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Counteract the gray days with cozy colorful clothes! 🌈 This cashmere sweater set is the prettiest teal and I loved how it looked with this candy pink Chesterfield coat. All are from @anntaylor one of my favorite places to shop because Ann has petites over a size 12. Also all of these items are on sale!

While I did receive these clothes as a gift from Ann Taylor I am under no obligation to share with you. This is what I wore to work and when I saw these colors against the green of my building door I had to prop up my phone and capture the color combo!

This sweater is a classic and with the skirt is created a dress effect you can style with tall boots, ankle boots and tights, or dress down with sneakers. I linked to other pieces in this color that would also look dreamy with this skirt, as well as other gorgeous colorful coats.

For reference I am wearing the coat in XL petite and the sweater set in L. I am 5’3” and usually wear a 14/16

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content! https://liketk.it/4plYr 

#LTKmidsize #ltkover40 #midsizestyle #genxstyle #size14 #midsizepetite #ThisIsAnn
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Just got back from a 4-night getaway with my sister @debbiefaye78 at @curacaomarriottbeachresort. It was a last-minute planned trip that ended up being perfect. We weren’t ready to celebrate Thanksgiving without our mom and this escape what just what our hearts needed. 

I’ll be sharing more once I finally unpack my suitcase and organize my photos and thoughts; but I couldn’t not share this picture from yesterday morning. Debbie and I got up early to enjoy some of the day at the resort before flying home to DC. We had the infinity pool to ourselves, finished our books, and relaxed before a long day of travel. 🌴
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It’s hard when you’re petite and most models aren’t; you have no idea how clothes, especially jeans will fit. To promote @universalstandard’s Denim Drive sale, the company sent me two pairs of jeans of my choice. And I chose to make this video to show how they fit on my 5’3” body. I am usually a 14/32 in jeans but at Universal Standard I wear a 12 because they’re super stretchy and generously sized. 

With jeans as low as $35 in sizes 00-40, this is a sale not to be missed. And use code INFS-BFALISON10 for an additional 10% off sitewide!

The Farrah Flare is a favorite because at my height, most flare jeans will lose what makes them special once hemmed. At a 30” inseam these are great with low heels or lug soles.

The Etta is a straight jean with a vintage fit. If in doubt size down. They’re also super stretchy and the 28” inseam (they also come in 31”) works with my boots and sneakers.

While I was provided the apparel in this Reel for free, I was not paid or contracted to create this content. Consider it a PSA for my fellow shorties shopping this fab denim sale!

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4oWOQ #ltkmidsize #ltkplussize #ltkover40 #ltksalealert #uspartner #midsizestyle
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Thanks to @talbotsofficial I’m ready for the holidays! #AD

I love Talbots for holiday fashion and this season’s new arrivals do not disappoint. And for Black Friday the entire site is 40% off with free shipping on orders $150+. Until noon, you also receive 50% off 1 regular price item!

I ordered pieces from the Talbots Holiday Collection and found great quality, great style, and great versatility. How cute is the Breton stripe bateau neck with the removable feather cuffs? The metallic plaid patio skirt is so fun, and these two dresses can glam up or dress down with a change of footwear and bag. For reference, I am wearing everything in either XL or 16 petite.

The ivory cords are also Talbots; the black trousers are from last year’s Talbots Holiday Collection showing how Talbots has lasting style. I’ve linked to exact or very similar in my LTK shop. Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.ltk app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content! https://liketk.it/4oDJF

#mytalbots modernclassicstyle #wondersoftheseason #ltkover40 #ltkplussize #ltkmidsize #blackfridaysale
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@somaintimates makes it easy to shop for a range of personas this holiday season! #AD With gift guides for a range of personality types, you can easily find great gifts for your loved ones. I was drawn to the creative one, loving the rich colorful florals, luxe satin, lace trim, and of course Soma’s iconic Cool Nights sleepwear! Visit Soma’s gift guide for tips on finding the perfect present this holiday season. #SomaGiftGuide #SomaStartsWithMe
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Working on the weekend is far more enjoyable when it’s in my office 💚

Perimenopause and the pandemic and homeschooling made our row home feel even smaller. So when neighbors revitalized an office building in our town center and offered individual offices for rent, I felt it would be good for business and personally. And I kept it when the world opened up and our kid went back to public school because it helps me have a clear start and end to the work day, but also because I created a space I really enjoy.

