Along Came Polly

A few pictures here from my visit to Chapel Hill last year for a little photoshoot fun with my dear friend Roy Rice.  Yes they are chaps, no the gun was not loaded, no animals were harmed in my lifetime for the sake of this photo shoot, and yes a woman on her cell phone walked by and told the person on the other end (in a very terrified manner), "there are people very close to me holding a gun!"  Oh, and just in case you did not know the King of the Wild Frontier, David "Davy" Crockett's wife's name, it was Polly.  Polly wasn't the first woman Davy proposed marriage to, but against her parent's better wishes, Polly is the one he married.  If you've got great passion for The Old North State, I know you will love Roy's photographic interpretations of gorgeous scenery, local folk and, of course, magical places all around the UNC campus. Like Roy's facebook page to keep up with his candid, ungoverned emotion for what his eyes and heart see through the lens of a camera.

Thanks so much for being here, Whitley

On The Farm

Donna and I shot these family photos last spring at my Dad's house.  Paw Paw's Massey was parked in the shed, so cousin Russ drove his new big blue Ford over to Dad's for an all hands on deck photo shoot in efforts to get Garden & Gun Magazine's attention.  My dream job would be styling and/or writing for them. Don't y'all think they totally need me?  Hoping they'll soon bite in my relentless pursuit!  Take a look and let me know what you think.

Thanks so much for being here! 

-Whitley

PS-How cute are my people?  Hoping to get them ALL in a shoot together soon!

New Everyday Favorite: La Senorita Jolie

Maxi Dress: Thanks to La Senorita Jolie. Jacket: Gap. Boots: Charlie 1 Horse by Lucchese. Purse: Vintage Coach. Rings: Melinda Maria (love this one) and custom by Diamonds Direct.

I absolutely love the art of creating stylish outfits, but it's not how I roll in my everyday life. If you follow me on Instagram or know me personally, you know I am wearing either running shoes or cowgirl boots paired with denim shorts or a denim jacket along with anything else comfortable. Enter my new favorite line of everyday wearable clothing, La Senorita Jolie.  

Providing wardobe staples like the Gabriella Maxi Dress I'm wearing here, La Senorita Jolie is a local endeavor that launched in 2013 by fellow Tar Heel, Jennifer Dixon.  All of the pieces are made of washable fabrics similar to what you will find in specialty boutiques at a much higher cost.  Hop on over to their on line store here, and be sure to use the code LSJ-QCS at check out to receive free shipping!  If you do see me across the produce aisle, I'll likely be wearing this top or this one.  Like butta.  You can thank me later.  Want to join the LSJ team?  Details here.

Happy Shopping!  

Whitley

P.S. How awesome are the photo bombers?

Get These Pants

Blazer, Corduroys, Shirt c/o Gap. Boots: Charlie 1 Horse by Lucchese. Sunglasses: Blinde, similar.

If you live in the Queen City, be sure to stop by GAP at Southpark Mall this Saturday, October 19, between 6pm-9pm to see how you can win your own pair of Gap Legging Jeans!

Thanks for reading!  Whitley

Presenting The Gap Legging Jean

Jeans: Gap. Shirt: Gap. Boots: Luchese Charlie 1 Horse. Sunglasses: Ray-Ban. 

I'm super excited to be collaborating with Gap for an upcoming special event at Southpark Mall.  They'll be giving away a pair of these fabulously perfect every day wearable legging jeans to one lucky winner.  Stay tuned for more details over the coming week!  In the meantime, cheers to fall!

Thanks so much for being here!  

-Whitley

Poolside Gossip

Caftan: My Grandmother's, here's one. Shoes: Cole Haan (on super sale) from Step. Sunglasses: Blinde, similar. Earrings: From KK Bloom. Necklace: old. Bracelets: Bakelite from summerbird. Rings: Custom from Diamonds Direct, Tiffany, my Grandmothers, and thanks to Tasha Hussey Designs. 

