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The perfect red for the holiday season 💄

I love a red lipstick, especially in winter. It adds brightness to gray days and skin not exposed to the sun. Look in my dressing table and you’ll find at least a dozen different red lipsticks. But this winter my go-to red is “Relax” by @flyte.70 

Glossy but not sticky, long wearing but not drying, the Flyte.70 L+L.LipLacquer feels like a lip balm. One layer is a hint of color and shine; add more layers for more pigment, gloss, and impact. This isn’t the only Flyte.70 lip color I have and love; I regularly wear “Fast Car” which is a modern version of the brown lipsticks we loved in the 90s that looks so good with the neutrals popular right now.

And with products named after songs from the 80s and 90s I couldn’t not use this Frankie Goes to Hollywood song for this lip color!

This isn’t paid, it’s a PSA because I know it’s hard to find good red lip colors. And @flyte.70 is a U.S.-based woman-owned ethical beauty brand created specifically for U.S. grown women and I find the quality stellar.

Use code WOXYGEN15 for 15% off your order at Flyte.70

The quickest and cheapest way to update your wardrobe for the holidays is with a glossy red lip! 💄

#over40style #genxstyle #genxbeauty #flyte70
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The tree is trimmed! 🎄

When I was a single gal, I had the prettiest tree with a color story and theme. 20 years later, my tree is a hodgepodge of inherited ornaments, gifts from loved ones, and handmade pieces from both my childhood and by my child. And I think each year it veers further from the original concept the more beautiful it becomes!

My daughter and I donned our Santa hats, turned on the holiday playlist, a Yule log on the TV, and spent the afternoon getting our home into the Christmas spirit.

When she was little, my husband would pick her up so she could place the star on top of the tree. Now that she’s taller than I am, when he got home he just put his arm around her as she used the library stool to reach the top. Some traditions need to be modified with time but they’re still special! ⭐️

Top is a feather trimmed Breton from @talbotsofficial; the scarf as a belt is also Talbots but a few years old. The jeans are @landsend and the blanket on the chair in the second photo is by artist  @zanderschlacter
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My therapist recommended I walk outside more as I grieve the recent loss of my mom.

When it was time to pay for my mom’s funeral, the credit card I had in my wallet was my @bananarepublic Mastercard. I’ve had this card for decades because over the years, most of our family have worn some Gap brand. From onesies to tuxedos, we’ve updated our wardrobes with points.

And I got a serious chunk of points for charging my mom’s funeral expenses on my Banana card.

I decided to use them to buy clothes for winter outdoor walking. Nothing motivates me more than a chance to put together a cute outfit. This cute look is from @athleta, one of the few activewear brands that fits both my size and my style.

My Athleta purchase arrived on my doorstep and that day, a neighbor reached out, inviting me to join a group of women in our community who were supporting, not competing, to move 100k. I immediately said yes and signed up. 

This past week I hit 100k. And this past week week it has been two months she has been gone. I’m still going 💪 

Wearing XL. For reference I’m 5’3” and usually wear a size 14.

I share details on all my looks on the @shop.LTK app. You can use the app or desktop, search for @wardrobe_oxygen or use the link https://liketk.it/4pFaS
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Normalizing the normal everyday outfit…

It was a day of running errands, running to the office, and then running into friends. It rained off and on so I wanted shoes for potential puddles and a coat that wouldn’t soak through but also keep me warm.

The sweater is @universalstandard; I bought it thinking it was a bold purple but the color was off on the site and I got plum. But I think I like this better. I’m wearing a S. This is my second of this cardigan, it is super soft, dense, and holds up to washing. My other one I got a year ago and still wear all the time.

The jeans are @oldnavy and while they’re not perfect and stretch out throughout the day they were around $18 and I like the wash and weight of the denim. I’m wearing a 14 Short.

The boots are old Docs, the coat I got at @talbotsofficial last winter, and the bag is @maxwellscottuk and I’ve had for almost a decade. Earrings are @_jennybird, necklace is @gorjana. 

