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The tree is trimmed! 🎄

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#mytalbots modernclassicstyle #wondersoftheseason #ltkover40 #ltkplussize #ltkmidsize #blackfridaysale
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@somaintimates makes it easy to shop for a range of personas this holiday season! #AD With gift guides for a range of personality types, you can easily find great gifts for your loved ones. I was drawn to the creative one, loving the rich colorful florals, luxe satin, lace trim, and of course Soma’s iconic Cool Nights sleepwear! Visit Soma’s gift guide for tips on finding the perfect present this holiday season. #SomaGiftGuide #SomaStartsWithMe
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. 💚
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Fashion Advice · November 17, 2021

How to Glam Up Your Existing Wardrobe for the Holidays: The Single Sparkly Piece

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. 

how to glam up your existing wardrobe for the holidays by Wardrobe Oxygen

Want to know how to glam up your existing wardrobe? The easiest way to take your current closet from everyday to festive is with a shimmery, sparkly, sequined piece. Pair with denim, with your black work pants, with a trim turtleneck sweater, wear under a blazer, wear over a simple sheath or fit and flare dress… this is the kind of piece you can reach for beyond the holidays. Evening wedding? Girls' night out? Cocktail party? Fundraising gala? You're ready.

The key to having this piece feel festive now and beyond the holidays is to steer clear of anything that is a holiday-specific color, pattern, or has seasonal embellishment. Plaids, bright red or green, anything with snowflakes, Fair Isle prints, and obvious details like ornaments may be fun but are very memorable and really only wearable in the month of December. However, silver, gold, black, blush, and other soft tones, and darker colors like navy can work year-round.

The last thing any grown-ass woman wants to look like is a stereotypical Mother of the Bride, especially if she isn't at her child's wedding. There's no need in 2021 to be wearing cold shoulders (unless that's your signature style), sequined waterfall jackets, beaded twinsets, or shapeless shifts with high-low hemlines.

How to Glam Up Your Existing Wardrobe for the Holidays

When it comes to sparkle, this is the time of year to get it, even if you won't be wearing it for the holidays. And this is the time of year to break free from your typical retailers to find something that may feel more modern or versatile. Sequined and sparkly fabric has a different weight and drape from most fabrics; you may find a kimono-inspired long wrap or a blazer to look great when one in knit or suiting fabric doesn't make you feel confident.

how to glam up your wardrobe for the holidays
Showing how one sparkly piece can glam up solid-colored wardrobe basics already residing in your closet.

My biggest tip is to buy one piece in a color that makes you happy, but doesn't steal the show. Something that will mix and match with basics already in your closet. It could be a pair of brocade cigarette pants, a sequined tee, a tux jacket with satin lapels, a pair of lamé joggers. Your style is yours, you want to add festive sparkle that doesn't feel like a costume and doesn't force you to reinvent the wheel or purchase a bunch of other things to make it work.

I hope these suggestions inspire you to see beyond buying an entirely new holiday outfit and see how a single piece may be just the thing to elevate your wardrobe and elevate your holiday spirit!

Sparkly Tops and How to Style Them

best sparkly tops for the holidays

Shop the Collage:
rainbow stripes | gold (also available in rose gold, black, and pewter; click for plus sizes) | black and white stripe | black wrap front | champagne drapey wrap front (same in plus sizes) | pastel ombre | gray beaded | gold with bow straps (also available in pink and black) | silver and black | green puffed sleeves | black sheer with foil dots

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A sparkly top is the easiest way to update your existing wardrobe for the holidays. A bit of shimmer and shine can take your favorite trousers, jeans, or even joggers and make them holiday ready. Dark denim or black will be the easiest to glam up; make sure the black is saturated and preferably a fabric that can look dressy in dim light. Suiting fabric, matte jersey, crepe, polyester blends, velvet, faux and real leather will work better than twill, jersey, and cotton blends.

sequin plus size top

Shop the Collage:
sequined blouse
(three colors to choose from) | sequin stripes | sequin fringe cami | sheer with gold foil | pewter sparkle | black short sleeves | blue with bell sleeves (also available in dark gray) | gold off the shoulder | black mock neck | metallic foil blouse | ivory with foil dots (also available in black) | green turtleneck (six colors to choose from)

350

Sequined and shiny tops are something you can find a lower pricepoints, but be careful that the details don't make the top look cheap. Steer clear of cold shoulders, sheer or lace cut-outs, and other details that can look dated. Some shiny tops have overlapped sequins for a consistent effect, others have sequins sewn flat so the fabric shows through. For a festive look, I recommend choosing overlapped sequins; it's dressier and provides an elevated look. For dressy occasions, I also recommend choosing a top that is completely embellished; a plain back and/or sleeves will make the piece appear more casual.

