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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
Open
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. 💚
Open
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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Fashion Advice · May 8, 2020

Friday Sale Alert

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. 

friday sale alert

I've added a new feature to Friday Sale Alert: What I Bought and What I Think.  I've bought a couple things lately and would love to share my thoughts in case you too are considering them.  Good, bad, I'll share the details and if it's good stay tuned as I hope to photograph it for a more detailed review!

Friday Sale Alert

Lane Bryant: 40% off Clothing, Sleep & Lounge and $29.50 Bras at Cacique!

I don't think everyone realizes that Lane Bryant starts at size 10/12 and their intimates brand Cacique starts at size 0/2 or a 32A.  It's a great brand especially for bras and undies with good fit and design at great prices (see my review of the best bras for large busts at Cacique).  They also are far from boring with fabulous prints and details.  I know less about their fashion; I've had their jeans and loved them but besides the occasional tee or sweater that's all I know though you readers say quality is mixed and customer reviews on the site help to determine purchases and fit.  I focus on summer dresses as that is an item I find can do at a variety of quality levels since they are great with a pair of slipshorts and some sandals for everything from hanging out on the weekend to attending a social event.  Summer casual dresses usually take a beating and I feel better spending less knowing the ones I love, no matter the quality, may not last more than one season.

lane bryant ad

polka dots are hot this season!  (available in petite and two prints) | a pretty dress named after Lane Bryant's founder  (also available in petite) | that perfect dress for most any occasion with a change of shoes and jewelry | the kind of dress I wear all summer long (also available in petite) | how to look cute when sheltering in place and look great out and about with a denim jacket and trendy sneakers (hello pockets!) | from work to wedding to when you're at home (available in petite and two colors)

Ann Taylor: 70% off One Item and 50% off Most Everything Else!

Use promo code FORMOM through 5/9 to save 70% off your first item and 50% off most everything else at Ann Taylor (items will be noted if not included).  They are also offering free shipping on orders of $49 and more and free returns.  Ann Taylor has some of their items go up to XXL and an 18 and has lengths. The items that caught my eye:

ann taylor sale

a skirt that looks chic enough for the office but perfect now with a t-shirt and sandals | linen blazer in one of the colors of the season | this washable blouse would look great with black, white, khaki, denim, and more | I've owned almost this same matte jersey wrap dress from AT and it's the perfect summer go-to | I love the wash and cut of these jeans | how darling is this bag? | this dress makes me want to dance all night | the must-have spring and summer shoe (two colors) | here's the prettiest “Zoom blouse” 

Dermstore: $80 Suncare Kit for only $35

Screenshot 2020 05 06 10.30.33

This is a good one.  While we have been hanging out at home, we need to get outside once in a while and SIP restrictions are lifting in various states.  Be prepared with this collection Dermstore is offering in partnership with the Skin Cancer Foundation for only $35. The hero of this kit is the full size EltaMD® UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 but you'll also get substantially-sized products from La Roche-Posay, MDSolarSciences™, jane iredale, Peter Thomas Roth, and more.  For those unfamiliar with Dermstore, it's sort of like a Sephora but more focused on skincare and offering high-end brands next to drugstore brands while also offering dermatologist-sold products you can't find elsewhere like SkinMedica.  Like Sephora, they have a rewards program, free samples and gifts with purchase, extensive customer reviews, free shipping, and returns are free if you are cool with store credit for future purchases (they take returns for money back too).  Unlike Sephora, Dermstore has regular promotions; it's worth it to get on their email list because they'll let you know about cool deals like this suncare kit. 

Boden: 15% off Plus Free Shipping and Returns

If you have been hesitant to try Boden, which goes up to size 20 and has limited styles in petite and tall, now is the time.  They don't do sales often and they have some amazing new arrivals!

boden sale

cheery striped knit dress | I think this dress is perfect for now, comes in a variety of colors and prints | I think I need these shorts in my life (other colors available) | for those looking for cool graphic tees, these are a great shape, fabric, and I love the variety of prints | the must-have summer dress (comes in two prints) | crisp cotton (with a hint of stretch) shirtdress (several solids and prints available and hello pockets!) | classic and chic cotton fit and flare with pockets | these shoes are like a work of art making them eternally chic (two colors to choose from) | linen maxi dress (two prints to choose from)