Disclosure: the coat was gifted last year but remains a favorite. The necklace was also gifted about a year ago but I keep wearing because I like it and it has held up quality-wise. The rest I bought. 

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!

#liketkit #LTKfindsunder50 #LTKover40 #LTKmidsize #midsizestyle #genxstyle #over40style #size14 #usinthewild 
https://liketk.it/4pDXG
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Counteract the gray days with cozy colorful clothes! 🌈 This cashmere sweater set is the prettiest teal and I loved how it looked with this candy pink Chesterfield coat. All are from @anntaylor one of my favorite places to shop because Ann has petites over a size 12. Also all of these items are on sale!

While I did receive these clothes as a gift from Ann Taylor I am under no obligation to share with you. This is what I wore to work and when I saw these colors against the green of my building door I had to prop up my phone and capture the color combo!

This sweater is a classic and with the skirt is created a dress effect you can style with tall boots, ankle boots and tights, or dress down with sneakers. I linked to other pieces in this color that would also look dreamy with this skirt, as well as other gorgeous colorful coats.

For reference I am wearing the coat in XL petite and the sweater set in L. I am 5’3” and usually wear a 14/16

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content! https://liketk.it/4plYr 

#LTKmidsize #ltkover40 #midsizestyle #genxstyle #size14 #midsizepetite #ThisIsAnn
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Just got back from a 4-night getaway with my sister @debbiefaye78 at @curacaomarriottbeachresort. It was a last-minute planned trip that ended up being perfect. We weren’t ready to celebrate Thanksgiving without our mom and this escape what just what our hearts needed. 

I’ll be sharing more once I finally unpack my suitcase and organize my photos and thoughts; but I couldn’t not share this picture from yesterday morning. Debbie and I got up early to enjoy some of the day at the resort before flying home to DC. We had the infinity pool to ourselves, finished our books, and relaxed before a long day of travel. 🌴
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It’s hard when you’re petite and most models aren’t; you have no idea how clothes, especially jeans will fit. To promote @universalstandard’s Denim Drive sale, the company sent me two pairs of jeans of my choice. And I chose to make this video to show how they fit on my 5’3” body. I am usually a 14/32 in jeans but at Universal Standard I wear a 12 because they’re super stretchy and generously sized. 

With jeans as low as $35 in sizes 00-40, this is a sale not to be missed. And use code INFS-BFALISON10 for an additional 10% off sitewide!

The Farrah Flare is a favorite because at my height, most flare jeans will lose what makes them special once hemmed. At a 30” inseam these are great with low heels or lug soles.

The Etta is a straight jean with a vintage fit. If in doubt size down. They’re also super stretchy and the 28” inseam (they also come in 31”) works with my boots and sneakers.

While I was provided the apparel in this Reel for free, I was not paid or contracted to create this content. Consider it a PSA for my fellow shorties shopping this fab denim sale!

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4oWOQ #ltkmidsize #ltkplussize #ltkover40 #ltksalealert #uspartner #midsizestyle
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Thanks to @talbotsofficial I’m ready for the holidays! #AD

I love Talbots for holiday fashion and this season’s new arrivals do not disappoint. And for Black Friday the entire site is 40% off with free shipping on orders $150+. Until noon, you also receive 50% off 1 regular price item!

I ordered pieces from the Talbots Holiday Collection and found great quality, great style, and great versatility. How cute is the Breton stripe bateau neck with the removable feather cuffs? The metallic plaid patio skirt is so fun, and these two dresses can glam up or dress down with a change of footwear and bag. For reference, I am wearing everything in either XL or 16 petite.

