Open
If @thechicks are in town you can bet @debbiefaye78 and I will be there! So when we heard they were coming to @merriweatherpp we were so excited. And their concert did not disappoint. As always, a phenomenal show! If The Chicks come to your neck of the woods I highly recommend you go!

Okay I know you want to know about what we’re wearing! 

My sister’s caftan is from @anthropologie (bought this summer so maybe you can find on resale sites).

I’m wearing a @bananarepublic dress also from this summer with the @universalstandard denim chore jacket and a hat I got from a @madewell collab a year or so ago. I glammed it up with some gold chains and gold drop earrings, but kept it comfy for a night of standing and dancing with @birkenstock sandals.

This was my first big outing since my eye surgery, and with a pocketful of eye drops I felt good (and grateful we splurged for good seats!).

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4jcBL #ltkmidsize #ltkover40 #midsizestyle #genxstyle #usinthewild #concertstyle
Open
For years I’ve trusted @somaintimates for the right bras and the right fit but it had been a while since I visited a Soma boutique to try on all the styles they currently have for a large bust. I must say I was impressed! Knowledgeable staff, extensive collection in larger sizes, and some of the most comfortable and innovative bras in up to H cups! Each body is different but what I loved:

- The Stunning Push-Up: targeted for the DD+ customer gives amazing lift and great shape under fitted knits.

- The Unbelievable Lift Scoop Balconette: sexy, supportive, and so lightweight!

- The Embraceable Wireless: I’ve recommended this wireless bra for large busts for years and was in need for a new one! 

- The Stunning Support Smooth Balconette: this is the perfect t-shirt bra for large busts with padded straps and disappears under knits

- The Stunning Starlet Multi-Way Strapless: recently improved for more support and more comfort, this wireless bra stays put and gives fab shape

I also picked up some of Soma’s iconic Vanishing Edge panties which keep you line-free. The whole Vanishing collection is genius. I loved being able to donate my gently used bras at my local Soma boutique to give to those in need. We all deserve a lift and Soma strives to achieve that. It’s why I’ve been a fan and customer for years and am honored to partner with them. Soma is the perfect fitting bra solution. Visit the link in my bio to shop and to find your local Soma boutique! #SomaPartner #SomaBraFit #SomaStartsWithMe
Open
If I close my eyes you can’t tell one is still bloodshot 😜

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

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

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4j0LM #ltkmidsize #midsizestyle #over40style #ltkover40 #genxstyle
Open
It was so funny and so quick I couldn’t not share! I bought this @hulkenbag a year ago and use it all the time. Carting shoot supplies, groceries, packing for road trips, and carting donations. This weekend @thenewdealcafe in @cityofgreenbelt hosted a community clothing swap so I made sure my family and I went through our summer wardrobes to gather that which we no longer needed or fit.

This wasn’t the first clothing swap and folks in town know my style (and my job) so there were some waiting for my arrival. Look how fast I cleared out this big bag! Speaking of the bag one other swap attendee said she got herself a Hulken after seeing mine in action!

It’s so great to know our old clothes are getting a good life and this bag makes carting them to the cafe so easy! I got my Hulken on Amazon, it comes in other colors and sizes too: https://amzn.to/48iTY4Y yep the bag is as great as all those ads you see on social media, I’m a big fan!
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 · August 27, 2010

Friday, and Ann Taylor Love

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. 

rehoboth 2010 032

Black tank from Jessica Chaus, which I got at Marshall’s during the first trimester of my pregnancy. I loved it then because it wasn’t maternity, but worked with my changing shape. It was funny, after I had Emerson I tried on this tank and it looked so DUMPY, I was surprised. I now realize it was because I had more hips and tummy postpartum than I had at 12 weeks of pregnancy. Now it seems to fit again – nothing spectacular, but a tank that is work appropriate and I think is more flattering than this picture leads you to believe. With it are my straight dark jeans from NYDJ – the only jeans that still fit and flatter. I whipped out some fall shoes early – my gray strappy heels from Miz Mooz (do need some black or funky colored sandals but haven't seen any I adore and fit…). The necklace is new and from Ann Taylor (sale), and the bracelets are old and also from Ann Taylor.

