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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
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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Outfit Posts, Capsule Wardrobes, Fall, Fashion Advice · September 5, 2018

Building a Work from Home Wardrobe

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. 

This post is sponsored by Soma.

building a work from home wardrobe photo of Alison Gary in Soma Style Essentials blazer and tank and ponte pants

One of the most requested topics for Wardrobe Oxygen is advice on what to wear when working from home. Whether it’s as a telecommuter, a busy stay at home mom, or an active retiree, there are three aspects necessary for a great work from home wardrobe: comfort, washability, and polish. Pieces need to feel great, but they also need to look pulled together for a video conference call, coffee meeting, or when running errands. The clothes need to look polished, but also be able to be thrown in the washer and dryer (and not need to be ironed). That’s a pretty big ask of a wardrobe, but not impossible. In fact, I found all three in Soma’s new Style Essentials collection. This collection is full of machine washable knits that feel good and also look good.

If you’ve read this blog for a bit you know ponte is one of my favorite fabrics. A heavyweight dense knit, ponte looks polished and even professional while being as comfy as your favorite yoga pants. Therefore, you know I was psyched to try Soma’s Smoothing Ponte Pants. The fabric is dense enough that you can wear them to the office or out and about with a shorter sweater or top. They have slanted zipper pockets large enough to hold your keys and phone, and center seams down the front and back which make them look more like trousers while also slimming your legs.

building a work from home wardrobe photo of Alison Gary in Soma Style Essentials blazer and tank and ponte pants building a work from home wardrobe photo of Alison Gary in Soma Style Essentials blazer and tank and ponte pants

Jacket: Knit Blazer c/o Soma (L) | Top: Soft Jersey Easy Tank c/o Soma (L) | Pants: Smoothing Ponte Pant c/o Soma (26” short, size Large) | Earrings: Jenny Bird | Shoes: Rothy’s The Point

This look could be worn to the office or to a meeting with a client but be comfy enough to chill in the rest of the day. The knit blazer is heavy enough to have structure but soft enough to feel like a hoodie. The sleeves are without buttons at the bottom so you can easily roll or push them up. The pockets are deep enough to carry all of your essentials. Below is the Soft Jersey Easy Tank. With a subtle sheen that makes it look more formal than a traditional knit top, this tank is double lined for opacity and has straps wide enough to cover your bra. It drapes beautifully so you can tuck it in like I did here or wear it loose.

The key to keeping work at home outfits from looking like loungewear is the addition of accessories. Adding a pair of bold earrings or a statement necklace elevates the look. Keep such an accessory in your bag or next to your webcam to throw on when heading out of the house or popping on to a video call.

Wardrobe Oxygen in Soma Style Essentials collection which is perfect for building a work from home wardrobe Wardrobe Oxygen in Soma Style Essentials collection which is perfect for building a work from home wardrobe

Top: Soft Jersey Long Sleeve Yoke Tunic c/o Soma (L) | Pants: Smoothing Ponte Pant c/o Soma (26” short, size Large) | Scarf: Reversible Jacquard Infinity Scarf c/o Soma | Earrings: Jenny Bird | Booties: L’Amour Des Pieds (similar) | Bag: Dagne Dover

This outfit features the same Smoothing Ponte Pants, but this time with the Soft Jersey Long Sleeve Yoke Tunic in Oceanside Stripe Black. Unlike a traditional t-shirt, this tunic has gorgeous drape and the yoke keeps it from looking too boxy.

what to wear when working from home

Again, accessories are key. This washable infinity scarf adds interest with the pattern mixing and also elevates the look from loungewear to streetwear. It’s also a stylish way to ward off a chill in overly-air conditioned workspaces and coffee shops.

Wardrobe Oxygen showcasing work from home fashion featuring the Soma Style Essentials collection cardigan, dolman top, and essential crop leggings Wardrobe Oxygen showcasing work from home fashion featuring the Soma Style Essentials collection cardigan, dolman top, and essential crop leggings

Top: Dolman Sleeve Top c/o Soma (L) | Leggings: Essential Crop Legging c/o Soma (L) | Waterfall Cardigan: Long Black Wrap c/o Soma (L) | Necklace: Chico's  | Shoes: Rothy’s The Point

Layering is a great way to be comfortable into fall when the temps drop, but it’s also a great way to look more polished. This waterfall cardigan is long enough to dress up leggings, but not so long it looks like a blanket. It has pockets and is a quite flattering shape. Another way to add polish to your work from home wardrobe is to add color. This blue shade is flattering on most skin tones and coordinates with neutrals so beautifully. The cut and stitching of this top are so flattering and I think also slimming; the fabric feels and looks so luxe yet can be tossed into the washing machine.

work from home wardrobe

Again, an accessory can take your work from home wardrobe to the next level. I got this necklace in the summer and am surprised by how many times I reach for it. Such a bold piece can dress up even a simple t-shirt and jeans or your favorite loungewear.

