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Night and day…

Met three dear friends for an early dinner that went on until after the sun set. Great food and conversation with some great women!

The dress is @adamlippes and I borrowed it from @renttherunway. The bag is @jcrew and a splurge but I regretted not buying it the last time they offered this bag and this color is SO me. I mean, look how great it is with these many years old suede heeled sandals? Meant to be!

This color combination makes me so happy, and this dress was comfy even after a decadent meal. We all deserve to experience comfort and joy with our wardrobes! 💛🩷

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4jnDf #ltkplussize #ltkmidsize #ltkover40 #midsizestyle #genxstyle #over40style
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If @thechicks are in town you can bet @debbiefaye78 and I will be there! So when we heard they were coming to @merriweatherpp we were so excited. And their concert did not disappoint. As always, a phenomenal show! If The Chicks come to your neck of the woods I highly recommend you go!

Okay I know you want to know about what we’re wearing! 

My sister’s caftan is from @anthropologie (bought this summer so maybe you can find on resale sites).

I’m wearing a @bananarepublic dress also from this summer with the @universalstandard denim chore jacket and a hat I got from a @madewell collab a year or so ago. I glammed it up with some gold chains and gold drop earrings, but kept it comfy for a night of standing and dancing with @birkenstock sandals.

This was my first big outing since my eye surgery, and with a pocketful of eye drops I felt good (and grateful we splurged for good seats!).

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4jcBL #ltkmidsize #ltkover40 #midsizestyle #genxstyle #usinthewild #concertstyle
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For years I’ve trusted @somaintimates for the right bras and the right fit but it had been a while since I visited a Soma boutique to try on all the styles they currently have for a large bust. I must say I was impressed! Knowledgeable staff, extensive collection in larger sizes, and some of the most comfortable and innovative bras in up to H cups! Each body is different but what I loved:

- The Stunning Push-Up: targeted for the DD+ customer gives amazing lift and great shape under fitted knits.

- The Unbelievable Lift Scoop Balconette: sexy, supportive, and so lightweight!

- The Embraceable Wireless: I’ve recommended this wireless bra for large busts for years and was in need for a new one! 

- The Stunning Support Smooth Balconette: this is the perfect t-shirt bra for large busts with padded straps and disappears under knits

- The Stunning Starlet Multi-Way Strapless: recently improved for more support and more comfort, this wireless bra stays put and gives fab shape

I also picked up some of Soma’s iconic Vanishing Edge panties which keep you line-free. The whole Vanishing collection is genius. I loved being able to donate my gently used bras at my local Soma boutique to give to those in need. We all deserve a lift and Soma strives to achieve that. It’s why I’ve been a fan and customer for years and am honored to partner with them. Soma is the perfect fitting bra solution. Visit the link in my bio to shop and to find your local Soma boutique! #SomaPartner #SomaBraFit #SomaStartsWithMe
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If I close my eyes you can’t tell one is still bloodshot 😜

Still recovering from my eye surgery but feeling more myself. Getting dolled up helps me feel me. Bright colors and bold jewelry have been signature Alison since I was a kid! 

Sweater: @favorite.daughter 
Earrings: Amazon
Necklace: @_jennybird (old)
Ring: @realmfinejewelry 
Bra: @lovebravissimo 
Lipstick: @glossier 
Pins as “cufflinks”: vintage

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4j0LM #ltkmidsize #midsizestyle #over40style #ltkover40 #genxstyle
Open
It was so funny and so quick I couldn’t not share! I bought this @hulkenbag a year ago and use it all the time. Carting shoot supplies, groceries, packing for road trips, and carting donations. This weekend @thenewdealcafe in @cityofgreenbelt hosted a community clothing swap so I made sure my family and I went through our summer wardrobes to gather that which we no longer needed or fit.

This wasn’t the first clothing swap and folks in town know my style (and my job) so there were some waiting for my arrival. Look how fast I cleared out this big bag! Speaking of the bag one other swap attendee said she got herself a Hulken after seeing mine in action!

