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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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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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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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It’s Cozy Season, and @tjmaxx is here to update our wardrobes with stylish accessories and apparel from the best brands for less. #AD

I recently visited tjmaxx.com and was so impressed with the array of elevated designer labels, on-trend looks, and the best prices. This pearl-encrusted beanie is from a woman designer I have admired for years; tjmaxx.com has the matching gloves and other pieces from this label to make a great set for yourself or to gift another. These earrings I’ve seen from the same designer at department stores; in fact I own other earrings from this label and paid much more for them. I should have checked T.J.Maxx first! And this cozy poncho is the perfect layer for late fall in the DC area.

I love how the winter white pieces elevate my existing closet. And pearls can be worn for day or glam up for evening. I can see many ways I’ll be styling these designer accessories from #tjmaxx all season long!

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4o2dA
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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!
https://liketk.it/4nKRE

#ltkmidsize #ltkover40 #genxstyle #dagnedoverdakota
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Cleaning out my mom’s house my sister and I have found some true gems. She had a whole portion of her file cabinet dedicated to my blogging career which included two copies of @redbookmag from ten years ago this month. 

There was a page where I and other blogger/influencers were featured wearing bright-colored coats. It’s awesome to see how we have all grown and pivoted in the past decade! I tagged those who are on Instagram and allow tagging ❤️
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Fashion Advice, Denim · May 15, 2015

Digging on Denim: My Favorite Summer Fashion Trend and How to Wear It

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. 

Fashion magazines always show trends before they hit the stores. I can recall freezing in my house; the heat was on but the cold was so intense outside I was still shivering though in a ski cap, wool socks in wool slippers, and swathed in fleece. I flipped through a magazine, can’t recall which glossy now, but I can recall what the pages held. Shiny, almost waxed denim in a very blue hue. Yellow stitching, and lots of it from side seams to topstitching on self-belts and collars. Waists up to the ribcage, butterfly collars, and culottes.

Barf.

Maybe it’s because I was born in the ‘70s, owned Jordache and Gloria Vanderbilt in the ‘80s, switched to Guess? Ankle-zips and oversized CK Jeans in the ‘90s but I can’t imagine wearing denim that looked like what my mother wore in Instamatic photos from my infancy. It looked like a costume, so unwearable, a trend I had no desire revisiting.

But with all fashion trends, once it has trickled down to the mall it has become more wearable. And the current denim trend? I am all over it. While there is plenty that looks very dated (excuse me, VINTAGE), and a lot that looks like a 1980’s kindergarten teacher, I’m still finding many denim pieces that are flattering, wearable, and have style that will look on trend this spring and summer and still look chic a year from now. My favorites:

Denim Dresses

I wore a calf-length denim dress for the first day of school 8th grade. It was subtly acid washed, snaps down the front, and those loops to hold up the cuffed sleeves. I paired it with a wide leather belt and ankle boots. Looking back, I could wear that very outfit today and look fashionable. While I don’t plan to revisit acid washed denim, I do love the look of denim dresses. Style with pumps and a polished leather belt for the office, slip on some sandals and a turquoise necklace for the weekend.

denim dress trends for spring

  1. This chambray shift from Old Navy is light and breezy, perfect for humid summer days. The embroidery keeps it from being ordinary; pair with tan leather thongs and a fedora for a street festival, heeled sandals and a couple silver bangles for dinner, or wear as your beach coverup.
  2. With detachable wide straps, this charming stretch denim dress from Ann Taylor will prove quite versatile. Imagine paired with brightly-colored heels and a bold lip, styled with tan sandals and turquoise jewelry, or worn with a crisp white blazer to the office.
  3. Many denim shirtdresses are stiff, this one from LOFT is soft making it comfortable and more figure flattering. Wear it as is, or switch out the self belt with another in your closet. Come fall pair with ankle boots and leggings.
  4. This fit and flare dress from Adriana Papell proves that denim can work for dressier occasions. Style with nude pumps for the office, or tan sandals for brunch or a baby shower.
  5. I wasn’t feeling this dress from Boden until I watched the video on their site; now I understood the positive reviews! Soft drapey fabric makes this comfortable and figure flattering and not too twee. I love how they styled it with ankle boots to balance the volume of the skirt; also consider pairing this with skate shoes, espadrilles, or a wedge sandal to prevent looking too top-heavy.
  6. A bit of quilting and tassels on the drawstring waist make this simple chambray dress from LOFT a stunner. Breezy fabric keeps you cool on the muggiest of days.
  7. How adorable is this halter dress from City Chic? This would be perfect for everything from a date to a garden wedding. The strap is detachable giving you two looks with one dress.
  8. This drawstring-waist Tencel dress from Halogen is effortless summer dressing. Leave as-is, cover the drawstring with a wide belt, and come winter pair with a turtleneck and opaque tights. Available in regular and plus sizes.

