Whitney Nic James

Navigation
  • Home
  • About
  • Style
    • WNJ Style
    • Thrifted Style
    • Personal Style Linkup
    • Thrifty Friends
  • Inspiration
    • #WNJInspired
    • #WNJSocial & Blogging
    • Healthy Living
  • Lifestyle
    • Gift Guides
    • Events
      • Columbia & Baltimore
      • DC & Northern VA
      • Non-Local
    • WNJ Eats
    • WNJ Travels
  • Thrift With Nic!
    • Meetups
    • #TWNTour
  • Contact

Style | Wearing 1 Dress 2 Ways

July 9, 2015 by Whitney 4 Comments

Last year I did a One Dress Many Ways series. The goal was to re-purpose one wardrobe item and style it 3 different ways for different occasions. It was a fun challenge, so I decided to do that again with another dress; this time I’ve decided to style it 2 ways. This black maxi dress has been in my closet for years and during the summer months, it’s a definite wardrobe staple. So I figured it was the perfect item to show how to style 1 dress 2 ways. 

The 1st outfit is definitely a wear to work option. The long cardigan adds a bit of drama to the plain dress and the clutch is a perfect addition, and would come in handy if I had an event to attend after work. While the outfit may seem a bit dressy for some, it’s the perfect mix of comfortable and elegant for me. I like to look nice while at work while still being comfortable. Therefore the “fancy” cardigan and dramatic statement necklace are perfect!

Black Maxi Dress

Dress: H&M (Another Option) // Cardigan: Thrifted // Necklace: Monet, Macy’s

1 Dress 2 Ways

Black Maxi Dress - Thrifted Cardigan

Flats: Steve Madden (Similar & On Sale)// Clutch: Love, Cortnie // Watch: Charming Chalie

Black Maxi Dress OOTD

I’m all about saving time and money, so remixing this maxi was very beneficial. The next look is yet another outfit I’d wear to work. The leopard flats help add a personal touch, something I always do when styling an outfit. Every girl should have at least 2 leopard print accessories, shoes count, in her wardrobe. Trust me, the print goes with everything! In my book leopard print is a neutral, don’t you agree? 

Remixing your wardrobe is a sure way to save time and money. #wnjstyle

Click To Tweet

I added also added a black sleeveless vest to give the outfit a chic feel. I actually saw this vest as I was walking to the cash register at TJMaxx a few weeks back. It was in the women’s section, so I was a bit skeptical on how it’d fit. After trying it on, the size large tag was laughable. I usually wear a size 1X and sometimes 2X, depending on the cut of the garment. But this is a prime example of garments being cut larger than expected, and why trying on items is SO important. You just never know how an item is cut and how it’ll fit until you take a few seconds to try it on.

One Dress Two Ways

Vest: TJMaxx (Another Option) // Purse: Gifted // Watch: Charming Charlie // Flats: Nordstrom Rack, Sam Edelman (Similar)

Black Maxi Dress

How to style 1 dress 2 ways. #wnjstyle

Click To Tweet

statement necklace - OOTD

1 Dress 2 Ways


So tell me, what do you think about my 1 dress 2 ways OOTD? Are you a fan of remixing items in your wardrobe? Let me know!

As always, thanks for reading and leaving your comments. In case you were wondering, there’s still time to enter your recent OOTD to my Personal Style Linkup. We’ve already got 50+ bloggers who’ve linked up, so head over and join in on the fun! Until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

KEEP UP WITH ME

Instagram // Facebook // Twitter // Newsletter

** Linkups: WIW, How I Summer, Thursday Favorites **

Filed Under: Style, WNJ Style Tagged With: All Black, flats, H&M, Leopard Print, Love Cortnie, Nordstrom Rack, Savers Thrift Store, statement necklace, thrifted

Personal Style | Where to Shop for Affordable Statement Necklaces

July 7, 2015 by Whitney 7 Comments

This summer I’ve made it a point to really wear more of my jewelry. After all, I have tons of it that’s been sitting on my dresser, season after season, collecting dust. So I vowed to incorporate more statement necklaces into my #CasualSummer wardrobe. So far, so good. I often get asked, where to shop for affordable statement necklaces. After I run off the stores and sites most people are really impressed by the stores selections and prices. So today I’m sharing my top 5 go to stores for affordable statement necklaces.

