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 · February 12, 2015

#BendTheRules with HP and Your Wardrobe

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. 

I have a shameful blogging secret to share – until recently I didn’t own my own computer. Karl and I share his laptop, and I say it is his and not mine because it’s a fancy computer with fancy things to make professional photos do all the fancy things they’re supposed to do. He uses Chrome, I use Firefox, and I store all my files on an external hard drive or Dropbox. A few years ago I splurged on a netbook; it was knocked off the coffee table by an exuberant dog’s tail wag and had to be repaired by those far more techy than I; when it was dropped a second time by a curious toddler I gave up and went back to sharing with Karl. So when HP offered to send me their brilliant x360 in exchange for a post about versatility (um hello, I am all about a versatile wardrobe) and Meghan Trainor (um hello, I am all about the bass) I was psyched.

This February & March, HP is going on the road with Meghan Trainor to cover her entire US tour. From Vancouver to Nashville, they’ll have a camera crew and some of their favorite Meghan Trainor fans from her Lips Are Movin’ video to help bring the tour to life. You can follow along with the Meghan Trainor tour by watching Behind The Scenes episodes or following @HP for updates.

hp x360

I am writing this piece from my HP x360 and this machine is awesome. Not only do I finally feel like a legit blogger with my own computer (and I already personalized it as you can see above and on Instagram), but the versatility of the x360 is cool. What stands out with the HP x360 is its four modes: laptop, tablet, tent, and stand. This is not just a laptop, and it’s far more than a tablet. A hybrid of the two that bends all the rules, the HP x360 has a keyboard but also a touch screen. The hinges that connect the screen to the keyboard move 360 degrees and hold their place; this means it can be a classic laptop, can tent to make it easy to watch movies (great for lying in bed watching Netflix), can flip all the way back to be a tablet (and the screen rotates in all four directions), or bend the keyboard back to be a stand to keep the monitor upright on a tabletop. And unlike my old netbook (RIP), the HP x360 is substantial and able to survive daily use or a curious toddler.

The HP x360 has four modes of versatility, and four is a pretty good number to keep in mind when choosing a new piece for your wardrobe. Especially when considering wardrobe staples, you want a piece that you can envision being styled in multiple ways with multiple pieces already residing in your closet. Back in June of 2005 I started this blog with a list of items every woman needs in her wardrobe (and stay tuned for a Spring 2015 update). I still believe that some core pieces work for most any woman’s closet and one that I recommended and people question the most is a trendy jacket or blazer. While this list is a decade old, I still think a unique jacket can transform a wardrobe and truly infuse your personal style to your closet. From a velvet blazer with puffed sleeves to a leather moto jacket in your signature color, a jacket that incorporates trends you enjoy and details that speak to you will take your wardrobe basics to the next level. Below I show the versatility of a trendy jacket with four different distinct ensembles.

Inspired by Meghan Trainor’s personal style and the pastel trend for spring, I decided to use a pink moto jacket as the trendy jacket.  I find moto jackets surprisingly versatile and the pastel shade bends the rules of classic biker style by offering a feminine touch.

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A moto jacket is a cool alternative to a blazer and can add personality to the work sheaths already residing in your closet.  Pink and gray is a classic combination, using that plus an office-friendly hemline on the dress keeps the look from being too edgy for Corporate America.  A pair of sleek black booties and a professional bag with modern details ties the look together.

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A moto jacket is a great way to add style and a bit of warmth to more casual looks. Here I paired the jacket with weekend staples of a knit tank, jeans, and sneakers to up the style quotient. Switching out your day bag for a clutch with a rocker vibe makes this comfy-cool look work for a date or night out with the girls.

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Embrace the grunge trend but add your own spin by pairing a pastel-hued moto with a floral dress. To keep it from looking too twee, style with strong black accessories; classic Wayfarers and Docs are classic pieces that give the “Reality Bites” feel without being a fashion victim.

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Balance the tough silhouette of a moto jacket with a feminine full midi skirt and pointed-toe pumps. A cheeky clutch and bold lips complete a look that's tough and tender at the same time.

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In: Fashion Advice

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Comments

  1. HokieKate says

    February 23, 2015 at 9:51 am

    This is one of the best sponsored posts I’ve seen. I’m happy for you getting a new computer, and comparing the versatility to the jacket was quite entertaining.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      February 23, 2015 at 9:52 am

      Thank you!

