Whitney Nic James

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Personal Style | Wardrobe Refresh

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Lately, I’ve been wearing more color and more outfits that are a bit out of my comfort zone. But, to my surprise, I’m thoroughly enjoying this change of pace. Granted, I still wear my black leggings and kimonos faithfully, but even then I try to add a little pizazz to my day to day “uniform”.  The pizazz can be as simple as an avant-garde piece of jewelry, or a colorful lip. As long as it gives my outfit some umph, I’m here for it!

See Also: How to Add Color to Your Wardrobe

I’m embracing change, figuring out how to make certain trends work for me, and most importantly, I’m having fun. I have a new found joy when I’m putting together outfits or shopping for new pieces. It’s quite refreshing.

Revamping your Wardrobe

Plus Size City Chic Dress

Dress: City Chic (same)

See Also: How to Create a Signature Style

I think every once in a while, everyone’s wardrobe needs to be refreshed. Granted, I’ve been known to take a minimalistic approach towards my wardrobe. I’ve written about it several times, and I still practice a lot of minimal wardrobe techniques. However, having the same wardrobe – with a few new additions here and there –  season after season can cause you to enter into a style rut. This happened to me. Again, each season I thoughtfully add new pieces. But I began to notice the bulk of my wardrobe has been the same for a very l o n g time.

Every once in a while, your wardrobe needs to be revamped and refreshed! #wnjstyle

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See Also: Tips on Stretching Your Wardrobe

Now, don’t take this as me telling you to purchase an entirely new wardrobe four times a year. That’s definitely not where I’m going with this. I’m just saying there’s nothing wrong with gradually refreshing your wardrobe. Being in a style rut is no fun. It’s uninspiring and can easily cause your mood and productivity to plummet. Trust me; the right clothes can do wonders for your mood AND your productivity! When I feel good about what I’m wearing I get a lot more done. I’m also more inspired to try things like a new lip color, or even a new hairstyle.

Platform Converse Sneakers

Sneakers: Converse (same)

Personal Style Tips

So tell me, when’s the last time you refreshed your wardrobe? 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: Style on the Daily, Visible Monday, Fabulous Friday, Trend Spin, Style Me Wednesday *

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 *

*THIS POST DOES INCLUDE AFFILIATE LINKS* 

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

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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)

 

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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!

KEEP UP WITH ME

*THIS POST DOES INCLUDE AFFILIATE LINKS*  

Lifestyle | What to Expect this Season

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It’s been awhile, huh?! Let’s just say the past few months have been extremely b u s y. Despite the business, I’ve been preparing a lot of content to share, as well as putting most of my energy into completing the Fearless Woman I am website. I’ve also used the past few months to spend much needed quality time with my family. As I mentioned in this post, the 1st quarter of the year was all about preparation for me. With the 2nd quarter in full swing, I’m now ready to spring into action and continue sharing and inspiring!  

Whitney Nic James

Photography Credit: Greg Hindman

During my brief blogging hiatus, I realized that I really enjoy sharing with you. I’ve created this online space and it feels like we’re family. Moving forward, I want you all to feel like you’re sitting around the kitchen table with me when reading my posts. Whether it’s providing tips on how to create your own personal style, sharing some of my favorite beauty products or books, showing you the latest affordable car on the market, or providing a bit of inspiration/motivation to help you through the day, sharing with you, my audience, brings me so much joy.

Plenty of useful style, beauty and inspirational content over on whitneynicjames.com! #wnjblogs

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Sure, there will be sprinkles of sponsored posts here and there, but my main focus is to connect and engage. If you’re signed up to my mailing list, you already know that starting this month I’ll be trying a Monday, Wednesday and Friday posting schedule. There may be weeks I post on a Wednesday or Thursday and there may be days I don’t keep up with the posting schedule at all. Life happens. But for the most part I plan to do my best to stick to the 3-day schedule. No worries; the content will continue to be useful, visually appealing and uplifting. This new schedule will allow the Fearless Woman I am project to flourish and fulfill it’s purpose, while I continue to serve you, my loyal WNJ Readers.