Affordable Statement Necklaces

1. Thrift Stores. Of course I’m a fan of thrifting and thrifting statement necklaces is one of my favorite things to do. You just never know what you’re going to find! The prices, well it should go without saying that their prices are (often) unbeatable. Thrift stores are my 1st stop when looking for unique pieces, and it’s a great place to start if you’re just getting into the whole thrifting thing. So next time you need a new statement necklace, don’t count out the thrift stores!

Thrifting for jewelry is a GREAT place to start for 1st time thrifters! #thriftwithnic

Click To Tweet

2. Aldo Accessories Store. Physically shopping their store is like walking into a candy shop. There’s SO MUCH bling and prettiness to gawk at and the prices are just right for me. The Aldo Accessories Store (online and in store) is great for last minute shopping. I needed a piece to go with an outfit the day of an event. I walked in and within minutes I not only found this gorgeous necklace, but 2 packs of affordable studs as well. #WINNING  I also snagged this beauty a while back in store. I absolutely love it and it’s easily on of my favorite purchases to date.

Statement Necklace - Aldo

Aldo Necklace

3. H&M. It never fails; I always find at least one unique statement necklace when browsing the H&M jewelry section. Their necklaces start as low as $2.99 (when they’re on sale) and go up to $34.99. Whatever your budget or style, H&M has got you covered on statement necklaces!

4. eBay. I haven’t purchased a necklace form eBay in a while, but when I do need a new statement necklace I know I can find what I’m looking for there. The prices on eBay are excellent and all you have to do is type in “statement necklace” in the search engine and bam! You have endless options, styles, and options to buy (either auction or buy now). A lot of the necklaces I purchase from there are from China or somewhere else overseas, so I don’t expect the same quality as I would from other stores/sites. But that’s OK. Sometimes an expensive piece can be a good addition to your collection. And from time to time, the quality is actually better than I expect.

5. Nordstrom Rack. It’s no secret that this store is one of my faves for clothing. The last time I was in the store, I noticed their jewelry department was pretty good too. I purchased the necklace below and a few other items, all for under $30. My kind of prices, great quality designers, and a plethora of options. Their online selection is great too!

Statement Necklace Nordstrom Rack

Nordstrom Rack Necklace

5 places to shop for affordable statement necklaces! #wnjstyle

Click To Tweet

So tell me, where do you shop for affordable statement necklaces? Let me know so I can check out their selection!

Thanks for reading and until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

KEEP UP WITH ME

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

 

Filed Under: Style, WNJ Style Tagged With: aldo, H&M, Nordstrom Rack, statement necklace, thrifting

Personal Style | Another Black and White Outfit + a Statement Necklace

June 30, 2015 by Whitney 20 Comments

Have you ever worn outfit and felt really cool? LOL. Well, that’s how I felt in this black and white outfit. Worn for an outdoor date night, it’s the epitome of an easy, breezy, and stylish outfit. You shouldn’t be surprised that I’m wearing yet another black and white outfit. After all, this color combination reigns supreme when it comes to picking out my OOTD’s. And really, can you blame me? Styling a black and white outfit is probably the most chic and easiest thing to do, style-wise.

Casual Summer Outfit

Black and White Casual Outfit

T-Shirt: Nordstrom Rack // Pants: Sejour, Nordstrom (Another Option) // Flats: Steve Madden (Similar) // Clutch: Love, Cortnie (Same)

Statement Necklace and Sunnies

By adding a statement necklace, I gave the look a little umph. I love a good umph with any outfit and statement necklaces (and jewelry in general) is the easiest way to do add that element. Some of my favorite bloggers are statement necklace obsessed too. Lately they’ve inspired me to try different pieces that I wouldn’t normally go for. For example, Ty of Gorgeous in Grey has an amazing collection and after seeing it, I was ready to up my statement necklace game…like for real! LOL!

Add a little “umph” to your look with a statement necklace. #wnjstyle

Click To Tweet

I purchased this piece (and the earrings) from the Aldo Accessories store in Columbia Mall. It’s funny because as much as I’m a jewelry lover, I don’t frequent the store like I should. I did however stop in this past weekend and purchased this item. I was looking for a bodacious necklace to add to a plain white dress. Their prices are really reasonable, options are endless, and they always have a 2 for 1 sale. My kind of shopping! 😉

Statement Necklace Black and White Outfit

Statement Necklace - Aldo

Necklace: Aldo, Columbia Mall (Another Option) // Earrings: Aldo, Columbia Mall (Other Options) // Sunnies: Ivanka Trump: Nordstrom Rack

Black and White OOTD


So tell me, are you a fan of black and white outfits? What about statement necklaces? Let me know!

