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The perfect red for the holiday season 💄

I love a red lipstick, especially in winter. It adds brightness to gray days and skin not exposed to the sun. Look in my dressing table and you’ll find at least a dozen different red lipsticks. But this winter my go-to red is “Relax” by @flyte.70 

Glossy but not sticky, long wearing but not drying, the Flyte.70 L+L.LipLacquer feels like a lip balm. One layer is a hint of color and shine; add more layers for more pigment, gloss, and impact. This isn’t the only Flyte.70 lip color I have and love; I regularly wear “Fast Car” which is a modern version of the brown lipsticks we loved in the 90s that looks so good with the neutrals popular right now.

And with products named after songs from the 80s and 90s I couldn’t not use this Frankie Goes to Hollywood song for this lip color!

This isn’t paid, it’s a PSA because I know it’s hard to find good red lip colors. And @flyte.70 is a U.S.-based woman-owned ethical beauty brand created specifically for U.S. grown women and I find the quality stellar.

Use code WOXYGEN15 for 15% off your order at Flyte.70

The quickest and cheapest way to update your wardrobe for the holidays is with a glossy red lip! 💄

#over40style #genxstyle #genxbeauty #flyte70
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The tree is trimmed! 🎄

When I was a single gal, I had the prettiest tree with a color story and theme. 20 years later, my tree is a hodgepodge of inherited ornaments, gifts from loved ones, and handmade pieces from both my childhood and by my child. And I think each year it veers further from the original concept the more beautiful it becomes!

My daughter and I donned our Santa hats, turned on the holiday playlist, a Yule log on the TV, and spent the afternoon getting our home into the Christmas spirit.

When she was little, my husband would pick her up so she could place the star on top of the tree. Now that she’s taller than I am, when he got home he just put his arm around her as she used the library stool to reach the top. Some traditions need to be modified with time but they’re still special! ⭐️

Top is a feather trimmed Breton from @talbotsofficial; the scarf as a belt is also Talbots but a few years old. The jeans are @landsend and the blanket on the chair in the second photo is by artist  @zanderschlacter
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My therapist recommended I walk outside more as I grieve the recent loss of my mom.

When it was time to pay for my mom’s funeral, the credit card I had in my wallet was my @bananarepublic Mastercard. I’ve had this card for decades because over the years, most of our family have worn some Gap brand. From onesies to tuxedos, we’ve updated our wardrobes with points.

And I got a serious chunk of points for charging my mom’s funeral expenses on my Banana card.

I decided to use them to buy clothes for winter outdoor walking. Nothing motivates me more than a chance to put together a cute outfit. This cute look is from @athleta, one of the few activewear brands that fits both my size and my style.

My Athleta purchase arrived on my doorstep and that day, a neighbor reached out, inviting me to join a group of women in our community who were supporting, not competing, to move 100k. I immediately said yes and signed up. 

This past week I hit 100k. And this past week week it has been two months she has been gone. I’m still going 💪 

Wearing XL. For reference I’m 5’3” and usually wear a size 14.

I share details on all my looks on the @shop.LTK app. You can use the app or desktop, search for @wardrobe_oxygen or use the link https://liketk.it/4pFaS
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Normalizing the normal everyday outfit…

It was a day of running errands, running to the office, and then running into friends. It rained off and on so I wanted shoes for potential puddles and a coat that wouldn’t soak through but also keep me warm.

The sweater is @universalstandard; I bought it thinking it was a bold purple but the color was off on the site and I got plum. But I think I like this better. I’m wearing a S. This is my second of this cardigan, it is super soft, dense, and holds up to washing. My other one I got a year ago and still wear all the time.

The jeans are @oldnavy and while they’re not perfect and stretch out throughout the day they were around $18 and I like the wash and weight of the denim. I’m wearing a 14 Short.

The boots are old Docs, the coat I got at @talbotsofficial last winter, and the bag is @maxwellscottuk and I’ve had for almost a decade. Earrings are @_jennybird, necklace is @gorjana. 

Disclosure: the coat was gifted last year but remains a favorite. The necklace was also gifted about a year ago but I keep wearing because I like it and it has held up quality-wise. The rest I bought. 

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

#liketkit #LTKfindsunder50 #LTKover40 #LTKmidsize #midsizestyle #genxstyle #over40style #size14 #usinthewild 
https://liketk.it/4pDXG
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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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Beauty, Make Up · January 20, 2016

An Ode to Revlon

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. 

the most unforgettable women in the world wear revlonThis post is inspired by the Refinery 29 piece I recently shared on Wardrobe Oxygen’s Facebook page. I must say I was surprised to hear Revlon is not doing well; while their recent Love is On campaign doesn’t appeal to me, their actual product does. And unlike Refinery 29, I find Revlon’s packaging to be elegant, sturdy, and often times equal to department store brands in regard to style.

