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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It’s so great to know our old clothes are getting a good life and this bag makes carting them to the cafe so easy! I got my Hulken on Amazon, it comes in other colors and sizes too: https://amzn.to/48iTY4Y yep the bag is as great as all those ads you see on social media, I’m a big fan!
Open
I had to see… I asked my husband how often he thinks about the Roman Empire, and then asked our 14-year-old 😂
Open
#ad Go through my archives on Wardrobe Oxygen and one thing is clear: my family and I are a fan of @bombas socks! From their no-slip no-show socks to their iconic crew socks, Bombas makes great socks for the whole family while having a great heart.

Socks are the #1 requested article of clothing from homeless shelters. For every item purchase from Bombas, one is donated to someone experiencing homelessness. 

Save 20% on your first purchase at Bombas with my exclusive promo code: WARDROBE20

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4ipHy #bombas
Open
Happy gotcha day, Oscar! Four years ago he came into our life and we are so happy to have in our family!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4idXm
Open
#throwbackthursday to what I wore 10 years ago in September…

A decade ago I was working full time in an office and was promoted to manage a good portion of my department. My blog was doing quite well, I was featured in local and national publications and websites. I was embracing what I felt to be a polished professional with an edgy vibe. Less color, more interesting accessories, and my first semi-designer bag (I still have that leopard print mini M.A.C. In the back of my closet). 

I have come to embrace color and have way less black in my closet now, but a lot of these looks are timeless and I would wear now… just likely with lower heels! 😂

Do you recall what you were wearing a decade ago? How similar is it to how you dress now?

For more of my throwbacks visit #wo2tbt
  • 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

Beauty · October 31, 2022

How to Look More Youthful: 6 Tips That Don’t Include Injectibles And Won’t Break the Bank

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 look more youthful

Recently in the Wardrobe Oxygen Community on Facebook, a member said she was mistaken for being older than her age and wanted to know how to look more youthful without injectables or cosmetic modifications. As we all told this individual, the issue is with the other person, not with her. She's fabulous, and others, especially those younger than us, think anything over 35 is ancient. But if you want to look more youthful, here are some ways I think work:

How to Look More Youthful: My 6 Tips

These are things I believe will change how you look to others without changing who you are. Try one, try none, there's nothing wrong with how you look right now. As always, I offer guidance, not gospel. Also, these tips are focused on the United States culture; I know other countries and communities have different priorities and ideas.

1. Whiter Teeth

I think overly white teeth look weird as heck but as we age (and as we drink more coffee and red wine), our teeth will get duller and darker. Crest Whitestrips are surprisingly effective in not making you have Chicklet teeth, but brightening and whitening and making your teeth, your smile, and you look a bit more youthful. Just know they need to be used regularly to see results and have results remain.

I have the Snow at-home teeth whitening kit. I actually bought this kit back in 2019 and used it until I left part of the kit at an Airbnb. Then this summer, Snow offered to send me another one. This does work. It doesn't work as impressively as the company's before and afters, but it's more powerful but not more painful than Crest Whitestrips.

snow teeth whitening review

I brush my teeth when I get up, and as I putter around the house before the rest of the family wakes up, opening curtains and letting out the dog, I use my Snow device. I paint my teeth with the gel, insert the mouthguard device, plug it into my phone (it uses your phone's energy to light up the mouthguard), and put my phone in my robe pocket. I'll listen to an audiobook or music, meditate, whatever for 10 minutes, then rinse, wash the mouthguard, tuck it into its storage case and keep it and the gel pen in my robe pocket for the next morning.

I have gone to the dentist and gotten trays and bleach… and it works fastest but I found it to be the most uncomfortable. As we age, our teeth may get darker or yellower, and they also often get more sensitive. I find the Snow device to be a good balance of comfortable and effectiveness, but that is only my personal experience. If you are serious about teeth whitening, do ask your dentist who will know about the latest, greatest, and safest for your smile.

Those in the United States are far more concerned with the color of their teeth than most any other country, and our country's youth are really into white teeth (thank you influencers and their veneers). A young person may mistake your age purely based on your teeth, which is ridiculous. Healthy teeth come in all colors, shapes, and formats but if you feel you want to look more youthful, teeth whitening may be an option.

You may also like: What’s the Difference Between Not Giving a Sh*t and Having No F*cks Left to Give?

2. Hydrated, Glowing Skin

Trends affect not only what we wear and how we style our hair, but also our skin. And in the past decade, there has been a real trend towards glowy, dewy, hydrated skin. Gone are the days of mattifiers and powdering your nose; now the look is practically mid-hot flash in the middle of August in Mississippi.

