Whitney Nic James

Navigation

Personal Style | Blue Floral Kimono and Converses

by 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.

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

Click To Tweet

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!

KEEP UP WITH ME

*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

by 8 Comments

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

Click To Tweet

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!

KEEP UP WITH ME

*THIS POST DOES INCLUDE AFFILIATE LINKS*  

Personal Style | Weekend Staycation Outfit

by 15 Comments

A few weekends ago Darrius and I planned a staycation in downtown Baltimore. Our friends were getting married in the city, so we decided to make a weekend of it! We stayed Friday – Monday at the beautiful Renaissance Harborplace. It was also our anniversary weekend, so of course, we wanted to spend some quality time together celebrating. We lounged around, ordered room service, enjoyed the wedding festivities and made time to hang out in the city.

In case you didn’t know, I was born and raised in Baltimore. Whenever I go back to visit for more than a day I get super giddy! I love my city. It’s truly a lovely place to visit, especially during the summer. Knowing that I’d be walking around downtown, I planned the perfect weekend staycation outfit, including the one below.

Weekend OOTD

Weekend - OOTD

Sheer Blouse: Nordstrom Rack (Similar) // Pants: American Rag, Macy’s (Another Option) // Flats: Sam Edelman, Nordstrom Rack (Similar) // Sunnies: H&M (Another Option)

Weekend Staycation Outfit

I knew my weekend staycation wardrobe had to be practical. The sheer blouse and lightweight pants were a perfect choice. Of course, the sunnies were necessary and bringing a pair of my most comfortable flats was a no brainer. If you’re planning an upcoming weekend staycation this summer, here are the 7 wardrobe items I suggest packing:

1. Comfortable Shoes

2. A Pair of Sunglasses 

3. All Purpose Purse/Clutch 

7 Weekend Staycation Wardrobe Essentials #wnjstyle

Click To Tweet

4. Interchangeable Jewelry/Accessories 

5. Flowy Top

6. Comfortable Pants (or Leggings)

7. Extra Undergarments

I definitely suggest #7 because you may extend your trip for a day or two at the last minute. That happened to us. We’d planned to leave on Sunday afternoon, after we spent the day shopping and exploring, but we were so tired by the end of the day we ended up staying until Monday. With Darrius working right downtown his commute the next morning was a breeze. My 25 minute drive back to Columbia, MD wasn’t that bad. Being able to spend a carefree weekend with hubs was worth it.

Weekend Outfit

Weekend Staycation Outfit

Ankh Necklace: Purchased in NY (Other Options) // Purse: Nine West, Gifted

Baltimore Weekend

So tell me, do you like my weekend staycation outfit? What would you pack? Let me know! 

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

KEEP UP WITH ME

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

Personal Style | Wearing Stripes and Sweatpants

by 16 Comments

For the past several weeks, wearing stripes and sweatpants seems to be a reoccurring theme. I’m not talking about the drab and baggy grey sweatpants with the drawstring, although I do wear those around the house to clean sometimes. I’m talking about the straight-leg, comfy and flattering pants made of sweatpants material. You know, the ones I’ve worn several times here on the blog. Yep, those sweatpants.

* See Also: Sweatpants for the Weekend

Stripes & Sweatpants

How to Wear Stripes

Tunic: Sejour, Nordstrom (Another Option) // Pants: Sejour, Nordstrom (Another Option) // Flats: Steve Madden Outlet (Similar)

Stripes

These sweatpants are heaven-sent and they’re easily my favorite pair to date. The fact that their straight-leg makes them extremely flattering and easy to style with just about any top. However, of all the times I’ve worn these pants, styling them with a tunic (or other loose fitting tops) is my favorite. I think you get the picture – I love styling these pants! Now let’s talk about my glorious tunic…

Don’t let stripes scare you. Figure out the best kind of stripes for your body type and rock it!

Click To Tweet

The whole “plus size girls shouldn’t wear stripes” thing doesn’t phase me. After learning what kind of stripes work for my body type, I haven’t looked back. Vertical stripes, preferably vertically striped tunics, seem to be my best bet. Just like the sweatpants, I’ve worn this tunic several times. It’s flowy nature and lightweight material makes it the perfect top to wear during the warmer months.

* See Also: Dressing up Sweatpants

Wearing Stripes

Drop Earrings: Macy’s (Another Option) // Bracelet: Macy’s, Monet (Another Option)

Wearing Stripes OOTD

Wearing Stripes and Sweatpants

So tell me, are you a fan of wearing sweatpants and wearing stripes (together or separately)? Let me know!

