style Archives - Whitney Nic James

Thrifted Style | 8 Thrifty Bloggers You Should Follow

July 23, 2015 by Whitney 8 Comments

I’ve been dying to create a list like this forever! So today I’m beyond thrilled to share my list of 8 Thrifty Bloggers You Should Follow. In the past I’ve done some Thrifty Friend Features and they’ve been a lot fun, and seemingly helpful to those who’re searching for thrifty tips and tricks. I’ve actually featured quite a few of the thrifty bloggers on this list, so some may sound familiar. Nonetheless, this list is a must read and share. Let’s get into it!

8 Thrifty Bloggers You Should Follow, ASAP. #thriftwithnic

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1. Looking Fly on a Dime. Patrice is the thrifting queen. She’s even written a book on thrifting! She’s a definite thrift/style and entrepreneurial inspiration and it’s been a pleasure getting to know and follow her over the years. She’s been featured here on the blog before, and next week she’ll be sharing her #FearlessWoman story with us. Just goes to show that Patrice is much more than just fashion; she’s a woman living with purpose and is on a mission!

2. Thrift & Shout. Lindsey always has the best finds and she’s kind enough to showcase them over on the blog. I was drawn to her fashion sense, and cute haircut, a while back and I’ve been a fan ever since. I featured her as my first Thrifty Friend back in 2013 and she gave some very helpful thrift tips. Be sure to follow her for thrift inspiration and a dose of amazing style!

3. Style is She. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting Atlanta based thrifter and stylist NeShanta and believe me when I say, she’s has an amazing and positive spirit. I just LOVE her! She shares the best thrifted fashion on her blog and is always ready and willing to share great thrifitng (and entrepreneurial) advice. NeShanta is a gem; be sure to check out her online shop too!

4. A Collected Gentleman. When I stumbled on Isiah’s site I immediately showed hubby. His thrifted style is impeccable and so well put together! It’s quite refreshing to see a young man take pride in his style, and Isiah does just that. He also shares a lot of inspirational and uplifting messages through his posts. A blogger with a purpose is something rare, but he fits the mold perfectly. Check him out and be sure to take a look at his WNJ feature as well.

NeShanta | Style is She

5. DE Divah Deals (Fashion & Fun After Fifty). I call Antionette my big sis; no worries, she knows it. We met through the Bloggers Like Me group and have been friends ever since. Last year we had the opportunity to thrift together and I also made the trip to DE to for a Goodwill Fashion Show she invited me and hubby to. It’s always a blessing to find genuine people along this blogging journey and Antionette is definitely one of those people. She also give great blogging 101 tips too; check out her other site Blogging with Blake!

6. Thriftanista in the City. Troy is a great thrifter to follow because not only does she have GREAT finds, but she’s also really good at DIY fashion. That’s a skill I’d LOVE to have, lol. She shares great thrift tips and is always so chic and fly with her OOTD choices. I can just tell she too has an amazing spirit. One day, we’ll meet and thrift til we drop…I’m sure of it. Be sure to join her interactive thrift group on Facebook too!

7. Fashionably Employed. Jen is another blogging pal and has really great style tips for those of use who work a 9-5 but still want to be cute and stylish. She does a great job of dressing for the workplace and always provides useful tips on style and life in general. She’s also one of my favorite bloggers to collab with. We’ve collaborated a few times and it’s always fun to work with other bloggers who enjoy their craft. I’ve featured her as a Thrifty Friend so be sure to check it out!

8. Melodic, Thrifty & Chic. Eclectic, funky and fashion forward are just a few words I’d use to describe Anna’s style. She thinks outside the box when it comes to style and knocks it out of the park every time! Her blog is another refreshing take on fashion and I love that she is not afraid to be herself and express that through her personal style. It’s genius…and fun to watch. Take a look at her thrifty feature here!

Thrifted fashion is suppose to be fun, easy and always unique! #thriftwithnic

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Lindsey | Thrift and Shout

So tell me, do yo follow any of these thrifty bloggers? Who’re some of your faves? Let me know!