Keep your skin hydrated morning and night. Look into products like hyaluronic acid which help your skin retain more moisture. The Ordinary is a brand that is effective and budget-friendly. Apply it to damp skin (or dampen your skin with something like rosewater) and put a good moisturizer over it. Skincare with vitamin C can also give skin a glow without being irritating.

Consider a glow product, something that makes your skin look lit from within. If you wear a tinted moisturizer, I like this one from NARS that has subtle illumination without making you look like a sweaty disco ball. I also like this primer from Flyte.70 which isn't sparkly or shimmery but somehow makes my skin look more hydrated. I will wear it alone, mixed with tinted moisturizer, or as a primer under other makeup (and there's no color/white cast on darker skintones).

flyte 70 highlighter review
Showing the two colors of the flyte.70 highlighter on different skintones.

With or without makeup, I love this highlighter from Flyte.70; it comes in two colors and I think “Just Like Heaven” is good for very fair to medium skintones; “Glamourous Life” is better for medium to darker skintones. Use your finger and do a “C” from end of eyebrow to cheekbone, a touch at your inner eye, a touch in your cupid's bow above your lips, and pat to blend. You can add in other places but these are the easiest/basic places that will have you glow without being over the top or obvious. I made a video on Instagram showing how I use this highlighter.

I believe in the power of keeping skin hydrated from within. I add a tablespoon of flax oil to my morning oatmeal, I take a fatty acid supplement (also helps my knees feel more lubricated), I drink a lot of water, have a green juice daily with this powder, and eat a lot of fruits and vegetables with high water content. Consuming collagen can also make your skin look and feel more hydrated and plump. From personal experience, I have found that dairy and alcohol will negatively impact my skin, especially under my eyes. I've learned to not consume either the day before an event when I want to look as fresh as possible.

3. Exfoliate

Exfoliating gets rid of dry, flaky skin and helps with collagen production. At least once a week use a chemical or physical exfoliant. If you're new to chemical exfoliants (AKA acids), don't go straight into retinol or tretinoin. I like Pixi Glow Tonic, which you can buy at Target. Apply to a reusable cotton round after cleansing at night and wipe your face just like you used to back in the day with Sea Breeze or witch hazel. This won't burn and will gently exfoliate; apply your moisturizer over it.

If you're ready for the next step, retinol is a popular choice, but I also like lactic acid, which can do an immediate transformation in one night. Again, check out The Ordinary which has effective lactic acid for a very nice price. I did a review of The Ordinary's lactic acid a couple of years ago. Apply moisturizer after. When starting with acids, try every other night and see how you react before trying it nightly. And always use SPF during the day as acids can make your skin sun-sensitive.

If you prefer a physical exfoliant, put down the apricot scrub and find something gentler that won't scratch your skin. My husband, daughter, and I are all obsessed with this scrub from Colleen Rothschild. We keep it in the shower and with very little pressure you massage it into your skin and it rinses clean. Even though this is gentle, I still only recommend a physical exfoliant once a week or so.

4. Fuller, Natural Brows

As we get older, our brows become more sparse. And of COURSE, we have thinning brows from time on this planet and already thin brows from tweezing them to pencil lines in previous decades and the trend is for thick, full brows.

To keep it easy, get a fine-tip pencil a bit lighter and ashier than your haircolor and sketch in the thin spots of your brows. I like this pencil from NYX; I use Taupe even though I have brown hair. I once had the opportunity to have my brows shaped by Erwin Gomez, brow expert; he told me that even if you color your hair, if you have grays your brows will look more natural if you use taupe instead of brown.

If you have unwieldy brows, brush them up with an old toothbrush sprayed with some hairspray or a brow gel. Take some cuticle scissors and cut any hair that is far longer than the rest. Then brush your brows up and out to get a not too perfect, natural effect. Then fill in any spots.

Some folks get their brows microbladed, which is a semi-permanent tattooing of tiny lines that replicate brow hairs and fades over time. I have considered this myself, but am scared for I have seen many folks who have gone to highly-rated microblading artists and still ended up looking weird AF. Brow trends change pretty quickly; know what you get you'll be rocking for up to two years. Do your homework before considering this; know that what worked for your sister/best friend/coworker may not work for you.

The sculpted, stenciled brows were popular, but the more natural look has taken over. Take advantage, and keep this simple. A bit of pencil to fill in, even if you wear no other makeup, will make you look more youthful.

