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Style | Styling a Vintage Dress + a Style Linkup

April 27, 2015 by Whitney 39 Comments

It’s been while since I’ve purchased a vintage dress, but there was something about this black and white floral number that caught my eye. At first glance, I thought it was more of a moo-moo than a dress. I still think that actually, lol. I mean let’s be honest, styling a vintage dress can be tough. Nonetheless I threw it in the cart, determined to make it work.

Vintage Dress: 2nd Avenue // Heels: Lane Bryant (Sold Out)

Don’t be afraid to try something new when it comes to fashion! Make it work, for you! #wnjstyle

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When I got it home, I tried on the dress (again) and wasn’t all that impressed to be honest. But I figured adding a pair of heels and a statement jewelry piece would make this moo moo fly! I like patterns, especially floral and animal print, bt I’m not one to style an item ~~like this~~. The dress has a lot going on, but that’s what’s fun about fashion. You can make pieces fun by adding your own personal touches here and there.

Hiring a seasmstress to recreate certain wardrobe itmes is a must! #wnjstyle

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I decided to wear this outfit to dinner with hubby one night. It was fun to wear, I was comfortable in it, and he thought I looked lovely. Works for me! However the next time I style this piece I’ll probably add a belt. This will give the dress a different shape. I’m also toying with the idea of making the dress into a top/tunic. Of course I’d take it to my seamstress. A trusty seamstress is a must for recreating pieces like this!

Earrings: Fashion Truck Vendor // Bracelet: Monet, Macy’s

So tell me, what do you think about my vintage dress? Have you ever had trouble styling a vintage dress but made it work? Let me know!

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

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Thrifted Style | Kimonos and Dresses

March 19, 2015 by Whitney 12 Comments

Remember my obsession with kimonos? Some things never change. 😉 Now that it’s getting warmer I’m more than ready to pull out my kimonos and get to styling! This floral thrifted gem is one of my favorites. I’ve had this kimono for years and despite the rips and tears, I’ve held onto it for dear life. I’ve sewn up the holes, cut one side to be even with the other side (that I ripped a while back), and to me it’s just as perfect when I purchased it.

Dress + Kimono + Tote Bag: Thrifted, 2nd Avenue

The mustard color dress, also thrifted, is actually Asos brand. The stretchy material is to die for, but the versatility is what I really like. It’s one of those dresses that can easily be transitioned from season to season. Tights and boots make it perfect for winter, while bare legs and sandals make it work for the warmer months. Another good thing about this dress? The fit is a winner with hubby. He likes for me to show a little leg and curve every now and then. 😉

I jazzed up the outfit with a statement necklace and my cute gold flats. Adding the (thrifted) tote made this a perfect option for the work place. Because my work environment is more laid back, I don’t do the dresses and heels thing. However, a dress (and outfit) like this is perfect for those days I want to get a little fancy.

Necklace: Nordstrom Rack // Flats: Michael Kors, Nordstrom Rack // Watch + Earrings: Thrifted, 2nd Avenue

So tell me, do you have a clothing item that you just can’t get rid of? What are your thoughts on kimonos and dresses? Let me know!

Thanks for stopping by and be sure to keep up with me on social media. I’m always posting or saying something! Until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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** Linkups: WIW, Style Sessions, Thrift Sisters, TBT Linkup, Manic Monday, Let Your Light Shine **

Style | My New Firmoo Glasses

February 9, 2015 by Whitney 68 Comments

Have you ever put on an outfit and felt like something was missing? This happen to me the other day and after a few minutes of going back and forth, I figured out what was missing from my outfit. A pair of cute fashion glasses! I think glasses can be such the perfect outfit accessory! Even if the glasses are prescription, wearing a stylish pair instantly makes certain outfits complete.

That’s how I feel about my Firmoo glasses. I’ve been searching for the perfect pair of fashion glasses since last summer, but I must say that this pair is by far my favorite. I wanted a pair that fit my personality and personal style, so I went with these. Good choice, right?

Glasses: Firmoo

When deciding what to wear this weekend, I knew I was going to wear my new specs. So I opted for an outfit with earth tones, and of course, leopard print. I’d been dying to wear my thrifted coat with fringes, so I added that piece to the look as well. This outfit, in my mind, is the perfect look for a weekend full of blogger events and family activities. It’s not too dressy, but not too causal and the heels add a little something extra to the look. I did carry a pair of flats with me, that I ended up wearing most of the day, but the idea and the effort I put forth to wear heels all day to 2 different events was admirable. 😉

Top: Lord & Taylor // Pants: Macy’s, American Rag // Shoes: DSW, Tahari

Aside from the glasses, my favorite part of this outfit is the pants. These lightweight American Rag pants were $10 at Macy’s a few weeks back. I knew they’d be coming home with me because they’re very versatile. After trying them on in the fitting room, I came up with 3 or 4 different outfits to wear with the pants. I’m all about restyling, as I’m sure you’ve realized by now, so adding them to wardrobe was a no brainer.

