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

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

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

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

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

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4jcBL #ltkmidsize #ltkover40 #midsizestyle #genxstyle #usinthewild #concertstyle
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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
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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
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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!
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I had to see… I asked my husband how often he thinks about the Roman Empire, and then asked our 14-year-old 😂
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#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
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Denim, Fashion Advice · March 4, 2021

How to Style Faded Jeans for Spring

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 style faded jeans for spring by wardrobe oxygen

After sharing my article on the top three denim trends for 2021, many felt they couldn't see faded jeans on themselves or in their wardrobe and wanted tips on how to style faded jeans for spring.

I have a faded jeans review coming soon with me modeling a few styles, but in the meantime, I hope these collages will inspire you to see how a different wash of denim can actually fit into a variety of personal style aesthetics!

As always, the majority of the items featured are available in extended sizes (at least to size 18, though many are available up to 22+) and a range of price points. Below each collage are links to the exact items and a gallery of the items with their non-sale prices (prices may be lower if a retailer is having a promotion).

I wanted this to be… realistic. Items that would be worn now, with our more casual lifestyle, pieces that can transition from now into warmer months, but still be stylish next fall. Shoes that are comfortable and accessories that add interest to wardrobe staples.

Choosing simpler pieces, I hope these looks can be created with items already existing in your closet, pieces purchased from resale sites, or from thrift and consignment shops.

Inspiration for How to Style Faded Jeans

spring 2021 fashion

Spring Neutrals:
spotted camera bag | cardigan sweater | floral bandana | plaid boyfriend blazer | wristlet | jeans | hat | earrings | bracelet | sunglasses | suede mules | white sandals | tan stripe shirt

Keeping it classic and neutral, this collection takes wardrobe staples like Breton stripes and plaid blazers and gives it a weekend getaway vibe with relaxed faded jeans, Birkenstock sandals, and light neutral shoes and accessories.

how to style faded relaxed jeans

Black with Bold for Spring:
cashmere t-shirt | sunglasses | bandana | leather jacket | silver link necklace | silver earrings | jeans | belt bag | sneakers | white sandals | long cardigan

No need to stray from your favorite black pieces in your closet, faded jeans look great with black and bold colors. The key is to keep things relaxed and light so it doesn't feel '80s Lita Ford. Switch out the boots for a pair of Birks or even some old-school Vans. Add texture and pattern with accessories… keep your hands free with a belt bag big enough to hold your essentials and a bandana-style scarf can add mega style to wardrobe staples.

lavender spring trend

Watercolor Brights for Spring:
cashmere sweater | jeans | sunglasses | bag | suede loafers |sneakers | striped top | trench coat | earrings | belt | Apple watch strap

If your style leans more classic, a pair of faded jeans in a straight cut with a bit of distressing will give a modern touch to your wardrobe. While you may be used to crisp denim, a pair of vintage, even with a hole, will actually look more stylish than a pristine pair of faded jeans. The lighter wash will make watercolor brights like orchid, lime, and mango pop.

how to style faded jeans for spring

Sporty Boho for Spring:
birth year t-shirt | sweater | jeans | clogs | scarf | rose gold sandals | necklace | trench coat | sunglasses | earrings

When wearing baggy jeans, ensure the waist fits properly. Balance the volume with tucked in and shorter tops, but continue that volume in details such as sleeves and sturdier footwear. Soft neutrals and brushed gold will add elegance to faded denim.

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In: Denim, Fashion Advice

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Comments

  1. Stargeek says

    March 17, 2021 at 3:37 pm

    I am a young 63ish who loves the faded jean look and doesn’t act my age:) I hunt men’s baggy Levi’s on Ebay in different styles n washes for a great price point. Looking for ways to incorporate fun & out if the box spring & summertime looks. My best tip is never looking like you tried.

    Reply
  2. Kimberly says

    March 7, 2021 at 1:40 pm

    Your spring neutrals palette is perfect for me! I have the perfect pair of shoes … under my desk at my office, where I probably won’t be back at until June? July?

    “The key is to keep things relaxed and light so it doesn’t feel ’80s Lita Ford”
    I cackled. I love you so much!

    Reply
  3. Robyn says

    March 6, 2021 at 7:45 am

    I love faded but not ripped jeans. What I’m having a hard time with is finding some that aren’t so high rise. I’m short waisted and the jeans end up near the band of my bra. The only mid rise I can find are in skinny jeans which I no longer wear.

    Reply
  4. Book Goddess says

    March 5, 2021 at 4:03 pm

    Thank you for this article! I have three pairs of light/faded jeans. I usually wear them with navy or red but these are great suggestions. As it happens, two of the pairs are monochrome prints – one stars and one floral. The third pair has floral embroidery. Wondering if these have gone out of style during the pandemic….

    Reply
  5. Rebecca says

    March 5, 2021 at 11:05 am

    Love a lot of these suggestions and am thinking about how what I already own could work. But just not sure about the faded jeans themselves—I’ve always felt they make me look larger than dark washes do. Interested to see your review of the Madewells.

    Reply
  6. Joanne says

    March 5, 2021 at 3:00 am

    Love the looks especially Spring Neutrals and Sporty Boho! But try as I might, I just cannot get my head around actually paying for jeans with holes ripped in them!

    Reply
  7. Joy Anzalone says

    March 4, 2021 at 10:48 pm

    I just bought a pair of light washed jeans and love the inspiration. Thank you!