When I was first allowed to wear makeup, my mom allowed grey pencil eyeliner, mascara, and a light colored lipstick. That first lipstick was the one my mom currently wore, Revlon’s Iceblue Pink.

In college, brown lipsticks were all the rage and the best ones were by Revlon. While many adored Revlon’s Toast of New York, I preferred Coffee Bean, which had a bit of shimmer and a cooler chocolate tone.

After college, I had a job as a brand visual merchandiser and my supervisor really pushed having a polished appearance and dressing not for the job you have but the one you wanted. I began getting manicures to clean up my gnawed-on fingers, and went to get a makeover from a department store cosmetics counter. After that, I felt to be an adult, I had to leave the drugstore and enter the mall. I was a MAC loyalist for a bit, spent a good portion of my lunch break and paycheck in Sephora, and when I got married I knew I had to have the best – a face by Chanel.  But after the novelty wore off, I found myself returning to the drugstore for at first, lipsticks and then, almost everything else.

audrey-hepburn-breakfast-at-tiffanysOver the years, the drugstore brands caught up to the department store lines and in my opinion, the one at the head of the pack was Revlon. They had the most beautiful celebrities for their ad campaigns, the most beautiful packaging, the best variety of colors, and the highest quality formulas. And one thing I loved is their lipstick containers hardly changed at all over the decades. While Refinery 29 used a picture of Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s as an example of how the brand needs a makeover, I think it’s a selling point to use a brand that was chic then and now. I mean, look how many people still use Holly Golightly and Audrey Hepburn as style icons in 2016!

And so, I will share the current Revlon products on my dressing table and in my cosmetics bag. By doing this post it made me realize even more how much I use and trust Revlon:

I have written many times before about the awesomeness which is Revlon ColorStay foundation. I have used the liquid and the whipped formula and am amazed how it will stay on through humidity, through sob sessions, through a mega dance session at a GA concert. It never breaks me out, and whether I have a bit of a tan or am at my deathly palest, I can find a color that perfectly matches my skin.

Revlon’s Insta-Fix was something I picked up by random in early fall when I had an event after work and nothing to refresh my face. I bought it in Nude and I have never had a product so perfectly match my skintone. Lately, I use just a BB cream with Insta-Fix under the eyes, around the nose and lips and a bit between the brows to even out my skintone and add a bit more opacity. It’s awesome for travel and late in the day refreshes so I bought a second one to keep in my makeup bag.

I’ve tried a kazillion concealers over the years, but for the past several months I’ve been using Revlon’s Photoready Concealer in Light. It’s that perfect mix of creamy yet dry, so I can apply it, pat it in place, and it doesn’t fade, crease, or slide during the day. I use it under my eyes without it making my eye area look older; the formula is equal to fancy brand concealers I’ve paid twice or three times as much for (and that usually come in a smaller container).

revlon ads from the pastRevlon ColorStay eye shadow has been in my makeup drawer for over a decade. I still mourn the loss of the Neutral Khakis quad (RIP), but currently own Addictive, Adventurous, and Decadent and love how the colors truly stay, even with me constantly rubbing my allergy-prone eyes.

The only cream blush I have had success with is Revlon's Photoready version.  Both Coral Reef (a non-sparkly creamy alternative to NARS Orgasm) and Flushed (a cool pink that can look quite pretty) are in my arsenal and are go-tos when it's hot and sweaty or if I want a less “done” face.

I don’t think I have recommended a makeup product as much as I have Revlon’s Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain in Romantic. I love this red, it’s a soft wash of color that makes me feel like Snow White, but it can be layered for more impact. It’s also gorgeous when worn over matte lipsticks (like Revlon’s discontinued matte lipcolors) to give a bit of shine without the original color wearing away. I also have this balm stain crayon in Smitten and Adore and always have at least one in my purse because they’re so easy to apply without a mirror (they also make great cheek color in a pinch).

I also love Revlon’s Lacquer Balms. Last summer when I was stuck in a cast up to my armpit, I decided to make the most of the situation and have it wrapped in hot pink. I matched that hot pink with Revlon’s Lacquer Balm in Vivacious and that bright bold pink was my signature color through Labor Day. While many things from my broken arm situation now make me sick to my stomach, I can still whip out Vivacious and feel like a complete badass.