The basics of a work from home wardrobe:

  • Two pairs of pants, each in a different color and/or silhouette
  • Three knit tops, at least one a color or classic print (stripes are always chic)
  • Two layering pieces, each in a different silhouette
  • Slip-on shoes waiting at the door (I recommend a style that has a pointed or almond toe which looks more polished and professional than a sneaker or ballet flat). One pair for winter (a Chelsea boot is a good choice), one for warmer months
  • Two or three statement accessories (necklaces, scarves, or earrings) to glam up casual pieces
  • A structured tote or laptop bag that adds professionalism to your ensemble
  • Optional: One or two dresses that can look polished with the addition of one of your layering pieces

You don’t need a lot of pieces to build a hardworking, cohesive, and stylish wardrobe for your active home-based lifestyle. And with pieces from Soma’s Style Essentials collection, these pieces can be polished, comfortable, and easy care. Thank you Soma for partnering with me on this post.

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In: Outfit Posts, Capsule Wardrobes, Fall, Fashion Advice · Tagged: Soma

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Comments

  1. April says

    February 5, 2019 at 2:50 pm

    I made the switch from office to self-employed last year and am struggling with this very issue. The problem is I’m allergic to spandex and black dye. Any suggestions?

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      February 5, 2019 at 3:12 pm

      I’d say work with what you have. No need for a completely different wardrobe you can take some things like tops from your office life and pair with bottoms you wear on the weekends!

      Reply
  2. Karin says

    September 5, 2018 at 8:10 pm

    I had no idea Soma sold clothes! These also look like they’d be a great basis of a travel wardrobe.

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      September 7, 2018 at 4:59 pm

      They really would be!

      Reply
  3. Karen says

    September 5, 2018 at 1:45 pm

    You look comfortable but polished. Although I don’t work from home right now, I do like to put a little effort in on the weekends. Now that I’m older I find ratty sweats and tee shirts only serve to make me look ill or like I’ve given up on life. The big shocker for me is Soma sells pieces like this? I guess I’m out of the loop as I thought they did bras and underwear. I’m going to check out your link now.

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      September 7, 2018 at 5:00 pm

      It has never been their primary focus, but I think this is a very smart addition to their collection!

      Reply
  4. patval says

    September 5, 2018 at 9:35 am

    Soma’s clothes are so comfortable. I have worn them for years. They use to make yoga clothes that were great. Soma for awhile focused on dresses not pants and tops. I stopped shopping there because I rarely wear dresses. I am glad they are bringing back apparel. You look nice in your outfits. This is my style of everyday dressing.

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      September 5, 2018 at 10:17 am

      Thank you! I felt good about this partnership after having a Soma maxi dress that is two years old, has been in the washer and dryer tons of times and still is nice enough for me to wear to a party. These clothes are just as great of quality! https://www.wardrobeoxygen.com/2017/09/wore-soma-intimates-maxi-dress.html

      Reply
  5. Grace says

    September 5, 2018 at 9:34 am

    While these pieces don’t really seem like your usual style, I really appreciate seeing them, because I think that they are actually one of the most practical things I’ve ever seen you showcase. Not only for work-at-home folks, but in my field, Early Childhood, many professionals need to be able to move seamlessly from meetings with potential clients parents or state officials Etc, to getting on the floor and interacting with children. I am definitely going to give Soma a look, do their pieces come in a wide range of sizes?

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      September 5, 2018 at 10:19 am

      I was excited to share this collection because it is what so many of you look for. And they feel and wear so well I’ve been wearing them a lot at home (and the blue top and cropped leggings were worn out last week to run a few errands and get a manicure!). As for sizing, they go up to XXL or 16 and I find the sizing generous/relaxed. While I got a L in most pieces, some I think I could have worn in a M. Items do not shrink when washed (and someone asked on Facebook about the dryer, and everything I’m wearing here can go in the dryer except the blazer).

      Reply

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What I Wore: Magenta and Merlot

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

wardrobe_oxygen

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Sep 19

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

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

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

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

wardrobe_oxygen

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Sep 11

Open
Happy gotcha day, Oscar! Four years ago he came into our life and we are so happy to have in our family!

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

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

wardrobe_oxygen

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

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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