Thanks for reading and be sure to visit these amazing thrifty bloggers. Until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

KEEP UP WITH ME

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Lifestyle | Go, Play, Create, Work with the ASUS T300 Chi

May 19, 2015 by Whitney

I’ve spent the last few days getting to know my new tech toy – the ASUS T300 Chi! Truth be told, I’ve been searching for a new computer for a while now. So when I was given the opportunity to try out the new ASUS I was thrilled! It really is one of the easiest devices to use…and it can do so much. One of my favorite features is the detachable tablet. I’m constantly on the go and a laptop isn’t always practical. Being able to detach the screen and use it as a tablet is a dream come true! The T300 really is the perfect all-around 2-in-1 device.

Another plus? The laptop comes with Windows 8.1 and has a super fast Intel Processor! Not sure about you, but those elements are extremely helpful. I love using Windows 8.1 at work, so using it for my home device to is a real treat. Here’s some more interesting and helpful facts about the ASUS T300 Chi:

12.5″ Display
Responsive touchscreen
As a laptop, it’s thinner than MacBook Air (1.65cm)
Super strong magnetic hinge (connects screen to keyboard)
Exceptional Battery Life
Very affordable, $699.00
Storage — 128GB ISSD
Quiet and fan-less
Dual Speakers
Stylus Pen

I’ve definitely been able to Go, Play, Create, and Work with this new device. It’s been a breeze editing blog posts, updating social media and checking emails. The T300 has traveled with me to the park, church, on car rides and more! Being able to use the tablet has been a life AND space saver when preparing to pack my bag for a work day. With the dual speakers and near perfect built in camera, it’s also been a great tool to use for listening to webinars on-the-go, recording video content, and engaging in Google Chats.

Using the T300 as a laptop has also come in handy while working on creating posts at home. I’m able to easily use the device to view and share my latest posts, and also read through some of my favorite blogs as well. The laptop fits on my desk, dresser or table top with ease, without it taking up so much room. While blogging and browsing other sites, I often use my headphones to listen to Spotify too. Gotta have some tunes going while working and creating, right?!

Lastly, taking the device with me to work has been an easy task. Again, it’s so lightweight and easy to pack in my work bag. I actually opt to use the T300 sometimes while working on my 9-5 tasks. I find it easier to use during certain projects. I can talk on the phone to clients, send out emails, and listen to my work playlist at the same time. And of course, it takes up less space then a huge desktop!

I’m more than thankful for the T300. It came right on time, as I desperately needed a new laptop. I highly suggest the ASUS T300 Chi if you’re looking for a lightweight, easy to carry and use device. Until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

I participated in the ASUS campaign as a member of bLink Marketing Network. I was provided a free computer from ASUS to review but all opinions are my own. Comments submitted may be displayed on other websites owned by the sponsoring brand

Life + Style Feature with Mattie James

September 10, 2014 by Whitney 20 Comments

“Live what you love” is the motto style blogger Mattie James of Mattieologie lives by. A woman with drive, style, and passion, Mattie has been in the blogging game for almost 5 years. When I first started, I found Mattie on Twitter and I was instantly intrigued by her colorful tweets about life, style and pop culture. I clicked the follow button and I’ve been hooked ever since!

Residing in Atlanta, Georgia, Mattie has spent the last few months preparing to be a new Mommy! Due in just a few short weeks, Mattie and her husband are patiently waiting for #Babyologie’s arrival. Read more to find out Mattie’s take on style and blogging, as well as her advice on finding your passion in life. Enjoy and be sure to stop by Mattieologie to say hello!

* EDITORS NOTE: MATTIE’S WEBSITE IS NOW MATTIEJAMES.COM

ABOUT MATTIE & HER STYLE

Where are you from and where do you currently reside?

I kind of grew up everywhere from Huntsville, AL (where I was born) to Saudi Arabia (where I attended preschool) to Pittsburgh, PA (high school and college), but I currently live in Atlanta where I spent part of my childhood as well.