5. Wear Color

The quickest way to look more youthful? Switch out that black or gray sweater for one in a color. I am not talking the “lady of a certain age” shades of dusty rose, muted plum, and sage green. A primary color, a watercolor bright, a jewel tone, an autumnal shade, a highlighter bright or an icy pastel that is clear and true.

If a color you love is on trend, buy a sweater, or t-shirt, or blouse in that color because that will read youthful to those in the know (and even those not in the know who are surrounded by those who are).

If you aren't one to rock a lot of color, ivory and winter white can also brighten up your look. If you choose this route, consider a piece with some texture so it looks luxe, not dingy. A sweater, a tweed jacket, a velvet top… texture will elevate and the soft color will be an instant highlighter.

6. Hair

If you think I am going to suggest coloring your hair to look more youthful you're wrong. Just like wrinkles, gray hair doesn't make you look old. It's the condition of your hair that makes the difference and if you're just throwing it up/back without much thought that can be making you look older than any lines on your face or silver streaks in your tresses.

SATC with golden girls hair
The cast of Sex and the City with the hairstyles worn by the cast of The Golden Girls; click the link below to see the Golden Girls cast with modern hair/makeup as additional proof that your hairstyle can age you (and age you more than its color).

A very set hairstyle can be aging (just look at this video on YouTube how they “modernized” the cast of The Golden Girls with current hairstyles). But so is unkempt hair. if you're not one who likes to spend a lot of time on your hair, consider a style that embraces your natural texture and only needs to be trimmed every couple of months.

This is a big reason why I embraced my wavy hair and realized my hair is actually curly. Doing this, my hair looks fuller, is lower maintenance, and feels more youthful. If you have straight to wavy hair, consider a bob or lob (a longer bob that's grazing or just below your shoulders). If you don't plan on having it cut regularly, ask your stylist to cut it where there's no specific part so it doesn't look uneven during grow-out and can be brushed to the side, pinned up, put in a ponytail and more with low effort.

If your hair is getting thin, just like men with their combovers you're not fooling anyone with your creative style to “hide” it. Consider a shorter cut, embracing natural texture to add natural volume, or heck, go with a wig which have really improved in the past years and have become downright cool. Hair closer in color to your scalp will hide thinness better; consider going a lighter color which can also brighten up your face and provide a “youthful glow.”

I still have much to learn in life, and I learn so much from all of you. What are your tips for appearing more youthful? Do share in the comments, your tip may be just what a fellow grown woman needs in her life!

alison signature

In: Beauty

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

My Beauty Routine: Sharon
My Peace and Quiet
best beauty buys 2014Best of 2014: Beauty Edition

Comments

  1. Jen says

    November 1, 2022 at 8:18 pm

    I find that a good haircut helps – particularly when I stopped coloring my hair. Once I needed bifocals I switched to multifocal (Progressive) lenses – that made a BIG difference in how I felt that I looked – that is definitely worth the extra cost to me. My clothes are pretty basic but I try to keep them in good shape and replace them, and my shoes and bag, when they are worn. Also, investing in new bras regularly (and hand washing them) makes a difference in how my clothes fit. I probably look my age (mid 50’s) but when I feel put together, I have a better day! Thanks for all the tips and great ideas, Alison!

    Reply
  2. Megan says

    November 1, 2022 at 11:47 am

    I appreciate this article and the range of views in the comments. I want to add my own view that aging is not a moral failing or a flaw to be fixed! Humans age, and my personal view is that women need to be careful about constantly chasing youth, and doing things in service of “looking young” if they are not pleasing primarily to themselves. I am not young anymore and I am not afraid to own that. We are valuable members of society, with a lot of experience to share. Let’s be proud and continue to show the world how awesome we are.

    Reply
  3. Hadilly says

    November 1, 2022 at 11:37 am

    Hard agree on the brows. I started using Revitabrow bought from Nordstrom. I was dubious, but also knew I could return it. It works so well. The outer edges of my brows are back and I love how it looks. I have to trim once in a while.

    I also dye them periodically. Angie from You Look Fab recommended RefectoCil so I use that now. Great, easy to apply product. I leave on for 5-6 minutes.

    Reply
    • Jennifer says

      December 9, 2022 at 9:44 am

      Great tip to dye brows! I know so many older ladies that would look much younger if they did this. I’ve been doing mine for 25 years. Add lashes to the mix and no makeup needed

      Reply
  4. Kathy says

    November 1, 2022 at 11:25 am

    Hi,

    I just want to make a gentle correction to an otherwise great post. Retinoids and retinols are not exfoliants. BHAs and AHAs are exfoliants. They work to help loosen dead skin cells and slough them off. Retinoids and their gentler cousins the retinals and retinols work to boost our skin’s collagen production. People sometimes mistake them for exfoliants because new users can experience peeling. There are some great videos by dermatologists on YouTube that explain the difference between the retinoid family and exfoliants.

