Styled for Fall: Weekend In The Mountains x Peachy The Magazine

I’m so excited to be partnering with Peachy The Magazine, along with five other talented stylists, to create a seasonal Weekend in the Mountains look. I’m originally from Asheville, NC and grew up visiting my granparents’ rustic family farm in South Carolina. A trip home is always welcome, and while I did NOT dress this chic as a tomboy teenager, I do see myself right at home this look in either place now. Shop my look below, and be sure to check out the entire magazine here! If you’re not already receiving Peachy’s digital subscription, I am including a link here for you. I PROMISE you will love it so!

SHOP THE EDIT + GET THE LOOK

QC Exclusive: The Arts Issue

What an unexpected pleasant surprise it was last week to learn last week from a Hilliard Studio Method classmate of my inclusion in the QC Exclusive Arts Issue! Be sure to pick up a copy. It is chocked full of incredible Charlotte creative talent.

"If you know, Charlotte style, you know Whitley. She is the driving force behind many a fashion shoot and more stylish locals' street looks than we can count. Whitley's outfits, weather, for herself, or for a client, tend toward the bold, unexpected, and playful, and she lives her own best fashion advice, "to put your best self forward." if you need help getting outside the box, or breathing new life into your wardrobe, Whitley, is your woman".

Thank you for this incredible mention @qcexclusive magazine-- and to be in the company of so many other incredible creatives and talented friends! I remain grateful to every magazine, store, designer, client, colleague and industry mate who has taken a chance on me. It has allowed me to breathe, and I think it is in the breathing alone that I have experienced the most extraordinary joy, that of using myself as a vehicle for showcasing other incredible talent.

📖 @qcexclusive
✏️ @ssunnyyh
📸 @thewilltaylor
💫 @marissajadesky @glambyjessiehamby
👗 @houseofjadesky

Sandhills Sojourn

Clubs Optional:

Picturesque Pinehurst is a classic choice for an enchanting weekend getaway.

The above image is my most favorite from this month's @pinehurstresort fashion + style feature in @southparkmagazine. It is my favorite, because it is a natural organic and honest telling of the day in its natural state. It was the last shot of the day for us, taken at the famed Cradle in Pinehurst. We timed it just so as all of the golfers were enjoying themselves as the sun started its descent back into the earth. We positioned the models, and naturally, many surrounding golfers were interested in what was going on in our little pocket. A few gawkers, a little bit of friendly calling across the lawn, and lots of curious smiles; the only natural thing to do was invite them over to join our fun. Our new friends from New Jersey and Asheville assembled themselves one by one into the photo. And, to me, this is what MAKES the photo. With little formation and posing, five new stars were born! Link to the article here for wardrobe credits.
📸 @miraadwell_photo
📖 @southparkmagazine
👄 @thedavisha
👩🏼👩🏽 @elaine.reagin @itscarmenyork @ursulawiedmannmodels

The Language of Letting Go

Got my decades long collection of @vanityfair, my Christian based book of daily meditations and my most trusted @lucchese boots. I am ready to roll!

I am also linking to the book. It is one my therapist recommended to me. On a personal note, if you have experienced any level of co-dependency in your own life, I highly recommend this one as a book to help you feel good and provide you with support in the process of self-care and recovery.

Shop The Post + Get The Look

Marion Parke Favorites For Fall '22


I hope this post finds everyone well and those of you doing the back to school thing; well I hope it is not kicking you in the keester like it is me. We are starting school over here at 7am… Good Heavens. My creative mind is not turning off early enough the night before like it should. I mean like right now, I feel the need to remind you how obsessed I am with Marion Parke. In particular, at this very present moment, I simply couldn’t stand not to share with you my favorites, newly released for fall.


As if we all didn't already absolutely ADORE Marion Parke, as you recall, they have given me a special code for you to get 15% off of your order! Use code WHITLEY15 at checkout to snag that 15% off! Okay, so on to the selects…

I am 100% obsessed with the color of this shoe and the unique stacked heel... chic CHIC!