The ivory cords are also Talbots; the black trousers are from last year’s Talbots Holiday Collection showing how Talbots has lasting style. I’ve linked to exact or very similar in my LTK shop. Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.ltk app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content! https://liketk.it/4oDJF

#mytalbots modernclassicstyle #wondersoftheseason #ltkover40 #ltkplussize #ltkmidsize #blackfridaysale
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@somaintimates makes it easy to shop for a range of personas this holiday season! #AD With gift guides for a range of personality types, you can easily find great gifts for your loved ones. I was drawn to the creative one, loving the rich colorful florals, luxe satin, lace trim, and of course Soma’s iconic Cool Nights sleepwear! Visit Soma’s gift guide for tips on finding the perfect present this holiday season. #SomaGiftGuide #SomaStartsWithMe
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Fashion Advice · April 20, 2018

Allyn vs. Legend: Which Dagne Dover Tote is Best for Me?

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. 

One of the most popular questions I receive is whether one should get the Dagne Dover Legend tote or their Allyn tote. I have both totes and have used them for a long time. They're both great bags with amazing organization and function… and yes, they are different bags for different needs. Hopefully, this post will help you decide which of these Dagne Dover tote bags is best for you.

Dagne Dover Legend Tote Review

A review of the Dagne Dover Legend Tote, how it hols up, and how it compares to the Allyn Tote - Dagne Dover Tote Legend vs Allyn review featured by popular Washington DC fashion blogger, Wardrobe OxygenThe Dagne Dover Legend tote is a structured bag. Whether it's filled to the gills or empty, it will still stand tall. This was my preferred work bag as I could fit in there my laptop, my lunch, a change of shoes, my water bottle, and still have work files in there safe from being crumpled. It looked crisp enough to take to a client meeting, could sit by my side in a meeting where I could easily grab a notebook, a file, or a battery for my cell phone without hunting around. The Legend Tote is my choice for conferences. I can put it on the floor, a table, a chair and nothing will spill out. I can hike it over my shoulder, carry it in my hand, and if it's not too full, put in the crook of my elbow so it's perfect from racing to the next seminar to networking over cocktails. And it makes a statement; take the Legend tote, especially in one of its bold colors or signature Dagne Blue to a conference or even a restaurant and you will have strangers flocking to you asking about your bag.

Read: My original review of the Dagne Dover Legend Tote and all I fit in this bag

If you have the Legend Tote from a year or more ago, the new version may look the same but it is different. The bag weighs less, and the straps are a bit longer, making it easier to put on your shoulder, even when wearing a jacket. Quick glance, you can't tell the difference, you can only tell if you had the previous bag.

Read: A review of the updated Legend Tote and what I can fit in this bag

However, this bag is still large, stiff, and when full can be a bit heavy. I loved it as my work bag, but I drove to a parking lot and only walked about a block to the office. I'd walk to client meetings, but only a couple blocks, and I usually left extra stuff (lunch, water, etc.) at my desk. At a conference, I wouldn't have a ton of it when I arrived, just my laptop and purse essentials. This way, as I acquired swag and documents, I'd have the room and the bag wouldn't get too heavy.

Dagne Dover Legend Tote review and how well it holds up - Dagne Dover Tote Legend vs Allyn review featured by popular Washington DC fashion blogger, Wardrobe OxygenI've taken the Legend Tote on flights. It can fit under a plane seat, but you will have to bend it a bit. If you have it stuffed stiff and zipped closed you may have to take some things out to get it under there. However, the bag comes out looking unbent and like new even flying for a few hours and it's easy to slide out and find your headphones or lip balm even if you have a middle seat.

The Dagne Dover Legend tote is not leather, but a coated fabric that gives the effect of Saffiano leather. It can easily be spot cleaned and maintains its color/doesn't rub off when scuffed. I have Dagne bags that are several years old and still look like new. I do recommend when not using it for a long while to stuff it to keep its shape; if it bends or gets squished in a closet, it's hard to get out the folds and it won't stand as nicely when not full. Essentially, take care of your Dagne bag and it will give you years and years of stylish hard work.

