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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
Open
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
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
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!
Open
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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Capsule Wardrobes, Fashion Advice · June 3, 2013

Ask Allie: Fit Two Weeks of Clothes in Carry-on Luggage

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. 

My family is traveling for two weeks this summer – we will be visiting some theme parks but also going to the beach, some historic sites, and will have a mix of casual and nicer restaurants. My sons are beyond the diaper stage but definitely still kids who need a mom who is not hanging out in an evening gown and 4 inch heels. Trying to figure out what to pack for a balance of nice and practical, good for a lot of walking and activities but still attractive — including for the full flying days in each direction. We do plan to do laundry on the trip a few times. In a perfect world I'd also have my running gear along for some workouts, but trying to do all this with a suitcase that will still fit in the overhead bin! Impossible?

pack two weeks one carryon suitcase
[collage source]

One good thing is you are traveling to a warm location during a warm time of year. No need for a winter coat or boots or bulky sweaters which can fill up a suitcase quite quickly. For this capsule wardrobe I chose pieces that are easily washed – matte jersey (great for washing, hanging up overnight and having ready next day), ponte, and cotton fabrics. I also chose items that don’t really require ironing; the only exception is the pants, which are standard chino. These could be switched for white jeans if you feel they are dressy enough for the occasions you expect, or linen pants which are expected to be wrinkled and take up less space in your bag.

I kept shoes to a minimum, they take the most space. While I am not a big fan of rubber flip flops, if they are in a metallic color, they can pass as shoes in tourist locations and be a nice change after walking all day. With all shoes, make sure they are slip resistant – theme parks and historic sites often means puddles; if you have to chase after a kid or a taxi, it’s best in shoes with grip. Instead of heeled sandals or pumps, some flat metallic leather sandals take up far less space and weigh much less.

On the Plane: I’d likely wear a pair of walking sandals (something that doesn’t look like sneakers but you can wear all day; I have some from Softspots and Cole Haan that fit the bill) on the plane because they are the second bulkiest but more refined and easier to slip off at security than sneakers. Same with clothes – wear your heaviest piece on the plane (possibly the black pants, any of the tops, pashmina and the chambray shirt as a jacket/layering piece).

Sight Seeing: The nylon crossbody is lightweight so it won’t be a strain when filled with water bottles, cameras, and souvenirs. Have walking sandals that are already broken in to prevent blisters and hot spots. Consider longer shorts to reduce chafing or shorts riding up when doing a lot of walking.

  1. Orange tee, khaki shorts
  2. Orange tee, denim shorts
  3. Striped tee, denim shorts
  4. Striped tee, khaki shorts
  5. Denim shirt, khaki shorts
  6. Printed tank, khaki shorts
  7. Printed tank, denim shorts
  8. Navy cami, khaki shorts
  9. Navy cami, denim shorts
  10. Black dress, walking sandals (more for museums than amusement parks)
  11. Another outfit can be any of these tops with the white pants/jeans – of course that would be for more relaxed events that are primarily indoors. You could also wear any of the shoes with these pants

The Beach: Consider a cover-up that can double as clothing so it has more use. Many cover-ups these days look just like dresses or can be a tunic worn with Bermudas or pants. Choose a suit that can survive a jetski, parasailing, and other water activities.  A “crushable” hat means you can shove it in your purse or carry-on and not worry.  If you plan to do a lot of beach and water activities, consider bringing a second suit.

  1. Suit with denim shirt and denim shorts
  2. Suit with paisley cover-up

Casual Events: An addition of gold accessories and sandals can make many of the day outfits look appropriate for a restaurant. The denim shirt can work as a jacket if it gets chilly.

  1. Purple dress, walking sandals
  2. Black dress, walking sandals
  3. Black top, white pants, walking sandals
  4. Striped top, white or black pants, gold sandals
  5. Printed tank belted over black pants, gold sandals
  6. Printed tank tucked into white pants, any of the shoes
  7. Denim shirt tied or tucked into white pants, gold sandals
  8. Navy camisole with white pants, gold sandals
  9. Paisley beach cover-up, white pants, gold sandals


Dressier Events: Use the clutch purse for instant formality, the pashmina as a wrap. If the gold sandals have a leather bottom and are slim and elegant, they can be dressy enough for many occasions

  1. Purple dress, gold sandals
  2. Black dress, gold sandals
  3. Black drapey top, black pants, gold sandals
  4. If you think you’ll have more formal occasions, consider a chiffon-overlay maxi dress which can handle being balled up in a suitcase – hang it in the bathroom during one hot shower and it will be wrinkle-free.


Some tips:

  • A bar of Ivory Soap is good for cleaning your body, but also cleaning laundry. I use it often to spot clean a piece I don’t want to fully wash. Also it’s not a liquid so you don’t have to worry about TSA.
  • Buy your sunscreen once you’re there. You can always find a drug store outside a theme park that has reasonable prices – more room in your bag and more space in your TSA-allowed plastic baggie.
  • Choose a flexible carry-on bag. Many suitcases are made to protect when checked, and you lose a lot of space on padding and structure. A soft duffel is a good choice because it flexes and can be squished under a seat or into a smaller part of the overhead container.
  • Pack with your heaviest items on the bottom. Not only does this help with creasing, but it builds a foundation so your items are more likely to stay in place through the flight.
  • Don’t pack to maximum capacity. You very well will come home with purchases and souvenirs, make sure you have space for them on the flight back.
  • This is a time when I don’t necessarily recommend all the stuff on my travel checklist. If you can pare down and just use your phone or tablet as your e-reader and music and notepad, all the better.
  • Don’t pack your entire lingerie drawer. Choose pieces that can work with the same kind of bra and don’t need fancy foundation garments. Underwear takes up little space, but Spanx and strapless bras can make or break your carry-on bag.
  • Don’t make your second bag your purse. I specifically used a nylon crossbody because I have one and know it can crumple down to nothing when empty. Use a bag that’s to the maximum standards of your airline as your personal bag to get the most of your space. A backpack is a great choice because it’s easy to slip out electronics for the TSA screening and then you have it for sight-seeing.
  • See what toiletries and amenities are available at your hotel. Do you really need your regular body wash or lotion? Can you get away for two weeks with the single-blade razor the hotel offers for free? Can you survive with the crappy hotel hair dryer? For me, I choose to wear my hair more wavy/beachy on vacation so I don’t have to pack my fancy dryer, flat iron, and 50 different products. Elastics, barrettes, and even cute cotton scarves take up far less space than hot tools.
  • Don’t bring a beach towel. Either use the hotel towel, or buy a cheapy one at that drug store on the way from the hotel and leave it there.
  • If it doesn't fit, try a different method of packing.  Some like to roll, some like mesh cubes, some swear by Space Bags.  Don't wait until the night before to pack, do a dress rehearsal so be sure it all comfortably fits in the bag you're taking.

What other packing tips do you suggest?

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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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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

wardrobe_oxygen

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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

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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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