Revlon’s Ultra HD lipsticks are awesome for when you want a super bold pout that is low-maintenance. The color really sticks on, is saturated, but your lips are soft and comfortable and look hydrated. Poinsettia and Gladiolus were my jams this past summer and looked amazing with just a flushed cheek and defined lashes. Another great product for bold lips with moisture is their Moon Drops lipstick. I am sorta in love with the green tube, and regularly pull out Hot Coral or Orange Flip for a bold pout with some summery warmth to it.

Revlon’s Super Lustrous Lipgloss is a great alternative to high-end brands. I love applying it over the balm stain or a matte lipstick for some shine, or wearing it alone for weekends or when I have a really intense eye. Rosy Future and Fatal Apple are in my makeup bag at this very instant.

Blog_Revlon_1952_DorianLeigh_FireIce_Avedon_2010_JessicaBiel_MarioTestinoAnd of course the classic, Revlon’s Super Lustrous Lipstick. No heavy smell, no drying formula, caps that stay put, bullets that stay strong even when you’re at the bottom of the tube (hello $26 lipsticks that crumble or gets smeary when not even halfway through the lipstick). The colors are true and there’s over 80 to choose from. I have seriously gone to four different big box and drugstores in a day to find different colors, and I likely have over 20 of these lipsticks currently in my possession. Red Lacquer and Certainly Red are regular bright reds that I rock, Cherries in the Snow is a bold pinky-red I adore, Plum Baby and Goldpearl Plum are pinky brownish nudes I regularly wear, and Teak Rose and Rosewine are warmer pinky brownish nudes I wear when I’m sporting more autumnal colors.

As for the other parts of the line, I have owned Revlon lash curlers, tweezers, and scissors and find them high quality. A Revlon brow brush is currently residing in my makeup brush cup and one of their pencil sharpeners is in my dressing table drawer. I don’t buy nailcolor often, but have found Revlon’s formula to rival trendier brands (and have just as cool of colors).

revlon magazine ads over the yearsOver the years, there have been many other Revlon products I have used and loved. But like most cosmetic brands, items (like my mom’s Iceblue Pink lipstick) end up discontinued. While I haven’t been impressed by their mascaras and haven’t tried their liners because I have a HG favorite from another brand, usually if I try anything from the line I end up liking it.

I do find their current target market with the eye and nail art products to be odd and a contrast to the rest of their line. I also wonder with their latest mascara collection’s bright tubes if they’re trying to be CoverGirl. I think what makes Revlon great is that they ARE a classic brand, a brand that focuses on quality, elegant packaging, and wearable color. I wish them the best, and hope they don’t discontinue that which makes them so great.

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In: Beauty, Make Up · Tagged: revlon

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Comments

  1. B.A. says

    January 21, 2016 at 11:27 am

    I’m upset with them for discontinuing the Fig Jam Lip Butter (which I think I heard about here). It was perfect for me. I’m using the “Pink Truffle” but don’t like the color as much.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      January 21, 2016 at 12:51 pm

      Yes, I am still upset for them discontinuing their Neutral Khakis shadow palette, though I wonder if I would like it as much now as I did then (probably but I’m trying to make myself feel better).

      Reply
  2. Dee says

    January 21, 2016 at 8:15 am

    Reading through the comments it’s interesting the different views. I don’t use Revlon products because they seem to discontinue products frequently. And while I understand keeping up with market trends, it seems hard to find consistent coloring, etc. Like the Revlon Color Stay eyeshadows – why not keep classic shades around (like brown)? So for that reason I quit buying the brand – every time I fell for a product it got discontinued. Their best product was their Color Stay Nail Polish – sold as a kit – small bottle of color and a small bottle of top coat – and that stuff lasted forever on my nails. My preferred drugstore brand is L’Oreal because it provides good quality at a reasonable price point. It doesn’t hurt that I find most of the packaging nice.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      January 21, 2016 at 12:52 pm

      I used to be a L’Oreal gal through and through… their foundations, concealers, etc. were my jam. Not sure why I changed…

      Reply
  3. Lisa S says

    January 21, 2016 at 12:28 am

    I have to admit that Revlon is what I think of as “my mom’s brand,” an unfair association formed way back when I began using make-up as a young teenager. Just as I think of Maybelline and Cover Girl and Wet’n’Wild as teeny-bopper brands, and of Almay as the starter-adult brand and so on.

    I’m sorry to hear they’re struggling, but I do love all the images you’ve included in this post. O, when supermodels roamed the Earth!