A Slim Aarons Poolside Gossip recreation seemed the perfect opportunity for me to style my Grandmother's caftan. I say this all the time, but this might be my favorite piece of hers in my collection.  My Aunt Lee had it first.  I think she needs to have it back borrow it next spring for a little poolside gossip over her own.  I'll bring the shaker.  Thank you, Donna, for the amazing photos!

I love that you are here!  Whitley

PS-I'd really just love to walk around my house all the time wearing this and this.

Green Jeans Love Plus

Blinde Eyewear, Charlotte, Donald J Pliner shoes, Donna Jernigan Photography, Green Jeans Consignment Sale, J.crew jeans, Merino's, NC furniture store, Southern Style Blog, the Queen City Style,

Blinde Eyewear, Charlotte, Donald J Pliner shoes, Donna Jernigan Photography, Green Jeans Consignment Sale, J.crew jeans, Merino's, NC furniture store, Southern Style Blog, the Queen City Style,

Blinde Eyewear, Charlotte, Donald J Pliner shoes, Donna Jernigan Photography, Green Jeans Consignment Sale, J.crew jeans, Merino's, NC furniture store, Southern Style Blog, the Queen City Style,

Blinde Eyewear, Charlotte, Donald J Pliner shoes, Donna Jernigan Photography, Green Jeans Consignment Sale, J.crew jeans, Merino's, NC furniture store, Southern Style Blog, the Queen City Style,

Blinde Eyewear, Charlotte, Donald J Pliner shoes, Donna Jernigan Photography, Green Jeans Consignment Sale, J.crew jeans, Merino's, NC furniture store, Southern Style Blog, the Queen City Style,

Blinde Eyewear, Charlotte, Donald J Pliner shoes, Donna Jernigan Photography, Green Jeans Consignment Sale, J.crew jeans, Merino's, NC furniture store, Southern Style Blog, the Queen City Style,

Blinde Eyewear, Charlotte, Donald J Pliner shoes, Donna Jernigan Photography, Green Jeans Consignment Sale, J.crew jeans, Merino's, NC furniture store, Southern Style Blog, the Queen City Style,

Blinde Eyewear, Charlotte, Donald J Pliner shoes, Donna Jernigan Photography, Green Jeans Consignment Sale, J.crew jeans, Merino's, NC furniture store, Southern Style Blog, the Queen City Style,

Blouse: Ralph Lauren. Jeans: c/o J. Crew. Shoes: Donald J. Pliner. Rings: Melinda Maria (new fav), Tiffany, custom by Diamonds Direct.

Y'all know how much I love a Green Jeans sale, and the Green Jeans Consignment Lake Norman sale starts THIS week!  For those of you living in the north part of the metropolis, please make note of the new location.  This year's sale will take place at Merinos Home Furnishings in downtown Mooresville.  This means you get a two-fer. Yep.  Shop for awesome designer duds at a discount price at the Queen City's largest consignment sale, and check out some killer home furnishings for every style of decor while you're at it.  Have any questions about the sale?  Check out all the info here.  

I hope to see you there!

-Whitley

I Love You

Shirt: Cynthia Rowley. Jacket: My Dad's shirt. Shorts: Jessica Simpson (similar). Boots: Corral. Sunglasses: Blinde (similar). Bracelets: Cuff from Sloan Boutique, all others belonged to my Grandmother. Rings: Melinda Maria, custom from Diamonds Direct, Tiffany. Necklaces: Thanks to Melvin Jewelry, my Grandmother's ring. Earrings: Bauble Bar.

I had to buy this I Love You silk scarf print Cynthia Rowley blouse after I first met the designer in Charleston.  I would describe this outfit as one of my usual trainwrecks.  On most occasions getting dressed I blindly just start grabbing stuff from my closet, and throw it on my body.  These photos are from a series Donna and I had fun shooting at my Dad's house.  I hope they will land me on Garden & Gun's radar; a dream come true collaboration. 

Love you for being here, Whitley

Recreate

Bathing Suit: Robin Piccone. Shoes: Coach. Sunglasses: Blinde (similar). Shirt: The Mr's. Bracelets: Great-Grandmother and Grandmother's. Hair and Make-Up by Cassie Hayden.