Wearing fashion glasses is a simple way to achieve a stylish or trendy look! #styletip

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Fringe Coat: Thrifted, 2nd Avenue

Adding simple elements to an outfit, like the perfect pair of glasses, is a simple way to achieve a stylish or trendy look. At first I thought the glasses maybe too much, but I ended up really liking the final look. So next time you’re in need of the perfect pair of fashion (or prescription) glasses to complete your OOTD, check out the Firmoo glasses selections.

So tell me, what do you think about my look? Are you a fan of wearing fashion glasses? Let me know!

The Firmoo ordering process is simple, the glasses are affordable, and the selections are fabulous! If you’re thinking about ordering a pair, check out their BOGO Valentine’s Day Sale! And for new customers, you can get a 50% off code on the frames sitewide by clicking HERE!

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

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The Best of 2014 Personal Style Edition | What I’ve Learned About Personal Style

December 15, 2014 by Whitney 42 Comments

Happy Monday, everyone! This weekend was such a great one. Not only was I able to spend some QT with hubby, but we also got a lot of things done around the house. It’s that time of the year when I start cleaning out closets, drawers and everything in between. So, we did a little bit of that on Saturday and Sunday. By next weekend, we should be done….I hope. 😉

Today’s post is a recap of my favorite outfits from my Personal Style Monday posts. I started this linkup as a way to express my personal style and of course, I wanted to give you all a chance to do the same. I started out by having just 8 or so links for months and now I have 30+ linkups almost each week. I LOVE it and I thank you all for linking up and sharing my links each week. Check out some of my favorite Personal Style Moments of 2014, as well as some things I’ve learned about my personal style along the way.

Black + White // Colorful Maxi

whitney nic james - plus size blogger outfits

LBD // Skirt Dress

Clearly I embraced my curves, wore a lot of dresses, and had no problem showing a little bit of skin earlier this year. I enjoyed experimenting with different looks, hairstyles and trends; all while staying true my personal style. I feel like my style has grown, yet has remained simple with a touch of uniqueness that only I can bring. I’ve “found myself” as far as personal style goes, and I’ve pushed my limits when it comes to what I will and won’t wear. Daring to bare my legs in certain outfits, like the black Jessica Simpson dress (above), was liberating and wearing shoes other than flats and sandals was huge for me.

I enjoyed wearing a bit more color this year and I wasn’t afraid to go bold with my outfits. I also learned the importance of knowing your body type. I know what looks good on me and what works for my body; 2 very important things to know when figuring out where to go with your personal style. Something else that’s important to learn while curating your personal style? Trying different things with makeup. For me this was tedious task, but I must admit that it was fun. Weather it was a lip color or a bit of mascara, I took myself to another level in terms of my day to day beauty routine. From makeup to skin care, I’ve re-learned the importance of taking care of my skin as well.

F21 Body Suit // Nordstrom Kimono

Black + White // Thrifted Sweater

One of my favorite personal style posts this year involved statement jewelry. It was fun sharing my favorite pieces with you! Wearing statement pieces this year saved a lot of my outfits form being boring and blah. It was rather enjoyable styling different pieces and my collection has grown a lot since I published that post. I’d planned to do a separate post on how to shop for statement pieces on eBay, but I didn’t get around to it. No worries; it’s on the top of my to-blog-about list for the new year.

Of course I’ve stayed true to my love for thrifting. Showcasing different outfits with several of my thrifted purchases has been a personal style highlight. I’ve been able to influence others to try thrifting, as well as teach people how to successfully thrift for certain items. Thrifting is a huge part of my personal style and it will continue to be…forever. From thrifted accessories to sweater coats, I’ve had fun showing how to stay on trend without breaking the bank.

Statement Pieces

Black & White // Sweater Coats

So tell me, what did you learn about your personal style this year? Are there any your favorite personal style look from 2014 above? Let me know!

