Open
Scenes from a Friday night…

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

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

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

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

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

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4jnDf #ltkplussize #ltkmidsize #ltkover40 #midsizestyle #genxstyle #over40style
Open
If @thechicks are in town you can bet @debbiefaye78 and I will be there! So when we heard they were coming to @merriweatherpp we were so excited. And their concert did not disappoint. As always, a phenomenal show! If The Chicks come to your neck of the woods I highly recommend you go!

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

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

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

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

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4jcBL #ltkmidsize #ltkover40 #midsizestyle #genxstyle #usinthewild #concertstyle
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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
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!
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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! 🐾❤️
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Fashion Advice · January 16, 2020

How to Wear Pantone’s Color of the Year

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. 

The Pantone Colors of the Year from 2013 to 2020

New year, new trends!  While I am not one to jump on every trend's bandwagon, I like to be aware so I can add ones that appeal to me or play with my existing wardrobe to have it feel fresh and modern.  Color is one of my favorite trends to follow as it will determine what is in stores (great to stock up when color trends match your color faves) and gives me ideas on how to mix colors in a a new and modern way.  Every year, Pantone, selects a color that they feel defines the tone of the coming year.  This may feel like a gimmick, but if you look at the colors chosen for the past few years (shown above), you realize they were strong trends that were embraced by high-end designers as well as mall brands.  While I didn't buy any Living Coral last year, I did see how coral and softer shades of blush and a white with just a drop of coral were popular trends and I saw myself gravitating towards such shades when I really hadn't before.  I also see how coral continues to be a popular color, though in 2020 it's a bit softer.  When I shared Fall and Winter Color Trends a few months ago, I didn't own a lot of the colors and had difficulty finding the colors in stores to link in the post.  However, now I not only find those colors everywhere, I have come to love and own many of them. Don't dismiss Pantone's Color of the Year, it often sets a trend not just for its year but years to follow.  

pantone classic blue runway looks
Classic Blue was seen on the runways of many high-end designers in 2019. From left to right, Row 1: Elie Saab, Chanel, Balenciaga, Haider Ackermann, Milly Row 2: Joseph, Gucci, Atlein, Carolina Herrera, Sies Marjan

What is Pantone's Color of the Year for 2020

This year, I think many of you will be pleased with the color Pantone chose for 2020: Classic Blue.  Pantone says Classic Blue instills, “calm, confidence, and connection, this enduring blue hue highlights our desire for a dependable and stable foundation on which to build as we cross the threshold into a new era. A timeless and enduring blue hue, Classic Blue is elegant in its simplicity. Suggestive of the sky at dusk, the reassuring qualities of the thought-provoking Classic Blue highlight our desire for a dependable and stable foundation on which to build as we cross the threshold into a new era. Classic Blue brings a sense of peace and tranquility to the human spirit, offering refuge.” 

I regularly receive feedback from you wishing that there were more “traditional” or “cool” colors available in stores and I agree.  Especially when you wear larger sizes, it seems that everything is black, gray, beige, or a muted shade of mauve, blue, and peach.  I hope that by Classic Blue becoming the Pantone Color of the Year we will see an increase in versatile, wearable colors in a range of sizes.  And unlike more statement-making colors that Pantone has showcased in prior years, Classic Blue is, well, a classic and pieces you buy in this shade won't look passé in a year, or two, or more. 

Related: Fall 2019 Color Trends with a History of Pantone

Shop Plus Size Dresses in Classic Blue:
350

celebrities wearing pantone color of the year classic blue

How to Wear Pantone's Color of the Year, Classic Blue

The hottest color trend that has continued from 2019 is wearing a column of color.  Don't be afraid to rock a Classic Blue pantsuit with a Classic blue blouse underneath, a Classic Blue turtleneck sweater with a Classic blue pleated midi skirt, and you will see many solid-colored maxi dresses and jumpsuits for one-step column of color dressing.  Look for fabrics that will showcase the richness of this color – think more along the lines of silk (and its budget-friendly poly and rayon alternatives) instead of chino and cotton so it glows like sapphires instead of looking like part of a uniform.  