It’s so great to know our old clothes are getting a good life and this bag makes carting them to the cafe so easy! I got my Hulken on Amazon, it comes in other colors and sizes too: https://amzn.to/48iTY4Y yep the bag is as great as all those ads you see on social media, I’m a big fan!
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I had to see… I asked my husband how often he thinks about the Roman Empire, and then asked our 14-year-old 😂
Open
#ad Go through my archives on Wardrobe Oxygen and one thing is clear: my family and I are a fan of @bombas socks! From their no-slip no-show socks to their iconic crew socks, Bombas makes great socks for the whole family while having a great heart.

Socks are the #1 requested article of clothing from homeless shelters. For every item purchase from Bombas, one is donated to someone experiencing homelessness. 

Save 20% on your first purchase at Bombas with my exclusive promo code: WARDROBE20

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4ipHy #bombas
Open
Happy gotcha day, Oscar! Four years ago he came into our life and we are so happy to have in our family!

Oscar was a rescue and came with some… quirks. Over the years we have come to understand him and he has come to trust us. He’s a diva, a snuggler, he could play catch for hours, and he’s my husband’s shadow. 

We’ve never had a small breed dog before and it’s a whole different experience. But we adore Oscar and couldn’t imagine our life without him! Thank you for coming into our life Oskie McGoskie! 🐾❤️
Open
I can see clearly now…

Actually I can’t, but things after my retina surgery are much improved! My next appointment is in a month and I’m cleared to get back into the world (with some restrictions to protect my eye).

With a sclera buckle, it changes your eye shape and now I am nearsighted again (I had lasik a few years ago). Once the eye is stabilized I can get glasses or contacts but until then I’m 20/20 in one eye and right now 20/60 in the other. But the eye is healing beautifully and I feel positive!

And I could see clearly enough to fall for this poppy-colored cotton jumpsuit from @pistoladenim. It comes in a few colors but this one is my favorite. I went with XL (im@a 14, sometimes 16) and likely could have sized down but I enjoy the relaxed fit and the drawstring waistband to create shape. And hello zipper closure making it super easy to get on and off!

My husband took this photo right after my eye appointment, I think it reflects my positive attitude and feeling of hope! 🧡

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4idXm
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Beauty · April 10, 2020

Advice from a Pro: Caring for Hair at Home

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. 

at home haircare tips from a pro

When I asked what sort of content you desired during this time, many of you asked for tips for caring for your hair at home. I decided to ask my hairstylist, Billy Maloy, to join me on an Instagram Live to address many of your questions. Knowing not all of you are on Instagram and likely couldn't take notes fast enough for our animated session together, I asked Billy to answer the top received questions plus share his top tips for at-home haircare.

Ask the Haircare Expert: Billy Maloy

Billy Maloy has been a sought after hairstylist for over 30 years. Originally from New York, Billy set out to learn every hair type he could. He has worked in very diverse salons and can handle any texture thrown at him. He has taken classes all over the country to stay on top of his education, and, make sure his clients are getting the most current styles and techniques for their hair care and style. Billy prides himself on working with your natural texture in order to keep your hair as healthy as possible. Billy has worked as a stylist in theater, photoshoots, film, as well as television and regularly called on by news outlets for upcoming trends and hair advice. Currently, Billy is working at The Shop Salon in Bethesda and can be found on Instagram.

Top At-Home Haircare Tips

Billy offered three suggestions to make sure your hair looks its best while sheltering at home:

  • Get a water filter for your shower. You have one for your kitchen sink, you need one for the shower.
  • Working with your stylist, always make sure you are using the correct products for your hair, NOT just what you are used to, or, were taught when you were younger.
  • Most importantly, do not try to cut or color your at home by yourself. A glass of wine and boredom is NO reason to take your ego into your own hands. CALL YOUR STYLIST AND ASK FOR HELP. They will know what you need to do. Remember they have trained for years in order to help you.
Billy reminded me that I used to have a shower filter and loved it, but it ended up not being reinstalled after replacing a shower head.  I need to get a new one, it truly made a difference!  Billy also shared that stylists right now can do remote/virtual consults.  With FaceTime, Google Hangouts, Facechat on Facebook and Zoom, there are many free ways to connect with your stylist, have them direct you with cut and color, and they can take payment via Venmo, PayPal, or CashApp.  This is a great way to ensure you don't ruin your hair while supporting your stylist during this time.