Since this is the last of my Personal Style posts of 2014, I’ve decided to leave today’s linkup open until the last day of the month. Feel free to post as many looks as you’d like from now until then. Thank you all SO much for linking up with me and I look forward to seeing your outfits in the new year. Until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Linkups: How I Fall, Style to Inspire, Sophisticated Style, Visible Monday, Let it Shine, Manic Monday

Personal Style Monday + Audible Amazon Giveaway

December 8, 2014 by Whitney 37 Comments

Happy Monday to you! This weekend was all about cleaning and relaxing for me. I did something a little differnt with my hair (pics below) and I also pulled out most of Christmas decor. While relaxing, I made time to catch up on my Netflix watching, as well as my reading. As I mentioned in this post, I’ve become a huge fan of audiobooks lately. It’s just makes it so easy to read these days. During the car ride to Delaware for Thanksgiving, I was actually reading an audiobook. I’m addicted!

Sweater: Vintage, 2nd Avenue // Denim: Dress Barn // Flats: Micheal Kors

With the new year approaching, I’m looking forward to using (and subscribing to) Audible. This audiobook site is absolutely perfect for every occasion and event throughout the year. You can even gift a yearly subscription to the book lover on your list. Talk about the perfect gift! Not only are audiobooks perfect for book lovers like me, but they’re also great for children. My tween sister does a lot of traveling for pageants and acting, so something like an Audible yearly subscription would be perfect for those long car, train or plane rides.

Right now, you can check out Audible’s gold offer for a chance to save 50% off! This offer gives you the first three months of your subscription for only $7.49, which is half the usual price. There are also several Audible coupon codes and other ways to save as well.

Sunnies: Retro// Scarf: H&M (old)

Are you convinced, like me, that Audible is the way to go this year for audiobooks? What are some books you’re looking forward to reading in the new year? Oh yea, what do you think about my outfit and hair style too? 😉 Let me know!

Before I go, be sure to check out this amazing Audible giveaway me and a few other lovely bloggers are hosting below! One winner will receive a $200 Amazon gift card! FYI, Audible is an Amazon company. This giveaway is only open to U.S. residents and will run from December 8th – December 12th. Until tomorrow, stay blessed and be safe…XO!

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

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Linkups: Sophisticated Style, Let it Shine, Manic Monday, Style to Inspire, How I Fall, Thrifters Anynomous, Style Sessions, Style Me Wednesday, Trend Spin, WIW, Random Wednesday, Beautiful You, Style Me Wednesday, GYPO

Thrifty Thursday Spotlight – Patrice J. Williams of Looking Fly on a Dime

September 25, 2014 by Whitney 8 Comments

Hello there and happy Thrifty Thursday! Today I’m taking a break from my Oprah’s Life You Want recap to introduce you to one of my favorite thrifty bloggers! Patrice J. Williams is the blogger behind Looking Fly on a Dime and I’ve been a follower since I stared blogging. Her blog covers all things thrift related, as well as affordable and stylish fashion tips and advice. Just a few short weeks ago, Patrice released her thrifting book Looking Fly on a Dime. This book is a great source for both avid thrifters, as well as those who want to thrift but don’t know where or how to start.

When it comes to looking fabulous on a dime, Patrice knows her stuff. It’s been a pleasure following her and I can’t wait to see what’s next for this New York fashionista. Take a look at her thrifty interview below and be sure to grab a copy of her book on Amazon. Enjoy!

ABOUT PATRICE & THRIFTING

1. Name, location and how long have you been thrifting?

I’m Patrice J. Williams and I live in New York, NY. I’ve been thrifting hardcore for 13 or 14 years.

2. Why did you start thrifting?

My Mom says I used to always love the Salvation Army when I was a kid, but my first recollection of thrifting was when I was a sophomore at Temple University. I only started thrift shopping out of necessity. I had an induction ceremony to go to and I needed an outfit but had limited cash, as I was waiting on my work study check. I stumbled upon a thrift store near a fast food restaurant and I haven’t looked back since! I was able to get an entire outfit (button down top and suede skirt) for less than $10.

3. What are 3 of your favorite thrifted items to date?

About 70 to 80% of my wardrobe is thrifted, so it’s hard for me to pick, but some of my top picks are:

– Dsquared Parka for $2. I bought it at a Salvation Army coat sale and the sales associate marked the price down because she thought it was a children’s coat. I loved the coat, but eventually sold it on eBay for close to $500.

-Theory Military Jacket for less than $1. I like going to outlets and stores that have clothes priced by the bound or bag; that’s where you get the real deals. I found a Theory jacket at the Goodwill Outlet and it’s been a constant in my wardrobe for 5 years now. It’s an olive color, which I normally wouldn’t wear, but when something’s so affordable, you can’t help but try something new.

