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
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!
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I had to see… I asked my husband how often he thinks about the Roman Empire, and then asked our 14-year-old 😂
Open
#ad Go through my archives on Wardrobe Oxygen and one thing is clear: my family and I are a fan of @bombas socks! From their no-slip no-show socks to their iconic crew socks, Bombas makes great socks for the whole family while having a great heart.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4idXm
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Fashion Advice · May 8, 2013

Ask Allie: What to Pack for a Comfortable Flight

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. 

I haven’t taken a plane anywhere in 25 years and my daughter is getting married in California this summer and I am flying there. What should I pack to be comfortable for a long flight across the country? Are there any things that are must haves or must not haves?

At my last job, I traveled quite frequently on business and got to the point where I had a second set of all my cosmetics and toiletries so I could keep them in my suitcase at all times, and had a carry-on bag almost completely packed and ready to go. Here’s some things that I had in my carry-on bag that made my flights more comfortable; I still carry such items when I fly:

what to pack flight carryon bag

Reading Material. I highly recommend a variety; if you get on board with just one book you may regret it. Jet lag, motion sickness, wedding jitters and more can make that page-turner of a crime novel too heavy or distracting. While I am a big fan of the Kindle app on my phone and adore e-readers and tablets, sometimes it’s enjoyable to physically flip through a glossy magazine. A few fun reads that are not your normal subscriptions can be fun; flights and pedicures are the only time I read gossip rags and they are so perfect for such situations. I also like magazines like Rolling Stone, Vanity Fair, and Entertainment Weekly for catching up on entertainment. If you have an e-reader, fill it up with more than one book so you have some variety and don’t end up without any material for your flight home.

Audio Entertainment. A bit of music can help calm nerves, lull you to sleep, or drown out the snoring guy in the seat next to you. As with reading material, have a bit of variety so you’re not trying to take a nap to GWAR.

While on this subject, have some headphones or earbuds that are comfortable for long periods of time – that means a pair that is NOT what came with your Smartphone. If you can afford it, consider noise-cancelling so you can enjoy your music at a reasonable level while drowning out the snoring guy in the seat next to you!

Writing Material. When I am on a plane and unable to surf the Internet or jabber on the phone with friends, I find I have time to let my mind wander and the mind thinks of some pretty awesome stuff. While you could type it out on your laptop or iPad, there’s something awesome about a travel journal and frantically writing on that fold-down tray. A retractable pen means no lost caps and no penmarks in your bag.

Creature Comforts. I have found a few things that take up little space in your carry-on bag but make a major impact in how comfortable your flight will be:

  • Pashmina – Way softer, better smelling, cleaner, and all around nicer than an airplane blanket. Loop around your throat for your travel outfit and remove to be a blanket or even ball up and use as a lumbar cushion or neck pillow.
  • Eye Mask – Also nice to have at the hotel or if sleeping at a friend’s house that has sheer curtains or skylights. An eye mask will let you sleep even if the plane has all the window shades up. Don’t be afraid of looking silly, half the plane will also be wearing them and the other half will wish they were.
  • Ear Plugs – If your headphones are comfortable enough, you may not need this. I personally find music to be too distracting when sleeping and headphones a bit uncomfortable. Ear plugs let me sleep comfortably and drown out most noise yet I can still hear the flight attendant if she speaks to me directly. I have this eye mask/ear plug duo and like it – the ear plugs are pretty standard issue, but the mask is quite comfortable and doesn’t press against my eyes so I can open, blink, and not mess up my makeup.
  • Inflatable Neck Pillow – My husband got one for Christmas one year and ever since we have fought over it. It has a soft velour cover, but inside is pretty much a beach ball that self-inflates with the twist of a cap. It folds down to almost nothing. It’s also great to have when sleeping in a strange bed, and even when lying out on the beach.