Denim Jumpsuits

A decade ago I saw a photo of a woman online in denim coveralls. They were perfectly rolled at the arms and legs, the collar popped, and she styled it with the craziest platform ankle boots. I printed out that photo as inspiration and searched high and low on eBay, in thrift stores, and boutiques for something similar. Now it’s 2015 and you can find denim coveralls, jumpsuits, overalls, and rompers in every wash, rinse, and style imaginable.

denim jumpsuit trends for spring

  1. This chambray jumpsuit from LOFT is soft without being droopy, the legs can be left long or cuffed for a casual feel. Add a belt and heels to dress up the look, unbutton the placket to show a hint of a camisole.
  2. This jumpsuit from Daisy Street reminds me a bit of those coveralls I coveted a decade ago. Imagine it paired with a wide leather obi belt, or unbuttoned to show several different strands of pearls. You’ll be surprised at how versatile a jumpsuit can be.
  3. Be a modern-day Rosie the Riveter in this belted jumpsuit from eShakti.  This could be carried off in a more casual or creative office environment, paired with peeptoe ankle boots or heeled sandals.
  4. Adjustable straps, a slouchy fit, and elasticized waist makes this chambray jumpsuit from Splendid casual cool for summer.  Dress it up with a belt, heels, and hoops or go relaxed with slip-on sneakers and a messy topknot.
  5. These traditional coveralls from Jenni will transition nicely into fall and winter.  For summer keep the look light by rolling the sleeves and pairing with tan heeled sandals or booties.
  6. Many rompers are too cutesy to be worn by many over the age of 25; this one from Free People is loose with a drop waist making it more wearable and classic.

Denim Tops

It’s likely you have a denim or chambray shirt somewhere in your closet. A few years ago you may have paired it with a floral pleated skirt, a sequined mini, or something flippy and made of lace. This season, consider pairing it with more denim for a fresh look on the old standby. Ignore the old rules about denim on denim or having to contrast washes; in 2015 anything goes. And speaking of anything, denim now comes in all shapes and silhouettes for tops: shells, bustiers, tunics, halter tops, wraps, and more. The key is to steer clear from anything too Southwest or Country – denim this season is either crisp and chic or edgy and inspired by street style.

denim top shirt fashion trend for summer

  1. The Weekday soft denim tee shirt from ASOS is amazing; soft finish, v-neck, and a crisp style that would be the perfect contrast to white flared jeans or a funky print pair of shorts.
  2. I love the pindot print on this denim shirt from Talbots; it adds a feminine touch and would make for cute pattern mixing with a floral skirt or paisley ankle pants.
  3. This flirty little swing tank from Anthropologie would look amazing with high-waisted white denim or a funky printed high-waist pencil skirt.  I'd also love it with wide-leg dark denim and some brown leather stacked sandals.
  4. The hemp/cotton blend of this two-layer top from Eileen Fisher will keep you cool in the heat while still looking polished. Wear under a blazer for the office, or pair with white linen pants or boyfriend jeans for the weekend.
  5. This chambray sleeveless popover from Lucky Brand looks basic from the front, but has an unexpected cutout in back that will give you some air conditioning while still covering your bra as well as most of your torso.  Wear untucked with Bermuda shorts or tucked into a printed midi skirt.
  6. Gap's 1969 Tencel denim tee shirt is a classic piece that will look great this summer of denim and for years to come.  Wear untucked with linen pants or white jeans, tucked into a black pencil skirt, or under a boyfriend blazer with skinny jeans or shorts.
  7. I owned a denim shell very similar to this one from Michael Stars back in college and wish I never got rid of it.  I used to pair it with everything from khaki shorts to nice black pants and heels, such a wash also looks spectacular paired with graphic prints and bold colors.
  8. I adore this drapey chambray top from Banana Republic; the shape is so unique yet so wearable.  Imagine with pants in white, black or even a bright color like red or orange; lots of silver jewelry and metallic sandals.  Or wear an obi-inspired belt over it and style with a pencil skirt for the office.