Thanks for reading and until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

KEEP UP WITH ME

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

Filed Under: Plus Size Style, Style, WNJ Style Tagged With: aldo, Black and White, Nordstrom, Nordstrom Rack, statement necklace, Steve Madden, sunnies

Personal Style | Sheer Blouse, Statement Necklace & Personal Style Linkup

June 29, 2015 by Whitney 43 Comments

Happy Monday, friends! If you haven’t noticed, I’ve decided that Summer 2015 is all about being casual, comfy and chic. Therefore most of my outfits will consist of a lot of basic wardrobe pieces. Today’s outfit proves that my #CasualSummer is in full effect!

Sheer Blouse and Statement Necklace

Blouse: Daniel Rainn, Nordstrom Rack // Leggings: Vince Camuto, Nordstrom // Flats: Steve Madded (Similar) //Purse: Nine West (Old)

Sheer Blouse Outfit

This sheer blouse and statement necklace were among the few purchases I made a few days ago at Nordstrom Rack. I’m getting very particular about my style these days. The less fuss, the better! Again, I’m all about basic and simple wardrobe items. Although far from basic, I decided to add a statement necklace to this look and topped it off with my $4.99 tortoise readers from eBay. Hubs actually suggested I add them to complete the look. I think he was spot on with that addition!

Adding a statement necklaces or a pair of cute glasses really gives a simple outfit personality! #wnjstyle

Click To Tweet

Casual Summer Outfit

Statement Necklace Nordstrom Rack

Glasses: eBay // Necklace: Nordstrom Rack

Plus Size Casual Outfit - Nordstrom

Speaking of casual and chic and wardrobe basics, take a look at Rachelle from Pink Sole. Her look was my favorite from last week’s linkup! She effortlessly styled her top with a cute skirt and a sensible pair of chic blush heels. I LOVE this look and it’s perfect for a #CasualSummer. Rachelle is always so fly and so simple with her style; her style is easy to digest, practical, and always stylish.

Pink Sole

Rachelle | Pink Sole


So tell me, what’s your take on my sheer blouse and statement necklace outfit? Let me know!

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

KEEP UP WITH ME

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

Filed Under: Personal Style Linkup, Plus Size Style, Style, WNJ Style Tagged With: All Black, Nordstrom Rack, Plus Size Outfit, plus size shopping, Steve Madden

Style | More Plus Size Spring Fashion + Fancy Pants

June 4, 2015 by Whitney 17 Comments

The weather has been a bit dreary lately, but I refuse to let my wardrobe suffer because of it. This week, I’ve been determined to still have fun with my clothes and wear enjoyable plus size spring fashion. Styling these pants and adding a funky designed clutch to the mix did the trick yesterday, wouldn’t you agree? After all, who doesn’t love a loud pair of fancy pants?!

Plus Size Shopping Nordstrom

Blouse: Daniel Rainn, Nordstrom // Pants: Nordstrom Rack, BOBEAU (Another Option)

Plus Size Spring Fashion

I wore this outfit to the Goodwill breakfast in DC yesterday morning. I knew I had to go back to work afterwards, so I wanted to be comfortable yet chic. I think I nailed it! When people see me, I want my personal style to speak volumes, without scaring them away. I like to wear outfits that say “Whitney” without being obnoxious. For the event, I also wanted to be sure I was appropriate. Nothing too tight, short, and nothing that would restrict my movement. Mission accomplished!

Style should be fun, personal, and always appropriate. #wnjstyle

Click To Tweet

DSC_0873

DSC_0878

Clutch: Love, Cortnie (Other Options) // Flats: Steve Madden Outlet (Similar) Watch: Charming Charlie

I was smitten with the nice compliments I received on these Steve Madden flats. I purchased them on our recent trip to NC at the Charlottle Preium Outles. This purchase was super sporadic. I walked into the store thinking I’d help hubby pick out a pair of shoes. 20 minutes later, I find myself memorized by the sparkles and glitz on the flats. Of course I had to try them on and of course they fit! The hard part was deciding on which color (gold, pewter or black). So I did the most logical thing and purchased all 3 colors, lol! I ended up receiving a discount on the 3rd pair. That made my purchase feel better. I’m a firm believer that if the shoe fits, and it’s comfortable, wear and buy it in all colors. Momma taught me that!