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      January 21, 2016 at 12:50 pm

      It’s funny, I think Almay as a mom brand because it was the one my mom always used!

      Reply
  4. Kasmira Kit says

    January 20, 2016 at 8:59 pm

    I’m wearing Revlon moon drops in hot coral right now

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      January 21, 2016 at 12:50 pm

      And I bet you look FAH-BULOUS dahling! 🙂

      Reply
  5. Jenny says

    January 20, 2016 at 4:15 pm

    I love the photo illustrations for this post. I remember being transfixed by the “unforgettable women” ad campaign. You’ve written before about your choices for green/nontoxic household cleaning supplies, and you also choose conventional cosmetics and skincare rather than the “green”/”natural” versions. I’m curious (not troll-ish/nasty curious, but genuinely curious) about why. Is it cost, quality, ability to make an impulse buy? FWIW, I’ve done the opposite: I choose green/natural cosmetics & skincare, but am more laissez faire about household products. Again, not trying to start a dust-up in the comment section, just truly curious.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      January 21, 2016 at 12:50 pm

      That’s a great question! I started with being more green in the house when I was pregnant and had a baby because I wanted to keep her as healthy as possible, and it became a habit. We still use only Dr. Bronner’s, BioKleen, baking soda, and vinegar as our main cleansers and soaps. I have tried more green of skincare, body care, and cosmetics… and I haven’t liked the results. I’ve broken out, my makeup doesn’t last as long, it doesn’t look as good, etc. It costs a lot to keep trying and trying different brands, and now that I am over 40, my skin reacts even more harshly to products. Emerson uses green body and haircare, but over the years I use less. You’re inspiring me to do more. I always talk about the oxygen mask – have to take care of yourself to properly take care of others… I’m big about the right food and products for my daughter but I am more lax when it comes to myself!

      Reply
  6. Sonia says

    January 20, 2016 at 2:40 pm

    At 60, I’ve been a fan of many brands of makeup. I started out with Maybelline then later moved on to Revlon. Now, I wear trendier brands of mascara, face powder and stay on lip color, but my all time favorite shade of lipstick is right here in my handbag….#640 Super Lustrous Blackberry creme. It is my favorite because it lasts, shines just right and looks fabulous on my skin tone, if I do say so myself. I hope they come out of their slump, as I would hate to lose my favorite brand of lipstick. I wish them luck.

    Reply
  7. Emily says

    January 20, 2016 at 2:03 pm

    As someone who has had MUCH exposure to department store brands (I worked for Lancome, I have friends who work for Estee Lauder, and my mom sells MK), nothing beats Revlon Colorstay Overtime Liquid Lipcolor. The ONLY lipstick I use in place is another Wardrobe Oxygen find, Elixery lipsticks http://www.elixery.com/. I prefer Elixery because they are a “mom and pop” business, made in the US, organic, and they are AMAZING (honestly best tube of lipstick I have ever owned). But for a long-lasting formula and/or drugstore brand, NOTHING beats Revlon Colorstay Overtime Liquid Lipcolor.

    Reply
  8. Kathryn Braun Fenner says

    January 20, 2016 at 1:33 pm

    The Colorstay liner pencil is excellent, but I am with you–my HG liner is Smashbox Always Sharp in 3D Sparks and Night Gems, because it’s a softer look and easier to keep close to the lash line.
    I love Super Lustrous lipsticks, and I, too, have scoured drugstores and big box stores (and Ulta) for the right shade. As the Beautypedia says, if you can’t find a shade you like, maybe lipstick isn’t for you.
    It has no fragrance, so it’s not irritating!

    Reply
  9. Sarah T says

    January 20, 2016 at 1:05 pm

    Confession: I’m 34 and have hardly tried any Revlon products. I’ve tried their lip butters and while they’re nice, I’m not a huge fan (not enough to make me stop buying Maybelline). Not to be offensive to anyone who knows and loves their products but it’s always struck me as “older” woman’s brand of make-up. I agree they don’t want to be too trendy but their packaging has never appealed to me, nor has their commercials or print ads. I much prefer Cover Girl or Maybelline (I typically use Maybelline though). I do think they could use a bit of a make over. Similar to what Ann Taylor did to themselves. They kept their classic style but freshened themselves up to broaden their market. I think Revlon could/should do much the same. Don’t lose your longtime customers and completely overhaul the brand but do freshen it up.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      January 20, 2016 at 1:10 pm

      Not offensive at all, thank you for sharing your perspective! I’ve always felt like Almay and L’Oreal were “older” brands (think L’Oreal for the smell of their lipsticks and that brass colored case) and while I love CoverGirl mascaras, I have never had success with Maybelline (and since I am 40, it also reminds me of my tween years when I would buy Great Lash in the different colors and the matching eye shadows). A friend shared that she wonders if its also regional, that Revlon may be more popular on the East Coast than other parts of the countries? Thank you for sharing your thoughts, it helps me understand the article more!

