Open
Scenes from a Friday night…

We started at @littleblackbirddc a new wine bar in Cleveland Park where we had great food, drink, and conversation into the evening. We then headed down the street to @atomicbilliards for a whole different experience and to keep the conversation going. I treasure my friendships with @sylviacolella (who had a birthday recently), @districtofchic, and @blonde_inthedistrict they’re the real deal 🥰

My dress is @adamlippes borrowed via @renttherunway and Cheetos with Sauvignon Blanc is a really fun pairing!
Open
Night and day…

Met three dear friends for an early dinner that went on until after the sun set. Great food and conversation with some great women!

The dress is @adamlippes and I borrowed it from @renttherunway. The bag is @jcrew and a splurge but I regretted not buying it the last time they offered this bag and this color is SO me. I mean, look how great it is with these many years old suede heeled sandals? Meant to be!

This color combination makes me so happy, and this dress was comfy even after a decadent meal. We all deserve to experience comfort and joy with our wardrobes! 💛🩷

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4jnDf #ltkplussize #ltkmidsize #ltkover40 #midsizestyle #genxstyle #over40style
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! 🐾❤️
  • Fashion
    • Capsule Wardrobes
    • Outfit Posts
  • Beauty
    • Skincare
    • Curly Hair
  • Lifestyle
    • Perimenopause
    • Health and Wellness
    • Travel
  • Subscribe
  • Home
  • About
    • Contact
    • Work with Me
    • Privacy Policy
    • Exclusive Promo Codes for Wardrobe Oxygen
  • Fashion
    • Capsule Wardrobes
    • Outfits
    • Plus Size Fashion
    • Denim
    • Footwear
    • Activewear
    • Swimwear
    • Underpinnings and Sleepwear
  • Beauty
    • Curly Hair
    • Skincare
  • Lifestyle
    • Perimenopause
    • Travel
    • The Business of Blogging

Wardrobe Oxygen

Real-life style for grown-ass women

  • Home
  • About
    • Contact
    • Work with Me
    • Privacy Policy
    • Exclusive Promo Codes for Wardrobe Oxygen
  • Fashion
    • Capsule Wardrobes
    • Outfits
    • Plus Size Fashion
    • Denim
    • Footwear
    • Activewear
    • Swimwear
    • Underpinnings and Sleepwear
  • Beauty
    • Curly Hair
    • Skincare
  • Lifestyle
    • Perimenopause
    • Travel
    • The Business of Blogging

Lifestyle, Gift Guides · November 17, 2017

Gift Guide for Tweens by a Tween

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. 

When I mentioned I was going to have gift guides this season, a couple of you reached out in comments, social media, and email and said you desired a gift guide for tweens. Not a kid and not yet a teen, this is a hard age to shop for. I figured no better than to ask a tween that I know! Take it away, Marley!

By Marley Vollmerhausen

Hello! My name is Marley Vollmerhausen, I’m a middle schooler. Alison asked me to tell you what is popular among kids my age! I do know a little something about what kids my age really like and what is popular nowadays so this guide is to help you figure out what your loved one may like.

gift guide for tweens by a tween - the best gifts at all price points for tween boys and tween girls by wardrobe oxygen

Gift Guide for Tweens

Slime

Kids my age love slime and even make their own! It’s a great way to relieve stress which can happen a lot with middle school students over grades, big tests, high school applications, or even regular school drama. And I think it is a lot of fun to play with! Some of my friends make their own and even I do sometimes, so even the ingredients for slime would be a great present because there are lots of different varieties of slimes to choose from so you can get lots of different ingredients and make it one big fun present! Also, it makes a great DIY project!

Alison’s input: My eight-year-old is also super into making slime and I think little jars of slime were more popular than candy when received during trick or treating! When it’s a rainy day there’s a good chance we’ll be whipping out our slime-making supplies. 

PopSockets

What is a PopSocket? PopSockets stick on the back of your phone and help you hold your phone so it won't fall and break so it decreases the number of damaged phones. Also, they help your phone to stand up when watching TV, videos, etc. They have great adhesion and don't easily come off of your phone but when you do take it off your phone will be completely intact!

popsockets make for a great gift for tweens

Alison’s input: PopSockets are also great for teens, college kids, and even adults. Go through Instagram and you’ll see many are using pop sockets for their selfies. What’s great about a pop socket is you don’t need to know what size or type of phone the gift recipient has. And like Marley mentioned, they won’t damage a phone or case.