As always, thanks for reading and linking up. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

KEEP UP WITH ME

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

Personal Style | My Take on Black and White Minimalism

by 33 Comments

When I decided to do the whole minimal style thing I vowed to do it my way. Of course I plan to continue incorporating the “minimal colors” like black, white and neutrals. However, I’m determined not to be boring with my outfit choices. This outfit could have easily gone the boring route, but adding a hint of my fun personality with the accessories made all the difference. That’s why this outfit is my take on black and white minimalism.

Minimal Outfit - Black and White

Black and White Minimal Outfit

Blouse: Nordstrom Rack (Similar) // Pants: Nordstrom Rack (Similar) // Clutch: Love, Cortnie

Minimal Outfit Black and White

I’ll be the first to throw on a simple/basic outfit. The less fuss the better! However, I’m a stickler for adding a unique touch to every outfit; that’s where personal style comes in. Therefore, when deciding to wear this outfit, I made sure to add a bold clutch, a pair of trendy metallic heels and a unique necklace.

Black and white is the perfect color combination for a minimal wardrobe. #wnjstyle

Click To Tweet

I wear black and white several times a week and its my go-to color combo for many events. The colors are easy to style and can be worn in many variations. Simply put, black and white is the perfect color combination to add to any wardrobe. 

Love Cortnie

Black and White Minimalism

Shoes: Kenneth Cole, DSW (Similar) // Necklace: Macy’s // Watch: Charming Charlie (Another Option)

Black and White Minimalism

So tell me, what do you think about my take on black and white minimalism? How often do you wear black and white? Let me know!

Thanks for stopping by and until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

KEEP UP WITH ME

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

Personal Style | Minimal Wardrobe Update + (More) Minimal Wardrobe Options

by 25 Comments

As I continue building my minimal wardrobe, I’m very pleased with my progress. I’ve donated and sold several items that no longer serve a purpose and will continue to do so throughout this process. I’ve created a list of specific items to add to my wardrobe and I’ve started buying only those items. Talk about self-control! I’ve also started wearing what’s left in my closet more often, which helps create even more minimal wardrobe options. Styling the pieces differently has allowed me to become more creative with accessories, shoes, and jewelry.

* Read Also, How to Keep a Minimal Wardrobe Budget Friendly

Minimal Wardrobe Outfit

Tunic: Bobeau, Nordstrom Rack (Different Color) // Pants: Sejour, Nordstrom (Similar & Similar) // Flats: Steve Madden (Similar)

Minimal Wardrobe Options

Earrings & Necklace: Macy’s (Similar & Similar)

Outfit - Minimal Wardrobe Options

It’s no secret that I’m a fan of wearing black, gray and other neutrals. Bright colors and prints also have a place in my wardrobe; however, I stick with a neutral color palette for most of my work outfits. The gray tunic and black pants, worn in the outfit above, are two of my favorite items to style. Each piece can easily serve as a base for several outfits.

Remember the ‘quality over quantity’ rule when purchasing items for your wardrobe. #wnjstyle

Click To Tweet

As I search the web for wardrobe additions, of course, I’ve found several options from Nordstrom and Nordstrom Rack. Both stores carry multiple brands that fit several plus size body types. They also sell quality clothing. The price doesn’t always dictate the quality of an item, but when shopping at these stores that’s sometimes the case. While rebuilding and adding to my minimal wardrobe, I’m all about quality over quantity. Therefore, I’m willing to spend a little extra to make sure I stick to that rule.

Pants: Carlson, Nordstrom (same) // Top: Sejour,  Nordstrom (same) // Sneakers: Converse, Nordstrom (same)

So tell me, what do you think about my latest minimal outfit? Are you a fan of the 3 minimal wardrobe options from Nordstrom? Let me know! 

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

KEEP UP WITH ME

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

Personal Style | Casual Weekend Outfit

by 26 Comments

Happy Monday! I was MIA last week due to a nasty virus, but I’m back today to share yet another casual weekend outfit. I spent most of the weekend with my family. We had quite a busy Friday and Saturday, so once Sunday arrived I was determined to make that a day of rest. After my little sisters Heart of Charity Pageant on Saturday, I needed a full day to regroup. I was able to squeeze in a few errands as well, hence wearing this casual weekend outfit.

