Whitney Nic James

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Persona; Style | Year 28 Personal Style Evolution + My Go-To Shopping Stores & Sites

August 10, 2015 by Whitney 23 Comments

As my 29th birthday approaches tomorrow I thought it’d be fun to take a look back at my personal style evolution over the year. When I turned 28, I promised myself to get in tune with my personal style. My goal was to find  and wear clothing that was practical, in style, comfortable and chic. Also if the clothes made me feel good, I was sold! I gravitated towards black and white, neutrals and prints. I also made sure my accessory game was on fleek, LOL!

Personal Style

I’ve even ventured into a few new stores and have finally complied a list of my go-to stores/sites for clothing, accessories and shoes:

Clothing 

  • Nordstrom & Nordstrom Rack
  • Thrift Stores
  • Marshall’s, TJ Maxx & Ross
  • Lord & Taylor
  • Macy’s

Accessories / Jewelry 

  • Aldo Accessories
  • H&M
  • eBay
  • Thrift Stores
  • Marshall’s & TJ Maxx

Shoes 

  • Nordstrom Rack
  • DSW
  • Nine West (Outlet)
  • Macy’s (Sales Rack)
  • Lord & Taylor

A quick list of affordable go-to stores for clothing, shoes and accessories. #wnjstyle

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Black and White OOTD - Personal Style

Black & White + Statement Necklace

Personal Style - OOTD

Floral Pants: Ralph Lauren, Lord & Taylor // Bodysuit: F21 // Vest: Marshall’s // Backpack: TJ Maxx

While these outfits are just a few examples of what I wore this year, they’re some of my favorite outfits worn, on the blog or shown on Instagram, during my 28th year. I’m very comfortable with my personal style choices and personal style growth. It’s been a fun year and I can’t wait to see where Year 29 takes my style!


 So tell me, what do you think about my personal style evolution this year? Let me know!

Thanks for stopping by today and don’t forget to link your recent outfit to today’s Personal Style Linkup. Until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Filed Under: Style Tagged With: Nordstrom, Nordstrom Rack, Personal Style, Personal Style Linkup, thrifted

Style | Thrifted Travel Style + JORD Watches

July 16, 2015 by Whitney 6 Comments

Continuing with my travel style today’s outfit is definitely something I’d wear during on a trip. I’m a huge fan of tunic dresses, so purchasing this thrifted beauty on my last thrifting trip was a must. I also decided to add my wooden watch (c/o JORD) to the look. The right accessories are an absolute must have for travel style.

Travel Style - Thrifted OOTD

Travel Style - Tunic

Tunic: Thrifted, Value Village // Belt/Necklace: Thrifted, Value Village // Flats: Steve Madden (Similar)

Thrifted Tunic

This printed tunic dress is something I’d wear on a chill/relax day during my travels. It’s lightweight, easy to throw on, and still stylish and fashion forward; all of which are very important travel style requirements. As I mentioned in this post, cutesy and comfortable flats and the perfect accessories (shoes and jewelry) are also travel style needs.

Mens Wooden Watches

I actually purchased this thrifted belt on my most recent thrift store run in Charlotte, NC. I decided to style it as a necklace. Genius, right?! The watch was a no brainier because it’s a casual yet chic timepiece. The fact that it’s wooden (environmentally friendly) is awesome!

Thrifted Outfit - Travel Style

JORD Watch

Watch: JORD (Same)

jord watch

A tunic dress is the perfect travel style option! #wnjstyle

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Travel Style - Thrifted Tunic


So what do you think about my travel style thrifted tunic? And how cute is my JORD watch?! Let me know!

Thanks for stopping by and for checking out some of my travel style tips this week. I have a few travel style tips/reminder printables coming next week, so be sure to sign up for my newsletter. Don’t forget to show off your personal style by linking your recent OOTD pots(s) here. Until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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** Linkups: Spotlight Style **

Filed Under: Plus Size Style, Style, Thrifty Thursday Tagged With: JORD Watches, thrifted, tunic, Value Vill

Personal Style | Travel Style

July 13, 2015 by Whitney 42 Comments

Happy Monday! I hope you’re all well and ready for an amazing and productive week. Hubby and I traveled to Delaware for an unexpected, yet fun and enjoyable, road trip yesterday. We visited his family and also ate some really good cookout food! It’s not out of the ordinary that we hop in the car for a weekend or day road trip, so I thought this week I’d talk about some of my travel style outfits/travel must haves. 

