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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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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
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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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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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Fashion Advice · May 12, 2015

Recent Fashion Purchases: Hits and Misses

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. 

A few things I have recently purchased or tried, and whether they are winners or losers for my closet:

best summer fashion buys 2015jpg

350

1. Vince Camuto One-button Blazer in Taffy Pink

I owned this same blazer in neon yellow when the neon trend was hot (I wish I never sold it, I’d likely still rock the heck out of it), so I know how it fits. I’m not usually a pastels kind of gal, but blush pink has grown on me, especially when paired with denim, navy, and black and white. The jacket is nice – it’s that kind of fabric you can wear to the office, but also style with boyfriend jeans. It has gold buttons at the cuffs and a single gold button in front.  I like rolling my sleeves for a more casual look and it worked even with the buttons (and the lining is the same color of pale pink).  The day I wrote this piece I wore it with the Caslon striped tee, my Jag Erin skinny cuffed jeans, and black pumps. I also wore it with boyfriend jeans, Converse Shorelines, and a white band tee and plan on wearing it to the work with gray or cream trousers.

2. Halogen Modal & Linen Tee in Black and White Stripe

I know, I know, all the stripes. It’s my weakness in life. I liked that this one had a subtle scoop neck, that it wasn’t going to be clingy and a slouchy lightweight fabric. I ordered the Large and it fits far more like an XL. It’s fine with skinny jeans or shorts, but a medium would likely be better if you want to wear untucked with looser bottoms or tucked in. Though it’s lightweight, it’s not sheer. Though it says hand wash and dry flat, I washed on the gentle cycle in a lingerie bag and line dried it hanging over two hangers and it turned out fine.

3., 4. Gap Muscle Tank in Gray Stripe and Red Floral

Last year I bought a muscle tank from Free People and I loved the cut, the fit, and the effect. I was thinking these would be similar. Notsomuch. These are true muscle tanks – the neck is high, the sleeves are cut where they’d likely flatter a very slim or very muscular arm, neither which I have. They look like Fruit of the Loom tee shirts with the sleeves cut off and hemmed.

5. Gap Stripe Fluid Tunic

I got this in the gray and white stripe and I like it. The sleeves are fitted but not too much, the body is wide and fluid inn a good way, the neck is flattering. It’s called a tunic but the large on me hit mid-fly on my jeans, nothing too long or too short. However, it just wasn’t unique enough for me to justify it. The top now is on big discount online and few sizes and colors are in stock, but I bet there would be a few on the sale rack at your closest location.

6. Old Navy Denim Pencil Skirt

Many of you recommended I try this skirt when I found the Madewell one (which I did return) fit strangely. I ordered this in the Gold Coast wash since I was looking for something more distressed or vintage looking. I have to agree, this is a great skirt. It has stretch so you get a better fit, and it’s a classic cut that will go with so many things. However the Gold Coast color is terrible. It looks really cheesy; a weird blue that I remember my dad’s gardening jeans from Sears were, and with bright gold stitching. I considered distressing the skirt to balance out the very crisp finish but didn’t think it was worth the effort and worried I’d end up ruining it. So instead I sent it back. However if you want a rinse/dark denim pencil skirt, I would totally recommend this one from Old Navy.

7. Old Navy Wrap-Front Jersey Top in Light Heather Gray

This looked cheap. I have a similar top from Two by Vince Camuto and this one may be a third of the price of that one but it LOOKS like it. This top doesn’t hang well, the armholes aren’t flattering, the neckline gapes, the fabric is a weird texture. Even if it was on sale for $5 I wouldn’t keep it because I just don’t think it’s worth it. I thought it could be a nice change from tee shirts, but it just isn’t worth it.

8. Banana Republic Striped Drapey Popover Blouse

This looked like something that I’d put on before I got my hair highlighted. It looked like a lady’s blouse from the ‘80s that I would have thrifted in college and knotted and paired with denim cutoffs and clunky Steve Madden slides. Fail.

