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
Open
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
Open
#throwbackthursday to what I wore 10 years ago in September…

A decade ago I was working full time in an office and was promoted to manage a good portion of my department. My blog was doing quite well, I was featured in local and national publications and websites. I was embracing what I felt to be a polished professional with an edgy vibe. Less color, more interesting accessories, and my first semi-designer bag (I still have that leopard print mini M.A.C. In the back of my closet). 

I have come to embrace color and have way less black in my closet now, but a lot of these looks are timeless and I would wear now… just likely with lower heels! 😂

Do you recall what you were wearing a decade ago? How similar is it to how you dress now?

For more of my throwbacks visit #wo2tbt
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Fashion Advice · October 29, 2012

Ask Allie: Keyword Analysis

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. 

ask allie

I sometimes check my blog analytics to see what Internet searches bring people here, and I can see that many people have the same questions. It seems some have been answered by posts I already have… but some I have yet to address… until now.

Are Black Suede Sandals Appropriate in Winter?
Well it depends. If they are platform heels, I say yes and rock them with opaque tights (black, contrast color, even a texture) and a flippy skirt or a-line shift. If they look like traditional summer sandals, store them away until next year.

What Bikini Suits Large Breasts and Thighs?
A halter or underwire top will best support your breasts and flatter them. Also look for suits made specifically for larger busts to get the coverage, comfort, and support you need.  As for the bottom, I often find trying to hide thighs makes them more on display. However, I do adore the vintage-inspired bikinis with flirty skirts or wider bottoms; having your midsection exposed will emphasize your hourglass figure (which is a good thing) and flatter your curves.

Boots for Women Over 50?
The boots that a woman over 50 should wear are the boots that she thinks look great on her and fit her personal style. Now I don’t think it makes sense to pair your blouses and jeans with hot pink suede over-the-knee boots with a Lucite heel, but I really think that boots are like any other wardrobe piece – if you wear them in a way that is authentic to you, they can’t be wrong.

Now if you’re new to the boot trend, a safe bet for most any woman of any age is the riding boot. Knee-high, low heel, classic shape. Be it black or brown, it’s a style that goes with everything from a shift dress and cardigan at the office to jeans and a hoodie on the weekend. Keep them polished, stuff the shafts with rolled magazines when not being worn, get reheeled and resoled as needed and they can give you years of stylish wear.

Gingham Mesh After Labor Day?
No. And not before Labor Day either. I honestly can’t see a place in this world for gingham mesh unless you are dressing up as a sexy Raggedy Ann for Halloween.

How to Wear a Sheath Dress in Winter?
With a cardigan, tights, and tall boots
Put a crisp white shirt under it, add opaque hose and Mary Janes with a chunky heel
Belt a blazer over it, wear with tights and booties
Black turtleneck underneath, black tights and boots
Just a few combinations that come to mind…

How Much Wool in a Coat Should I Wear?
The more wool content, the warmer the coat and likely the longer of a life it will have. Wool blends aren’t as wind-resistant, insulating, and often pill and shed. A wool blend is a great choice for those who live in places with mild winters, or for a fall/spring coat but 100% wool is a far better choice for cold winters.

Are Suede or Leather Shoes Warmer?
Warmer than the faux version? Yes. When it comes to a small shoe like a pump it doesn’t really matter, but I have found that real leather tall boots are far more insulating than faux ones and you don’t sweat as much either. If you prefer vegan shoes, look for a breathable fabric like microfiber and an insulated lining – it will be warmer and more comfortable.

What Color Tights to wear with an Emerald Green Dress
I think black is a nice choice because it would really make the green pop, but you could also do a color like navy, purple, or even a bold color like orange or gold if that’s your personal style.

Do Scarves Minimize Heavy Breasts?
No, but that doesn’t mean you can’t wear them. To minimize breasts, get fitted for new supportive bras every year, wear pieces that skim the body but don’t cling so they curve in under the breast and show you have a waist, and look for flattering necklines to elongate the neck and detract from the bustline.

Can You Wear Patent Leather in Winter?
Yes, unless it is white (and then it’s still a yes if you are a True Fashionista)

Can You Wear Black Patent Leather Shoes with Black Tights?
Sure, why not? I have worn it here and I think it looks okay.