Plus Size Travel Style

Blouse: West Kei, Nordstrom Rack // Travel Bag: Calvin Klein,Thrifted

Travel Style OOTD

Of course when traveling comfort is key, so I like to wear clothing that’s fit a bit looser (and leggings). Tunics, oversized tee shirts and plazo pants are at the top of my travel style list. Hubby and I do a lot of road trips, so functional wardrobe pieces are a must for me as well. Shoes that can easily be removed while in the car like sandals and comfy flats are important too. The flats in this outfit are perfect. Not only are they comfortable, but they’re in style and can go with just about any outfit.

Your travel style should be comfortable, stylish and functional. #wnjstyle

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I can usually fit my outfits and personal items in the same bag as hubby, so we often road trip with one bag. If we’re going somewhere for an entire weekend and have different events to attend while there, we carry 2 bags max. I also carry a big tote bag or purse and I keep it next to me on the ride. More on what’s in our bags and how I pack later this week. In the meantime, check out a few of my miscellaneous road trip essentials here!

Plus Size OOTD - Travel Style

Pants: Bobeau. Nordstrom Rack (Similar) // Flats: Steven Madden (Similar & On Sale) // Earrings: Gifted (Other Options)

Take a look at this road trip/travel outfit; it’s perfect! #wnjstyle

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Travel Style - Plus Size Style

Travel Style OOTD


So tell me, what do you think about my travel style? What do you wear when traveling? Let me know!

Thanks for reading and commenting. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Filed Under: Personal Style Linkup, Plus Size Style, WNJ Style Tagged With: Casual Summer, Nordstrom Rack, Plus Size Outfit, Road Trips, Steve Madden, thrifted, Travel Style

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

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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

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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!

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** 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

Thrifted Style | 5 Thrift Shopping Tips for the Summertime & Beyond + a Thrift Haul

June 18, 2015 by Whitney 5 Comments

I think I finally got my thrifting mojo back! Don’t get me wrong, I still love thrifting. But I have not been excited to thrift for months. Because I’m (still) going through a minimalist wardrobe (and lifestyle) phasing period, I haven’t been that into purchasing random pieces. And to be honest, that’s one thing I’m guilty of when thrifting. I’ve been known to thrift the most random pieces from time to time.

Nonetheless, I have made up in my mind which items I need and I was able to thrift quite a few of them. From housewares, books, accessories, and clothing, thrifting for necessities has become easier because I’m clear on what I want and need. Here are a few quick and easy thrift shopping tips for the summertime, and beyond! 

thrift shopping tips

1.  Create a Thrift List (NEEDS, WANT & TRENDS TO TRY) | I have done a thrift list for years, but making the 3 columns within the list has been a great addition. The items I need (i.e. black purse, long gold chain necklace and kitchen items) are the items I make a point to look for first. The want list may consist of earrings and books; items I don’t really need but want to have. Trends to try are the items like overalls and fringe. I’ve seen them on others and I want to thrift the trend before committing to making a department store purchase for them. So, I add them to the list and see if I can thrift the items to give them a try. This section is the last section I shop for.

2. Throw it in the Cart | If you see something you like or something you maybe kind of like, throw it in the cart! If you leave it on the rack and try to come back to it, I highly doubt it’ll be there when you come back. Throw it in the cart if it catches your eye and sort it out later.

Thrift Tip: See something you might like? Throw it in the cart and evaluate later. #thriftwithnic

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3. Try it On | Another reason I say throw it in the cart is because when you try items on, you’ll be able to decipher what you want to keep or not. I always suggest trying items on when thrifting, even if it’s trying on a dress in the aisle over your clothes. Not all thrift stores allow returns/exchanges, so TRY IT ON in order to avoid that yucky buyer’s remorse feeling.

4. Re-evaluate | Once you’ve tried everything on and know what you’re going to purchase, reevaluate one more time to be absolutely sure. Check your list and check off the items you’ve found. Also, price check. When I reevaluate towards the end of my trip, I usually ask myself if I’d really pay “x” amount for an item. I then figure out 3 ways to wear or use the item.

