your wardrobe below!

Neutral Colors and Leopard Print

Adding Color to Your Wardrobe

T-Shirt: Nordstrom Rack (other colors) // Turban: Amazon Fashion (same) // Necklace: Thrifted

How to Add Color to a Wardrobe

 

  1. Start Small
    • If you want to start adding more color to your wardrobe start small. Try adding colorful accessories, shoes or even lipstick to your wardrobe first. Get comfortable with a little color before making larger purchases like tops, bottoms, and outerwear.
  2. Pick a Season
    • Plan ahead and decide which season you’re going to start adding more color to your wardrobe. Research magazines, Pinterest, Instagram and other sources to find seasonal wardrobe inspiration. When adding color to your wardrobe by season, I suggest focusing on certain clothing items. For example, if you want to start in the fall, focus on adding a few sweaters and maybe one or two jackets. Being selective about your additions will help you avoid overspending, and it’s a great way to build around the wardrobe you already have.
  3. Have Fun
    • Incorporating color in your wardrobe should be fun! Don’t overthink the process like I did. Choose colors (and prints) that you enjoy wearing. Of course, I always suggest gathering fashion and style inspiration. However, when it comes to picking the right colors and prints for you, wear what makes you happy.
3 Simple Ways to Start Adding Color to Your Wardrobe #wnjstyle

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Neutral Colors and Leopard Print

Neutral Colors and Leopard Print

Shoes: Sam Edelman, Nordstrom Rack (same) // Pants: Melloday, Nordstrom Rack (same in black)

How to Add Color to Your Wardrobe

Tell me, how do you incorporate color into your wardrobe? Comment below! 

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

Love & light…xo!

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* Linkups: Visibile Monday, Trend Spin, Get Your Pretty On * 

Lifestyle | 5 Quick & Easy Ways to Boost Your Mood

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Throughout the month of July, my mood was like a roller coaster. My workout routine dwindled, my workload picked up a bit, and my eating habits, well, let’s skip that part for now. All those things, I’m sure, had a lot to do with my everchanging moods. Nonetheless, I tried not to let those things throw me off (too much). Instead, I began making small changes and figuring out simple ways to boost my mood. If you’re looking for quick and easy ways to boost your mood, I’ve got five that I’m sure you will find helpful!

Related: 7 Practical Ways to Deal with Stress
5 Quick & Easy Ways to Boost Your Mood

Pants: Nordstrom Rack, MELLODAY (another option) // Tshirt: Nordstrom Rack, Bobeau (Same)

  1. Take a Break from Social Media 
    • Constantly scrolling through your Instagram and Facebook feeds can be draining. Give your brain, and your fingers, a rest. Try designating certain times to check your social media feeds, and if you’re up for it try a social media free weekend. I do them quite often. No posting, no scrolling, and no commenting. I just enjoy my surroundings and focus on engaging in activities that make me happy. If you find that you really want to share what you did on social media, snap a few pictures and post them later.
  2. Create a Playlist
    • I’ve mentioned this several times, but listening to music helps improve my mood tremendously. Creating a playlist full of your favorite songs is one of the easiest ways to boost your mood!
  3. Go for a Walk 
    • I love to go for leisurely outdoor strolls and nature walks. Connecting with nature can definitely rejuvenate your mood. The perfect times (for me) to go for walks are early morning or late evening. The weather is perfect and your surroundings are usually peaceful. Hearing birds chirp in the morning or watching the sunset in the evening is the perfect way to start or end any day.
  4.  Treat Yourself (and don’t feel guilty about it)
    • I’m not one to encourage constant indulging, but every now and then it’s OK to treat yourself. Treating yourself to something as simple as an ice cream cone or a new book can do wonders for your mood! You deserve a pick-me-up every now and then.
  5. Put on Your Favorite Lipstick
    • This is new for me. I usually prefer a nice nude gloss but lately, I’m noticing that putting on a nice red lip is an instant mood booster. It makes me feel powerful and it makes me feel FEARLESS!
5 Quick and Easy Mood Boosters

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Black Outfit and Leopard Print

Sunglasses: TJMaxx (another option) // Flats: Nordstrom Rack (another option) // Earrings: Nordstrom Rack (another option) // Turban: Amazon (same)

Tell me, what are some of your quick and easy ways to boost your mood? Comment below! 

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

Love & light…xo!

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Personal Style | Creating a Signature Style

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As you know, I’m all about comfort when it comes to clothing. I’ve documented my personal style for years, and the one thing that remains consistent is my need for comfort and functionality. I love to look good and I’m all about being chic and fashion-forward. However, you don’t have to compromise comfort to accomplish those things. So, how do I achieve my signature comfy, yet chic and fashion-forward style? It’s all about the 3 F’s; Fabric, Fit, and Function.