Dagne Dover Promo Code

Dagne Dover has offered Wardrobe Oxygen readers 10% off their Signature Collection which includes the Legend Tote. Use promo code Alison10 at checkout!

Dagne Dover Allyn Tote Review

A review of the Dagne Dover Allyn Tote and how it compares to the Legend Tote - Dagne Dover Tote Legend vs Allyn review featured by popular Washington DC fashion blogger, Wardrobe OxygenThe Dagne Dover Allyn tote is a softer bag, and a smaller size. While it has a structured base, the walls of the bag are softer and if the bag isn't full, it can fold over a bit like most totes. What makes it stand out from most totes is the organization of the interior. With pockets, pouches, and compartments the Allyn tote has a place for everything and everything in its place. This is a preferred work bag when working at a coworking space or when I want a bag to take on a business trip as when it's not full of laptops and files it can pass as an everyday handbag. I then don't have to pack a separate purse for networking events or casual dinners, and I can leave the desk and go to lunch and not look like I brought the whole office with me.

Read: My original review of the Dagne Dover Allyn Tote and all I fit in my bag

Though it is smaller than the Legend Bag, it still holds quite a lot and can be a great everyday work bag. I used it quite often for the office and continue to use it when going to coworking spaces because how it can hold so much and have it so very organized. I love the leather, it's luxe, quality, and also maintains its color even if it gets scuffed.

Which Dagne Dove5r bag should I get, the Allyn Tote or the Legend Tote? The differences and uses are broken down in this post from Wardrobe Oxygen - Dagne Dover Tote Legend vs Allyn review featured by popular Washington DC fashion blogger, Wardrobe OxygenSome of you have let me know you prefer the Allyn Dagne Dover tote to the Legend because you take public transportation to work and the Allyn takes up less space on a crowded subway car and isn't as heavy for the walk to the office.

The Allyn Tote does not zip closed on top, but has a strong magnet to hold it together. If you completely fill up the tote, it won't be closed on top. One reader asked how the bag works with a 1″ binder in it; I was able to put my laptop, a water bottle, paper planner, purse essentials and a 1″ binder in the bag without it being misshapen. It was still easy to put over my shoulder, but the bag would not clasp shut on top. However, when I put basics in it (laptop and cord, purse essentials, a journal or paper planner, a bottle of water and maybe a couple other small things( it clasps shut and the magnet really gets the job done. If you desire a bag that can completely zip closed, you may wish to instead go with the Legend Tote.

DAGNE DOVER TOTE FAQ

I'm below 5′ tall, will the Dagne Dover Legend Tote be too big for me?

It may be too big a bag for you. It is a large bag, and very structured so it could be awkward at your height. I'd recommend the Allyn, which can hold almost as much but isn't as wide.

I need a bag that can also be an everyday purse, which Dagne Dover tote should I pick?

If you want a bag that can play double-duty, I recommend the Allyn Tote. It's easier to carry around and throw in a shopping cart.

Can a 1″ binder fit in the Dagne Dover tote?

Yes, a binder of this size can fit in both the Dagne Legend and Dagne Allyn totes along with a laptop and other bag contents. However, as I mentioned above, the Allyn won't be able to clap closed but will still be comfortable under your arm when slung over your shoulder.

Can the Dagne Dover Legend Tote fit over the shoulder? - Dagne Dover Tote Legend vs Allyn review featured by popular Washington DC fashion blogger, Wardrobe Oxygen

Should I get my Dagne Dover tote in a neutral or a color?

Go with a color! I worked as a government subcontractor with very conservative stodgy clients and my Legend Tote in Dagne Blue or their limited-edition vermillion color from a couple of years back never looked too crazy to them. It's nice to have a pop of color, and the colors Dagne Dover picks are good accent ones I find work well with the neutrals and traditional colors of corporate attire.

How well does a Dagne Dover tote hold up?