Wanna see THE most comfortable shoe that I love in all colors? Wear this one three seasons of the year or pair with tights in the winter!

Or there’s this taller version if you're looking for a little more height. The moss color is so dreamy to me.

Every corporate girl needs a classic pump. With my traumatic arthritis spawned from year's of overuse of my tootsies as a result of both lots of running AND wearing uncomfortable shoes, I highly recommend you reach for one made with comfort in mind. Marion Parke's Classic Pump 85 comes in a variety of colors, but it is all I can do to look away from the metallic napa for the most interesting, elevated look.

Need a lower sandal for comfort's sake? The Imogen block heel is my number one go to.

Don’t forget to use code WHITLEY15 for 15% off of your order!

Hope you and your tootsies are having a happy holiday weekend!
Whitley

Carry Media—Back to School Target Edition

I could NOT be more excited about this next What She Wore collaboration with Carry Media. Founded by former Good Morning America and The View Co-Host, Wife, Working Mom, Emmy award-winning journalist and author, Paula Faris, as a full time working mama, it is an absolute joy and thrill to serve as fashion and style contributor to this phenomenal media group dedicated to celebrating, championing and advocating for working moms by passing them the mic. As we all know, back-to-school is back in full swing, and so we thought why not give all the working moms of the world an opportunity to have just as much fun with their back to school looks as the kiddos?!

And, while I love a fab designer look as much as the next person, what I REALLY love is creating the very most chic, one of a kind looks without breaking the bank. I hope you will enjoy my below pics (and picks!) from a recent trip to our local Target, where you can shop the post and get the look. Be sure to head on over to my Instagram to see me style it all together!

 

Shop The Edit + Get The Look

Back To School

The location of these photos is Morgan School, constructed in 1925 to serve as an elementary school for the African-American community of the Cherry neighborhood. Located in the center of the neighborhood, the school is sited on a corner lot across from Morgan Park, around which the commercial and institutional activities of the community are oriented. Morgan School serves as an architectural and institutional focal point of this model planned community.

Currently, the neighborhood school sits abandoned in one of the city's oldest black neighborhoods. The neighborhood has increasingly over time given way to development, completely changing the architecturally historical significance of it. For the last several decades CMS has owned the building which has played host to a number of smaller specialty schools throughout those years. The most recent news report I could source, a story produced by @wbtv_news about a year ago, shared that for years the neighborhood association has wanted to purchase the building more specifically as a community learning resource center for Cherry. I do not know the current status of the Morgan School building. More than ever, and as time goes on, our city needs historic preservation. As for me and my ensemble, head on over to JT Posh for all your Back To School fashion needs!

Photography: Rainey Scarborough

Designer Crush: St. Roche

I am so excited to announce my newest brand partnership with St. Roche!

Founded by designer Sue Stemp and her husband Paud Roche, St. Roche is a responsibly designed and manufactured, seasonless, independent, and woman-led brand based in Los Angeles. I believe that luxury fashion can be both beautiful and sustainable, and Sue creates pieces that are just that— relaxed, feminine, free-spirited, and always designed with the modern woman in mind.

The brand’s collection is made locally and ethically in India and Peru, with a transparent and short supply chain. St. Roche also uses a circular design and manufacturing process to keep most materials in use instead of the landfill.

Get Bella's ferry ride look below, and check out some of my favorite summer pieces from St Roche! From dreamy button-downs and delicate sleeves to dip-dyed ombres and matching sets, explore St. Roche's collection that is truly timeless, seasonless, and works perfectly for summer into fall closet refreshing. Feel good knowing you are supporting a superb sustainable brand, and wearing something that reflects both your personal values and style.

 

SHOP THE EDIT + GET THE LOOK

Summer Swell

Well, I did it. I took the advice of my cousin, the prescription of my therapist, the encouragement of friends and the wide eyed reminder of my children... I took the most luxurious, relaxing bit of slow down this summer. Horizontal on my vintage quilted floral couch swathed in my favorite Paco Rabanne, sipping bubbles from a Tiffany blue flute, my best girl lounging at my side... I mean if this is not what my stay at home lounging mama daydream turned real life dream turned reality looks like, then I need to get to working harder on relaxing more.