This weekend I went to the office to shoot some content. And once I was finished I enjoyed just sitting here, watching the light change. I think I may switch the furniture around, switch up the energy. I love that I can do that without consulting another or having another person’s opinions matter.

When you have a family, things go from me to we. I don’t regret leaving Corporate America to do this full time, but I do miss being part of a team. And I missed having an office, a place away from home that’s just for me. 

I wish more communities would offer rental offices like @thegranitebuilding. With reasonably affordable monthly rates, it doesn’t have to just be business owners who get office spaces. It can be a place to work on a hobby or craft, a place to WFH that’s not home, or a place to just read and write and nap undisturbed. A literal room of one’s own. Because sometimes a person needs time to be a me and not a we. 💚
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You’re never too old for a Rory Gilmore sweater… this cotton fisherman sweater is from @llbean and inspired by @marielle.elizabeth I shopped the men’s department for a better size range. The influencer influenced the influencer!

The jeans are @landsend I got last year and I’m glad they brought them back this year in several washes, inseam lengths, and plus sizes. If in doubt, size down. They will shrink in length slightly but not anywhere else, they’re super comfy and stretchy but don’t stretch out. 

Kept the collegiate vibe going with a trucker cap, HOKAs, and my trusty commuter bag for years: the large @dagnedover Dakota backpack!

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4o4bQ #ltkmidsize #midsizestyle #genxstyle #ltkover40 #over40style
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It’s Cozy Season, and @tjmaxx is here to update our wardrobes with stylish accessories and apparel from the best brands for less. #AD

I recently visited tjmaxx.com and was so impressed with the array of elevated designer labels, on-trend looks, and the best prices. This pearl-encrusted beanie is from a woman designer I have admired for years; tjmaxx.com has the matching gloves and other pieces from this label to make a great set for yourself or to gift another. These earrings I’ve seen from the same designer at department stores; in fact I own other earrings from this label and paid much more for them. I should have checked T.J.Maxx first! And this cozy poncho is the perfect layer for late fall in the DC area.

I love how the winter white pieces elevate my existing closet. And pearls can be worn for day or glam up for evening. I can see many ways I’ll be styling these designer accessories from #tjmaxx all season long!

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4o2dA
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My husband has a special backpack he fills with weight to wear while hiking; it’s called rucking. I wear a @dagnedover Dakota and fill it with my laptop, my iPad, a full water bottle, and my purse and walk to work; it’s called commuting. 💁🏻‍♀️

But seriously, I’ve had this backpack for five years. It has been shoved under plane seats, in overstuffed car trunks, under feet in the passenger seat. I’ve worn it as I’ve walked miles in major cities and from my house to my town center. My daughter also has a Dagne Dakota; it survived middle school and continues to work through camping, sleepovers, and road trips. It’s genially designed, comfortable, and can take a beating and still look great.

As for the rest of the look, the vest (XL) is a new purchase from @athleta; the Rainier tights (L) are also Athleta but two years old. The purple top is @nike and about a decade old. Hat is @llbean and it’s on sale for less than $15. And my trusty @hoka sneakers that have had their own set of adventures.

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4nKRE

#ltkmidsize #ltkover40 #genxstyle #dagnedoverdakota
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Beauty · April 8, 2021

The ’90s Are Back… Beauty Then and Now

This article may contain affiliate links; if you click on a shopping link and make a purchase I may receive a commission. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 

I was scrolling through the New Arrivals of beauty at Nordstrom and see… hey I know that bottle of perfume. I know it very well, I wore the heck out of it… several decades ago. Estee Lauder's ‘Pleasures' was an Alison mainstay in the '90s and early '00s. Created in 1995, ‘Pleasures' was a scent to represent flowers after a rain and I wore it until I replaced it with Burberry ‘London' in the late oughts.

‘Pleasures' is clearly not a new fragrance, but I have seen with the return of '90s fashion trends there has also been a return of some '90s beauty trends.