Plus Size Casual Weekend Outfit

Top: Thrifted, 2nd Avenue // Pants: Sejour (Similar) // Flats: Tesori, Nordstrom Rack (Another Option) // Purse: Gifted

Casual Weekend Outfit

Casual Weekend Outfit - Plus Size

I’m sure you’ve noticed that I’ve been living in casual outfits here lately. Be it working from home or running errands, I’m a lot more active these days and wearing cute and comfy outfits seem to be my go-to. With all that’s going on in the different areas of my life, my style has become much more practical and comfortable. 

Believe it or not, the season you’re in can effect your wardrobe. #wnjstyle

Click To Tweet

I’ve come to the conclusion that this is a season of preparation for me. Weather I’m helping to prepare for family events, planning my #FearlessWomanIam website reveal and first event, or prepping for things in my personal life, I’m definitely in the planning and preparation mindset. Looking back on recent outfit choices, it’s evident my wardrobe reflects this season.

Casual Weekend Outfit

Earrings: eBay // Sunnies: H&M

 

Casual Weekend Outfit - WNJ Style

OOTD - Casual Weekend Outfit

So tell me, does your wardrobe reflect the season your in? What’s you idea of the perfect casual weekend outfit? Let me know!

As always thank you for reading! Be sure to linkup to today’s Personal Style Linkup below – I can’t wait to see what you’re wearing! Until then, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

Keep Up With Me

Instagram // Twitter // Facebook // Newsletter

[inlinkz_linkup id=614492 mode=1]

** Linkups: Classy Monday, How I Fall, Mix it Monday, Sophisticated Style, WIW **

Personal Style | 7 Work from Home Wardrobe Must Haves

by 15 Comments

Yesterday was another snowy and icy Monday here in Maryland. I’m pretty sure a lot of us were either off or worked from home, due to the “wintery mix”. As mentioned in this post the weather has caused me to work from home a lot more lately. So today I want to share a few (more) of my Work from Home Wardrobe Must Haves.

work from home wardrobe

1. Comfy Sweaters & Tops | Wearing comfortable clothing is a must for me, especially when I’m working from home. I move around quite a bit so wearing comfy swearers, tunics and flowy tops is perfect. I purchase most of my “work at home tops” from Nordstrom Rack, Marshall’s and of course, the thrift store. I usually rotate my top, creating a uniform of sorts. It makes getting dressed in the mornings a lot easier when I already know what I’m wearing.

2. Statement Jewelry | It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of statement jewelry. Even if I’m working from home, I always wear at least one statement piece. I thrift most of my pieces, but I also purchase pieces from the jewelry department at Macy’s, JCPenney or Nordstrom Rack.

3. (A Few) Maxi Dresses & Skirts | I love a good maxi dress (or skirt), especially during the warmer months. Having a few maxi options handy on my work from home days is another way to ensure getting dressed is simple and easy. Maxi dresses are also great layering pieces during the cooler months.

7 must have work from home wardrobe items! #wnjstyle

Click To Tweet

Work from Home Wardrobe Must Haves

4. Comfy Shoes | Although I prefer bare feet or sometimes socks while in the house, comfy shoes are important to keep close. If I have to run errands, head out for some lunch or just walk to the mailbox downstairs, I reach for one of my many pairs of cute and comfy flats.

5. Handbags (Clutches, Backpacks & Large Handbags) | Again, you never know when you may need to slip out of the house. Therefore an array of handbags to choose from is a must. I usually reach for one of my backpacks (like this one) or a big tote bag, but there are times when a simple clutch will do.

Even when working from home, keep it cute and stylish! #wnjstyle

Click To Tweet

6. Cardigans (Longs and Short) | Cardigans are very important items in my work from home wardrobe. I tend to get cold often so I always keep a cute cardigan, long or short, handy.

7. Thick Leggings | When I’m not wearing skinny leg denim or stylish sweatpants leggings are my thing, like this pair. Not only are they slimming, but they pretty much go with several of my tunics and tops. I have approximately 5 pair of leggings and just like many of my other wardrobe items, they’re in constant rotation.

So tell me, what does your work from home wardrobe consist of? Let me know!

Thanks for reading and be sure to let me know more about your work from home wardrobe. I can always use more suggestions! Be sure to link your recent outfit to my Personal Style Linkup below. Until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

Keep Up With Me

Instagram // Twitter // Facebook // Newsletter

[inlinkz_linkup id=608383 mode=1]

** Linkups: How I Fall, WIW, Mix it Monday, Garay Treasures, Trend Tuesday, Small Victories **