Gray Leggings with Brown Boots?
Sounds fantastic! Would love it with an oxblood blazer and striped tee, a chunky ivory fisherman’s sweater, or a darker gray knit tunic!

Can I Wear Black Leggings with Brown Boots? 
Black Tights with Brown Boots?
Sure! Just make the look purposeful – have a black top or something that incorporates that black and brown together like a leopard-print scarf or a tweed jacket.

Large Calves and Thick Ankles Shoes Brogues?
I understand your problem, I too find these shoes utterly adorable yet horrible looking on my body. I think they look best on my figure with menswear trousers or skinny jeans and a blazer. I can’t make them look right on me with cropped pants or skirts or even regular jeans, darn thick ankles!

Funeral Dress for Women?
If you are a guest at a funeral, just wear something you would normally wear to a house of worship. A simple dress, skirt and knit top, suit, nice trousers with a blouse or jacket, that sort of thing. No need to wear all black, but don’t show up in bright red or lime green. Dress to show respect for the deceased, their loved ones, and the religion and/or culture of the family.

Boots over Jeans Business Casual?
If your dress code permits jeans, this is actually a fantastic way to dress them up and make them look more office-appropriate. I love jeans tucked into boots and paired with a casual blazer – so chic and quite office appropriate for more casual of work environments!

Business Casual for an 18 Year Old
Trousers that fit well and don’t cling, lighter-weight refined sweaters to wear alone or over button-front shirts, cardigans to dress up simple tanks and knits, a blazer or two to do the same and for a makeshift suit on days where you need to dress up, a pair of classic black pumps with a heel under 3”, if your figure allows a button-front shirt in a stripe that fits well is a great way to make simple pants and skirts look office-appropriate; on Friday you can pair with jeans and tall boots and the blazer or cardigan for a chic ensemble. Nothing too tight, nothing sheer, nothing that exposes lingerie, no visible logos. Good luck at your new job!

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Comments

  1. Eleanorjane says

    November 1, 2012 at 6:15 pm

    I bet you get a lot odder searches than that – can you share the out-takes?

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      November 1, 2012 at 6:27 pm

      Honestly the longer I have the blog the less ridiculous of keyword searches I get. I have learned to be smarter with what I link to, watch how I phrase things, and I label my images a bit more clearly and towards people who are actually searching for what my blog offers. Lots of misspelling like “how to cleans swede shoes” which popped up today when looking, I got “wardrobe oxygen fat” in the research view which is entertaining, “canvas waist painting” whatever that is, “are bodycon dresses suitable for a wedding” (NO), what to wear for interviews to starbucks, barnes and noble, and hot topic; “peach fuzz on forehead”, and the one everyone has been waiting for… “60+ ladies in elegant all black lingerie.” So yeah, not a lot of freaks out there, mainly people who type so fast they get typos wanting to know what to wear to work, to conferences, to interviews, to special events, and when they are over 30. Guess they’re coming to the right place!

      Reply
  2. Laurel Walker says

    October 30, 2012 at 4:21 pm

    OMG! Way to cover it all! It’s like a million bird with one stone!
    Glad you are all safe and healthy in the wake of Sandy.
    http://www.theopinionatedgirl.com

    Reply
  3. Elena says

    October 30, 2012 at 12:42 am

    Hey Allie, I know this is about fashion but I was just watching the news and knew about the hurricane and remembered where you live, just wish you and your family are ok, greetings!

    Elena

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      October 30, 2012 at 8:17 am

      Thank you! We’re doing well do far, kept power the whole time!

      Reply
  4. SarahHulbertStyle says

    October 29, 2012 at 7:37 pm

    Hahaha!!! LOVE your advice on mesh gingham (that exists?)! Just laughed out loud and scared the lady next to me…

    Reply
    • Cynthia Washburn says

      October 29, 2012 at 11:06 pm

      That cracked me up, too – all I could think of was a costume for workers at Dollywood.

      Reply

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Friday: Daytime Sequins

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 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

View

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

wardrobe_oxygen

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Sep 5

Open
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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Aug 12

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Shuts laptop until Monday… #RehobothBeach

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