5. Bring Cash | Cash is king. Most thrift stores accept credit cards, but paying with cash is so much easier. It also helps keep you on target with your thrifting budget. If I bring $40 cash and I know that was my budget for the trip, I only spend that money. I don’t even reach in my purse for my card. It’s a mind thing, and it really does work!

5 quick and easy thrifting shopping tips for any season. #thriftwithnic

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So tell me, what are some of your thrift shopping tips? What’re your fave items from my thrift haul? Let me know! 

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

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Filed Under: Style, Thrift With Nic! Tagged With: thrift shopping, Thrift With Nic, thrifted, thrifting, YouTube

Style | What to Wear to Work + Personal Style Linkup

June 15, 2015 by Whitney 55 Comments

Happy Monday! This weekend was a busy one, thanks to my now 13-year-old sister. Her birthday was yesterday and she enjoyed a weekend long celebration. It all started with her Sky Zone party with a few friends on Friday night and ended with a family dinner at the Melting Pot last night. Now. she’s headed to Vegas with my parents to continue the celebration. Pretty sweet 13th birthday package, huh?

Needless to say, I am exhausted…LOL! But all for a good cause, so I’m all smiles. When Monday came, early this morning at 5 a.m., I knew I want to wear something simple and quick for work; preferably minimal ironing. So I decided my new thrifted dress was the perfect solution for the age ‘ol question, what to wear to work?  

wear to work - thrifted dress

Dress: Jessica London, Thrifted (Savers | Owings Mills, MD) // Flats: Steve Madden (similar) // Cross Earrings: H&M

Thrifted Dress - Wear to Work

This lightweight Jessica London dress was purchased this weekend at Savers thrift store (in Owings Mills, MD). When I saw the dress, I knew I had to at least try it on. It fit, 3 or 4 women complimented me while trying it on in the aisle, and hubby was a fan. Above all the dress made me feel and look great. SOLD!

Pairing this dress with minimal accessories was key. The print is already bold  and the fringes along the dress make for amazing detail. So a pair of earrings, cute flats, and possibly a clutch were all I needed to complete the look. When styling a dress with loud prints, be minimal with the accessories; let the garment speak for itself. 

 

what to wear to work

Wear to Work

If a garment has a bold print, be minimal with accessories. Let the item speak for itself. #wnjstyle

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thrifted dress - details

Clutch: Purchased in the Bahamas // Watch: Charming Charlie

Speaking of printed dresses, my favorite linkup from last week is Adrienne’s beautiful kaftan. The print is stunning and the way she effortlessly styled the garmnent deserves an applause. I LOVE Adrienne’s feminine and cute style and whenever she links up, I’m inspired and excited to see what she’s wearing! She is one stylish woman who enjoys wearing prints, fabulous heels and pretty things.

Printed Dress - Sweenee Style

Adrienne | Sweene Style


So tell me, what did you wear to work today? Do you like dresses with bold prints? Let me know!

Don’t forget to enter my Minted giveaway here. Also, be sure to show off your personal style by linking your recent OOTD pots(s) below. Be sure to link your outfit back to this post. Also, visit the other bloggers who’ve linked up and say hey. I’ll be sharing my favorite linkup next Monday! Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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** Linkups: How I Spring, Style to Inspire, Let it Shine, Monday Mingle, Small Victories, Bloggers Who Have Inspired Me, Trend Spin, Whatever Wednesday, Lisa a la Mode, Thursday Favorites

Filed Under: Plus Size Style, Style Tagged With: Savers Thrift Store, Steve Madden, thrifted, work wear

Style | May Style Recap + Style Linkup

June 1, 2015 by Whitney 33 Comments

June 1st already, huh? I cannot believe it! Of course, we must take a peak at my favorite outfits from last month. Looks like I wore a lot of thrifted goodies, huh?! From dresses to menswear, my May style recap is quite thrifty. I also made sure my style was comfy and chic; key elements to the perfect spring/summer outfit!

thrifted dress

Wearable Art

All Black Outfit - Nordstrom Rack

More All Black

I must say my favorite look is the “Wearable Art” shift dress. Whenever I wear this dress, I feel amazing! I also LOVE the Egyptian inspired print, and it’s perfect for styling for any season! I also like the hair I added to the look, lol. Something about curly hair just makes me feel sassy and extra confident. During the spring and summer months, I’ll definitely be wearing more fun styles like that!