I'll have to figure out how to stay on this wave a little longer. But here's the thing, just as with the turning season, the swell will go down. How long can you really ride the wave of luxury and be happy? I mean, the wave would have to get boring, no? It's like our home. Old, modest in size, full of cracks and leaks. No no. It soulful, comfortable, full of character and charm. I might have to figure out how to ride the wave a little longer, but then perhaps I'll head for waters with slower tides. I'll be squeezing every single last drop out of you Summer 22, quite naturally, dressed for the occasion!

 

SHOP THE EDIT + GET THE LOOK

What Whitley Wants: Nordstrom Anniversary Sale — Summer: Buy Now, Wear Now

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is here, and I am so excited to share with you some of my favorite items from this year’s highly anticipated sale…

 

I am proud to be partnering with Shop Style Collective for the most anticipated sale of the year! There are so many great items to choose from, whether it be mid-summer picks for a warm beach vacation, pre-fall faves or back-to-work selections, Nordstrom has you covered! The perfect sale for all ages and all price points, casual and designer. Shop in-store or online!

❤️‍🔥 I love Nordstrom because they are a brand that values great, top-quality items with a diverse price range. From clothing to shoes, hats, handbags and even beauty products, there are just so many things from which to choose! Shop some of my favorites from this year’s sale starting with great items for summer—buy now, wear now!

👒Sale happening now until July 31st!

Shop The Edit + Get The Look

What Whitley Wants: Nordstrom Anniversary Sale — Fall Remix

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is here, and I am so excited to share with you some of my favorite items from this year’s highly anticipated sale…

I am proud to be partnering with Shop Style Collective for the most anticipated sale of the year! There are so many great items to choose from, whether it be mid-summer picks for a warm beach vacation, pre-fall faves or back-to-work selections, Nordstrom has you covered! The perfect sale for all ages and all price points, casual and designer. Shop in-store or online!

❤️‍🔥 I love Nordstrom because they are a brand that values great, top-quality items with a diverse price range. From clothing to shoes, hats, handbags and even beauty products, there are just so many things to choose from!

👒Sale happening now until July 31st!

Shop The Edit + Get The Look

What Whitley Wants: Nordstrom Anniversary Sale — Return To Work

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is here, and I am so excited to share with you some of my favorite items from this year’s highly anticipated sale…

I am proud to be partnering with Shop Style Collective for the most anticipated sale of the year! There are so many great items to choose from, whether it be mid-summer picks for a warm beach vacation, pre-fall faves or back-to-work selections, Nordstrom has you covered! The perfect sale for all ages and all price points, casual and designer. Shop in-store or online!

❤️‍🔥 I love Nordstrom because they are a brand that values great, top-quality items with a diverse price range. From clothing to shoes, hats, handbags and even beauty products, there are just so many things to choose from!

👒Sale happening now until July 31st!

Shop The Edit + Get The Look

Designer Crush: Johanna Ortiz

Good Heavens. I must really have vacation on my mind this summer. I mean, I want time off spent in the sun with my children ALL. SUMMER. LONG. I want it so badly I am manifesting the very thing into reality! My boys and I just returned from five beautiful, warm and sunny days in the Outer Banks visiting with my two uncles and cousins. Family time on the beach is always just what the doctor ordered. I somehow have managed to successfully make my way down to my other life long and favorite beach, Pawleys Island. AKA Heaven on Earth. (Thank you to my dear friends!!!) After a two week stretch of some of the most meaningful, special time with my boys, I dropped them off at camp Sunday, went for a run in the rain in the mountains, and now here I am. I’ve got my laptop and a view of the Atlantic so breathtaking I can’t even write the words.