      Reply
      • mostlatestvegetable says

        January 20, 2016 at 2:37 pm

        Funny you mention the L’Oreal lipstick smell. L’Oreal lipstick is about the only brand that *doesn’t* smell bad to me. Smell is so individual! In comparison, much pricier Estee Lauder lipstick smelled awful and went bad quickly. I liked Givenchy, too, but that’s not something I’m going to spend the money on, given how infrequently I wear lipstick.

        Reply
  10. Kim in MN says

    January 20, 2016 at 12:39 pm

    I also am a long time Revlon user. As I became financially secure I had love affairs with high-end department store brands, but over the years I have found Revlon to be my familiar “old love.” I am a huge fan of the Colorstay foundation, now using the dry skin formula. The best ever foundation, an “Active” name and formulation in a tube, was discontinued several years ago. The skin finish on that product was phenomenal and true to name, it stayed lovely during active workouts and summer visits to Disney World. My biggest disappointment is the quality of their mascaras as I find they all flake and smudge during the day. And I would love an eyeliner recommendation from the line, one that would not smear and transfer to my eyelids. I find Revlon to be readily available and reasonably priced, with a selection of colors to satisfy any need. I am sad to learn they are not doing well!

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      January 20, 2016 at 1:11 pm

      I haven’t tried one of their mascaras in years because they in the past always failed me and I gave up. I got a chance to review some eye pencils from them a couple years ago but they’re discontinued. They were fine, nothing dramatically different from any other run of the mill pencil. I haven’t tried any of their other liners.

      Reply
  11. Roberta Johnson says

    January 20, 2016 at 12:34 pm

    I’m a devotee of the nail polish. The colors are great and long lasting and the bottle NEVER TIPS OVER. Plus the brush is nice and long. Essie and Opi and all the rest are top heavy and seem to get clumpy very fast. The Revlon colors don’t turn over as rapidly as the others, but they have a really big range, from classics to Halloween shades.

    Reply
    • Ginger says

      January 20, 2016 at 12:43 pm

      They are also more reasonably priced. More often than not I get rid of nail polish because it’s gone bad or I’m tired of the color than that I’ve used it all up. Since they all seem to go bad about the same, why pay more?

      Reply
      • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

        January 20, 2016 at 1:11 pm

        Agreed!

        Reply
  12. mostlatestvegetable says

    January 20, 2016 at 10:09 am

    LIP BUTTERS! I’m not a big lipstick person because they usually taste or smell funny to me, but I love tinted balms, and the Revlon Lip Butter texture is exactly what I’ve always wanted in a tinted balm. I hand them out to girlfriends having a birthday, ask my husband to put them in my Christmas stocking, use any sale as an excuse to stock up. Plus, they’re a great gateway to makeup for skittish friends who want to look polished, but natural. LOVE!

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      January 20, 2016 at 1:11 pm

      Yes!

      Reply
  13. Patti says

    January 20, 2016 at 9:30 am

    I’ve always loved Revlon’s foundations and many of the lipsticks. Sorry to hear they’re struggling; they’re a Grande Old Dame of cosmetics, with modern innovations.

    -Patti
    http://notdeadyetstyle.com

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      January 20, 2016 at 1:11 pm

      Agreed!

      Reply

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What I Wore: Winter Weekend Style

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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Dec 5

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The tree is trimmed! 🎄

When I was a single gal, I had the prettiest tree with a color story and theme. 20 years later, my tree is a hodgepodge of inherited ornaments, gifts from loved ones, and handmade pieces from both my childhood and by my child. And I think each year it veers further from the original concept the more beautiful it becomes!

My daughter and I donned our Santa hats, turned on the holiday playlist, a Yule log on the TV, and spent the afternoon getting our home into the Christmas spirit.

When she was little, my husband would pick her up so she could place the star on top of the tree. Now that she’s taller than I am, when he got home he just put his arm around her as she used the library stool to reach the top. Some traditions need to be modified with time but they’re still special! ⭐️

Top is a feather trimmed Breton from @talbotsofficial; the scarf as a belt is also Talbots but a few years old. The jeans are @landsend and the blanket on the chair in the second photo is by artist  @zanderschlacter

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Nov 28

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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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