90s makeup that is back nostalgic

'90s Beauty is Back: Nostalgic Beauty Products to Use Now

Screen Shot 2021 04 03 at 12.22.47 PM
Photo Credit: Caboodles

Caboodles

It's hard shopping for a tween who isn't into sports, isn't into makeup, isn't into a specific art or craft, no longer plays with dolls and little toys. When searching for Christmas gifts I found that Caboodles are back (or maybe they never left).

Caboodles are plastic storage boxes that are inspired by fishing tackle boxes. They open to offer a variety of little compartments, and while they are promoted to organize beauty products, they are also great for storing hair accessories, jewelry, craft supplies, and much more. I loved my Caboodles, and hoped my kid would as well.

She, like me, didn't use her Caboodle to organize makeup, but all the other little special trinkets in her room. And it reminded me how useful Caboodles are for travel (they snap shut and have a handle), and for keeping a bathroom organized (they're easy to stack in an under-sink cabinet or linen closet and you can choose different colored Caboodles for different products).

Caboodles can organize reusable cotton rounds and face brushes, beauty samples that come with your Sephora orders, manicure and pedicure supplies, the makeup you keep for special occasions, and much more. Who says we need to leave such a handle product in the past with our Bonne Bell lip smackers?

toast of new york
Photo Credit: Revlon

Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in 'Toast of New York'

While brown lipstick was hot for several years during the '90s, I remember it most clearly in 1994. I moved into an off-campus apartment with one of my best friends. She worked at Contempo Casuals and scored us to coolest clothes. We'd iron our hair with a clothing iron and we'd choose between Revlon's 'Toast of New York' or 'Coffee Bean' as our lipstick to go with our velvet bodysuits, oversized CK jeans, flannel shirts, and Doc Martens.

Over the past few seasons, brown makeup has returned. The lip is matte, but more like velvet than the '90s over-dry longwear looks. While some of GenZ has gone hardcore into the past with streaks of brown blush and contoured brown shadow, it's possible to revisit this lipstick trend at any age without looking like you're stuck in the past.

Revlon's 'Toast of New York' feels very modern and fresh when paired with a hint of bronzer and defined lashes. And since this is a color that also looks great blotted into a stain, it's a lipcolor that can look great even after taking off your mask.

Screen Shot 2021 04 03 at 1.15.28 PM

Stridex Pads

Seeing this tub of Stridex pads may provide horrific flashbacks from high school trying to battle acne. Hopefully, you have won that battle and moved forward with better skin and better products. But this red box of Stridex pads is pretty fabulous for life beyond acne.

Packed with salicylic acid, the red box of Stridex pads is a secret beauty gamechanger. I learned about their benefits when researching natural deodorants. Many use Stridex pads in place of deodorant; the acids not only kill the bacteria that cause body odor, these pads will also improve your skin by getting rid of ingrown hairs, darkness, and breakouts that plague many people's armpits.

These pads are also great for exfoliating knees and parts of legs that get ingrown hairs or irritation from shaving, for killing foot odor, evening out self-tanner streaks, and much more!

elpleasures
Photo Credit: Estee Lauder

Estee Lauder 'Pleasures' Eau de Parfum Spray

The website describes this perfume as, "the rare essence of baie rose to reflect a modern woman's desire to experience life's little pleasures every day. Created in 1995, pleasures set the trend for uplifting, airy fragrances and introduced the sheer floral fragrance style. Evelyn Lauder created this fragrance to have a sheer, elusive, luminous quality, capturing the clarity of flowers just after a spring rain."

That description makes me wonder why I stopped wearing 'Pleasures.' I think I changed it when I got engaged; I wanted to have a signature scent that I wore on my wedding day and for the rest of time. I was always inspired by my mom who has always worn Chanel No. 5 and it became her signature, something we always purchased as a gift for her on holidays.

It's funny, I wore Burberry 'London' for my wedding, on our honeymoon, and so long I wore it through my pregnancy years later. I stopped wearing it because I got tired of it. I realized I wasn't a signature fragrance sort of person, I like variety, and I like a lot of days with no scent. I need to check out Estee Lauder 'Pleasures' again and see what my 40-something self would now think of it!

2153395
Photo Credit: Clinique

Clinique Almost Lipstick in 'Black Honey'

Dude, I wore the heck out of some 'Black Honey' in my day. I had one in my car, one at my desk, one in my purse... and they weren't cheap but I knew I couldn't be without.