9. Banana Republic Go-To Denim Shirt in Dark Denim

Reviews said this runs small so I got an XL. I’m glad I did because the arms (just like most everything from Banana recently) run narrow. The fabric of this shirt is soft enough that it drapes nicely, but has enough structure for a proper collar and clean cuffs that stay in place. This shirt actually shows the quality difference between Gap and Banana; I have two Gap denim shirts and while they’re great, this one was just made with more attention to detail, higher quality fabric and finishings.

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In: Fashion Advice · Tagged: Banana Republic, Gap, Nordstrom, Old Navy, Vince Camuto

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Comments

  1. Kimberlee says

    May 25, 2015 at 2:41 pm

    Always appreciate an honest review 🙂 I’m seeing a lot about denim skirts coming back and I’m just like nOOOOO I do not have fond memories of them. I’ve done well at B.Repub (as my family refers to it) lately. GAP is slacking :/

    Reply
  2. Karen says

    May 13, 2015 at 5:38 pm

    Too bad I did not see this post a few days ago. I just ordered a denim skirt from Levi’s, my nostalgia brand. It looked scandalously short on the model but that generally means it will be about 2-3″ above my knee, not bad for me. If it doesn’t work out though, that Old Navy denim skirt will be on my radar. The funky color even appeals to me! Thank you for your reviews. They are always enjoyable.

    Reply
  3. Aimee says

    May 13, 2015 at 10:26 am

    I love these kinds of posts. I am all about the stripes, too.
    Allie, this is unrelated but I don’t know where to ask this. Are you still planning on doing a post to show us how to cut band shirts to make them less boxy? You mentioned it once. I am going to a RUSH concert and plan to get a t-shirt.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      May 15, 2015 at 8:06 am

      I still plan to, it just requires photos and a space with good lighting and life has been oh so hectic. I usually cut the hem off the sleeves, cut the collar off the shirt, then take the two shoulder seams and match them up so I can cut a bit of a wide v-neck. Stretch the sleeves and neck, try on, then see if additional edits are necessary. I hope to have a post like this up soon!

      Reply
      • Aimee says

        May 19, 2015 at 9:33 am

        Thanks, Allie! I look forward to it. I bought a shirt at the concert last night and there is no way I want to wear it as is, but look forward to fixing it up and showing it off. Rush still rocks!

        Reply
  4. Gail Krueger Carriveau says

    May 12, 2015 at 3:42 pm

    I have been looking for white short as so many stores carry really short ones and I found a pair at Talbots today called Weekend shorts. The fabric is heavier as so many shorts were bit see though for my taste. These shorts also come in tan, navy and coral.

    Reply
  5. Ginger says

    May 12, 2015 at 1:27 pm

    I sometimes buy Gap shirts to wear to the gym or the beach, I’ll have to look at that striped muscle. I’ve gotten so if I don’t like the neckline on a casual t-shirt, like I’d wear the gym, I get my scissors out.

    Reply
  6. Mrs.M in MI says

    May 12, 2015 at 10:21 am

    I am shopping for a white denim pencil skirt and this past weekend I tried both the Old Navy and Land’s End ones. The ON one was pretty decent but I loved the LE skirt. It had the perfect amount of stretch and was a good length (but I go between regular and tall sizes so try petite). I ordered the white in my true size, but if I was getting the regular I’d be tempted to size down for an extra-sexy tapered look.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      May 12, 2015 at 10:53 am

      Oooh thanks for the heads up on the Lands’ End skirt!

      Reply
  7. Vanessa says

    May 12, 2015 at 9:02 am

    Lol on number 8 ^_^

    I agree about banana and the slim sleeves… I wish they would stop with that.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      May 12, 2015 at 9:04 am

      I was talking to a stylist friend and she also noticed this issue. She has a smaller build than I am smaller arms but also finds the sleeves tight on her. Big fail.

      Reply

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The Best Summer Flat Shoes From Nordstrom

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

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

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

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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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