If the shoe fits and it’s comfortable, wear and buy it in all colors! #wnjstyle

Click To Tweet

Fancy Pants - Plus Size Fashion


 So tell me, what do you think about my fun and funky plus size spring fashion outfit? Do you buy all colors of an item if you love it? Let me know! 

Thanks for reading and commenting! Also, huge thanks to my blogger boo Vivi for snapping these pics. Be sure to linkup to my Personal Style Linkup. Until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

KEEP UP WITH ME

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

Filed Under: Plus Size Style, Style Tagged With: flats, Love Cortnie, Nordstrom, Nordstrom Rack, plus size shopping, Steve Madden

Personal Style | Repeat Outfit + Maximizing My Wardrobe

November 12, 2014 by Whitney 23 Comments

As of late, my fall style has really been easy peasy! I credit that to my (firm) decision to maximize my wardrobe to its fullest potential. The fact that I remembered I had this black cardigan in my closet has opened up my fall style options even more. Cardigans are the perfect wardrobe addition to help maximize any wardrobe. With this look I decided to add sneakers instead of heels; I was going for a dress down look without being too casual or too dressy.

Fall Style - Plus Size Casual Outfit

Cardigan: Gifted // Sweater: Lane Bryant Outlet // Skirt: I.N.C., Macy’s// Tights: HANES HOSIERY

Casual OOTD - Plus Size Fashion

Once I made the decision to add my comfy Pumas to this look, everything else effortlessly came together. The hoop earrings and thrifted clutch were a must and the sunnies, well…I kind of think they make me look pretty cool, right? 😉 Truth be told, I wore this outfit for a casual dinner the same day I wore this outfit with heels (and different jewelry). In my mind, it’s the perfect mix of comfort and cute. Swapping out heels for sneakers and adding the cardigan gives the outfit the right amount of casual without looking sloppy because let’s be honest, sometimes adding sneakers with dresses or skirts can be tricky.

You never know the potential of an outfit until you start trying different style options. #wnjstyle

Click To Tweet

Plus Size Fashion - Casual Outfit

Sneakers: Puma, DSW (Same) // Clutch: Goodwill // Sunnies: Ivanka Trump, Nordstrom Rack

Fall Trends for Plus Size

This outfit can also fit into the sporty fall trend. Granted, I’m not wearing a stylish jersey or track pants, but I am wearing sneakers with a more dressy ensemble. That counts! 🙂 It’s funny – you never know the potential of an outfit until you start trying different style options. That said, I’ve already come up with several ways to re-style this skirt, cardigan and “LOVE” shirt with other pieces in my wardrobe. Let the fall style maximizing continue!

Fall Style - Maximize Your Wardrobe


 So tell me, which look is your favorite? How have you been with restyling and maximizing your fall wardrobe? Let me know! 

Thanks for reading and as always, thanks for commenting. Before I go, I just want to remind you that I have a bi-weekley newsletter and the latest issue is coming out today! If you’d like to join the email list, sign up here. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO! 

P.S. Don’t forget to link your recent OOTD to my Personal Style Linkup HERE! 


KEEP UP WITH ME

Instagram // Facebook // Twitter // Newsletter

*****

Linkups:  Mix it Monday, Whatever Wednesday, WIW, Three-fer Thursday, Beautiful You, Thursday Favorites, Thrift Sisters, Share in Style

Filed Under: Plus Size Style, Style, WNJ Style Tagged With: Macy's, Nordstrom Rack, Plus Size Outfit, Pumas, sneakers

« Previous Page

Search Blog

Top Categories

More Categories

My Top Posts

  • 13 Bible Verses to Celebrate Your Birthday
  • 7 Bible Verses to Renew and Refresh Your Spirit
  • 13 Scriptures for Hope & Healing During Trying Times
  • #WNJSocial | 5 Reasons Why You Should Use Snapchat
  • July 2020 Recap
  • Auto Review | 2018 Mazda3 Grand Touring
  • Life Update | I Have Androgenetic Alopecia
  • Fearless Faith Friday: Using the SOAP Method to Study Scripture
  • Auto Review | 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander
  • Personal Style | Kimono and Leggings

Copyright © 2025 · Foodie Child Theme by Shay Bocks · Built on the Genesis Framework · Powered by WordPress