See Also: Tips on Stretching Your Wardrobe
Creating a Signature Style

 Sweatshirt: Marshalls // Denim: Wit & Wisdom, Nordstrom Rack (same) // Sandals: Birkenstock Essetials, DSW (same) // Tote Bag: Marc Jacobs, Marshalls (similar)

Creating a Signature Style

  1. Fabric
    • Knowing how certain fabrics fit your body is something every woman should know. This will help make curating your closet such an easy process. 9 times out of 10 I can tell if I’m even going try something on just by feeling the item and examining the fabric. For bottoms, I prefer a soft cotton with a little stretch (i.e. rayon, spandex, or both). When it comes to tops, the more flowy and forgiving the better. Depending on the brand, I can do a stiffer cotton, like the sweatshirt worn here, but my preference is a fabric that moves with me (i.e. polyester, rayon/spandex blend)
  2. Fit
    • If it doesn’t fit, don’t buy it. Period. Why would you want to wear something that’s uncomfortable and unflattering? If a garment is ill-fitting save your money and find something else. Now, if you really LOVE the item and you honestly think having the piece altered will make the fit more comfortable, by all means, purchase it. However, if the alterations are going to cost more than the item, is it really worth it?
  3. Function 
    • Being able to function in your clothing is very important. Think about your daily lifestyle and figure out what kind of items are ideal for your day-to-day activities. Purchase items that cater to your lifestyle (and budget), not the latest trends.
The 3 F’s to Creating Your Signature Style #wnjstyle

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Creating a Signature Style

So tell me, what tips do you have when it comes to creating a signature style? 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, Trend Spin, Style on the Daily, Fabulous Friday *

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Personal Style | Blue Floral Kimono and Converses

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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.

See Also: 3 Tips to Help Find Your Personal Style
Blue Floral Kimono OOTD

Kimono: Bobeau, Nordstrom Rack // Denim: Wit & Wisdom, Nordstrom Rack (same)

Blue Floral Kimono OOTD

Blue Floral Kimono OOTD

Styling this kimono with converse sneakers and fashion glasses was fun! The glasses were a last minute addition, but they definitely worked! I love playing with accessories and styling sneakers with certain looks. I think converses, especially the black low tops, give an outfit a more laidback look. Adding certain accessories, like the glasses and floral kimono, make an outfit like this a bit more polished and chic. It’s the perfect blend, and I can see making this a definite go-to look, especially for the weekends and casual date nights.

How to Wear a Kimono and a Pair of Sneakers ft. @Converse #wnjstyle

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Blue Floral Kimono OOTD

Glasses: Local Beauty Supply Store (same as sunglasses) // Sneakers: Converse (same) 

Blue Floral Kimono OOTD

Blue Floral Kimono OOTD

So tell me, what do you think about my new blue floral kimono? Have you stocked up on kimonos for the season? 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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*THIS POST DOES INCLUDE AFFILIATE LINKS*  

* Linkups *

* Fabulos Friday, Glitz n Glamour, Trend Spin, Visibile Monday *

Personal Style | 3 Winter Accessories to Keep in Your Closet this Spring

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I’ve been waiting to style a few spring items for weeks now, but I never thought I’d be wearing winter pieces to accessorize certain outfits. With temperatures reaching the high 30’s and a snowstorm on the way, I’ve decided to keep a number of winter accessories still hanging in my closet. This soft poncho was a staple in my winter wardrobe, and it looks like it will be a staple in my (early) spring wardrobe as well.

See Also: 3 Tips to Help Find Your Personal Style

Forever 21 Plus Size Poncho

Forever 21 Plus Size Poncho

Poncho: Forever 21 (same)

Spring Fashion Outfit

Blouse: Sejour, Nordstrom (same) // Denim: Wit & Wisdom, Nordstrom Rack (same)

When it comes to spring fashion I’ve learned to keep a few winter pieces within reach, especially during the first few weeks. You can never be too sure about the weather, so it’s better to be safe than sorry. Here are 3 winter accessories to keep in your closet this spring:

  1. Raincoats & Trenchcoats
    • remove the lining if/when the temperatures get warmer 
  2. Ponchos & Capes
    • lightweight ponchos and capes are great to wear during cool spring days and nights 
  3. Scarves
    • light to medium weight scarves are the perfect accessory to keep in your purse or car during the springtime
3 Winter Pieces to Keep in Your Closet this Spring #wnjstyle

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The poncho adds an extra layer just in case the temperatures drop, and because my blouse is 3 quarter length and lightweight, I won’t get too hot. An outfit like this is perfect for a cool spring day or evening. And although the outfit colors are warm and rich, the floral sneakers give a nice “sneak-peek” of spring.

Sam Edelman Sneakers

Sneakers: Sam Edelman, Nordstrom Rack (Same)

Forever 21 Plus

Nordstrom Sejour Top

So tell me, do you wear any winter accessories during the spring? 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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*THIS POST DOES INCLUDE AFFILIATE LINKS*  

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

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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:

  1. What were some of your favorite experiences this season?
  2. What are something’s you wish went a differently?
  3. What did you learn from these experiences?
  4. How are you going to maneuver differently in the upcoming season? 
  5. 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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Personal Style | How to Style a Kimono 3 Ways

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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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 * Read Also, How to Style a Kimono and Jeans

Look 2

How to Style a Kimono

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

How to Style a Kimono

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

How to Style a Kimono

Look 3

How to Style a Kimono

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

How to Style a Kimono

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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* Read Also, How to Style a Black & White Floral Kimono

How to Style a Kimono

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 *