I've admired these pictures of my Grandmother since I was a little girl.  No time like the present for fulfilling a girls lifelong fascination...

xo-Whitley

Swimspot + This Crazy Thing

Bathingsuit: Ella Moss, thanks to Swimspot. Bracelet: Jook & Nona (new favorite!). Headband: from Nordstrom. Sunglasses: Blinde, similar pair. When Swimspot reached out to me about a partnership, I took one look at their website and leaped at the opportunity.  The selection of brands, styles and sizes is expansive, and with the "Narrow-by-Tool" Fit Specialist program, there is a suit for every body type!  If you've had children you know things typically move and shift (and don't lift) during pregnancy and after delivery.  I hate bathing suit shopping as much as I'm guessing most women do.  The main issue for me is finding something that provides enough support and the right amount of coverage.  When my swimsuit arrived, I loved it, but I was a little unsure about the fit.  I spoke to a Swimspot specialist who told me I could send it back with free shipping in exchange for another. A couple of thumbs up later, I found the confidence I needed to wear the suit, and I decided to keep it. Great suits and excellent customer service. I had first rate experience with Swimspot.  Check 'em out!

Summer seems to be flying right on by.  I hope yours is awesome!

-Whitley

Finding Your Style After Baby + J.T. Posh Giveaway Winner!

Charlotte Parent Magazine recently contacted me to participate in a fun feature story styling a precious new mom and her equally adorable twin boys.  Pre and post baby, a mama experiences lots of body changes, but duty calls, and there is much work to be done.  How do you push through the sleepless nights, spit up covered clothes and find your post baby style?  I share a few of my tips and own personal experiences here.  Thank you Sarah, Donna and Charlotte Parent Magazine for the experience of this wonderfully fun assignment!

Tank and Skirt (both on sale): J. Crew. Jacket: Gap.  Full outfit credits here.

And the winner of the J.T. Posh $50 Gift Card Giveaway is...

kristi s.

June 24, 2013 at 10:40 AM

1) I am a follower of the Queen City Style via Email

2) I like J. T. Posh on Facebook

3) I like the Queen City Style on Facebook

4) I follow J. T. Posh on Instagram

Congratulations Kristi!

 Please email me at

thequeencitystyle@yahoo.com

Thanks so much for reading!  Whitley

Cutest Bikini Ever

I posted this adorable ruffle gingham check bikini on the Queen City Style's Instagram and Facebook page yesterday.  I'll be using it for a photo shoot on the farm this weekend, and I think it is going to be perfect!  At any rate, lots of ladies (and gents) asked where I got it and who the designer is.  It is made by the one and only fun and fantastic Betsey Johnson.  Here is a link to the bikini (on mega super SALE, so get it!) and the one piece, equally sweet.  If your size is out, peruse her other styles...

Betsey Johnson is one of my all time favorites.

Happy almost Holiday weekend!!

xo-Whitley

Cute Cassie

Whitley: Dress: Charlie Jade (similar dress) c/o KK Bloom Boutique. Earrings: from KK Bloom Boutique. Clutch: JJ Winters. Shoes: Cole Haan (old). Sunglasses: Blinde, similar pair. Statement ring: thanks to Tasha Hussey. Others Rings: Tiffany, custom from Diamonds Direct. Hair and Makeup: Cassie Hayden.

Cassie: Dress, Belt and Earrings: c/o KK Bloom Boutique, Shoes, Purse and Sunglasses: Cassie's own. Cuff: thanks to Green Market Girl.

Ladies and Gentleman, meet the newest member of the team, cute cute Cassie Hayden!  I am beyond excited Cassie will be assisting me this summer with styling projects as well as here with me and Donna at the Queen City Style.  Cute + eager + hardworking + talented (did you notice the hair and makeup?!) + FUN =  It's gonna to be a great summer here at the Queen City Style, and we're throwin' the deuces people!  

Thanks so much for being here!