    I want to add that the fit of our clothing is very important in maintaining a youthful look. Too tight and too loose are both aging. Twenty years ago I saw a photo of myself wearing a midi skirt that I thought was slimming. The fabric was the right color for me and the skirt fit properly at my waist and hips. However, I was shocked to see in the photo how frumpy I looked! I am 5″4″ and at the time weighed 125 pounds. The skirt literally dragged down my look. I looked like I was wearing some much taller person’s hand-me-down. That skirt promptly went to Goodwill. After my photo epiphany, I shortened all of my other midi skirts or gave them away. A few years later I was turned onto What Not To Wear by my sister-in-law. I agree with Stacy and Clinton that a shorter woman such as myself will look best in skirts and dresses that hover around the knee.

    I believe that everyone needs a good full length mirror and that we need to look at the reflection carefully. A blogger I regularly read says that even better than the full length mirror view are photos of our outfits. Somehow we will see things in a photograph that we do not see in the mirror. That was certainly the case with the midi skirt outfit I referenced above. My mirrored reflection looked good to me!

    Reply
  5. Suzanne says

    November 1, 2022 at 10:43 am

    My husband & I are both 53. He was in the hospital for surgery recently. I had been up for 16 hours and a nurse came in his room and assumed I was his mother. You can bet that the next day I was doing my utmost to look as youthful as possible.

    In a previous post you mentioned something about REI athleisure. Could you explain that or do a post on it?

    Reply
  6. Marni says

    November 1, 2022 at 7:54 am

    That video of the golden girls with youthful hairdos also smooths out their skin — it’s making their faces look younger too. So don’t watch it as evidence of what certain hairstyles can do for your overall appearance. That’s misleading.

    I appreciate Bette’s reminder that we live in a culture that devalues older people. (Unless they’re white boomer men in positions of power, I guess.) None of these tips help us push back against ageism and social structures that marginalize the elderly.

    “How to look more youthful” — the real question, under the surface, is “how can I remain relevant as an older woman, and not be regarded as invisible and unnecessary?” Consumerism will not help us answer that question.

    Reply
  7. Rebecca says

    October 31, 2022 at 6:24 pm

    And on your skincare points, I agree and I think you have lovely skin. My only caveat is that if you have sensitive skin, research your Vitamin C options. Some have irritated my skin, and I’m currently using one from Vichy that I like and that isn’t expensive.

    I also recently tried Jones Road makeup, which Bobbi Brown seems to have developed for more mature skin with lots of moisture in it. I like how it makes my skin look but it does leave a slightly tacky feeling behind. But powdering it seems to defeat the purpose! So the jury is still out on that one.

    Reply
  8. Rebecca says

    October 31, 2022 at 6:11 pm

    I had to laugh at the teeth whitening and your very accurate point that no one else is obsessed with white teeth like we are in the USA. A few years ago, I was in Italy when a man came up to me and started talking in a language I did not recognize. When I interrupted and told him I speak only English, he apologized and told me he thought for sure I was Croatian because of my features (I am of Slavic heritage). Then he added, “And you don’t have those glow in the dark teeth like Americans do!”

    Reply
  9. Karen O says

    October 31, 2022 at 3:21 pm

    What great tips, not just from Allie but the commenters as well. One tip I got from a MUA about eyebrows, when you moisturize your face always use that moisturizer on your eyebrows as well. I’ve been doing this lately and while I won’t say I’m getting more hair growth, my brows seem a bit more “there.” I don’t know how else to put it but at the very least they feel nice and soft now instead of hard and crunchy.

    Reply
  10. Jen says

    October 31, 2022 at 1:47 pm

    I love these suggestions and comments. One question: where would you suggest one look to identify color trends for the coming season? I don’t shop in person enough to notice color trends in clothing. Thanks!

    Reply
  11. Bette says

    October 31, 2022 at 10:44 am

    I look younger than I am because I:

    1. Have great posture.
    2. Wear modern, flat shoes and carry a modern handbag (often a cool backpack).
    3. Wear simple clothing that flatters me.
    4. Get new eyeglasses and sunglasses every few years, choosing ones that are interesting.
    5. Keep up with technology.
    6. Read the newspapers and have informed opinions on key world events.

    Reply
    • Jax says

      November 4, 2022 at 12:23 pm

      I super-agree re: eye glasses and sunglasses — unfortunately, it gets even more expensive with a prescription and progressive lenses in the mix — but worthwhile. I would add a great hair cut or just in general, keeping maintaining your hair (yes, I know hair changes around menopause, adding challenges).