How do you define your personal style?

Actively feminine. It’s on trend and on the go!

What are your top shopping destinations for…

Clothes – Obsessed with ZARA. Their pieces are on trend and don’t break your pockets.

Shoes – If not ZARA, then I love Piperlime and Zappos. Online shopping tends to give me more variety.

Jewelry & Accessories – I’m a little more flexible in this department because I love statement and costume jewelry. I get them from Neiman Marcus, BaubleBar, Macy’s, Forever 21 or even small, independent shops (online and in store). I tend to keep it name brand when it comes to sunglasses though. I’m a sucker for Ray Ban aviators.

Name 5 must have wardrobe staples every woman should own.

– A trench coat

– A killer little black dress

– Sneaker alternatives

– The perfect denim (for your shape)

– A crisp button up

ABOUT MATTIEOLOGIE

How long have you been blogging?

January will make it 5 years.

What inspired you to start Mattieologie?

I was in retail management at the time and it was draining me. I didn’t get to be creative or myself really. The blog became a source of escape.

What’s the best and toughest thing about being a blogger?

The best part is that I dictate what content I produce. If I love it, I’ll usually blog about it. I’m the say so. I’m the standard. That’s also the tough part. In an internet world of millions of blogs, how do you stay consistently yourself and still be authentic? 5 years ago I was just about to get married and I was an intern. Now, I’m a homeowner, wife and soon to be mom. My taste has changed. My style and perspective as well. So you don’t want to throw your reader off and say, “Hey I’m a new person now. I’m no longer interested in X, Y and Z.” But it’s important to me to be consistent and truthful. That’s the only way Mattieologie will what it’s supposed to as a blog.

It’s important to me to be consistent and truthful. – @themattiejames

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What’s your ultimate goal for Mattieologie?

It’s the overall foundation for my personal brand. It’s been my resume for my freelancing gigs and the bridge to my brand partnerships. As I get bigger and better, I want it to be reflected in my blog to show my growth as a blogger and a person.

ABOUT YOUR LIFESTYLE

What makes you happy & what inspires you?

Believe it or not, I make me happy and it took awhile for me to get there. Because if you’re not happy with yourself, how can you be happy with anything or anyone else? So, my happiness starts from within and everything else is a bonus…the cherry on top. I’m inspired by people and things that challenge me. Most things come easy to me, so when something doesn’t, I know it’s really worth it. Blogging is one of those things. Also, I’m obsessed with fashion magazines and beautiful photographs. I love pretty things. They inspire me to create.

As a wife, mommy-to-be, and an entrepreneur, how do you find balance in your everyday life?

I read an interview where Gwen Stefani said, “You’re going to fail at one thing a day.” Once I came to that realization, I found balance. Perfection is very fragile so it’s not something I aim for in my life. I aim for progress. The house may get cleaned, dinner might have gotten cooked and I may have called that family member I’ve been meaning to catch up with for months now. But then that means, I didn’t get to film a YouTube video like I wanted to. And you know what? That’s ok. Tomorrow, I’ll just aim to be better. Which is fine by me because I never want to stop striving.

What are 3 things you do to maintain a healthy lifestyle?

Prayer, water and giving. In that order. LOL. I’m a Christian, so I go to God for guidance through prayer. It’s not just about what He’s saving you from, but what he’s taking you to. Water is important because it solves everything. Dehydration, dry skin, headaches…everything. A lot of times we’re not sick, we’re just thirsty. As someone who can be very self involved, I’ve learned that giving is one of the most fulfilling things you can do in life. Especially giving with no expectation of a return. That type of selflessness is reward in itself. And if you ask me, great for your skin.

How did you find your passion and purpose in life? What was you “ah-ha” moment?

You have to be explicitly honest with yourself: WHAT DO YOU WANT? Answer that question honestly and boldly regardless of judgement of yourself. A couple of years ago I realized that I wanted to make a living off of being myself. Not to be rich or even famous. But to make a living – a respectable income – by being me. So whether I’m making a YouTube video, writing a style post, teaching a workshop or simply Instagramming my vacation, I want to make a living off of ALL OF THAT. You cannot get what you want until you DECIDE what you want. Once I became decisive, things in my life started to go more my way and that was the “aha” moment.