–Vintage Zig Zag Flat Boots. I typically wear heels, but I love a good pair of flat boots that have amazing details. The boots I found were less than $10 and I’ll have to resole them soon, but they always get serious wear every fall and winter. I always get tons of compliments when I wear them. I always tell people that it’s the little details that really elevate your outfit and my zig zag boots are a prime example of that.

ABOUT LOOKING FLY ON A DIME

4. What inspired you to write Looking Fly on a Dime?

I tend to get the same thrift shopping questions over and over (how do you find a thrift shop, how do you clean the clothes, why do I keep striking out, etc.) so it was time to finally write the book on thrift shopping. There are hardcore thrifters, but there are also so many people who just don’t know where to start. In my book, I break it down from how to find a shop, the best strategies while you shop, and how to clean your clothes once you get home.

5. What’s the most important thing you want your readers to get from the book?

After readers finish their copy of Looking Fly on a Dime, I want them to feel empowered to thrift and cultivate their individual sense of style. I’ve worked at fashion magazines for years and I often see women who feel overwhelmed by style. My mission is to remove that intimidation from fashion and make it affordable and accessible for every single woman.

6. What’s next for you? Any T.V. segments, events…we want to know!

I just finished hosting another one of my Ready, Set, Thrift! events in NYC and I’m working on planning some events in other cities for late fall and winter. And of course continuing to promote my book.

7. How can we keep up with you?

Blog // Twitter // Facebook // Instagram // YouTube

Thrifty Friend Feature #16 – Anna of Melodic, Thrifty & Chic

September 4, 2014 by Whitney 8 Comments

Melodic, Thrifty, Chic…perfect words to describe today’s Thrifty Friend feature. I remember stumbling across Anna’s blog months ago. I was so taken with her unique and eclectic sense of style, and the fact that she was an avid thrifter served as a huge bonus! Melodic, Thrifty & Chic is actually the name of her blog and she is indeed all that, and MORE. Oh…one more thing before you scroll down to read! Anna attended university in Nishinomiya, Japan and is proficient in Japanese. Pretty cool, right?! OK, now you can scroll down and read more to find out her thoughts on thrifting – enjoy! 🙂

Name, Location & Blog?

Anna Martin from the Midwest and my blog is Melodic, Thrifty & Chic.

How long have you been a thrifter?

My mom really inspired me, as she would often take me shopping with her when I was younger. She always went straight for the sale racks and she would have a ton of clothes in her cart by the time we’d get to the check-out counter. I always expected the final total to be in the triple digits given how much stuff she had, but it never reached that level. My mom could do a lot for us with very little and I really respected that.

How often do you thrift and what are a few of your favorite thrift spots?

I’m on a year-long spending freeze, so the only new clothing I receive is from my clothing swap group (for the cost of shipping). However, prior to this, I would thrift as often as I could. If I had the money to spend, I’d spend it (albeit as wisely as possible!) I have quite a few vintage shops that I love, but unfortunately there aren’t any thrift shops that I frequent in my area. If we had a Buffalo Exchange, I would certainly go there!

What would you say to someone who wants to try thrifting but has no clue where to start?

Oh dear. Well, I would tell this person to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to do a lot of sifting. Thrift stores vary in terms of how organized (and clean) they are. So, you’ll have to make a choice as far as where you’d like to shop. I’ve been to thrift stores where clothing is just piled on the floor in some parts of the store. It’s off-putting, but I’ve also found things I love from picking through those piles. Of course, it goes without saying that you should thoroughly wash everything you’ve bought before wearing it! I’ve been to really well maintained thrift stores, too! In that regard, some of the best ones have fitting rooms! Not all, though, so you should also be prepared to figure out what will fit you without being able to try anything on. I suggest bringing a roll of measuring tape and being very familiar with your flat bust/waist/hip measurements. All of this can be really overwhelming and there’s no guarantee that you’ll find anything spectacular when you go, but eventually you will and it will be so worth it! I speak from experience!

What are your top 3 thrift finds?

I would have to say (1) a red/white checkered vintage top that I scored while on a trip to Austin last year, (2) a beautiful 60’s plaid shift dress from a local vintage shop, and (3) a floral corduroy vest, also vintage.What are 3 things on your spring must-thrift wish list?I’m dying for something in daisy print. I finally broke down and started adding more florals to my wardrobe, last year. I have seemingly every manner of floral print, except daisy! I’d love to get a chunky, grandpa cardigan in a deep forest green and rich brown. I probably already have way too many cardigan, but I don’t care. Haha. A pair of patent loafers would be rad, too! I have really big feet (like 10.5/11) so I’d probably end up having to shop in the men’s section at a thrift shop to get those shoes.

