Open
Scenes from a Friday night…

We started at @littleblackbirddc a new wine bar in Cleveland Park where we had great food, drink, and conversation into the evening. We then headed down the street to @atomicbilliards for a whole different experience and to keep the conversation going. I treasure my friendships with @sylviacolella (who had a birthday recently), @districtofchic, and @blonde_inthedistrict they’re the real deal 🥰

My dress is @adamlippes borrowed via @renttherunway and Cheetos with Sauvignon Blanc is a really fun pairing!
Open
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! 🐾❤️
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Fashion Advice · August 8, 2013

Ask Allie: Plus Size Rocker Chic

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. 

Allie, why does every retailer want fat girls to dress up like children or shower curtains? I am a size 20, 5’6” tall and 32 and I am sick to DEATH of every store being full of skater skirts covered in puppies or polyester shapeless dresses covered in Hawaiian flowers. I know that us bigger girls look good in vintage silhouettes but I feel like an idiot in a costume. Where can I shop for my personal style? I like hard rock, my husband rides a Harley, I work in a professional setting, I like martini bars as much as I like a dive bar. I want to be cool, I want to show my rock side, but I want to look sophisticated too.

Based upon the rest of your email, I know you live clear across the country from me and I find it such a shame because I think you and I would get along quite well. We’ll drink martinis and bitch about fashion while we rock out to an awesome local band on stage. But I know there’s so many other women out there reading this wishing they too could be part of this hypothetical Girl’s Night Out because they too can’t find their personal style available in their size.

I could tell you to find a seamstress, to learn how to sew, to scour the racks at your nearby thrift or vintage shop, but if you are like me you’d rather spend that time on the back of your husband’s Harley. So I am going to share what I am doing, using some awesome plus size bloggers for visual inspiration.

Over the past year, my personal style has transitioned and it is going in a more edgy, rocker direction. And like you, it’s still important for me to dress appropriately for work, and to have a sophisticated feel to everything I wear, be it for the office or after hours. When I realized I wasn’t really the person to wear a lemon-printed skirt or an adult tutu with pearls, I decided to make a list and slowly build up my wardrobe with what fits the current me. That list is still long because it has been a hard road to find pieces that fit my personal style as well as my figure and budget but I have found some alternatives and workarounds:

curvy girl chic
Tough but Sweet style from Curvy Girl Chic

Focus on Accessories
You can take a simple twinset and skirt and make it twee, or you can make it edgy and it’s all due to accessories. A bootie in place of a pump, a cuff instead of a delicate link bracelet, a chunky chain in place of a bubble necklace, a studded hobo over a candy-colored handbag. You’ll see in more recent outfit posts that I’m not usually wearing my colorful jewelry, have narrowed down my shoe collection, and use fewer clutches and usually a large slouchy black or gray leather bag. I even switched from elegant and on-trend tortoiseshell glasses to oversized black Wayfarer-style ones which are more bold, modern, and not at all cutesy.

I have a black matte jersey shift with puffed sleeves, I’ve owned it for several years. I have worn it before with peeptoe heels and a skinny patent belt with bow detail. I've also worn it with all black accessories and a biker jacket. This week I wore it sans belt with leopard haircalf pointed flats, a paisley scarf tied at the throat, and a bunch of chunky silver and leather cuffs on the wrist. It’s just an example of how accessories can transform very basic pieces.

Create a Color Story
Earlier this year, I was thinking about my wardrobe and what I like, what I REALLY like in it. I realized my favorite pieces are in black, white, gray, and shades of blue (especially navy and indigo). I looked at what I pinned on Pinterest and it was a lot in these colors, with the occasional pop of red, orange, or hot pink. So I stopped buying things in every other color. I decided to “brand” myself with this color story. It’s professional, it’s modern and classic, it can easily look rocker chic but also look boardroom-ready.

A lot of color in the closet is pretty to look at, but it’s hard to create an edgier look. Not only that, a simpler palette will better define your personal style, making that black skater skirt suddenly look tough, a touch of lace look badass. Think about what colors you gravitate towards, and what pieces you already own and love to death and start playing with a simpler color story.

gabifresh
Glam Rock via GabiFresh 

Boost the Beauty
With my change in personal style, I realized I needed a change in my hair and makeup. Before, I did a lot of “pretty” – big soft waves with caramel and auburn highlights, soft brown shades on the eyes and glossy pink lips. It just didn’t fit my personal style. Since then, I have cut down the highlights and added darker lowlights, I played with bangs, and my standard face is liquid liner, lots of lashes, and a soft red pout. Now that I am trying to maintain a manicure, I stick to a nude or else a dark bold color like gray.