The color 'Black Honey' was launched by Clinique in 1971, but achieved cult status after 1989 when the color was used for the brand's Almost Lipstick. During a time when makeup was complicated (sounds a bit like today), Clinique's Almost Lipstick was an easy to apply, no mirror needed combo of color and moisture in a balm-like consistency. 'Black Honey' was a transformative color that seemed to work with most any skintone.

Just as it was a literal and figurative balm for a high-intensity time, Clinique's Almost Lipstick in 'Black Honey' is a great choice for our current times. Easy to swipe on, hydrating while offering a hint of color, goes with everything while also looking beautiful on its own... I am tempted to get it again and have one in my car, one at my desk, and one in my purse at the ready to look polished with little effort.

ohora nails
Photo Credit: Ohora

Ohora Semcured Gel Nails

In the '90s, press-on nails were a THING. I can't recall how many times I bought a set swearing they would work, they would look natural, I'd no longer be the girl with the chewed nails but the woman with elegant hands.

And now it's 2021 and after a year without a visit to the nail salon, I am again that kid with the gnawed-on fingers. And social media can tell because it's having ads for Ohora nails following me from Instagram to Facebook to Pinterest.

Unlike the Lee Press-on Nails from our past, Ohora's nails are stretchy semi-cured gel that you stretch over your current nails and use a light to fully cure to glossy (or matte if that's your thing) hardness.

Knowing I am less likely to chew if my nails look pretty and are too tough to bite, I ordered some of these for me and my kid (maybe she'll keep them in her Caboodle). I'll be sure to do a full review once we use them, but I can't help but think of how impressed my '90s self would be with this new nail technology.

Photo Credit: Benefit

Benefit High Beam Liquid Highlighter

I remember getting my first bottle of Benefit's High Beam. I don't recall the year, but I do know I had a MySpace account. High Beam was this pink shimmery liquid and I'd do a bit on my cheek bones and a bit down my nose. A little went a very long way; I don't even think I finished that first bottle because makeup started getting matte and heavier and this just seemed too shiny for the times.

Since then, I have bought illuminating powder, highlight products from eco-friendly and high-end brands, wands and sticks, and tubes of glowy products that essentially are achieving the same thing that High Beam was making happen decades ago.

While the beauty brand Benefit started in 1976, it gained international popularity by starting a catalog in 1989, having a counter at Henri Bendel in 1991, and opening in Harrods in 1997. It makes sense that every beauty lover in the late '90s and early '00s had at least one product by Benefit in their makeup case (or maybe it was a Caboodle!).

With so many confusing products on the market, when I run out of my current illuminating product I may go back to High Beam, which seems to be one of the OGs, achieving that dewy look decades before the rest.

71RoRfsRH1L. SL1500
Photo Credit: Benefit

Benefit's Tinted Cheek & Lip Stain

In 1977, an exotic dancer came into the Benefit store and asked for a nipple stain. That began the history of BeneTint, which was first called "Rose Tint" for the dancer. Now available in three different colors (BeneTint is the original rose color, there is also GogoTint and LoveTint), this lip and cheek stain has achieved cult status.

I bought my first bottle of BeneTint around the same time I purchased High Beam; I got them from the Benefit catalog and loved the cheeky whimsical names and packaging.

I never mastered the art of the stain for my lips or cheeks, but did appreciate that during a time when many longwear products tasted and smelled terrible and dried lips out terribly, BeneTint smelled like roses, tasted mild, and didn't leave my lips feeling like sandpaper. Now that I am more skilled with cosmetics and desiring simple "set it and forget it" makeup, it's appealing to try Benefit's cheek and lip stain again.

What do you think of the return of '90s trends, and along with it, some of the beauty products we used back then? Do you plan revisiting? Are there any products you used in the '90s that you still use today?

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Comments

  1. Kelly-Lynne Guy says

    June 1, 2021 at 12:09 pm

    I loooove benefit high beam and benetint. I’ve been using both for like 10 years and no matter how much makeup I get I keep coming back. High beam is the perfect pinky gold color for me, and no other highlighters ever look as natural or as pretty. I also really like their super red stain. It’s perfect for under masks and also thins out easily and wears well. Kinda mad that they made the benetint and high beam a doe-tipped applicator instead of the brush but…whatever.