      Reply
  12. Heather says

    October 31, 2022 at 10:13 am

    Do you have a green juice recipe that you recommend? Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      October 31, 2022 at 10:25 am

      I keep it super simple and add a scoop of this to cold water, use a milk frother to mix https://amzn.to/3zs7VxN

      Reply
  13. Ann Marie says

    October 31, 2022 at 7:48 am

    My tips are:

    1. Get enough sleep and reduce stress (as much as you can) – go to bed early, take naps on the weekends, make sleep a priority. Lack of sleep and too much stress will age you by a good ten years or so.

    2. Wear the correct color near your face – figure out what color season you are and wear the correct colors near your face. The wrong color will either overpower you or wash you out. Avoid too much black near your face (especially if you are not a winter season, which is the only season that can wear black near the face) as black accentuates wrinkles and under eye circles. Choose navy instead, as it is softer. If you have a black winter coat, for example, break up the black with a scarf and hat in colors that are right for you. Also, color brings people joy!

    3. Wear the correct eyeglass frames – make sure your frames are not dated and that they are appropriate for your face shape/size. Try Warby Parker and ask an associate for help if you don’t know looks good.

    4. Make sure you are wearing the best clothes for you today in your size – make sure your clothes aren’t dated, ill fitting, or worn. Buy a few new things each season that are in style and fit the body you have today.

    5. Exercise – particularly lift weights and stretch – exercising will give you a glow, it will make you feel better, and it will give you better posture so you are not a stooped over and hobbling around.

    6. Be interested in the world – nothing says old person like someone so set in their ways that they refuse to try or do anything new and who have no hobbies or interests. Take classes, try a new sport or hobby, go to concerts, read, visit museums, etc. If you are interested in the world, the world will be interested in you.

    Reply
    • Kathryn Braun Fenner says

      October 31, 2022 at 9:31 am

      Agree completely with the seasonal color aspect. I had really dark hair and thought I was a winter, but now it’s gray. I used a color analysis app that analyzed a photograph of me, and discovered I am actually a soft summer. My hazel eyes are brighter in the muted colors of soft summer, and my skin looks much younger than it did against brighter hues. I can still wear plenty of colors, but if they are just a bit softened, I look way better!

      Reply
      • Katelin says

        October 31, 2022 at 3:29 pm

        Share the app if you would! I am fascinated by this idea. I have dark hair and wear black near my face all the time!

        Reply
        • Kathryn Braun Fenner says

          October 31, 2022 at 3:35 pm

          I think it’s called Colorwise.me. The app with the palettes on my iPhone is called My Colors

          Reply
          • Katelin says

            October 31, 2022 at 3:38 pm

            How much did it cost?

          • Kathryn Braun Fenner says

            October 31, 2022 at 3:41 pm

            I don’t think much. $10?

  14. Krista says

    October 31, 2022 at 7:48 am

    Have a little fun with your hair. I swear I get more compliments now that my hair is fully gray with the blue and purple in the curls than I ever did when I kept it maintained as a redhead. I’m not always good at it, but I try to remember that age is a number. Attitude and a smile goes a long, long way.

    Reply
    • Bette says

      October 31, 2022 at 11:19 am

      A smile. Yes.

      I disagree, though, with “age is just a number.” Unless we suddenly become immortal, that number tells us a lot. Our bodies don’t last forever; we should respect and acknowledge that. In fact, the whole “how to look younger” discussion would not be necessary if our society valued the elderly.

      Reply
      • Zaeobi says

        October 31, 2022 at 11:25 pm

        On the flip side of that though, if we *did* value our elderly it wouldn’t be to try & emulate youth. So even then, age still wouldn’t be just a number – moreso a marker of wisdom & experience.

        Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

Next Post >

Weekend Reads #220

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 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

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Aug 27

Open
The family that wears @printfresh together stays together 🥰

Use code wardrobe_oxygen for 15% off your order of size-inclusive organic cotton sleepwear, dresses, bags & more https://glnk.io/qk04/wardrobe-oxygen

I’ve been raving about my Printfresh pajamas for years, my family also wanted to try them. Thank you Printfresh for gifting these for our annual three generation girls’ getaway to Rehoboth Beach, DE. We had a great time and being all matchy matchy in our pajamas was a fun addition! 🐅🍃🥰

#printfresh #printfreshpajamas #printfreshpartner

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Aug 12

Open
Shuts laptop until Monday… #RehobothBeach

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