What are 3 things on your must-thrift wish list?

I’m dying for something in daisy print. I finally broke down and started adding more florals to my wardrobe, last year. I have seemingly every manner of floral print, except daisy! I’d love to get a chunky, grandpa cardigan in a deep forest green and rich brown. I probably already have way too many cardigan, but I don’t care. Haha. A pair of patent loafers would be rad, too! I have really big feet (like 10.5/11) so I’d probably end up having to shop in the men’s section at a thrift shop to get those shoes.

Are there certain items you will not thrift?

I’ll thrift just about anything, really. I’d draw the line at intimate clothing, swimsuits, socks. It just depends on whether they are in their original, sealed packaging.

Describe your style in 3 words.

Eclectic, theatrical, unpredictable.

Who are some of your style inspirations?

Generally speaking, I draw a lot of inspiration from bloggers who have a command of color and patterns. The more unique and unexpected the color/pattern combinations, the more the gears in my head start to turn. Bloggers who have a gift for layering tend to catch my eye, as well. I think I have a natural aptitude for layering, but I’m always interested in learning more about how I can take it to the next level (i.e. playing with fabric lengths and asymmetrical patterns).

How can the WNJ readers keep up with you?

On the Blog

Instagram

Facebook

Lookbook

Chictopia

Twitter

Thrifty Thursday: Thrift vs. Consignment

August 7, 2014 by Whitney 16 Comments

Hey there! Today I want to talk about thrift vs. consignment. While I’ve been more partial to thrifting, I must say that consignment shopping has been a fun adventure lately. As the Consignment Thread writer for DomiCile Magazine, I’ve been trekking across the DMV area looking for the best spots for consignment shopping. Some people have asked what’s the difference is between the two (thrifting & consignment shopping), so today I’m going to share my thoughts.

THRIFT VS. CONSIGNMENT – UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENCE

Consignment Shops/Boutiques

People bring their (gently) used items to consignment shops to sell. Once their item(s) is inspected/evaluated, it’s up to the store to determine if that item can be sold at their location. Once that is determined, the item is marked and placed on the sales floor to be sold on behalf of the consigner. Each consignment shop has their own system as to how they “watch” the consigners items. In the end, the consignment shop takes a percentage of the sale and then pays the consigner the remainder. If the item(s) doesn’t sell the consignment shop returns the item to the consigner.

Thrift vs. Consignment…what’s the difference?

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Thrift Stores

Thrift stores are filled with donated items like shoes, clothes, jewelry, dishes, furniture, etc. Most thrift stores are charity and non-profit based. (i.e. Goodwill, Salvation Army, etc.) Thrift store prices vary, but most times the prices are very affordable. Depending on the thrift store, the items will be sized and organized by section (i.e. pants, blouses, handbags, kitchenware, etc.). Some thrift stores are not as organized as others, so the finding what you’re looking for may require more time.

THRIFT VS. CONSIGNMENT – WHY I LIKE BOTH

Why do I like consignment shopping?

When consignment shopping, I know I’m going to find quality items that have little to no wear and tear. Am I going to pay for that? Yes. But certain thing like authentic handbags and shoes, exquisite and rare jewelry finds or authentic paintings from a certain time period I don’t mind shelling out more cash for. I also like the attention I receive when consignment shopping. Most consignment shops are small boutiques, especially those that carry higher end items. So you get that one on one shopping experience; the staff helps you find exactly what you’re looking for, or they point you in the right direction. The consignment shops I’ve visited like Rita G’s or Style Finds have staff members who know their inventory like it’s their own. In some cases, the owner is on the sales floor helping customers find the perfect item. I love that!

Earrings: Rita G’s Chapter Two Boutique

Why do I like thrift shopping?

Thrifting is all about the thrill of the hunt. To be quite honest, you may or may not find what you’re looking for the 1st time. But along the way, you find some pretty cool stuff! If you’re an avid thrifter then you know which stores to go to find what you need. Unlike consignment shops the prices are more affordable. However, the items may require a bit of TLC due to their less than perfect condition. Some of my favorite things to thrift are leather and winter jackets/wraps, handbags, and “on trend items” like kimonos. I’ve also found that the clothing sizes range wider while thrifting than I while shopping consignment stores. Something to consider. 😉

So tell me, what do you think about Thrift vs. Consignment? Which “method” of shopping do you prefer? Let me know!

Thanks for reading another one of my Thrifty Thursday posts and I hope you have a better understanding of the whole thrift vs. consignment thing. 😉 If you have more questions, feel free to contact me. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe….XO!

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