Your clothing says a lot, but your hair and makeup is your signature, what separates you from other women in the same jeans and tee shirt. Be it nail art, a signature hot pink lip, a purple streak in your bangs, or flushed cheeks, there’s nothing wrong with wearing the same look each day and having it define your personal style. A switch in your beauty routine is often what you need to make a look more appropriate to your personality.

Shop Outside your Retail Comfort Zone
I can’t stress this enough to all women, regardless of age or size. The world doesn’t stop at Lane Bryant. Yes, it’s a popular retailer where you can find great pieces, but there is plus size clothing available at other places… places you may not have considered just a year ago. Lands’ End has amazing dresses as well as separates, Coldwater Creek is constantly improving and is having a new denim line this fall, Torrid may seem to be for younger women but they have some pretty adorable pieces that can incorporate into a professional woman’s closet. Companies like Simply Be, ASOS Curve, and H&M are offering on-trend fashion in extended sizes, and many of them are perfect for a gal with a rock-n-roll vibe. I also highly recommend checking out plus size bloggers; they often know about the best retailers before anyone else and can show how they truly look on a larger frame instead of on a size 10 “plus size” model.

You never know, you may find a new favorite retailer, or be surprised that an unexpected shop has staples and novelty pieces you have been craving for seasons! It doesn’t hurt to look, and these days more and more retailers have free or simple shipping/return policies!

margie plus
Rockin' Style via Margie Plus

Quality, not Quantity
You don’t need a whole new outfit for every day of the month. It’s better to rewear the same pieces over and over that perfectly fit your personal style, than spend money with items that “make do.” I think back about my black shift with the puffed sleeves – each time I consider buying another LBD I think about it, how versatile it is, and put that other frock back on the rack.

When you own and purchase fewer items, you not only hone your personal style, but you have more fundage to buy quality pieces that are perfect for you. I learned to step away from Old Navy, where I could easily drop $50 on knits and random accessories that are lucky to get two wears, and save that money towards a badass leather jacket that will give me years of wear and dozens of compliments from strangers. Another pair of jeans that don’t fit quite right, or highlights from a nice salon in town? A bag of baubles from Forever 21, or a signature sterling silver ring that is the cherry on top of your new wardrobe?

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Comments

  1. tgchi13 says

    August 22, 2015 at 2:13 pm

    Allie, I’ve added you to my top five (daily) fashion blogs. I’m older and not built like you or Bridgette who I found you through, but you both blog honestly and not just for yourselves. I honor that.

    I have two things to say though, since I am reading your blog backward (new to old); please don’t justify what you do. You are blogging with ethics and earning funds from it. I think if I am interested in something you post your earning a few pennies is a nice thank you for providing the link; what about orange? I thought I read It was your favorite color, so why would you not include it in your color story?

    Thank you for your thoughtful posts, they are appreciated by women of all ages and sizes.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      August 24, 2015 at 8:07 am

      Include orange where? In my blog’s color story or in capsules and such? Orange is hard to find in clothing stores and it’s also hard for people to wear. As for my blog’s color story I did consider orange but the colors chosen are inspired by my home office which is where I write and I find very inspiring 🙂 https://www.wardrobeoxygen.com/style-found-my-glidden-room-update-and-a-giveaway/

      Reply
      • tgchi13 says

        August 24, 2015 at 6:17 pm

        It was this post – I think I just misread ththe colors; you use orange for a pop! Orange, autumn orange, is one of my favorite colors.

        Reply

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Foxcroft Style Stars – Behind the Scenes

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 26

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Scenes from a Friday night…

We started at @littleblackbirddc a new wine bar in Cleveland Park where we had great food, drink, and conversation into the evening. We then headed down the street to @atomicbilliards for a whole different experience and to keep the conversation going. I treasure my friendships with @sylviacolella (who had a birthday recently), @districtofchic, and @blonde_inthedistrict they’re the real deal 🥰

My dress is @adamlippes borrowed via @renttherunway and Cheetos with Sauvignon Blanc is a really fun pairing!

wardrobe_oxygen

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Sep 23

Open
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

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

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

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

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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

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

Open
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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