One of my Dagne Dover Legend totes is over three years old and still looks like new. It's been shoved under a plane seat, stuffed to the gills, has carried heavy electronic equipment, been squished into lockers and desk drawers and still looks amazing. The color hasn't rubbed off anywhere, no loose threads, no cracked handles, no chipped hardware. The zipper is still sound, none of the pouches or pockets have torn or stretched out. I'm hard on my bags and few have lasted as long as my Dagne Dovers.

A review of the Dagne Dover Allyn Tote by Wardrobe Oxygen - Dagne Dover Tote Legend vs Allyn review featured by popular Washington DC fashion blogger, Wardrobe Oxygen

How do I clean my Dagne Dover tote?

I have no idea what happened but I went to a conference, got back to my room, and saw I had some sort of white crusty, sticky stuff on my Legend Tote. I used a bit of soap and water on a washcloth and was able to get it all off without affecting the finish of the bag. The coated canvas exterior of the Legend Tote and many of the Dange Dover totes was chosen because of its durability, weatherproof-ness, and ability to clean. While I don't recommend it, I've even taken Windex and a rough brown paper towel to my Legend Tote. But I think the best bet is a soft cloth dampened with a bit of soap and then rinse and pat dry.

As for the Allyn tote and other leather Dagne Dover bags, treat them as you would any other leather bag. Again, a soft cloth with soapy water is the best bet (just dry it quickly); there are products on the market for cleaning tougher stains off leather. I've spot cleaned my Allyn Tote with soap and water and haven't seen any effect on the finish or dye. I do recommend pretreating this or any leather bag before using it to extend its life.

Please note, I received my Dagne Dover bags as gifts from the brand. However, I was not paid to write this post, they didn't know I was writing it, and I pride myself on honest reviews and full transparency. Links in this post are affiliate links, if you click one and make a purchase, I will make a small amount. I continue to write about Dagne Dover bags because I truly love them and find them well-made and smartly designed. If you have any questions, do ask them in the comments and I will answer them honestly to the best of my ability.

Dagne Dover Promo Code

Dagne Dover has offered Wardrobe Oxygen readers a Dagne Dover Promo Code: Use ALISON10 at checkout to get 10% off your order at Dagne

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Comments

  1. Maddy says

    September 4, 2019 at 1:11 pm

    This is the article that finally convinced me that I need one of these – I’m tired of having a work bag and an everyday bag. Thank you so much! Do you have a new promo code?

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      September 4, 2019 at 1:18 pm

      Oh yay, it’s a great bag! Unfortunately, I do not have a current code. However if you use this referral program and email yourself you’ll get 10% off http://bit.ly/2PJ1PEz

      Reply
  2. Liz says

    April 10, 2019 at 6:24 pm

    Just stumbled on this line of purses and of course you would have an in-depth review Allison! I’ve been on the hunt for a lightweight polished work tote for commuting (walking bus metro Lyft) in DC that works day to night; I can add a comfortable guitar strap crossbody to, and can manage fitting in a lunch, and when possible gym clothes or a thin laptop. The Allyn is a revelation but I’m worried about it’s open top as I’m clumsy and a zipper gives me extra protection. I’m also 5 ft 1 and proportions matter. The large one is too big for me. SO thinking about medium but if you have any other suggestions on styles to look at, I’d appreciate it. Nisolo and Cuyana don’t seem exactly right but I prefer their ethos. Madewell gets complaints for their bags not holding up. I’m so tired of carrying two bags that don’t look good together because I can’t find the ideal singular purse that works for most occasions

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      April 12, 2019 at 1:41 pm

      The Allyn medium is nice, I have pictures of it at this post and for reference I am 5’3″ https://www.wardrobeoxygen.com/what-i-wore-ice-blue-skirt-suit/