-Whitley

Rooster's

http://hunterdixon.com/collections/all/products/ashlan-vest

Vest: Hunter Dixon (now 50% off). Shorts: J. Crew. Shoes: Donald J Pliner (On Sale!). Purse: Chanel (great price). Sunglasses: Blinde, (LOVE these). Earrings: Luv Aj. Bracelets: cuff from Sloan Boutique, thanks to Chelsea Charles and belonged to my Grandmother. Rings: Melinda Maria, Tiffany and custom by Diamonds Direct.

I love summer time for wearing shorts; day or night.  I just snagged this awesome vest by Fashion Star winner and fellow southern gal, designer Hunter Bell of Hunter Dixon, and I have been wearing it flat out every since it arrived at my doorstep. 

Rooster's might be my favorite restaurant in town.  I only say "might," because there are several other great eats in the Queen City, but we are definitely repeat offenders at Rooster's.  This was my first visit to the new uptown location.  Love, love.  More to come, live on location.

xx-Whitley

Pass It On

Skirt: Vintage. Top: Dress worn as shirt. Jacket: Gap. Shoes: Cole Haan, old, but here's this year's pair. Bag: ASOS, similar here and here. Belt: Belonged to my Grandmother. Earrings and Hair Comb: JewelMint. Necklaces: Thanks to Melvin, my Grandmother's and thanks to By Boe. Bracelets: Grandmother's. Rings: Grandmother's, Tiffany and custom by Diamonds Direct.

One of my favorite fashion bloggers, Sheree, recently decided to pass this fantastic vintage ball skirt on to its next home.  Immediately, that home had to be mine.  I love individuals who possess a style all their own, no impression made by the trend of the week; this is totally Sheree.  Straight up edgy and all her own.  Sometimes so bad a$$, I can't see straight.  Sheree wore this green gem completely different than I did.  That is my favorite thing about fashion; there is so much room for interpretation.  Forget the masses, it's all about you.

Thanks so much for reading!  I hope everyone is having a wonderful week!

-Whitley

Cynthia Rowley, Belk + Me

Finally, pics of Cynthia Rowley at Belk Girls Night Out.  I've shared my genuine admiration for this woman.  She was the first designer to make an impression on me.  I worked long and hard hours to purchase one of her designs for my junior year prom dress. Her show at NYC Fashion Week in the Fall of 1999 was my first fashion show.   Belk could have chosen any known designer, but she was the one they wanted for this special designer collaboration.  Kismet?  I'm so grateful to have found a way to channel my passion through the Queen City Style and now as a wardrobe stylist. During this time, I've felt an increasing desire to connect with authenticity. I just want real. When I first met Cynthia at Charleston Fashion Week, I couldn't resist my natural tendency to hug and smile, exchange and laugh.  I was supposed to properly interview this woman, but I just could not abide to the formality.  She was every bit as much hug, smile, exchange and laugh; but way cooler.  Fast forward to Belk Girls Night Out, as I reached to greet Cynthia, she snagged the first word in thanking me for the note I sent after we met.  Authenticity is alive and well.  Thank you Belk for including me!

Whitley: Top: Cynthia Rowley. Pants: (similar), Boots: Charlie 1 Horse. Jacket: Belonged to my Great-Grandmother, last seen here. Bracelets: J. Crew and belonged to my Grandmother.

Cynthia: Top: Cynthia Rowley. Pants: Cynthia Rowley. Shoes: Cynthia Rowley.

Here's a snippet from my hug, smile, exchange and laugh with Ms. Rowley...

Your browser does not support the audio element. Upgrade your browser to one that does

xx-Whitley

Cool Men's Clothing, Myers Park, Microbrew + Giveaway

Shirt: Lucky Brand, other fav. Shorts: Lucky Brand/Irving and Fine. Boots: Charlie 1 Horse. Jacket: Gap. Sunglasses: Blinde, similar pair. Belt: old, similar. Necklace: thanks to Melvin Jewelry. Rings: Melinda Maria, custom by Diamonds Direct, Tiffany. Bracelets: J. Crew, thanks to Chelsea Charles, belonged to my Grandmother. Earrings: Luv Aj.