    Reply
  2. Sallie says

    April 18, 2021 at 6:44 pm

    I had not heard about Clinique Black Honey until this post but added it to my recent Sephora order because it sounded like something I might like. I love it so much I placed another order and got two more. It’s hydrating and perfect for just wearing around the house, which is mostly my life right now. Thanks for the recommendation!

    Reply
  3. Missy says

    April 13, 2021 at 4:18 pm

    OMG Alison! I loved Pleasures too! Was all I wore for all of my late 20’s and 30’s!!

    Reply
  4. Book Goddess says

    April 13, 2021 at 11:40 am

    Caboodles! I’m looking at mine right now. Blue, green, and fuchsia – and I still love it. I’ve always used it as a sewing kit. Almost certainly from the 80s. I see that the new ones have mirrors, and I’m pretty excited.

    Reply
  5. Paula Spizziri says

    April 9, 2021 at 8:38 am

    Fun post! I’m a little older so I was into Jean Nate (sp?) – until I dropped it in the bathroom and it sprayed all over! A little too much of a good thing. Also thought Yardley of London products were cool and wanted to be like the women in their commercials. Sort of Jean Shrimpton.

    Reply
  6. Colleen says

    April 9, 2021 at 12:50 am

    1983 here. I remember the year I decided my birthday present was going to be a Caboodle and I picked out a purple one at Big Lots. Then I used my label maker and put my name in the groove under the handle.

    And you know what?

    I still have that sucker and pull it out EVERY DAY to do my makeup. I only grab a few items these days: brow pencil, eyeliner, mascara, blush. But I love storing all of my treasured makeup inside the compartments. I hate when it gets difficult to close and I have to make decisions!

    Oh. And my color was Rum Raisin. 🙂

    Reply
  7. Joy Anzalone says

    April 8, 2021 at 10:53 pm

    I could smell Pleasures as soon as I read this. I loved it and wore it for a long time. I was a brown lipstick wearer too. It started with a bronze shade in 1986. Great memories here!

    Reply
  8. dmc says

    April 8, 2021 at 4:13 pm

    I have a collection of OLD Seventeen magazines from the 1940’s thru 1970’s. What strikes me when I look at them is how many things circle back around. Okay, NOT girdles and super pointy bras…but lots of things! Fun post.

    Reply
  9. Jennifer says

    April 8, 2021 at 3:29 pm

    I love this post! I have been devoted to Black Honey since 1998, and I definitely tucked it away in a Caboodle once upon a time. I wore Pleasures to the prom, but never had the money for Benetint so I made do with the Sonia Kashuk version.

    Reply
  10. Michele says

    April 8, 2021 at 1:32 pm

    So funny, I recently went looking for a cruelty free dupe for Black Honey as it was a FAV of mine for a long time. I found Fenty Slip Shine Sheer Shiny Lipstick (could the name be any longer??) in Goji Gang and it’s really good! Not sure if it’s an exact dupe but it’s really pretty and the formulation is great.

    I have had Caboodles for decades and still love them!

    Reply
  11. Char says

    April 8, 2021 at 1:14 pm

    Another member of team Black Honey. Have worn it for years, and still get compliments on my “great lipstick”!

    Reply
  12. Linda says

    April 8, 2021 at 9:35 am

    Stridex. OMG.

    Reply
  13. Dee says

    April 8, 2021 at 9:19 am

    I remember having a Caboodle in the early 90s but it got purged somewhere along the way. And while I don’t remember wearing that Revlon lipstick, I do recall wearing a brown shade of lipstick in the later 90s. I didn’t discover Black Honey until about 10 years later and it was Ok. But I loved a Sephora lipstick that was very similar which of corse was discontinued shortly after I discovered it. Wish I had kept that Caboodle…

    Reply
  14. Leu2500 says

    April 8, 2021 at 8:58 am

    For those rare occasions when I wear makeup, I wear black honey.

    Reply
  15. Joannawnyc says

    April 8, 2021 at 8:54 am

    I jumped back on the Black Honey train a few years ago and have no regrets. Do it!