Hair is washed and conditioned then air dried. Our bathroom is still unavailable as that the contractor came by this week to retile it. The tiles never quite stuck properly after the remodel and have gotten loose. He is working on another house in the neighborhood and offered to come by and fix a couple things around the house for free. So the bathroom is off limits, and it is keeping most of my beauty products hostage (the husband didn’t think to clear the medicine cabinet before they started work). So no product, but I do have my curling iron available so I just put it on high and hit big sections, let it cool, put a bit of face moisturizer on my hands and finger combed to separate but not frizz up. Makeup is Max Factor Pan-Stikir?t=whaevewomneei 20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000MF8TK6, Nars blush in Orgasmir?t=whaevewomneei 20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000PVPEFU, Pop Beauty shadow palette for Brown Eyesir?t=whaevewomneei 20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000SWZPOG (khaki and black), Tarte’s Indelible Winkir?t=whaevewomneei 20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000FLQZYO in black, Bare Escentuals Buxom lip gloss in Dollyir?t=whaevewomneei 20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B001BBOLOI, and DiorShow mascarair?t=whaevewomneei 20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B001GMANIK.

The other day I saw an article on The DC Goodwill Fashionista about how she used to loathe Ann Taylor until this season. I have to agree that this season is looking pretty fabulous at Ann Taylor, but I have always been a fan of the store. I don’t feel that there is anything wrong with being a destination for great corporate wear. In this day and age, it’s hard to find good suits and workwear that isn’t dowdy, and isn’t Amanda Woodward. But the past couple of years Ann Taylor hasn’t been all corporate. They have had fantastic accessories, flattering and chic cocktail dresses, and some really great wardrobe staples like pencil skirts, current yet not overly trendy denim, fun casual tops. In fact, I am a bit sad that Ann Taylor isn’t as reliable of a shop for the ever-necessary interview suit. I don’t want to have to buy a new black pantsuit with every new New York Fashion Week – I don’t have that sort of fundage and most of the country is in the same boat as me.

But Ann Taylor has been a fave of mine for over a decade. Every time I am rocking a cool piece of jewelry and get a compliment from a stranger, they are always shocked when I say it’s from Ann Taylor (especially this necklace). Though it’s costume jewelry, the golds and silvers hold up great – these bracelets are years old yet still look fresh. This necklace is unique looking, expensive looking, versatile. Last night after work I changed into a bright cobalt scoop tee and my mom commented on how nice it was – the fit and the unique color. Ann Taylor! My two favorite summer wrap dresses (black and blue) are from Ann Taylor and with a quick change of accessories they can go from flip-flop casual to looking great for work or even a wedding. Yes, it is weird to be wearing an item and walk down the Metro platform at Gallery Place/Chinatown and see another woman in the same frock, but I have that happen FAR more often with Target, Gap, Banana Republic, Old Navy, J. Crew and I have even had that happen with ten-year old items from Express and with items I have found at thrift stores.

Ann Taylor, and really any other chain store is a great place to find wardrobe staples and little accents. I know and have worked with and been friends with those women who have a bit TOO much brand loyalty and they look like a walking billboard for a store. I remember when I worked at Express I would have women who would come in sometimes more than once a week to make purchases. They had more clothes from the store than I did with my 40-55% discount (and the need to wear it every day). Having that intense of brand loyalty can make life easy, but it can make life pretty darn boring. But one can’t blame the retailer for every woman in DC running around in triacetate suiting, you have to blame the shoppers who are afraid or not educated on how to take such items and put their own personal spin on them. I am an Ann Taylor fan, and love them more than trendier mass retailers like J. Crew and Banana Republic because though their concept and look may change from season to season, their sizing hasn’t changed that drastically, their quality and pricing hasn’t changed that drastically, they maintain a clear concept, know their customer, and provide just the right balance of really wearable corporate attire and fun trendy pieces to update a woman’s entire wardrobe. So thank you Ann Taylor, for making necklaces I have worn as Matron of Honor at an elegant evening wedding, have worn to the beach with a vintage tee and flip flops, on casual Friday, to an art exhibit opening and to a job interview. And thank you Ann Taylor for making clothes I can wear out to a club, dinner with the husband, a wedding, a bridal shower, work, and the grocery store. Yes, there are millions of women with this same necklace or the same denim skirt, but your store makes it easy for those pieces to look unique on my body!