    Reply
  8. Susan G says

    March 4, 2021 at 6:56 pm

    Can’t choose a favorite. These are all so FUN! We need more fun, yes?

    Reply
  9. Lee says

    March 4, 2021 at 1:23 pm

    I love every single look you created, but the lavender sweater is my favorite! I’ve been looking for one and almost bought a merino wool version from J Crew, but I live in the South, so I know sweaters are just not that practical for very long in the spring here. Anyway, if I decide to pick up a pair of faded jeans, I feel like these are all great ways to pair them. You really are so good at this!

    Reply
    • Leu2500 says

      March 4, 2021 at 4:13 pm

      Check out J Jill. They have some lightweight sweaters.

      Reply
      • Lee says

        March 4, 2021 at 4:38 pm

        Thanks! I’ve ordered a really pretty linen one; hoping it gets here soon.

        Reply
  10. Allison says

    March 4, 2021 at 12:56 pm

    I picked up a pair of mom jeans at my teenager’s insistence sometime pre-COVID, maybe fall of 2019. Faded denim, less stretch, straight leg, high waist, ankle crop, yep the whole shebang. I love your suggestions of what to wear with them. I’ve really enjoyed mine with dark clothing all year long. The light denim freshens up the look and keeps me from feeling like a summertime goth. (That’s the kid’s look these days, not mine!)

    Reply
  11. Rita K says

    March 4, 2021 at 11:13 am

    I love this post and it gives me so many ideas and options to update my look. You are the BEST!!!

    Reply
  12. Jen says

    March 4, 2021 at 10:30 am

    Thank you for taking the time to put posts like this together. I love seeing the whole “look” and an explanation of why it works. Thank you!

    Reply
  13. Carly says

    March 4, 2021 at 10:05 am

    Inspired by you, I tried a pair of faded jeans…they felt like an old friend! I paired them with a striped tee & sweater blazer so I feel extra fashionable since it is a look similar to the one you recommended! Thanks for giving me the confidence to try something new! (I should say they were faded…but skinny jeans. Baby steps.)

    Reply
  14. Marie says

    March 4, 2021 at 8:29 am

    I love posts like this. More often than not, I feel like my outfits are boring to me. I love seeing different ways of putting together basic items such as a pair of jeans or what not. This takes me out of my “rut”. Love it and thanks for posting.

    Reply
  15. Karen says

    March 4, 2021 at 6:45 am

    That top grouping, spring neutrals, has my name all over it!

    Reply

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Girlfriend Collective Activewear Review by an Over-40 Curvy Woman

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

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Sep 23

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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

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Sep 21

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Sep 19

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

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

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

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

wardrobe_oxygen

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Sep 11

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

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

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

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Sep 8

Open
I can see clearly now…

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

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

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

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

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

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Sep 5

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I’ll be a bit quiet on here and other channels because I had eye (retinal) surgery this past weekend. I was having what I thought were ocular migraines but come to find out I was experiencing lattice degeneration, which is thinning/holes in the retina. I had surgery Saturday for my right eye and later on they’ll work on the left eye, which isn’t as bad and can be remedied by laser, in office.

I share not because I’m Mrs. Frizzle meets Iris Apfel as I recuperate at home, but because this whole thing has been a lesson on trusting my gut. And I want to remind you to do the same.

As we get older our bodies can feel like strangers. Things are constantly changing and it’s easy to just assume your annual physical will catch anything wrong. But if you slow down and listen to your body you’ll know when things are just a sign of aging and life and what seems unusual. That nagging issue may be something more serious.

And if you’re seeing flashing lights, floaters, spiderwebs or other odd eye things get checked out ASAP. It may be nothing but take it from me, it may actually be something. ❤️

Okay, going back to my big sunglasses caftan recuperation life!

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Aug 30

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Ladies who lunch…

While in Savannah, I made sure to get lunch reservations for me and E at @theoldepinkhouse she loves the color pink, historic homes, and ghost stories so it was a perfect choice! 

Built in 1789 on Reynolds Square, there are stories of guests seeing ghosts, cutlery and wine bottles moving along with an elegant and truly delicious dining. 

While we didn’t see any apparitions, we did have a lovely lunch with impeccable service and after toured all floors of the home. I highly recommend a visit if you’re visiting Savannah!

My dress is from @cosstores (no longer available); hat is @furtalk and bag is @talbotsofficial (no longer available).

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Aug 29

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Scenes from a week in Savannah… 

The three of us (and our dog Oscar!) had a warm and humid but wonderful time exploring Savannah, Georgia earlier this month. Our daughter visited this gorgeous city last summer with her @girlscouts troop but wanted to return to experience more. We let her choose our adventures and play your guide and it was awesome. We cannot wait to visit again, though next time it won’t be August 🥵

For more of our trip check the “Savannah” highlight on my profile page!

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Aug 28

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Stripes are always right…

Y’all know I love stripes and when @universalstandard came out with their Breton-stripe dresses and tops I HAD to try them! As expected, the quality is stellar, the fit boosts my confidence, and I appreciate the range of colors (5 different stripes to choose from) and sizes (00-50). For reference, I’m wearing XS but preferred S for the top and I usually wear a 14 or XL in other brands.

The tote is @able and it’s a soft yet durable leather that just looks better with time. This color (cognac) is one that transitions nicely from summer to fall. 

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

#usinthewild #bretonstripes #midsizestyle #midsizefashion #size14 #over40style

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Aug 27

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The family that wears @printfresh together stays together 🥰

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

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

#printfresh #printfreshpajamas #printfreshpartner

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