Earbuds

Do you love music? I sure do. I think it’s a great way to calm down and concentrate without people screaming into your ear in class. Lately, I’m not seeing the regular earbuds that come with a phone, I see kids showing off their new wireless earbuds while they stick their phone into their backpack. Or even tie-dyed or specialty colored earbuds! Who knew there could be so many varieties.

wireless earbuds a gift for tweens

Alison’s input: Gamers and younger kids are into the over the ear headphones (I know Emerson wants a pair with cat ears attached), while those who are more into their phones and music while on the go prefer earbuds. iPhones come with a gadget to make any sort of earbuds work with their phones, but wireless Bluetooth earbuds are considered “cooler” because there is no cord.

Squishies and Scented Pillows

One of my favorite things in the world is food. I also love soft squishy pillows and with scented pillows, it’s the perfect combination. I’ve seen my friends give others this gift and I've even given it to a friend before and I can even remember how happy they were when they got it and they hugged them the entire night!

Alison’s input: “Squishies” are popular with elementary-school-aged children. It’s the top item on Emerson’s Christmas list but she says actual squishies are too baby for tweens. They are really big about throw pillows for their room that is in the shape of their favorite food like Marley mentions, and if they’re scented it’s even cooler.

Kan Jam Illuminate

I'm not much for football and basketball, but my brothers love playing Kan Jam Illuminate, and a lot of times the sun sets even when its still early and they want to go outside and play! This is a great way to still see where the ball is and so that people don't get hit in the head or hurt so they can see where the ball is coming from.

Alison's input: Think Frisbee golf at night. Kan Jam has become a favorite for all ages, but it seems to really be popular with tweens and teens. This is a great gift for a family of four or more to play with together, and can also be a fun thing to bring on a family vacation.

Fujifilm Instax

Last Christmas, my parents got me a camera like this and I love it. It's so fun to use and you can take great pictures with your friends and even write a little something below the picture which I think is so cool! Whats different about this camera as opposed to using a regular camera is you kind of feel like you're in the '80s. Lately, my friends and I have been obsessing over the show Stranger Things which takes place in the '80s and now we're all wishing we lived in the '80s haha!

fujifilm instax camera great gift for tweens

Alison's input: This is hot at almost any age. Available in a variety of colors and a fun social activity, this camera with tiny instant photos is a hit. Emerson has taken over my Instax (review in this blog post) and she has a blast taking photos with her friends and they love having a take-home memento from their party or play date.  If the tween you know has one, they will always want more film, maybe a fun strap, and now they have filters and accessory kits!

Makeup and Beauty Products

I don’t wear makeup much but when I play around with my mom’s makeup its always so much fun! I just recently went to a makeup store and my mom got me my first lipstick, I was so excited! Lots of girls at my school wear makeup and I think this could be a great gift and bonding experience for mothers and daughters helping their daughter try out makeup!

Alison’s input: I love the idea of makeup that isn’t REALLY makeup. Fresh has their Sugar lip balms, and a great set of them in a gift box and none of them are darker than a Kool-Ade stain on the lips but they look cool and sophisticated (they are, I love these lip balms and have them myself!). Benefit has a kit called Wink Upon a Star that has a pore-minimizing primer, bronzer, highlighter, and mascara in a cute makeup bag for $30 – nothing too extreme in regard to color or complexity and Benefit’s packaging is so cute and witty. Also, a makeup bag is a way for them to get into makeup without actually receiving makeup. They can use it as a pencil case, to hold small items in their backpacks, or to hold toiletries for a sleepover.

VR Goggles

When I first saw the ad for these goggles I was so impressed and I thought it was amazing! I've seen videos of people using them, and it's actually a great way to conquer fears because you can think you're somewhere but you can tell yourself it's not real but at the same time get used to the idea.

merge virtual reality VR goggles for tweens

Alison's input: There are several styles of goggles on the market that will turn any smartphone into a virtual reality experience, the one from Merge is highly rated, works with a variety of phones and is under $50.  This likely will be a gift that everyone will want to try out once it's unwrapped.

Amazon Gift Cards

Have you ever just gotten the COMPLETE wrong gift for someone? Or you just can't think of something? Then leave it to them! With an Amazon gift card, you don't have to worry about it. And I can tell you that kids my age do not think that it is a lame gift. They get to choose what they really like on their own.

Alison’s input: Remember when an iTunes gift card was the safe bet for teens and grads? Now it’s Amazon. Even better than Target or a major department store, Amazon can work for music, videos, books, and most anything else. Kids know Amazon, and it’s a way for them to go shopping on their own and feel independent.