At-Home Haircare Do's and Don'ts

  • Do… Conditioning treatments. Put a lot of your conditioner in your hair, comb, don't brush, it through and leave it in for an hour. Maintain your health while waiting for your next cut.
  • Do… play with styles. Up, down, curls, straight, PLAY and have fun. YouTube styling tutorials are great!
  • Do… put it up, back, wear a headband and forget about it for a day. Just get it off your face and relax. No one at home is judging.
  • DON'T… try to color at all without speaking to a professional stylist who knows your hair first. You will be paying double or triple in order to get it fixed when you return to the salon.
  • DON'T… wash it everyday. Wait two or three days between shampoos. Your natural scalp oils replenish your hair, it needs it for nourishment.
  • DON'T… have any scissors in or near the bathroom right now. You are one drink away from disaster. Don't tempt fate!!!

Your At-Home Haircare Questions Answered

I compiled the questions received here at Wardrobe Oxygen, on Instagram, Facebook, and by email and narrowed them down to the questions I felt many could relate to.

My bangs are getting in my eyes, what is a safe way to trim them myself?

My first suggestion is video call your stylist, or, any stylist, and have them talk you through the process. It's so much easier than trying to do it yourself.

My split ends are driving me bonkers. Tips on how to trim them or make them less obvious?

Order a split end sealing product. Oribe makes a great one called Split End Seal. It will lessen the appearance of split ends. Do not cut on your own. Video conference with a stylist .

Stress is making my hair fall out, any suggestions on how to stop this?

Massage your scalp until it turns pink, or tingles. That increases the blood flow to the roots of your hair. Also, take biotin. It's a supplement that's in prenatal vitamins, and helps with hair growth.

I'd love to give my hair a deep conditioning treatment, any suggestions for great products? Any DIY suggestions for items I may have in my kitchen?

Actually mayonnaise can work as a scalp exfoliant, and, a conditioner. Who knew? I would order Oribe's Gold Lust deep conditioning mask. It's truly amazing. Expensive but amazing.

I am going to have to cut my husband's and son's hair sooner than later. I have a pair of Wahl clippers, any tips for an easy trim for them?

If they get a simple buzz cut, don't go below a 4 guard with clippers unless you have a stylist on video to help.

My grays are coming in, how can I hide them for Zoom work calls?

L'Oreal makes a root cover-up spray, Magic Root. A variety of shades. Or if you pull your hair back, a little mascara around your face. Do not try to color your own hair. Box color is very damaging, and, it will cost you three times as much for us to fix it afterward.

I've decided to embrace my natural texture of wavy hair during this time. Any tips?

Yes! After you shampoo, put enough of your regular conditioner in to detangle, comb it through. Leaving it in your hair, flip your head over and shake your hair hard, up and down, side to side (like if you're headbanging). Take a jersey t-shirt or pillowcase, and lightly blot and scrunch while bending your head over to enhance your curls. It's going to take a minute to get used to the process, but your hair will be healthier, bouncier, and you will eventually love it.

Is there any safe way to color my hair at home?

Not really. Always ask your stylist about this; they know your hair and can help with a video or standard call to suggest the right product. If it's too emotional to let your hair be natural, try a semi-permanent. But that's a stretch to get it right. Call a stylist.

What do you think of oVertone and other temporary hair coloring products?

Honestly, products like oVertone are fine on pre-bleached hair, but not really worth the money for natural hair. 

Any tips for adding volume to fine gray hair?

Yes. Use a dry shampoo at the roots for styling and volume. It's not just for dirty hair. It really lifts the root without too much product buildup.

Please reach out to your stylists right now. They are there to help you. And we still love interacting with you!!!

Below is a video recap of the Instagram Live I hosted with Billy Maloy on Friday, April 3rd.  It was a fun session where Billy gave honest and helpful tips beyond his answers above on how to care for your hair at home during this time.