Charlotteans, there's a new men's store in town.  Located in the heart of Myers Park, Jilson's Men's Consignment carries an ever-changing variety of top quality threads including jeans, pants, shirts, sport coats, suits, shoes, accessories and more.  I cling to the philosophy that you don't have to spend a fortune to look like a million bucks, so when my running mate, John, let me know he was on the market for some fresh, new duds, Jilson's was the perfect time and place to apply my mantra to men's dressing.  With a sampling of brands including Brooks Brothers, Gucci, Hermes, J. Crew, Polo Ralph Lauren, Salvatore Ferragamo and more, Jilson's did not disappoint. After a full morning chasing my boys, the cold Natty Greene's Kevin offered me upon entry, kept the pleasantries coming. Fellas, the Jilson's Grand Opening party is this Saturday, June 1st.  This is the perfect time for you to check out the store, as well as the exotic luxury cars on display, and enjoy some complementary food, Natty Greene's brew, Outland Cigars and a few Giveaways. Visit the Jilson's website here for additional information including store hours, consignment and more. Perfect in time for Father's Day...

Jilson's Giveaway

New Ike Behar tie + two Natty Greene's Beers + two Outland Cigars + one sleeve Dunlop DDH Golf Balls

To enter:

1) Mandatory Entry: You must follow of the Queen City Style by Email, Bloglovin' or Facebook.

2) Like Jilson's on Facebook for a DOUBLE entry.

3) Follow Jilson's on Twitter.

4) Follow Jilson's on Instagram

Please let me know in ONE comment the ways you have entered.  This Giveaway ends Saturday, June 1st, and the winner will be announced the following Monday. 

Thanks so much for reading, and we hope to see you at the party! 

xx-Whitley

Spring Into The Gap

Whitley: Pants, Jacket, Tank: Gap.

Luke: Jeans, Shirt: Gap.

Of all the outfits we shot with Gap, this was my favorite.  Perhaps it's because it most reflects my personal style in real life. I just want to be comfortable.  Is it just me?  I loved the studio shoot series with Luke and Donna too.  Being in the studio makes you feel kinda big stuff, despite the casual nature of the clothes.  I've got some really creative projects on the brain, and I'm super excited to get back in there and share it all with you!

I hope you all are well.  I'd really love to hear from you... please email, facebook, tweet, whichever! 

xx-Whitley

Cowgirl Boots To The Beach

Howdy Y'all!  I've been so busy with great things, but I have not been able to give the Queen City Style the normal amount of TLC.  Donna and I have been working on some great outfit shoots, and I can't wait to share them all with you, in addition to my long overdue interview with Cynthia Rowley and Belk Girls Night Out; so many fun things!  For now, I'm super excited to be all packed and ready to drive to Heaven on Earth, Pawleys Island, with the family.  That mini vacation will be en route to a long overdue reunion in Sullivan's Island with my six college roommates.  Not gonna lie, I'm kinda scared of what's ahead with all of these girls at the beach.  We were kinda crazy back then.  I got my boots on though. I'm ready!

I hope you are all great.

Lots of love, Whitley

Fishing In Style (Of Sorts)

Here is another round of shots from my trip back to my Alma mater, Chapel Hill, to shoot with my old friend Roy Rice of Roy Rice Photography.  Roy is well known for his ability to beautifully capture the aesthetics of the stillness that surrounds us.  Roy and I thought it would be fun to spice things up a bit for both of us through a collaboration of fashion and nature.  The second picture is probably one of my favorite pictures taken of me, ever, along with this one.  All I can say about this shoot is that I was appropriately dressed for the frigid, just above freezing temps in the first few pics, not so much in the last two.  If you are man or woman and you could bring yourself to comment below with a virtual high five of any sort, that would be fan-frigging-tastic, because no amount of coffee and bourbon could make even a single chill bump down to my ice cube surrounded boots subside.  That would be really sweet of you.

For the love of suffering in great style,

xo-Whitley

Check out Roy's photography here on his Facebook page, and follow along for breathtaking views from back home in the Tar Heel state.