Personal Care. A plane is a dirty and dry place to be. I fill my TSA-approved Ziploc bag with as many TSA-approved mini bottles as possible to have my necessities on me in case they lose my luggage, but also to feel clean and hydrated during and right after the flight. My essentials:

  • Simple Makeup – A tinted lip balm that can double as cream blush and a compact foundation or powder so you can refresh quickly once you get to your destination. Many pack more, I find these two to be the minimum to not look like death after a flight.
  • Lip Balm – Apply it regularly. I like fresh’s Sugar because it tastes like lemonade and is really creamy; choose one that feels good, smells good, and tastes good even if you’re feeling under the weather or nauseous.
  • Face Mist – I swear by Body Shop’s Vitamin E Face Mist. I have had a bottle or two in my possession since I worked for the company over a decade ago. It’s a TSA-approved size, has a faint smell of roses, will provide hydration without smearing your makeup. When I worked for The Body Shop, flight attendants would come in my store and buy this spray by the case because it’s so great for flight. When not on a plane, use it to prep skin before makeup and to set applied makeup; stick in your fridge for a nice pick-me-up on a hot day.
  • Hand Cream – Planes are dry, choose a hand cream that is low on smell and not too greasy. My sister turned my on to Glysomed, I keep a bottle at my desk at work and another in my purse.
  • Face Wipes – Target always has a travel pack of Neutrogena face wipes in their travel section; I not only keep these in my carry-on bag, but I even put one of these packs in my purse. Small, can fix smeared mascara or wash your entire face. I have been known to use one of these wipes to freshen up under the arms, along the bra wires and between the breasts when on a long flight or a very long day away from home.
  • Travel Toothbrush and Paste – I have a kit similar to the one shown – a very tiny tube of toothpaste I only use for flights so it won’t empty quickly, and a tiny toothbrush. On a long flight I will brush my teeth on the plane to feel refreshed, especially after a nap. No matter the length of a flight, as soon as we arrive at the airport I brush my teeth to feel more refreshed.
  • Brush/Comb – At least a small one will help clean you up after a long flight. I have one of those small combs you get on Picture Day back in grade school which will smooth frizz, straighten my bangs, and clean up a fuzzy ponytail.

Plane Preparation. Target also has small packs of Clorox or sanitizing wipes in their travel section – a pack of these are great to wipe down armrests and trays on the plane, and for once you’re at your destination if you have to deal with gross bathrooms or grimy situations. Also bring a pack of gum – not only does it help freshen your breath but it can also help with ears popping from the altitude change. Finally, bring some cash – good to be prepared if you need to catch a taxi at the airport.

Additional Suggestions:

  • If you’re on an especially long flight, a pair of slipper socks or travel slippers can be great. Your feet may swell and anyway it’s easier to nap and relax with happy tootsies.
  • If you’re on medications, be sure to have those in your carry-on bag.
  • If you’re checking luggage, make sure you have a change of clothes and basic toiletries (contact lens solution, deodorant, etc.) in your carry-on in case your luggage is lost or delayed. While at it, pack any non-replaceable things like jewelry in your carry-on as well.
  • Many flights have dropped meal service so be sure to pack at least a snack. While you can grab something at the airport food court, it’s cheaper and healthier to make your own sandwich or buy a granola or protein bar at your neighborhood grocery.
  • A friend of mine packs one of those collapsible water bottles and fills it at a water fountain once she gets through the security checkpoint. She refills on the flight with cups of water the flight attendants offer, and then has the bottle available for her vacation.
  • I was on a flight once when a man asked the flight attendant for a cup of hot water and he dipped a dry washcloth in it and wiped his hands and face with it to feel refreshed. I can’t say I have ever done that but I found it utterly brilliant.
  • I have such things in my Purse Survival Kit, but it’s smart to have a stain remover, some safety pins, and some anti-nausea or anti-diarrhea pills in your bag in case of wardrobe or digestive malfunctions.
  • Since the plane is so drying, it’s pretty smart to pack some moistening eye drops and saline nose spray.
  • If you wear contacts, have drops, your case, and a pair of glasses handy. I know my contacts give me major trouble on flights and I usually just decide to wear glasses from the get-go.
  • If you’re a frequent flyer, consider an adapter so you can use your headphones with the plane’s audio/TV system.
  • Just because you're on a long flight doesn't mean you should dress in your pajamas and sweats.  Fabrics like ponte, stretch denim, merino wool and matte jersey can have you look polished and still be comfortable.  And you never know, your sophisticated outfit may help you get upgraded!

What are your essentials for a comfortable flight?

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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

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Sep 19

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

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

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

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

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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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