      I have a lot of friends who swear by Lo & Sons. Not leather, but lightweight and smartly designed. I have never tried the brand myself. I currently have the Clare V. Zip Tote ( http://bit.ly/2UY524Q ) and use it often for such situations. However, it’s not structured and I need my neoprene sleeve to protect my laptop. This is the only bag from Clare V. that I think has a sturdy enough strap to handle heavy weight. My friend who is an attorney and about 5’2″ has a bag from Coach that she adores but it’s not recent. However, she’s had it for years, they have repaired it for her, and it holds a ton without being too big for her frame. Looking at their site I’m thinking she may have the Charlie 40? Link: http://bit.ly/2KwWMVi

      Reply
  3. Snehal says

    January 6, 2019 at 11:52 am

    I have the classic tote that I got in 2017, and I carry my laptop around. I noticed that the laptop side stayed structured, but the other side is bent, so my bag leans to one side all the time. Does the legend tote have this problem? Or do you suggest the allyn tote instead? Or any suggestions to prevent these bends in a new bag. Thank you!

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      January 6, 2019 at 1:03 pm

      I haven’t had that issue, but my bag is usually pretty full when my laptop is in it. When I don’t use it I stuff it with the dust bag which is full of tissue paper to keep its shape. The Allyn is not a structured bag so won’t have the issue of bending since it’s a soft bag. Hope that helps!

      Reply
  4. Mira says

    November 5, 2018 at 11:06 pm

    What size Allyn tote do you have? I’m torn between the large and medium!

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      November 8, 2018 at 3:13 pm

      This is the original when they had only one size which is equivalent to the Large. I wouldn’t want to go smaller for a work tote as this one could truly carry everything I need for work and the medium may not be big enough. The medium I can see more for heading to the coffee shop with your laptop and maybe extra room for headphones and a small notebook or paper planner plus purse essentials.

      Reply
  5. Laura says

    July 4, 2018 at 1:44 am

    Do you think you could fit a small lunchbox like the Pack’d one in the Allyn tote with a laptop, water bottle and other small workday things?

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      July 4, 2018 at 11:57 am

      Yes I think there’s enough room for that!

      Reply
  6. Mariya says

    April 20, 2018 at 11:57 am

    Could you post directions / some photos on how you pre-treat shoes or purses? Thanks!

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      April 25, 2018 at 1:19 pm

      I’ve used this kit and just followed the directions: https://amzn.to/2qZh4JY I’ll admit I haven’t used it on my Dagne bag yet!

      Reply
  7. Taysha says

    April 20, 2018 at 11:52 am

    Very cute bags BUT what is the blue button down dress you’re wearing.

    Reply
    • Tracy says

      April 25, 2018 at 12:06 pm

      Yeah, I second that…where’d you get that blue dress!

      Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      April 25, 2018 at 1:13 pm

      It’s from Girl With Curves, you can see more at https://www.wardrobeoxygen.com/2018/01/girl-with-curves-clothing-line.html

      Reply

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What I Wore: Denim on Denim

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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Dec 5

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The tree is trimmed! 🎄

When I was a single gal, I had the prettiest tree with a color story and theme. 20 years later, my tree is a hodgepodge of inherited ornaments, gifts from loved ones, and handmade pieces from both my childhood and by my child. And I think each year it veers further from the original concept the more beautiful it becomes!

My daughter and I donned our Santa hats, turned on the holiday playlist, a Yule log on the TV, and spent the afternoon getting our home into the Christmas spirit.

When she was little, my husband would pick her up so she could place the star on top of the tree. Now that she’s taller than I am, when he got home he just put his arm around her as she used the library stool to reach the top. Some traditions need to be modified with time but they’re still special! ⭐️

Top is a feather trimmed Breton from @talbotsofficial; the scarf as a belt is also Talbots but a few years old. The jeans are @landsend and the blanket on the chair in the second photo is by artist  @zanderschlacter

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Nov 28

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Just got back from a 4-night getaway with my sister @debbiefaye78 at @curacaomarriottbeachresort. It was a last-minute planned trip that ended up being perfect. We weren’t ready to celebrate Thanksgiving without our mom and this escape what just what our hearts needed. 