BONUS QUESTION

What advice do you have for someone who’s trying to find their passion and purpose in life?

Be decisive. That’s really a lot of our problem. We haven’t decided who we wanted to be yet. And if we don’t make that decision, someone else will make it for us. And it’s usually not in our favor. Ask yourself what do you love? What kind of life do you want to have? And make the decision to live what you love. It’s honestly that simple.

Giving is one of the most fulfilling things you can do in life. – @themattiejames

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How can we keep up with you?

Blog // Twitter // Instagram // Youtube // Facebook

Style + Lifestyle Feature: Alison of Get Your Pretty On

July 16, 2014 by Whitney 11 Comments

Hey, hey! 🙂 Today I’m introducing you to another featured blogger for the #summerwithnic series! While I’ve never met this blogger in person, I can assure that Alison of Get Your Pretty On is one of the sweetest bloggers I’ve worked with and met via-internet. Her kindspirit and great style come across in all her posts, and I’m sure you’ll get the same vibes when reading her interview. Enjoy! 🙂

ABOUT ALISON + HER STYLE

Where are you from and what’s your occupation?

I’m a mom of three and former actress/print model turned virtual stylist/blogger. I live in a suburb of Dallas, TX with my hubby, our three kiddos and our golden retriever.

How do you define your personal style?

My basic everyday style is casual chic with some fun and trendy touches.

What are your 5 must have wardrobe items for the summer?

Maxi dress, maxi dress, maxi dress, maxi dress, maxi dress. No, just kidding! Although I could live in them.

– Maxi Dresses

– Metallic Sandals

– Fedora

– Bright Tees and Tanks

-Printed Shorts

Name 5 must have wardrobe staples every woman should own?

– A great pair of riding boots

– A fabulous trench coat

– A pair of dark wash skinny jeans that fit like a glove

– A well-made handbag

– Lots of scarves

ABOUT GET YOUR PRETTY ON (GYPO)

How long have you been a blogger?

I started GYPO in September of 2012.

What inspired you to start GYPO?

After falling into a mom rut of wearing only yoga pants all day, every day, I was inspired to do something about my wardrobe. GYPO gave me the accountability that I needed to get dressed every day and feel pretty again!

Where do you see GYPO in 5 years?

GYPO is constantly evolving. I see my virtual styling programs getting bigger and better each time. In five years, I’d love to be the go-to source for everyday virtual styling.

What’s the best and toughest thing about being a blogger?

The best thing is the creativity, friendships and flexibility in my schedule. The toughest is having all of the responsibility on me to make everything happen!

ALISON’S LIFESTYLE

What makes you happy & what inspires you?

Spending time with my family makes me truly happy, as does dark chocolate, iced green tea and a glass of pinot grigio on the patio. I’m truly inspired by the women in my style challenge programs. They are amazingly supportive and encouraging and not afraid to step out of their comfort zones.

What are 3 things you do daily to maintain a healthy lifestyle?

– Drink water

– Pray/meditate

– Work out

As a wife, mother, and entrepreneur, how do you find balance in your everyday life?

I have to MAKE balance, it doesn’t happen. When work is over, it’s over. Some days that means forcing myself to close my laptop so I can be present for my family.

Any advice for someone who’s trying to find their passion and purpose in life?

If you’re working in a job that doesn’t excite you, you owe it to yourself to discover what does. A good way to do this is by doing what you love on the side for awhile. I blogged part-time until I was able to transition into it full time.

HOW CAN WE KEEP UP AND CONTACT WITH YOU?

Blog: getyourprettyon.com

Facebook: facebook.com/getyourprettyon

Twitter: @alisonlumbatis

Instagram: @alisonlumbatis

Pinterest: pinterest.com/alisonlumbatis