    Reply
    • katelin says

      April 8, 2021 at 10:28 am

      Same! I am a very low maintenance makeup person and bought black honey as my signature a few years ago. I grew up using Clinique products (my mom always did) and I still love them. And Stridex! Having a 14 and 12 year old in the house, I think I need to get these. The tea tree pads don’t seem to do squat (for this perimenopausal mom who gets a big old chin zit like clockwork every month, either)!

      It’s funny- I actually am wearing more make up than ever in the pandemic. Eye stuff, curling eyelashes, using concealer. I don’t know why. More time maybe?

      Reply
  16. E says

    April 8, 2021 at 8:38 am

    Black honey! I wore it for years and don’t know why I stopped.

    Your first sentence struck me — we used to STROLL through Nordstrom, now we SCROLL through.

    LOL.

    Reply
  17. Marie says

    April 8, 2021 at 8:28 am

    I love nostalgia items. I’m probably dating myself here but I still wear and own Coty’s Wild Musk fragrance. Anyone hear of that?

    Reply
    • Karen O says

      April 8, 2021 at 1:36 pm

      I’ve heard of that Marie! I remember seeing it in Seventeen magazine and even though I did not have Coty’s, I did have Jovan Musk. And as long as we’re dating ourselves, I’m a Calvin Klein Obsession girl myself, lol.

      Reply
  18. Krista says

    April 8, 2021 at 8:28 am

    The best graduation gift I received was a black and white Caboodle. That thing sat in my dorm vanity for years then went along for the ride when I got married. And I have used Black Honey since the first time I tried it, n and off for better than 25 years. While I no longer wear perfume regularly (migraines) when I do I still reach for Angel in the glass star shaped bottle.

    Reply
    • katelin says

      April 8, 2021 at 10:29 am

      Perfume gives me migraines and nausea too. Is there any formula or scent that works for you? I can tolerate citrusy more than floral. But anything and God forbid, scented lotion, make me immediately sick.

      Reply
  19. Nancy says

    April 8, 2021 at 8:18 am

    I still have a caboodle, a hand-me-down (up?) from my daughter. It serves well for a tool box for the limited amount of tools a single woman needs. It’s neon colors, but who cares, as it sits in a closet when not in use. Just goes to show that everything old is new again.

    Reply
  20. Kate says

    April 8, 2021 at 8:07 am

    This really makes me want to try Black Honey. I had a brown lip balm from Jane (remember them?) that acheived a similar look!

    Reply
  21. Heather says

    April 8, 2021 at 7:58 am

    Here is where I will freely admit that I never stopped wearing the Clinique Black Honey almost lipstick. I started wearing it in the 90s and am never without it. I wore the Revlon lipstick and stored it in a teal Cabbodle, next to my Stridex pads, but gave all those up long ago. The Cabbodle became a storage garage for my son’s Matchbox cars when he was little. I loved your description of your college outfits. It took me back to that same time. I was at Nordstrom’s shoe department the other day and a teenage girl was trying on her first Doc Marten’s. I smiled inside my mask remembering that time in my life. Thanks for this fun post.

    Reply
  22. Courtney says

    April 8, 2021 at 7:31 am

    My younger sister had a caboodle (she had a ton of makeup and hair stuff). I am thinking about getting one now. I’m pretty sure I had that Revlon lipstick in grad school in the mid-90s and loved it.
    Going back a stretch further, to my jr high years in the 80s, I wonder if they still make Love’s Baby Soft. I wore the hell out of that to some 8th grade dances.

    Reply
  23. Sarah says

    April 8, 2021 at 7:04 am

    OMG

    This takes me back. I had everything but the benefit highlighter.

    And I swapped out Pleasures for Burberry too.

    Reply

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Since 2005, Wardrobe Oxygen has offered real-life style advice for grown-ass women. With years of experience as an apparel visual merchandiser and personal shopper, Alison Gary provides advice on how to achieve personal style no matter your age, size, or budget.

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Just got back from a 4-night getaway with my sister @debbiefaye78 at @curacaomarriottbeachresort. It was a last-minute planned trip that ended up being perfect. We weren’t ready to celebrate Thanksgiving without our mom and this escape what just what our hearts needed. 