Whitney Nic James

I’ll continue to update and engage daily over on social media. To make my content easier to find and share, I’ll be using the hashtags shown above. Some may look familiar, since I’ve been using a few already. As far as the newsletters, they’ll be arriving in your inboxes on a bi-weekly basis starting September 1st.

So tell me, what are you look forward to seeing on Whitney Nic James this spring and summer? Let me know! 

Thank you for keeping up with and supporting the blog thus far – I’m extremely grateful! If you have any suggestions as to what you’d like to read, let me know. I’m here for you, so feel free to contact me anytime! Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Personal Style | Denim and Leopard Print

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Wearing denim and leopard print is probably one of my favorite combinations! This weekend I was able to style this combo for a day of errands, lunch and hanging out with hubs. I’ve been dying to wear this jacket, purchased from Macy’s a few seasons ago. Since the weather was just right, not too cold and not too warm, I figured it’d be the perfect jacket to wear.

Denim and Animal Print

OOTD - Denim and Animal Print

Denim: JCP (Another Option) // Jacket: Calvin Klein (Another Option) // Flats: Tesori (Another Option)

Denim and Animal Print - OOTD

I like to fill my wardrobe with clothes that can easily be mixed and matched. Of course I have some wardrobe items that are specifically for formal occasions, but the majority of my options can be worn any day. This outfit is the perfect example! Not only is this a great outfit for the weekend, but it can also work for a casual date night, a shopping trip or even a day of working from home.

Styling denim and leopard print is the perfect outfit combo! #wnjstyle

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Denim and Animal Print OOTD

Outfit - Denim and Leopard Print

Clutch: Thrifted, Goodiwll (Another Option) // Earrings: Thrifted, 2nd Avenue

Denim and Animal Print Outfit

So tell me, are you a fan of the denim and leopard print combo? Does your wardrobe consist of many mix and match options? Let me know!

Thanks for reading! Be sure to link your recent outfit to my Personal Style Linkup below. Until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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** Linkups: How I Fall, Throwback Thursday, Sophisticated Style**

Personal Style | Maxi Skirt and Sheer Blouse

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Happy Monday, friends! I hope your weekend was a GREAT one! Although the Panthers suffered a rough lost yesterday – I’m still a die hard Ravens fan, but I love Cam – I still enjoyed hanging with the family at our annual Super Bowl gathering on Sunday. I stepped out of the house Saturday to run some errands and grab a bite with the Mr., so I decided to wear something comfy, of course. I still wanted to be cute and a little fancy, because I wasn’t feeling that great. So I decided to style my black maxi skirt and sheer blouse. Both items are subtly sexy and help boost my mood when I’m feeling a little blah. I’m a true believer that clothes can help boost your mood!

Maxi Skirt and Sheer Blouse

Skirt: Calvin Klein, Macy’s (Another Option) // Blouse: Nordstrom Rack (Another Option) // Flats: Sam Edelman, Nordstrom Rack (Similar)

Maxi Skirt and Sheer Blouse

All Black Plus Size Outfit

I’m not usually a fan of skirts, however I was immediacy intrigued when I saw this skirt had a gold zipper and high slit. I love when an article of clothing has eye catching details like that. The skirt is also very soft and stretchy (a major plus) and can be styled several ways. It’s no secret that I’m all about maximizing my wardrobe, so this purchase was a must!

Clothes can definitely help boost your mood when you’re feeling blah! #wnjstyle

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Wearing a high slit maxi skirt and a sheer blouse may sound fancy to some, but the shoes and accessories I chose put this outfit in the “casual chic” category. Because of the low temps I added my leopard print wrap to keep me warm. The “matching flats” were a given, and the big earrings added the final touch.