Other Great Sales this Weekend

  • West Elm, Pottery Barn, Mark & Graham, Rejuvenation, and Williams-Sonoma have a major promotion going on with up to 70% off this family of brands for TODAY ONLY.  Click here to learn more about this special sale and what items are included.
  • Anthropologie: 30% off clothing and accessories at this link.  I really want these black tie-dye joggers and I recently ordered this blouse and got notification this morning that it shipped out! 
  • Chico's: 50% off dresses and their Travelers collection with promo code 78187 (see my Travelers Collection capsule wardrobe) and 25% off your purchase with promo code 25869 available at this link. I am loving this maxi dress which takes all the colors and prints so chic this season (seriously, flip through an issue of Bazaar or Vogue and see what I mean) and merges them together.
  • Christopher and Banks: 40% off new arrivals and free shipping no minimum.  The new arrivals are available at this link. They have some at-home staples like these knit shorts, these ankle pants, and these straight-leg pants. Misses, petite, and plus sizes available and the prices are awesome.
  • ELOQUII: 40% off everything including on top of sale prices.  If you haven't seen their spring collection you MUST head over.  First, the models are amazing, some I am proud to call friends.  I love how they used bloggers and models to shoot content at home.  Secondly, the colors and the rainbows and the silhouettes are phenomenal and bring such cheer to these days.  I mean, come ON with this cute dress! 
  • Gap: Gap is having their Friends & Family event with 40% off, promo code GAPFRIEND. Shop at this link.
  • J. Crew: 50% off over 450 styles at this link if you use promo code WEARNOW at checkout.  I know some of you were looking for overalls, this linen wrap dress with pockets is perfect for summer, and this easy dress is so chic and flattering.
  • J.Jill: 40% off your entire purchase with promo code MAY40. And what's great is J.Jill's new arrivals just launched! I want a pair of these Tencel cropped pants to wear with a graphic tee and denim jacket, with a drapey tank and metallic sandals, with a white linen shirt tied at the waist.
  • Lands' End: Their 40% off Friends & Family event has begun! This is the time of year when I buy most from Lands' End.  Swimwear, amazing towels and water shoes, great shorts, summer dresses, and more.  This is a great sale and a great time to stock up not just for now but through the summer. Click here and use promo code FRIENDS at checkout.
  • Margaux Shoes: Through Mother's Day, get 20% off plus a portion of your order will be donated to No Kids Hungry.  If you haven't heard of this amazing shoe brand that makes comfy and stylish shoes in widths; here is my review of the Margaux Uptown Sandal.
  • Old Navy: All of their activewear is $25 and under!  While I may share below a not so positive experience with a piece of their activewear, in general I think it's pretty fantastic especially for the price.  Shop at this link.
  • Soma: Bras, sleep, and apparel are up to 50% off. And it's not old junk, it's their bestsellers available at this link.  We're talking Miraclesuit swimwear, my favorite comfort bra, my beloved Soma joggers, and I think every item from my Soma loungewear capsule wardrobe! 
  • Verishop: 25% off Women's Apparel: Use promo code EARLYSUMMER to get 25% off all items at this link. Verishop is like an online department store carrying a variety of well-known brands like Vince, Free People, Equipment, Diane von Furstenberg, and Stine Goya in apparel and accessories; Oribe, Perricone MD, Kosas, and Tata Harper in beauty; and Jenni Kayne, Smeg, NIGHT, Green Pan, and Marshall in home. 

What I Bought and What I Think

I mentioned in previous posts that I bought this cotton maxi dress from J. Crew.  I ordered a size 14, my standard size in the brand, though I'd prefer a petite if it was available.  The dress arrived earlier this week.  The print is just as bright and cheery as it is online.  The straps are adjustable with buttons in the back and three buttonholes on the straps.  The straps can be crossed or straight.  The dress has pockets, a must for me. The dress is machine washable but will need to be ironed or steamed to get it back to its original crisp glory (though it could look pretty in a boho way if left rumpled).  I have not washed it yet.  The straps for me are still too long, even when on the shortest setting and crossed in back.  I will be pinning them to the right length and once it's safe to do so, will be taking to the tailor to add additional buttonholes on the straps.  I like the ability to switch between cross and straight straps so I don't want them permanently sewn to one length.  The dress either needs a demi or balconette bra or a strapless as the neckline is straight and my standard bra, while it hides under the straps and in back, shows a bit where the straps meet the dress in the front.  Spoiler alert, I have an upcoming post with Cacique where I will be reviewing bras I think will be good for summer and if it's in stock, I'll be reviewing this one which looks like a perfect summer strapless bra and likely would be perfect for this dress.  If you are comfortable going bra-less, especially at home, this dress is double-layer on top with darts and an under-bust seam so it can work without; I am comfortable going that way at home, even if I'm out in the yard and someone walks past on the sidewalk or a delivery person leaves an item at our gate. As for length, it is a true maxi on me, brushing the tops of my feet.  Not too long to wear with my flattest sandals and a length that can glam up nicely.  