If you'd like to book a remote consult with Billy to help with a haircut, trimming your bangs, touching up your roots, and more, Billy can be reached by email or on Instagram.

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Comments

  1. Loya says

    September 10, 2021 at 2:00 pm

    This was a great post for hair care. I loved reading all of Billy’s advice. I live in Texas and wish I could find a ‘Billy’ to take care of my hair.

    Reply
  2. Ruth Slavid says

    April 10, 2020 at 1:37 pm

    Not cutting your hair is an easy option if your hair is long. Mine is short and already looking dodgy. I’m contemplating a buzz cut!

    Reply
    • Allison says

      April 14, 2020 at 10:38 pm

      Pixie headed for a mullet here, considering head scarves.

      Reply
      • Laurel says

        April 15, 2020 at 9:39 am

        Same progression here (pixie –>mullet). Scarves and baseball caps. 😉

        Reply
  3. Trystan says

    April 10, 2020 at 11:47 am

    This is great & I lol’ed at the multiple reminders not to cut your hair yourself! I never would, but I’ve already seen some friends do it 😉

    Reply
  4. Gillian Whitcombe says

    April 10, 2020 at 10:48 am

    SO brilliant! Even if I colour my hair and home and have trimmed it myself, it was still great to read good practical advice! (I have a pixie cut, so things are going downhill fast!)

    Reply
  5. Krista says

    April 10, 2020 at 9:22 am

    Your IG live with Billy was fun! Thanks for this recap.

    Reply

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Pajamas and Pups for Comfort

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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Sep 23

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Night and day…

Met three dear friends for an early dinner that went on until after the sun set. Great food and conversation with some great women!

The dress is @adamlippes and I borrowed it from @renttherunway. The bag is @jcrew and a splurge but I regretted not buying it the last time they offered this bag and this color is SO me. I mean, look how great it is with these many years old suede heeled sandals? Meant to be!

This color combination makes me so happy, and this dress was comfy even after a decadent meal. We all deserve to experience comfort and joy with our wardrobes! 💛🩷

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

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Sep 21

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If @thechicks are in town you can bet @debbiefaye78 and I will be there! So when we heard they were coming to @merriweatherpp we were so excited. And their concert did not disappoint. As always, a phenomenal show! If The Chicks come to your neck of the woods I highly recommend you go!

Okay I know you want to know about what we’re wearing! 

My sister’s caftan is from @anthropologie (bought this summer so maybe you can find on resale sites).

I’m wearing a @bananarepublic dress also from this summer with the @universalstandard denim chore jacket and a hat I got from a @madewell collab a year or so ago. I glammed it up with some gold chains and gold drop earrings, but kept it comfy for a night of standing and dancing with @birkenstock sandals.

This was my first big outing since my eye surgery, and with a pocketful of eye drops I felt good (and grateful we splurged for good seats!).

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

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Sep 19

Open
If I close my eyes you can’t tell one is still bloodshot 😜

Still recovering from my eye surgery but feeling more myself. Getting dolled up helps me feel me. Bright colors and bold jewelry have been signature Alison since I was a kid! 

Sweater: @favorite.daughter 
Earrings: Amazon
Necklace: @_jennybird (old)
Ring: @realmfinejewelry 
Bra: @lovebravissimo 
Lipstick: @glossier 
Pins as “cufflinks”: vintage

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4j0LM #ltkmidsize #midsizestyle #over40style #ltkover40 #genxstyle

wardrobe_oxygen

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Sep 11

Open
Happy gotcha day, Oscar! Four years ago he came into our life and we are so happy to have in our family!

Oscar was a rescue and came with some… quirks. Over the years we have come to understand him and he has come to trust us. He’s a diva, a snuggler, he could play catch for hours, and he’s my husband’s shadow. 

We’ve never had a small breed dog before and it’s a whole different experience. But we adore Oscar and couldn’t imagine our life without him! Thank you for coming into our life Oskie McGoskie! 🐾❤️

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Sep 8

Open
I can see clearly now…

Actually I can’t, but things after my retina surgery are much improved! My next appointment is in a month and I’m cleared to get back into the world (with some restrictions to protect my eye).