Shop Classic Blue Sweaters:
350

Classic Blue was seen on the runways with black, white, and navy.  These three colors are often ones not associated with blue.  Too similar, and too costumey/nautical.  However, the pairings feel very fresh.  Blue and white Breton stripes is a classic; consider pairing with black wide-leg pants so you incorporate the color trend and a current silhouette.  Black and blue stripes also are a great way to style Classic Blue.  Many watercolor and tie-dye inspired prints were on the runways, mixing Classic Blue with white, gray, black, and navy.  I am betting we'll see more prints like this as spring gets closer.  Don't be afraid to pair Classic Blue with denim.  However, just with navy and black, you want to be sure there is enough of a contrast.  Pair Classic Blue with deep indigo, faded blue, or a color like black or cream.

Shop Classic Blue Blouses and Tops:
350

Classic Blue is a great shade to use for modern and unexpected color pairings.  Try it with Kelly or emerald green, or add it to some of the desert shades like clay, brown, and camel that are on trend this season.  Classic Blue looks chic with pops of orange, rust, mustard, orchid, and berry.  Switch out a dress' blue self-belt with a belt in one of these colors or even a ribbon in a contrasting shade.  Right now you will be most likely to find Classic Blue in sweaters, blouses and blazers.  Try wearing a blue sweater or blouse with camel or brown pants, or a blue blazer with a cinnamon or wine-colored blouse.  This is a great way to make blue feel seasonally appropriate, modern, and not so Crayola. 

Shop Classic Blue Shoes:
350

Classic Blue can also be the accent.  It's a fabulous shade for glasses and sunglasses, handbags, belts, and shoes.  If you love a pop of red or candy pink, try switching it out for Classic Blue this season. It's a great accent to neutrals like olive and khaki, and isn't as cartoony of a contrast with black and white.  A blue suede loafer or pump could get a lot of stylish wear, looking great peeking out from work trousers, styled with denim in all colors of washes, and with dresses and skirts of most any color.  Come spring, a blue shoe will look fresh with faded denim, chambray, and white.

Shop Misses Dresses and Jumpsuits in Classic Blue:
350

Pantone Colors Spring Summer 2020

What Other Colors are On Trend for 2020?

Each season, Pantone creates a palette of colors that they predict will be on trend.  Looking at the colors they chose from Spring/Summer 2020, I again think Pantone is right on the money.  It's a mix of colorful favorites in the vein of Classic Blue, paired with spring tones and shades you've likely seen already gain popularity in 2019.  What I love about this combination is the juxtaposition of bright with muted.  The faded shades that are reminiscent of the desert and a foggy forest make such a cool contrast with clear pops of almost primary colors.  It's this modern mix that really will take your existing wardrobe to the next level.  And while these colors are all different, they all provide something that Classic Blue offers and we see with movie remakes and the appeal of past decades – a feeling of nostalgia.  Of safety, security, and serenity; things we may not be feeling in society and therefore are trying to achieve through fashion. 

As always, when I share trends and fashion advice, it is to offer information and in no way am I stating it must be followed.  There's little chance you'll be seeing Sunlight, Coral Pink, or Grape Compote in my wardrobe, and I continue to wear the colors, silhouettes, and trends that I like.  I hope you will do the same.  But with the death of fashion magazines and social media looking more and more homogenous, I hope pieces like this give you some ideas on how to update your personal style to best fit your life, your needs, and your tastes!

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In: Fashion Advice · Tagged: Pantone, Pantone Color of the Year

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Comments

  1. Christine says

    January 18, 2020 at 2:55 pm

    I feel like a lot of your examples are more like cobalt than the classic blue of the sample (of course, this could have something to do with my screen). The classic blue looks softer, easier to wear for those of us who don’t go so well with the bright or strong colors. I think Kate Middleton’s coat and dress are closer to the actual shade than the others, maybe.

    Reply
  2. laurel says

    January 16, 2020 at 7:21 pm

    Truly a great color for our wardrobes. Going to be some “redo’s” as some try to work this into our decor. It’s a color that needs careful thinking and when it’s right it’s amazing!
    https://littleblackdomicile.com/2019/05/15/when-nature-gets-the-blues-we-all-win/

    Reply
  3. Cristin says

    January 16, 2020 at 10:23 am

    I just happened to order this shirt right before the announcement. It’s a bit of a darker version of Classic Blue, but it’s fabulous, and it fills a major hole in my wardrobe (like what to wear with big plaid pants at work). So versatile and I love it. I wish MM was more size inclusive for all of its pieces!!
    http://bit.ly/2suSwNK

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      January 16, 2020 at 5:30 pm

      That’s a great top!

      Reply

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Styling Novelty Pieces as a Grown-Ass 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 26

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Scenes from a Friday night…

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

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

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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

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Sep 8

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

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