I’ll be sharing more once I finally unpack my suitcase and organize my photos and thoughts; but I couldn’t not share this picture from yesterday morning. Debbie and I got up early to enjoy some of the day at the resort before flying home to DC. We had the infinity pool to ourselves, finished our books, and relaxed before a long day of travel. 🌴

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Nov 19

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Working on the weekend is far more enjoyable when it’s in my office 💚

Perimenopause and the pandemic and homeschooling made our row home feel even smaller. So when neighbors revitalized an office building in our town center and offered individual offices for rent, I felt it would be good for business and personally. And I kept it when the world opened up and our kid went back to public school because it helps me have a clear start and end to the work day, but also because I created a space I really enjoy.

This weekend I went to the office to shoot some content. And once I was finished I enjoyed just sitting here, watching the light change. I think I may switch the furniture around, switch up the energy. I love that I can do that without consulting another or having another person’s opinions matter.

When you have a family, things go from me to we. I don’t regret leaving Corporate America to do this full time, but I do miss being part of a team. And I missed having an office, a place away from home that’s just for me. 

I wish more communities would offer rental offices like @thegranitebuilding. With reasonably affordable monthly rates, it doesn’t have to just be business owners who get office spaces. It can be a place to work on a hobby or craft, a place to WFH that’s not home, or a place to just read and write and nap undisturbed. A literal room of one’s own. Because sometimes a person needs time to be a me and not a we. 💚

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Nov 17

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You’re never too old for a Rory Gilmore sweater… this cotton fisherman sweater is from @llbean and inspired by @marielle.elizabeth I shopped the men’s department for a better size range. The influencer influenced the influencer!

The jeans are @landsend I got last year and I’m glad they brought them back this year in several washes, inseam lengths, and plus sizes. If in doubt, size down. They will shrink in length slightly but not anywhere else, they’re super comfy and stretchy but don’t stretch out. 

Kept the collegiate vibe going with a trucker cap, HOKAs, and my trusty commuter bag for years: the large @dagnedover Dakota backpack!

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4o4bQ #ltkmidsize #midsizestyle #genxstyle #ltkover40 #over40style

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Nov 15

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My husband has a special backpack he fills with weight to wear while hiking; it’s called rucking. I wear a @dagnedover Dakota and fill it with my laptop, my iPad, a full water bottle, and my purse and walk to work; it’s called commuting. 💁🏻‍♀️

But seriously, I’ve had this backpack for five years. It has been shoved under plane seats, in overstuffed car trunks, under feet in the passenger seat. I’ve worn it as I’ve walked miles in major cities and from my house to my town center. My daughter also has a Dagne Dakota; it survived middle school and continues to work through camping, sleepovers, and road trips. It’s genially designed, comfortable, and can take a beating and still look great.

As for the rest of the look, the vest (XL) is a new purchase from @athleta; the Rainier tights (L) are also Athleta but two years old. The purple top is @nike and about a decade old. Hat is @llbean and it’s on sale for less than $15. And my trusty @hoka sneakers that have had their own set of adventures.

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
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#ltkmidsize #ltkover40 #genxstyle #dagnedoverdakota

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Nov 6

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Another day of early voting for our city election, another outfit I wore as an election judge! 🗳️

I got this sweater set from @mmlafleur last spring and it continues to be a favorite. The color and popcorn stitch makes it wearable three seasons of the year. I’ve styled it with gold heels and dramatic gold earrings, with sneakers and a crossbody belt bag, and more than once with knee-high boots and a scarf at my throat. The color works with brown and black boots, the skirt silhouette and length with heels and flats. These brown riding boots are from @duoboots and almost a decade old. The scarf belonged to my dad; I have a feeling it was styled with a leisure suit back in the day!