I also asked a few parents of tweens for some other ideas and these are what were recommended the most:

great gifts for tweens

Nerf/Dude Perfect

Haven’t heard of Dude Perfect? Don’t worry, your tween has. Nerf collaborated with these YouTube stars for a series of sports-related toys that look cool and get rave reviews from the under-18 crowd.

Keychains

Looking for a stocking stuffer (or an addition to that Amazon gift card)? Keychains are hot, for keys but also to hang from backpacks. Star Wars, emojis, pineapples, and pom-poms are all hot choices.  This one from Kate Spade looks cool and is also a selfie remote.

Cinema Light Box

A light-up box where you can change the words to say a cute message, your name, or anything you desire. I remember loving cool light-up gadgets when I was this age and it hasn't changed. This one comes with 100 letters, numbers, and characters and the background can change color.

DIY Synth Kit

I found this while putting this post together and thought it was just too cool and a fun project for a music-loving tween.

Thank you, Marley, for your awesome suggestions! Hope this gift guide for tweens helps you find a great gift for that middle schooler in your life!

alison signature

In: Lifestyle, Gift Guides · Tagged: gift guide

Did you like what you just read?

Consider tapping here to buy me a coffee in thanks. The best gift you can give a content creator is the gift of sharing. Consider sharing this article on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest. Thank you so much for your support!

join the community

You’ll Also Love

Unique Gifts for Men that Don’t Suck: 35+ Fresh Ideas at Every Price
Self Care Gift Guide: 20+ items for yourself or a loved one to pamper and de-stress for 2022
The 45 Best Advent Calendars for 2022

Comments

  1. LucyChi says

    November 17, 2017 at 11:59 am

    Hanging keychains on your backpack is cool again? Sweet! I’m not even that old!

    Reply
  2. Lorena Lorena says

    November 17, 2017 at 11:32 am

    I think it applies to “tweens at heart” too ! I certainly would love a few of these 😉

    Reply
  3. Christine says

    November 17, 2017 at 9:35 am

    Great post!!! This is such a hard age group to shop for. Thanks!

    Reply
  4. Roberta Johnson says

    November 17, 2017 at 9:07 am

    I am often guessing blindly what my niece and nephew will like as gifts – this list is a Godsend! I ordered two items to arrive for the Thanksgiving school holiday. Thank you thank you!

    Reply
  5. Noeb49 says

    November 17, 2017 at 8:14 am

    Thanks so much, Marley and Alison! I’ve already finished my Christmas shopping for my tween nieces and wish I’d had this list to go by. Some of the items (scented pillows?!) I didn’t know existed.

    Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Next Post >

What I Wore: Regent Regal

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.

Archives

Search Wardrobe Oxygen:

Categories

  • Fashion
  • Beauty
  • Lifestyle
  • Health & Wellness
  • Outfits

instagram

Follow @wardrobe_oxygen

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Sep 26

Open
Scenes from a Friday night…

We started at @littleblackbirddc a new wine bar in Cleveland Park where we had great food, drink, and conversation into the evening. We then headed down the street to @atomicbilliards for a whole different experience and to keep the conversation going. I treasure my friendships with @sylviacolella (who had a birthday recently), @districtofchic, and @blonde_inthedistrict they’re the real deal 🥰

My dress is @adamlippes borrowed via @renttherunway and Cheetos with Sauvignon Blanc is a really fun pairing!

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Sep 23

Open
Night and day…

Met three dear friends for an early dinner that went on until after the sun set. Great food and conversation with some great women!

The dress is @adamlippes and I borrowed it from @renttherunway. The bag is @jcrew and a splurge but I regretted not buying it the last time they offered this bag and this color is SO me. I mean, look how great it is with these many years old suede heeled sandals? Meant to be!

This color combination makes me so happy, and this dress was comfy even after a decadent meal. We all deserve to experience comfort and joy with our wardrobes! 💛🩷

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

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Sep 21

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

wardrobe_oxygen

View

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

View

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

wardrobe_oxygen

View

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!

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Aug 30

Open
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).

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Aug 29

Open
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!

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Aug 28

Open
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

Info

  • About
  • Contact
  • Advertise
  • Exclusive Promo Codes

join the community

On the Blog

  • Capsule Wardrobes
  • Curly Hair
  • Plus Size Fashion
  • Perimenopause
  • Privacy Policy
  • Cookie Policy
  • Disclosure

Copyright © 2023 Wardrobe Oxygen · Theme by 17th Avenue