Shop Sparkly Tops:

350

You may also like: building a dressy capsule wardrobe

Sparkly Jackets, Dusters, and Wraps and How to Style Them

sparkly jackets for the holidays

Shop the Collage:
champagne blazer (also available in black; same in straight sizes) | green blazer | gold fringe | black double-breasted (available up to 5X) | ombre long duster | silver with black lapels | gold fitted collarless | champagne duster

350

I will forever remember attending a gala for a local theater; there was a '30s theme because that was when the theater was built, but it was also dressy and festive. A friend of mine wore this velvet burnout long wrap with batwing sleeves. I believe it had a satin trim and was beaded and had sequins that caught the light. Underneath it she wore… I have no idea. It could have been a black t-shirt and sweatpants, it didn't matter because that duster jacket stole the show.

The right jacket, duster, or wrap can truly transform wardrobe basics. A simple fitted turtleneck and ponte wide-leg pants can be utterly glam with a layer of sequins, beading, and shimmer. To ensure your layering piece gets the spotlight, your black base pieces, including your shoes, need to be saturated in color and give a consistent, unbroken line. Don't mix a satin shell with ponte pants, if you are wearing flats have your hem long enough to cover your ankles, don't add a sparkly belt. I recommend choosing pieces like cashmere, merino, ponte, and crepe which will look luxe but also saturated black.

the best sequin dusters for women

Shop the Collage:
metallic blazer
(also available in rose brocade) | black ombre duster | silver swing jacket (also available in black) | rose sequined duster (also available in silver) | gold collarless jacket | navy metallic duster | multicolored squares jacket | black cardigan (also available in red) | black to gold ombre duster | champagne duster | sequined tux jacket | embroidered velvet duster (also available in gray/silver)

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If black isn't your color, you can also achieve this with winter white, chocolate brown, or deep navy but the colors need to match to create that continuous line. If you don't have shoes that match, then try to have your shoes match your skin so there is no unbroken line and the layering piece is the star.

Shop Sparkly Jackets and Dusters:

350

Sparkly Skirts and Pants for the Holidays and How to Style Them

plus size sequin joggers

Shop the Collage:
gold pleated skirt | black sequin joggers | black fitted pants with sequined tux stripe | silver pencil skirt
(also available in black; link to plus sizes) | sequined leggings | silver lame joggers | black pants with tux stripe | velvet wide leg pants | green fringe skirt (also available in copper) | silver sequin wide leg pants (also available in black) | black sequin midi skirt (also available in orange) | gold joggers

350

A dressy bottom piece can sound intimidating. We often don't want our bottom half to steal the spotlight and think that a black skirt or pants will help that part of our body receed. And it's true it will in some settings: photographs, standing on stage with a literal spotlight on you. But honestly, your body is the same shape whether you're encasing it in black ponte or purple sequins and wearing what you enjoy will help you actually have fun and be in a festive mood.

plus size sequin skirts

Shop the Collage:
coral sequin skirt
(also available in black) | champagne sequin joggers (also available in black) | black sequin wide leg pants | bronze brocade pants | silver sequin wide leg pants | gold sequin pants | silver sequin joggers (also available in black) | blue brocade skirt | black sequin pencil skirt (link to straight sizes) | mauve sequin joggers | silver tiered skirt | copper metallic pants

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The holidays is a good time to step outside your comfort zone. Go slow; I love a tailored trouser with a satin or sequined tux stripe down the side. A sequined or lamé pant in black or another dark color with a black sweater can be quite elegant and not make your curves the focus. A shiny skirt with a crisp white shirt or a cashmere twinset is eternally chic. That being said, there are many ways to add sparkle to your existing wardrobe for the holidays and it doesn't have to be on the bottom half of your body. Wear what makes you feel good.

If you do choose to go with a sparkly skirt or pant, it's important to have the top half look polished. Whether you're pairing it with a white t-shirt or a satin blouse, it needs to be in good condition, steamed or ironed, and looking fresh. While a sequined skirt can look cool with a distressed denim jacket or band tee, for a holiday festive look consider the more crisp and color-saturated pieces in your wardrobe.

Shop Sparkly Pants and Skirts:

350

You may also like: how to build a formalwear capsule wardrobe

What Shoes to Wear with Sparkles?

If your base pieces are black, you can wear black shoes. A black leather ankle boot, pair of black leather or velvet flats or pumps, or a strappy black shoe can work with any of the ensembles mentioned above. If you will have bare legs, you may wish to choose a shoe close to your skintone to keep the focus on the apparel.