Denim Skirts

If you have a denim pencil skirt from a few seasons ago, pull that baby out and wear it this year with pride. However, not every denim skirt from your past may pass muster. As mentioned with the tops, edgy or elegant denim is hot, cowgirl vibes are not. Consider a sleek pencil or wiggle skirt, a high waist, a bit of distressing, a deep dark rinse or an ultra-faded hue.

denim skirt fashion trends summer

  1. This is the type of denim skirt that could be worn to the office.  The edge-stitched skirt from Ann Taylor gives a crisp, elegant effect and would lok great paired with Breton stripes, a crisp white shirt, or even balance a silk blouse.
  2. The combination of high waist and long length on this distressed white denim skirt from ASOS makes it look very modern and fresh.  I'd pair with this Breton stripes, a band tee, or even a shunken blazer over a cami.
  3. I tried this denim skirt from Old Navy in a different wash and while I didn't like the color I loved the fit. This is a darker color from what I ordered, but it also comes in white and a very light blue.  This is a classic denim skirt with stretch that would end up almost as versatile as your favorite pair of jeans.
  4. A reader mentioned in the comments on a different post on how flattering and fabulous this denim skirt from Lands' End is. She chose white, which I think is a brilliant choice for this spring and summer – it pairs great with pastels, neutrals, bold hues, and also beautifully complements denims of any wash or rinse.
  5. I have this drawstring-waist skirt from Adrianna Papell; while it runs big (seriously big, go down a size), it's perfect for summer. Breezy, airy, and pockets! You can see here I paired it with a striped top and pumps, but this summer I'll likely wear with a ribbed tank and sandals.
  6. This flippy denim skirt from City Chic is utterly adorable, and a great way to dress up casual summer tanks and even band tees.  I'd also love it come fall with a black turtleneck or crisp white shirt and ankle boots.
  7. This hemp/cotton blend skirt from Eileen Fisher screams summer.  Knee length, with a structured waist but plenty of breeze-catching fullness in its a-line style and the wonderful addition of pockets, this is a skirt you'll be wearing all season long, dressed up for Casual Friday or paired with flip flops and a linen tee for the weekend.
  8. I love the look of a dark rinse denim skirt; a bit below the knee and with stretch for a slim fit such a skirt can dress up for casual or creative office environments or be relaxed enough for a backyard barbecue.  Pair this rinse denim skirt from Style&co with a white blazer and colorful heels, a band tee and ankle boots, a sleeveless shell and flat sandals, or a simple white v-neck and Chucks.
  9. You can't go wrong with an original. The Levi's Icon Skirt is truly that; with a raw hem and classic pockets and back patch, this skirt, no matter what color you choose, will be one that will be chic for years to come.  Wear now with a slouchy linen v-neck, Breton tee, or a floaty cotton cami; come winter pair with a cashmere sweater, tights, and boots.

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Comments

  1. Lilliasrose says

    May 19, 2015 at 10:30 am

    I had put away my old denim wrap dress from the GAP because it got too big, I just hauled it out again and wearing it like a smock over a black sport bra and leggings, super cute! I also found a great denim maxi peasant dress at the thrift store- I love it when things I already own become trendy (at least, until they go out of style again!) And I still rock my denim trumpet skirt and chambray shirt (love, love love chambray with black skinny jeans or a easy printed skirt.) Now, if I can just diet back into my fabulous denim trench coat…that thing is NEVER going to the thrift store!

    Reply
  2. Lee4 says

    May 16, 2015 at 7:42 am

    I love Loft! I went in one last night after seeing this blog post, wanting to look at dresses. I wish the chambray dress was available in the store b/c it’s super cute! However, many of the reviews mentioned how sheer it is. I found a similar dress in the store that had very tiny stripes running through it. Very cute–but it ran extremely large & it was super sheer. What’s the point of a lightweight summer dress if you’ve got to wear a slip underneath to be decent? It also had a very weird smell. Not sure what the fabric is but the smell was on 2 different sizes that I tried on. Needless to say, no dress for me. I did manage to snag some of the t-shirts that are on sale & some white denim crop pants. Thanks Allie!