Maxi Skirt and Sheer Blouse

Leopard Print Wrap: NY & Co. (Another Option) // Purse: Nine West, Gifted // Gold Cuff: 2nd Avenue, Thrifted

Black Maxi Skirt OOTD

Plus Size Winter OOTD

So tell me, what do you think about my maxi skirt and sheer blouse weekend outfit? What’d you wear this weekend? Let me know!

Thanks for reading ad stopping by today! Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Personal Style | 2015 Personal Style Recap

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Happy Monday! I wasn’t going to post again until next year, however there are still a few posts I want to share; my 2015 Personal Style Recap is one of them. This year I’ve really come into my own in more ways than one, but especially style-wise. I have never been more comfortable in my own skin or with my personal style choices. I’ve searched, tried and experimented with several styles (stores, brands and designers) and I’ve finally figured out what works for me. Let’s take a look at some of my favorite outfits from 2015.

On my 2015 vision board I pinned a few images that reminded me to explore and express my personal style. As a budding entrepreneur, blogger and new wife, defining my personal style has been very important to my personal development. I wanted to be sure I was purchasing clothing that fit my lifestyle, not a trend. I wanted to be happy with my outer appearance just as I was with my inner self. No matter how you try to spin it, your inner and outer go hand in hand. If you look good and dress for yourself, you feel great on the inside.

Figuring out your personal style makes you feel great on the outside AND on the inside! #wnjstyle

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My 2015 personal style recap shows that I wasn’t afraid of embracing color, print and different styles. It also shows that I have somewhat of a cohesive style. Comfort, practicality, chic and stylish are the words that come to mind when look back at my 2015 style. I also realize that I’m a fan of casual wear, with a stylish twist. Comfy flats, beanies, hats, bold accessories, flowy clothing and neutral colors are definitely my thing!

Being confident with your outer appearance is just as important as what’s inside. #wnjstyle

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So tell me, what do you think about my 2015 Personal Style Recap? How has your personal style changed this year? Let me know! 

I always thank you for reading and linking up, so today is no different. THANK YOU for all your support this year. I truly appreciate you linking up every Monday and sharing my #OOTD posts. It means the world to me, really. Be sure to linkup to the last Personal Style Linkup of the year below and check back this week for my last few posts of the year. Until then, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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** Linkups: Sophisticated Style, How I Fall, Garay Treasures, Let it Shine **

Personal Style | Styling Floral Pants, Again…

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Floral, leopard print and stripes. Whatever the pattern, more than likely, I’ll style it! I’ve been into prints for years and these floral pants are one of my favorite pairs to wear. I styled them earlier this fall with a chunky sweater, but this time I opted for a softer and more feminine look by pairing them with a semi-sheer top. Looking back, I’m actually a bigger fan of this look than the previous. Something about it makes me feel pretty and even a bit flirty.

Floral Pants OOTD

Floral Pants: Ralph Lauren, Lord & Taylor (Another Print Option) // Blouse: Daniel Rainn, Nordstrom Rack (Similar Option) // Heels: Calvin Klein, Bloomingdales (Similar Pair)

Styling Floral Pants

OOTD Styling Floral Pants

This outfit is perfect for an evening date, holiday party or networking event. It’s stylish, the heels are actually comfortable, and it’s functional! As I’m sure you know, I enjoy mixing and matching items in my wardrobe. That’s one of the reasons I’ve been purchasing more quality and versatile pieces these past few seasons. When building (or revamping) your personal style, it’s all about investing in transitional wardrobe pieces and remembering the importance of quality over quantity. 

Invest in transitional wardrobe pieces and remember quality over quantity. #wnjstyle

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Floral Pants OOTD

Purse: F21 (Another Option) // Earrings: Target (ON SALE – Similar Pair)

Floral Pants - OOTD

Outfit Floral Pants

So tell me, are you a fan of styling floral pants? Let me know!

As always, thanks for visiting and commenting. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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