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Comments

  1. Tracy says

    August 29, 2010 at 1:38 am

    Thanks Allie! I want to get some now after seeing how great they look on you!

    Reply
  2. Anonymous says

    August 28, 2010 at 7:18 pm

    I agree that Ann Taylor has good quality suiting pieces/wovens, but something you do successfully and that I do not, is that I have trouble “modernizing” classics and making them look fresh. I know that gazillions of articles online have addressed this issue, kicking outfits up a notch with colorful scarves, jewelry, or accessories, etc. but I really have trouble doing this.

    I suspect people like you with a fresh, “modern” base a la hair and face are better at pulling off “modernizing” classics, whereas people like me whose faces and hair ALREADY come across as conservative and mature, cannot 🙁 I usually try to wear one piece that’s already pretty modern/young looking. Do you have help for us?

    Reply
  3. FashionAddict says

    August 28, 2010 at 5:35 pm

    Super cute casual outfit. LOVE the necklace, it really punches up a basic black top. I agree that Ann Taylor has really good quality. I only have a few things from there (which I bought on sale), but they have lasted a long time and have a classic look to them.

    Reply
  4. Allie says

    August 28, 2010 at 9:12 am

    Ann Ann taylor at least now carries up to 18 online. I commend them for that when so many companies are dropping larger sizes. Now if they had true plus sizes I would be even more of a fan!

    Reply
  5. Tracy says

    August 27, 2010 at 11:14 pm

    I love those jeans Allie! Do you have a link or the name of the particular style? I see that Zappos sells them but there are so many different styles and I really love yours! Thanks!

    Reply
  6. Shoeaddict says

    August 27, 2010 at 8:22 pm

    I so wish Ann Taylor had plus sizes. 🙁

    Reply
  7. AKM says

    August 27, 2010 at 5:22 pm

    I’m intrigued by the NYDJ jeans! My Dillard’s apparently has them and I need new jeans BADLY, so I think I’ll check ’em out!

    I think you look great today! Happy Friday!

    Reply

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Since 2005, Wardrobe Oxygen has offered real-life style advice for grown-ass women. With years of experience as an apparel visual merchandiser and personal shopper, Alison Gary provides advice on how to achieve personal style no matter your age, size, or budget.

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Sep 21

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If @thechicks are in town you can bet @debbiefaye78 and I will be there! So when we heard they were coming to @merriweatherpp we were so excited. And their concert did not disappoint. As always, a phenomenal show! If The Chicks come to your neck of the woods I highly recommend you go!

Okay I know you want to know about what we’re wearing! 

My sister’s caftan is from @anthropologie (bought this summer so maybe you can find on resale sites).

I’m wearing a @bananarepublic dress also from this summer with the @universalstandard denim chore jacket and a hat I got from a @madewell collab a year or so ago. I glammed it up with some gold chains and gold drop earrings, but kept it comfy for a night of standing and dancing with @birkenstock sandals.

This was my first big outing since my eye surgery, and with a pocketful of eye drops I felt good (and grateful we splurged for good seats!).

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

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Sep 19

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

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

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

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

wardrobe_oxygen

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Sep 11

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

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

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

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Sep 8

Open
I can see clearly now…

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

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

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

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

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

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Sep 5

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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