Back to the fashion… all this beach think has me day dreaming of the very most divine resort wear under the sun, and let me tell you, Johanna Ortiz is hitting the d@mn nail on the head. I’ve included a handful of my favorites here. The clean sharp lines and bold designs are just sending me. Shop the entire Resort 2023 collection at Moda Operandi HERE through July 19.

Shop The Edit + Get The Look

What She Wore - Gia

Shop The Edit HERE + Get The Look

I was stopped mid sip of my morning cup when @gorgiaous11 walked through the door at @waterbeancoffee during a business meeting with @piedmontpennies over coffee. I couldn’t help but get up, introduce myself, inquire about her gorgeous look following up with an ask, of course, to see her if she would be a part of my What She Wore series. Gia was on her way into the office stopping in for her own to go cup. Can we all just celebrate a moment over face-to-face interaction?! But first, if Gia’s look isn’t how office attire was meant to be, then I don’t know anything about the price of tea in China!

In The Name Of Love

Nothing but love for all here… and rainbow, confetti hearts, unicorns and stars! I know what you are thinking. It may not be a reality to actually live in that aforementioned world that I do in my head, but I make every effort to do so. I believe in possessing a mindset of abundance and try to exercise understanding or gain it in all things, especially those in which I have none.

I ask questions to gain perspective and want to live a life of compassion for all. I believe in law of attraction, and I think you attract what you are. I older I get I realize I want to surround myself as much as humanly possible with kind, loving, positive people and those who bring joy and ease. Sure, that may not be reality in every day life, but I believe you can have a more peaceful one by exercising a loving mindset and by surrounding yourself with others who do the same!

Shop The Post + Get The Look

Dress | Dress in Black | Dress in Green | Heart Blanket (similar) | Heart Sarong | Rainbow Leggings in Black | LOVE these | Heart Earrings

Where The Wild Moms Are

Where are the wild moms?? They are hiding in the bathroom wearing the hottest denim jumpsuit known to woman drinking champagne, of course! Styling Cate Gutter is nothing short of a joy and a pleasure. I mean have you SEEN a prettier face?! Painfully pretty I’m telling you. Class class act and a Southern heart of gold. Read more about Cate and her design firm here. I mean you don’t have to have a powder room this good looking to hide and drink champagne but I know that’s where I would be if I did!

Photos by Richard Israel

You know I had to get in on the champagne action…

Shop The Edit + Get The Look

Jumpsuit (Now on Sale) | Shoes and Here

Town & Country Jewelry Awards

💍T O W N & C O U N T R Y • J E W E L R Y • A W A R D S👑

I have more childhood memories turning the pages of @townandcountrymag than I can recall. As a child, I would cut out their selected runway images and styled jewelry shoots to create my own look books. Town & Country Magazine celebrated their 2022 Jewelry Awards last month and I am in AWE!

💎🏝 We all need an escape from the craziness that continues to surround us. A dose of the fantastical into our chaotic lives. In celebration of their recent jewelry awards, @townandcountrymag did just that!

🏡🛌 The most precious accessories I use to adorn my body and my bedroom (because they truly are art!) are from my beloved designers right here in Charlotte!

🐚 When I put on the perfect pieces, they make me sparkle from the inside out. I do love them ALL but here's the thing -- they don't have to be 4-5 figure items.

No doubt, you've seen me in my favorite @twineandtwigstyle collar necklace. Their jewelry and now home accessories take me away...with their sexy tropical vibe. Who doesn't want that?! And I can't help but include @noellemunozjewlery and @kristin_hayes_jewelry in my photo shoots with brands like @_marieoliver_ and more. The silver bracelets, bling earrings....everything they craft (by hand!) is STUNNING.

When it’s time to bring on the heavy, I have my speed dial locked into @tinygodsjewelry @campbellandcharlotte and @elizabethbrunsinc for fine jewelry and more.

So, cheers to the fabulous winners from Town & Country's awards event, and to the local designers and retailers who add a spark of joy to my life!

📸 @olly.yung @maureen__stockton @ericamarkphotography

Visit my Shop My Looks page to browse some exquisite jewelry!