I’ll be sharing more once I finally unpack my suitcase and organize my photos and thoughts; but I couldn’t not share this picture from yesterday morning. Debbie and I got up early to enjoy some of the day at the resort before flying home to DC. We had the infinity pool to ourselves, finished our books, and relaxed before a long day of travel. 🌴

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Nov 19

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Working on the weekend is far more enjoyable when it’s in my office 💚

Perimenopause and the pandemic and homeschooling made our row home feel even smaller. So when neighbors revitalized an office building in our town center and offered individual offices for rent, I felt it would be good for business and personally. And I kept it when the world opened up and our kid went back to public school because it helps me have a clear start and end to the work day, but also because I created a space I really enjoy.

This weekend I went to the office to shoot some content. And once I was finished I enjoyed just sitting here, watching the light change. I think I may switch the furniture around, switch up the energy. I love that I can do that without consulting another or having another person’s opinions matter.

When you have a family, things go from me to we. I don’t regret leaving Corporate America to do this full time, but I do miss being part of a team. And I missed having an office, a place away from home that’s just for me. 

I wish more communities would offer rental offices like @thegranitebuilding. With reasonably affordable monthly rates, it doesn’t have to just be business owners who get office spaces. It can be a place to work on a hobby or craft, a place to WFH that’s not home, or a place to just read and write and nap undisturbed. A literal room of one’s own. Because sometimes a person needs time to be a me and not a we. 💚

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Nov 17

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You’re never too old for a Rory Gilmore sweater… this cotton fisherman sweater is from @llbean and inspired by @marielle.elizabeth I shopped the men’s department for a better size range. The influencer influenced the influencer!

The jeans are @landsend I got last year and I’m glad they brought them back this year in several washes, inseam lengths, and plus sizes. If in doubt, size down. They will shrink in length slightly but not anywhere else, they’re super comfy and stretchy but don’t stretch out. 

Kept the collegiate vibe going with a trucker cap, HOKAs, and my trusty commuter bag for years: the large @dagnedover Dakota backpack!

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4o4bQ #ltkmidsize #midsizestyle #genxstyle #ltkover40 #over40style

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Nov 15

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My husband has a special backpack he fills with weight to wear while hiking; it’s called rucking. I wear a @dagnedover Dakota and fill it with my laptop, my iPad, a full water bottle, and my purse and walk to work; it’s called commuting. 💁🏻‍♀️

But seriously, I’ve had this backpack for five years. It has been shoved under plane seats, in overstuffed car trunks, under feet in the passenger seat. I’ve worn it as I’ve walked miles in major cities and from my house to my town center. My daughter also has a Dagne Dakota; it survived middle school and continues to work through camping, sleepovers, and road trips. It’s genially designed, comfortable, and can take a beating and still look great.

As for the rest of the look, the vest (XL) is a new purchase from @athleta; the Rainier tights (L) are also Athleta but two years old. The purple top is @nike and about a decade old. Hat is @llbean and it’s on sale for less than $15. And my trusty @hoka sneakers that have had their own set of adventures.

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
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#ltkmidsize #ltkover40 #genxstyle #dagnedoverdakota

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Nov 6

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Another day of early voting for our city election, another outfit I wore as an election judge! 🗳️

I got this sweater set from @mmlafleur last spring and it continues to be a favorite. The color and popcorn stitch makes it wearable three seasons of the year. I’ve styled it with gold heels and dramatic gold earrings, with sneakers and a crossbody belt bag, and more than once with knee-high boots and a scarf at my throat. The color works with brown and black boots, the skirt silhouette and length with heels and flats. These brown riding boots are from @duoboots and almost a decade old. The scarf belonged to my dad; I have a feeling it was styled with a leisure suit back in the day!

I may have been more dressed up than other election judges but I think seeing democracy in action is a cause to celebrate! 🇺🇸

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Nov 4

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Early voting poll worker style 🗳️

I’ve been an election judge (AKA poll worker) for several years but this year I decided to take it a step further and join my city’s Board of Elections. I’m passionate about fair and accessible elections for all. The Board is acting as election judges for early voting so it’s great to use my previous experience on a city level!

I believe voting is a special occasion and I dressed the part. The puff sleeve sweater and pants are from @anntaylor; these pants are the same ones from the suit I wore earlier this week. I added a beloved @hermes scarf as a belt and silver hoops (they belonged to my mom) as a hint of shine.