A perk to wearing sparkles is your footwear isn't the focus; choose something simple but in good condition. Give your leather a polish before stepping out, use a Sharpie to fill in scuffs on heels, brush suede to remove dust.

Unless you are going full-out disco ball, I wouldn't choose sparkly shoes with a sparkle-focused ensemble. While a dressy fabric like silk, satin, and velvet will be a good choice for evening affairs, additional sequins or rhinestones at your feet can diminish the power of your sparkled piece above.


I hope these tips and photo examples help you see how to glam up your existing wardrobe with a single piece. And if you shop smart, you will have additional opportunities to style that piece beyond the holidays!

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Comments

  1. Jax says

    November 18, 2021 at 7:58 pm

    I love the look of sequins (esp. in pieces like that green Anthro fringe skirt or in a casual tee — esp. if it’s a relaxed knit) but am concerned about the environmental impact of loose sequins… trying to look at velvet and other metallic fabrics as well.
    Thanks for the comprehensive options, Alison!

    Reply
  2. Kathryn says

    November 18, 2021 at 12:07 pm

    Just found out I’m attending a holiday party in a couple of weeks. This post was a good reminder to grab a couple of sparkly things to add to my (scant) dressy wardrobe. I have a black fit and flare dress, a subtly metallic gold sheath dress, and a difficult to describe gold blazer… moto jacket… woven-with-a-bit-of-metallic… thingy all coming from Poshmark. Less than $35 each for all three, and the black dress was less than $20 for NWT.

    Reply
  3. Рerfect4man says

    November 18, 2021 at 3:34 am

    Our team has been operating since 2013 and in such a short period of time has earned high prestige worldwide! We put ours empathizes to provide unique products with great value so you can feel and look special at any time.

    Reply
  4. hmbalison says

    November 17, 2021 at 3:23 pm

    I just purchased a sparkly silver cashmere sweater from Talbot’s on Poshmark. I think it’s the Audrey that you love so much, Alison (thanks for educating me about cashmere). I love the quality and the subtle silver twinkle. Can’t wait to wear it.

    Reply
  5. Suzanne says

    November 17, 2021 at 2:04 pm

    Love this post! You mentioned in your Fall Trends post that sweater vests were trending. I would love an article on how to style them so I don’t look like I’m trying to look I did as a teen in the ‘80s. LOL

    Reply
    • Michele says

      November 17, 2021 at 11:04 pm

      I need that too. I bought a houndtooth one that is just fitting in my closet.

      Reply
  6. Karin says

    November 17, 2021 at 1:23 pm

    Thanks for this comprehensive post! One thing I love about this type of piece is that, with the right one, you can wear it for years. I have a sparkly black top in a super basic style that flatters me that I have been wearing for 22 years! I only wear it once or twice a year, to different parties w/different people. No one remembers it from year to year (they’ve more worried about their own clothes!) and I always get compliments.

    Reply
    • Karin says

      November 17, 2021 at 1:37 pm

      forgot to add….this year I’m looking for a sequined or sparkly mask to wear out!

      Reply
      • Susan G says

        November 18, 2021 at 7:10 am

        You could always embellish your own! I recently did this for a themed event and received numerous inquiries. Iron on transfers from the hobby store with a basic black mask from the office supply store gave me the exact look I needed for less than $5. Though I’m sure ETSY has great options, I waited too long to order.

        Reply
  7. Krista says

    November 17, 2021 at 8:57 am

    Perfect timing! I just got a super fun pair of satin joggers with a sequin tuxedo stripe and have been playing with outfit ideas for the holidays (and beyond). Bring on the sparkle!

    Reply
  8. Jules says

    November 17, 2021 at 8:55 am

    Great choices here. I bought a silver pleated midi skirt before the pandemic. Wore it for a birthday dinner, and it will get me through several holiday events. I think I need tuxedo stripe pants next. Thanks for so many options.

    Reply
  9. Julia says

    November 17, 2021 at 8:37 am

    Excellent timing! I just scored a sequined tank at a thrift store. Thanks for the guidance on how to wear it.

    Reply

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How We Holiday with Talbots

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

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Dec 5

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The tree is trimmed! 🎄

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

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

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

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

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Nov 28

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

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

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Nov 19

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

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

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

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

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

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Nov 17

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

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

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

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

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Nov 15

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

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

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

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

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Nov 6

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

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

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

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Nov 4

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Early voting poll worker style 🗳️

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

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

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

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Nov 2

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

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

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

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

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

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Oct 18

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

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

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

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

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Oct 17

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

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

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

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

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

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

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