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      May 17, 2015 at 9:57 am

      Oh that’s unfortunate about the sheerness, I too don’t get it for summer dresses. Your scores sound good, I have had a few misses but more hits from LOFT lately!

      Reply
  3. Patricia says

    May 15, 2015 at 5:14 pm

    Dress #3, the Loft Chambray shirtdress is my jam. And it’s in stock locally so I can try it on. I’ve got a trip to Sicily next week and this would be a perfect piece. And all summer long, depending on how it looks on. Always a mystery until you get it on.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      May 17, 2015 at 9:56 am

      So true, and that sounds like a great trip, safe travels!

      Reply
  4. crtfly says

    May 15, 2015 at 1:38 pm

    I think there is a thin line between vintage and dated. And that line vacillates depending on the current trends. I have a dark wash a-line maxi skirt that I like. I guess it does look like 1968 although I bought it recently. I guess I don’t care if I look like a throw-back. No cowgirl vibe, I promise.

    Chris

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      May 17, 2015 at 9:56 am

      There’s nothing wrong with a skirt like that, and to be honest, nothing wrong with ANY style of denim, even if it does go in the cowgirl direction, if it works for you! As you know, my advice is for those who need or want it. Those who disagree have the right to because they already have a clear defined personal style! Your skirt sounds great!

      Reply
  5. Becky says

    May 15, 2015 at 1:18 pm

    So you’re not feeling the denim jean jacket vibe, huh? I live in the midwest and everyone seems to have one here.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      May 17, 2015 at 9:55 am

      Oh no, I like denim jackets, I just didn’t feature them because they’re a bit heavy for many parts of the country for spring and summer 🙂

      Reply
  6. Michelle Van Ellis says

    May 15, 2015 at 12:31 pm

    I love so many of these but size is an issue. I did manage to snag a cute drawstring waist denim dress 2 summers ago so I guess I was ahead of the trend and a great maxi with embroidery from eshakti. They have a lot of tencel type denim pieces.

    Now I just need to find a pair of white denim boot cut or flared jeans. Bought a pair of NYDJ and they came up over my rib cage and still bunched up under my bra!?!?! They went right back. I can find all kinds of crops, boyfriends and skinnys but no plus boot.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      May 15, 2015 at 12:40 pm

      I sound like an ad since they partnered with me, but check out Jag Jeans. They sent me their Paley Boot Cut which has the pull-on waist, but it’s a true boot and it’s not see-through or thin fabric. They have them a few places, I googled and found them at Zappos (http://www.zappos.com/jag-jeans-plus-size-plus-size-paley-boot-leg-in-white ), Amazon, and a few other places. I felt like a fool because they sent me these jeans, i was so psyched, then when taking my summer clothes I realized I already owned these very same jeans! LOL well now I have a pair when the others are dirty!

      Reply
      • Michelle Van Ellis says

        May 15, 2015 at 1:32 pm

        Thank you Allie!

        Reply
  7. Erin @ Her Heartland Soul says

    May 15, 2015 at 11:27 am

    Of course I love both dresses from Loft! haha Love that store!

    Her Heartland Soul
    http://herheartlandsoul.com

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      May 17, 2015 at 9:57 am

      Me too!

      Reply

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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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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

Open
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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Oct 11

Open
The biggest fashion trend this fall is a return to classics. For decades I have turned to @talbotsofficial for quality classics with style.  This season, Talbots has a fantastic range of pants to update the wardrobe. 

I love how these @talbotsofficial ivory stretch corduroy straight leg pants elevate closet classics! Available in Misses, Petite, Plus, Plus Petite, Curvy, and in 10 colors, these cords are a chic alternative to jeans and just as easy care! I can run errands and have a bit of quiet time with an ebook and a coffee with comfort and style. 

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4kFNi #talbots #mytalbots #talbotspartner #ltkover40 #modernclassicstyle #liketkit #ltkover40

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