If your area is having an election this coming week; I implore you to vote. Your voice deserves to be heard. And please ensure your neighbors know of the election and where to vote. 🇺🇸

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Nov 2

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Always fun to see my name in lights! 💡 I was a panelist at the annual @jaofcentralmd Leading Ladies event that connects local high schoolers with women in business. My panel was on using social media for promoting one’s business or personal brand. Along with other social media experts, we guided students and adults on how to create compelling and engaging social content and together created content for the conference’s feed. It was fun and I loved being able to share my almost two decades of personal and professional experience!

The dress code for the conference was business professional and since the event’s theme color was pink, they encouraged us to wear the color. 

This @anntaylor suit has been a favorite since late summer. I’ve dressed it down with a white tank and sneakers and glammed it up with a silk cami and gold heeled sandals. I love how Ann Taylor has petite suiting up to size 16; I know I’m not the only short curvy girl who desires suits and professional attire!

For this event I chose a berry-colored microfiber tank from @lovechicos. I own several of these tanks; they wear like iron and the tight weave and subtle shine make them great shells under suits. 

The look fit the theme but was also comfortable. I was glad to share my expertise and encourage others to see how they can donate their time and knowledge to a local @juniorachievementusa #JALeadingLadies #JALeadingLadies2023 #JACMD #JuniorAchievment

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Oct 18

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Sharing this from my #iPadOS17 thanks to @apple! A bit belated with all that has been going on lately but I’m really enjoying using an iPad to improve how I work, stay organized, and find new ways to be creative. Can I just say that editing video on an iPad instead of a phone is a game changer!

Recently, I attended an event at the gorgeous Apple Carnegie Library hosted by @flourishplanner_ to learn ways to make the most of #iOS17 and it was awesome. I brought my new iPad and learned about the new wallpaper, stickers, and organizing tools.

As for my look, the dress is from @bananarepublic’s summer collection. Kept it comfy with a pair of Samba sneakers and held down the volume of the dress with my black recycled leather @ganni crossbody. Added an old @_jennybird link necklace and a silver cuff I’ve had since the ‘90s.

#todayatapple #genxstyle #midsizestyle #midsizefashion #size14 #over40style

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Oct 17

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I love an excuse to dress up, especially if it’s for a good cause! This weekend was the @thenewdealcafe Masquer-AID fundraiser to support this independent cafe, art gallery, and live music venue in @cityofgreenbelt.

My family and I have loved going to The New Deal Cafe for all these years. Grabbing coffee with friends, having a meal, seeing an amazing band, participating in an open mic or one of their Reel and Meal events. So @debbiefaye78, our mom, and I got tickets and even chipped in for a plaque from us “Ashpes Girls.” 

Our mom passed before she could attend the event; we asked our like a sister best friend @shellymingram to join us in her place and we had a great time, dancing all night as our mom would have, connecting with neighbors, and supporting a local business we all love so much.

As for the outfit, the dress is @ronnykobo the bag is @ganni and I borrowed both from @renttherunway The shoes I’ve had for years and the gold metal mask I found on Amazon and liked how it could mold to my face and not put pressure on my still-healing eye.

And I know y’all will ask because I received so many DMs this weekend when I shared this event in my Stories… my sister’s dress is from @eshakti she bought it a few years ago and it’s even more gorgeous in person!

#newdealcafe #greenbeltisgreat #onlyingreenbelt #midsizestyle #genxstyle #over40style #greenbeltmd

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Oct 11

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The biggest fashion trend this fall is a return to classics. For decades I have turned to @talbotsofficial for quality classics with style.  This season, Talbots has a fantastic range of pants to update the wardrobe. 

I love how these @talbotsofficial ivory stretch corduroy straight leg pants elevate closet classics! Available in Misses, Petite, Plus, Plus Petite, Curvy, and in 10 colors, these cords are a chic alternative to jeans and just as easy care! I can run errands and have a bit of quiet time with an ebook and a coffee with comfort and style. 

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4kFNi #talbots #mytalbots #talbotspartner #ltkover40 #modernclassicstyle #liketkit #ltkover40

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