With a sclera buckle, it changes your eye shape and now I am nearsighted again (I had lasik a few years ago). Once the eye is stabilized I can get glasses or contacts but until then I’m 20/20 in one eye and right now 20/60 in the other. But the eye is healing beautifully and I feel positive!

And I could see clearly enough to fall for this poppy-colored cotton jumpsuit from @pistoladenim. It comes in a few colors but this one is my favorite. I went with XL (im@a 14, sometimes 16) and likely could have sized down but I enjoy the relaxed fit and the drawstring waistband to create shape. And hello zipper closure making it super easy to get on and off!

My husband took this photo right after my eye appointment, I think it reflects my positive attitude and feeling of hope! 🧡

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

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Sep 5

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I’ll be a bit quiet on here and other channels because I had eye (retinal) surgery this past weekend. I was having what I thought were ocular migraines but come to find out I was experiencing lattice degeneration, which is thinning/holes in the retina. I had surgery Saturday for my right eye and later on they’ll work on the left eye, which isn’t as bad and can be remedied by laser, in office.

I share not because I’m Mrs. Frizzle meets Iris Apfel as I recuperate at home, but because this whole thing has been a lesson on trusting my gut. And I want to remind you to do the same.

As we get older our bodies can feel like strangers. Things are constantly changing and it’s easy to just assume your annual physical will catch anything wrong. But if you slow down and listen to your body you’ll know when things are just a sign of aging and life and what seems unusual. That nagging issue may be something more serious.

And if you’re seeing flashing lights, floaters, spiderwebs or other odd eye things get checked out ASAP. It may be nothing but take it from me, it may actually be something. ❤️

Okay, going back to my big sunglasses caftan recuperation life!

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Aug 30

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Ladies who lunch…

While in Savannah, I made sure to get lunch reservations for me and E at @theoldepinkhouse she loves the color pink, historic homes, and ghost stories so it was a perfect choice! 

Built in 1789 on Reynolds Square, there are stories of guests seeing ghosts, cutlery and wine bottles moving along with an elegant and truly delicious dining. 

While we didn’t see any apparitions, we did have a lovely lunch with impeccable service and after toured all floors of the home. I highly recommend a visit if you’re visiting Savannah!

My dress is from @cosstores (no longer available); hat is @furtalk and bag is @talbotsofficial (no longer available).

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Aug 29

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Scenes from a week in Savannah… 

The three of us (and our dog Oscar!) had a warm and humid but wonderful time exploring Savannah, Georgia earlier this month. Our daughter visited this gorgeous city last summer with her @girlscouts troop but wanted to return to experience more. We let her choose our adventures and play your guide and it was awesome. We cannot wait to visit again, though next time it won’t be August 🥵

For more of our trip check the “Savannah” highlight on my profile page!

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Aug 28

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Stripes are always right…

Y’all know I love stripes and when @universalstandard came out with their Breton-stripe dresses and tops I HAD to try them! As expected, the quality is stellar, the fit boosts my confidence, and I appreciate the range of colors (5 different stripes to choose from) and sizes (00-50). For reference, I’m wearing XS but preferred S for the top and I usually wear a 14 or XL in other brands.

The tote is @able and it’s a soft yet durable leather that just looks better with time. This color (cognac) is one that transitions nicely from summer to fall. 

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

#usinthewild #bretonstripes #midsizestyle #midsizefashion #size14 #over40style

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Aug 27

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The family that wears @printfresh together stays together 🥰

Use code wardrobe_oxygen for 15% off your order of size-inclusive organic cotton sleepwear, dresses, bags & more https://glnk.io/qk04/wardrobe-oxygen

I’ve been raving about my Printfresh pajamas for years, my family also wanted to try them. Thank you Printfresh for gifting these for our annual three generation girls’ getaway to Rehoboth Beach, DE. We had a great time and being all matchy matchy in our pajamas was a fun addition! 🐅🍃🥰

#printfresh #printfreshpajamas #printfreshpartner

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