      Reply
  2. Daniela Scheele says

    February 12, 2015 at 9:10 pm

    I recently picked one up in a tweet kind of material and in grey/black but I absolutely adore the versatility of it. I can wear it to business meetings or simply wear it with jeans or a skirt (though I tend more towards pencil skirts). I just lost a lot of weight and went down two sizes. Now have to redo my whole wardrobe and decided to focus on more classical pieces and things that are more versatile. I found your staples post really helpful though I adapted it slightly to my style and to German culture.

    Reply
  3. Michelle Van Ellis says

    February 12, 2015 at 4:53 pm

    I love the looks you’ve created but the pink moto jacket threw me back to the 80s! Add another foot and a half to it and I had that in a dress with, yes, the zipper all the way down to the hem. oof!

    Reply
  4. Linda R says

    February 12, 2015 at 2:05 pm

    I have a light brown suede moto jacket that I wear often. I’d LOVE to find a moto jacket in a color like this! Any adivse as to where to look for asimilar one?

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      February 12, 2015 at 2:06 pm

      I so wanted to offer links but didn’t think it was okay with HP. That specific jacket in the collages is no longer available but this one – Ace Delivery
      Asymetrical Moto Jacket available at Nordstrom is a good alternative
      ($128) http://bit.ly/1uKllA7

      Reply
      • Linda R says

        February 12, 2015 at 2:13 pm

        Your blog is so helpful, Allie. I have purchased and used many of your recommended beauty products with great success (Tarte Brow Clay and Revlon lipsticks especially). If you recommend a product, I know it’s got to be worth the $$$. I will consider the HP X360 because I am in the market for a new laptop. I have copied many of your amazing outfits…imitation is the highest form of flattery, you know. Cheers!

        Reply
        • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

          February 12, 2015 at 2:20 pm

          Oh you are too sweet! I have a couple computers for work, I’ve used Karl’s different PCs and laptops over the years and I do truly like this machine. It doesn’t come with MS Office and I bought it for it because I know this will be MY computer for a while to come. And unlike Karl’s laptop with Windows 8 I find this one far easier to use because of the combo of laptop/touchpad/mouse AND touchscreen. If I feel stuck in Windows 8 I can swipe the screen even when the keyboard is open and in use and get back to the start screen. A nice hybrid of tablet and laptop!

          Reply
  5. Susan says

    February 12, 2015 at 2:00 pm

    Do you have specs on the pink jacket? Love it… Love mixin’ it up!

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      February 12, 2015 at 2:05 pm

      That specific jacket is no longer available but this one – Ace Delivery Asymetrical Moto Jacket available at Nordstrom is a good alternative ($128) http://bit.ly/1uKllA7

      Reply
      • Susan says

        February 12, 2015 at 2:07 pm

        Thanks a million! 🙂

        Reply
  6. Lilliasrose says

    February 12, 2015 at 11:17 am

    Allie, do you find it hard to make moto jackets work with a larger chest? I love the idea of one, but I always feel like robin redbreast (assuming I can zip it all the way, of course). <3 <3 <3

    Reply
    • Lilliasrose says

      February 12, 2015 at 11:18 am

      I’m a 34F, so I’m not exaggerating here 😉

      Reply
      • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

        February 12, 2015 at 11:20 am

        I’m 36F so I hear you, I don’t usually zip them up because then I look like I’m wearing a breastplate. But as a jacket in place of a blazer I find them flattering if they are of a softer leather/lambskin or a non-leather fabric (have one in ponte that I adore).

        Reply
    • Daniela Scheele says

      February 12, 2015 at 9:05 pm

      Maybe try one that’s not leather? I just got one that is some kind of tweet material and even zipped I can wear it just fine, though I tend to wear it unzipped. I’m a 32E for reference.

      Reply
  7. Erin @ Her Heartland Soul says

    February 12, 2015 at 10:28 am

    I love Meghan Trainor, love those outfits, and love that you have your own computer now!! Definitely necessary for blogging!

    Her Heartland Soul
    http://herheartlandsoul.com

    Reply

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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

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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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

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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!
https://liketk.it/4hkEF 

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

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