I may have been more dressed up than other election judges but I think seeing democracy in action is a cause to celebrate! 🇺🇸

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Nov 4

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Early voting poll worker style 🗳️

I’ve been an election judge (AKA poll worker) for several years but this year I decided to take it a step further and join my city’s Board of Elections. I’m passionate about fair and accessible elections for all. The Board is acting as election judges for early voting so it’s great to use my previous experience on a city level!

I believe voting is a special occasion and I dressed the part. The puff sleeve sweater and pants are from @anntaylor; these pants are the same ones from the suit I wore earlier this week. I added a beloved @hermes scarf as a belt and silver hoops (they belonged to my mom) as a hint of shine.

If your area is having an election this coming week; I implore you to vote. Your voice deserves to be heard. And please ensure your neighbors know of the election and where to vote. 🇺🇸

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Nov 2

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Always fun to see my name in lights! 💡 I was a panelist at the annual @jaofcentralmd Leading Ladies event that connects local high schoolers with women in business. My panel was on using social media for promoting one’s business or personal brand. Along with other social media experts, we guided students and adults on how to create compelling and engaging social content and together created content for the conference’s feed. It was fun and I loved being able to share my almost two decades of personal and professional experience!

The dress code for the conference was business professional and since the event’s theme color was pink, they encouraged us to wear the color. 

This @anntaylor suit has been a favorite since late summer. I’ve dressed it down with a white tank and sneakers and glammed it up with a silk cami and gold heeled sandals. I love how Ann Taylor has petite suiting up to size 16; I know I’m not the only short curvy girl who desires suits and professional attire!

For this event I chose a berry-colored microfiber tank from @lovechicos. I own several of these tanks; they wear like iron and the tight weave and subtle shine make them great shells under suits. 

The look fit the theme but was also comfortable. I was glad to share my expertise and encourage others to see how they can donate their time and knowledge to a local @juniorachievementusa #JALeadingLadies #JALeadingLadies2023 #JACMD #JuniorAchievment

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Oct 18

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Sharing this from my #iPadOS17 thanks to @apple! A bit belated with all that has been going on lately but I’m really enjoying using an iPad to improve how I work, stay organized, and find new ways to be creative. Can I just say that editing video on an iPad instead of a phone is a game changer!

Recently, I attended an event at the gorgeous Apple Carnegie Library hosted by @flourishplanner_ to learn ways to make the most of #iOS17 and it was awesome. I brought my new iPad and learned about the new wallpaper, stickers, and organizing tools.

As for my look, the dress is from @bananarepublic’s summer collection. Kept it comfy with a pair of Samba sneakers and held down the volume of the dress with my black recycled leather @ganni crossbody. Added an old @_jennybird link necklace and a silver cuff I’ve had since the ‘90s.

#todayatapple #genxstyle #midsizestyle #midsizefashion #size14 #over40style

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Oct 17

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I love an excuse to dress up, especially if it’s for a good cause! This weekend was the @thenewdealcafe Masquer-AID fundraiser to support this independent cafe, art gallery, and live music venue in @cityofgreenbelt.

My family and I have loved going to The New Deal Cafe for all these years. Grabbing coffee with friends, having a meal, seeing an amazing band, participating in an open mic or one of their Reel and Meal events. So @debbiefaye78, our mom, and I got tickets and even chipped in for a plaque from us “Ashpes Girls.” 

Our mom passed before she could attend the event; we asked our like a sister best friend @shellymingram to join us in her place and we had a great time, dancing all night as our mom would have, connecting with neighbors, and supporting a local business we all love so much.

As for the outfit, the dress is @ronnykobo the bag is @ganni and I borrowed both from @renttherunway The shoes I’ve had for years and the gold metal mask I found on Amazon and liked how it could mold to my face and not put pressure on my still-healing eye.

And I know y’all will ask because I received so many DMs this weekend when I shared this event in my Stories… my sister’s dress is from @eshakti she bought it a few years ago and it’s even more gorgeous in person!

#newdealcafe #greenbeltisgreat #onlyingreenbelt #midsizestyle #genxstyle #over40style #greenbeltmd

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