Macy's Emme Plus Size Show

Macy’s Event OOTD

Style Tip: Hit the #thrift store to spruce up your spring & summer wardrobe! #wnjstyle

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Casual Thrifted Outfit - OOTD

Menswear (from April but still LOVE this!)

Before I go, I can’t forget to share my favorite linkup from last week. The casual and stylish outfit worn by the blogger behind Fashion Fairy Dust caught my eye, for sure! I love the lace vest and statement necklace. What a great way to add some personality and style to a casual look?! I’ve been a fan of her fun, eclectic, yet practical style for a while. So glad to share her latest OOTD!

Fashion Fairy Dust - OOTD

Fashion Fairy Dust


So tell me, what’s your favorite OOTD from my May style recap? What do you think about my face linkup look from last week? Let me know! 

Don’t forget to show off your personal style by linking your recent OOTD pots(s) below. Be sure to link your outfit back to this post. Also, visit the other bloggers who’ve linked up and say hey. I’ll be sharing my favorite linkup next Monday! Check out my favorite linkup from a few weeks ago here! Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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** Linked Up: Sophisticated Style, How I Spring, Mix it Monday’s, Monday Mingle, Let it Shine, Manic Monday, Garay Treasures **

Filed Under: Personal Style Linkup, Style Tagged With: 2nd Avenue, dresses, menswear, Personal Style Linkup, Plus Size Outfit, thrifted

Style | Wearable Art

May 18, 2015 by Whitney 36 Comments

Hey, friends! This weekend was filled with fun, family and fashion. From fashion shows, church and thrifting I was definitely out and about in this heat. My trusty thrifted weekend outfit (below)  surely came in handy. I also added a little pizzazz to my look by added some hair. Yes, adding some hair. I’m a big fan of curly hair and I embrace wigs with a quickness. It gives me a different look without fully committing – can’t beat that!

thrifted dress - wearable art

Dress: Vintage (2nd Avenue) // Purse: Nine West (Old)

thrifted vintage dress - OOTD

On this day, hubby and I ran a few errands and decided to take a walk around the Wilde Lake area. We’ve been doing a lot of walking lately and Columbia, MD is truly the perfect backdrop for our new found hobby. There are so many lakes, parks and pretty neighborhoods to explore. This summer we plan to take full advantage of our surroundings.

Of course being cute and comfy while trekking around Columbia is a must. My thrifted Egyptian inspired dress is perfect for that!  The semi-stretch material makes the dress easy to move in. The pattern is fun and easy to wear, and also makes me think of my amazing trip to the pyramids. I also feel like I’m wearing a piece of art when styling this dress. Do you have a piece of clothing like that?

http://wp.me/p3WN4h-3BX

vintage dress - ootd

Sunnies: Vintage (2nd Avenue) // Watch: NYC Street Vendor // Beaded Bracelet: Thrifted (2nd Avenue) // Sandals: Mossimo (Goodwill)

Every woman should have at least 1 piece of wearable art in her wardrobe. #wnjstyle

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thrifted dress - wearable art


So tell me, what do you think about my wearable art outfit? Do you like to play with wigs and different hairstyle options too? Let me know! 

Don’t forget to show off your personal style by linking your recent OOTD pots(s) below. Be sure to link your outfit back to this post. Also, visit the other bloggers who’ve linked up and say hey. I’ll be sharing my favorite linkup next Monday! Check out my favorite linkup from a few weeks ago here! Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

KEEP UP WITH ME

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** Linkups: Style to Inspire, How I Summer, Sophisticated Style, Let it Shine, Manic Monday, Visible Monday, Trend Spin, Garay Treasures, Mahogany Closet, The Wednesday Pants, Style to Me Wednesday, Whatever Wednesday, WIW, Style Me Weekly, Fashion a la Mode, Top of the World Style **

Filed Under: Personal Style Linkup, Plus Size Style, Style Tagged With: Personal Style Linkup, thrifted, vintage

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