If you have ordered from Old Navy lately, you know the orders are coming slowly, usually one item at a time.  I ordered this tank in a blue tie-dye and the matching leggings about two weeks ago, the top arrived this week.  Wow, this thing is awful on me.  First of all, it came from a store so it had a sticker on the pricetag claiming it's $5.99 yet I paid $19.99 for it.  Secondly, this thing is ginormous.  I wondered if it was mis-sized but the label sewn into the top matches the hangtag – Large.  I think it fits more like XXL.  I know it's not supposed to be tight and you can tie the sides to create a blouson top, but when I tie it like that it doesn't look blouson, it looks like I tried to hack a too-big shirt by tying the sides, and it's not tight enough because it's so big so it slides down and blouses out right at my lower belly.  It's so weird because reviews are raving, some even say too small.  I only found one other review saying it's too big.  The only plus is the tie-dye print is beautiful in person.  Nothing else from the order has arrived; I don't want to wish other items to also be fails but I don't want to have to mail back this single top and there is no way to redeem it.

Shop my Sale Picks:
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Comments

  1. Erica says

    May 10, 2020 at 4:13 pm

    I recommend at least trying Boden! Their prints, colors, and details are magical, and quality is usually quite good. They offer accurate garment measurements for every item in every size, so you can tell in advance if an item will fit. Shipping and return shipping is free.

    However, while some of my fav dresses are from them I haven’t found anything in a couple of years. Their petites don’t come big enough — I typically wear a 14-16 — and their silhouettes favor someone taller and straighter than me. Some pieces have been worth taking in at the waist. I keep checking but it seems like the direction they’ve gone in doesn’t work for my short curvy body anymore.

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      May 11, 2020 at 10:27 am

      Same! I have had luck with Boden knits like t-shirts but the dresses don’t fit me like they did many years ago. I have hesitated to make a purchase during the pandemic because I fear it will all be returned like the last few orders I’ve made from them. I think they would do quite well if they extended their petites!

      Reply
  2. Rochelle says

    May 9, 2020 at 6:28 am

    You are a true influencer! I just made my first purchase at Lane Bryant for some bras. I would never have considered that store if it weren’t for you!

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      May 11, 2020 at 10:25 am

      I hope you love them, I think their intimates are underrated and such great prices and styles!

      Reply
  3. Nicole Kowalski says

    May 9, 2020 at 12:47 am

    Wow. I ordered the Dermstore Sunscreen kit, a boiler/jumpsuit from Anthro, and a dress from Verishop. BTW, the Verishop link isn’t working, but I emailed them to let them know you get the credit for me even knowing they existed. Many of my fave brands are there!

    Also, ordered the Soma jogger a few weeks ago. Loved them so much, I bought another pair and they have been in heavy rotation. They look cute with so many tops.

    Thanks Alison. I know this is a lot of work , as you’ve explained previously, but your blog has had just the right tone and just the right comforting clothing and advice we need. And your instagram has inspired me to up my weight routine.

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      May 11, 2020 at 10:25 am

      Oh Nicole, this makes me so happy! Not sure what happened with the Verishop links, it’s a new to me retailer and I’ll look into it. But I am glad my recommendations have worked out for you!

      Reply
      • Nicole says

        May 11, 2020 at 12:04 pm

        They sure have! (Maybe a little more than they should have-lol).
        Belated Happy Mother’s Day.

        Reply
  4. Lee says

    May 8, 2020 at 9:03 pm

    I like the new features this week; it’s always helpful to hear your thought process. I’ve started to get in a few more items I’ve ordered & there are definitely hits & misses. Dealing with returns is slow (understandably so), which means I’ve got to get better organized about what goes back & how I want to make that happen. My local J Crew, J Crew Factory, & Old Navy are all still closed, but my state is allowing stores to reopen. Of course, I’m not sure I’m ready to venture out. Lots to think about these days, but my main focus must always be health & safety for myself & my family. All this to say, shopping is a bit different these days, isn’t it? Happy Friday!

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      May 11, 2020 at 10:24 am

      It truly is. The one benefit is because of slow and more difficult returns (for example I have two things waiting to go to UPS since they don’t do free home pickups) is I am more careful with what I actually order!

      Reply
  5. Jax says

    May 8, 2020 at 6:48 pm

    Been having issues accessing the Soma site since last night. Anybody else experience this?

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      May 11, 2020 at 10:01 am

      I’ve had trouble with many websites lately. I think tech teams at home plus increased traffic is causing all sorts of issues. I hope you were able to finally get through.

      Reply
  6. Sallie says

    May 8, 2020 at 6:26 pm

    Thanks for the heads up on the Dermstore sunscreen package. I use the Elta sunscreen and am just about out. I am very excited to get the other goodies!

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      May 11, 2020 at 10:01 am

      Awesome, I’m so glad Sallie!

      Reply

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Blogging During a Pandemic

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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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

Open
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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