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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!
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
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Health and Wellness, Activewear, Fitness · December 5, 2018

I Started Weight Training One Year Ago: The Results

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. 

Over 40 fitness one year after starting weight training by wardrobe oxygen. How to start a fitness routine

A year ago, I was in the worst shape of my life. At 5’3” I was a bit over 200 lbs. I had back pain, knee pain, and occasionally got migraines. My allergies were terrible, I was always tired and felt as though I was living life in a fog. I’ve never been athletic, but always felt I was still strong… but even my strength was fading. I don’t “do” gyms; I’ve occasionally gone on the elliptical or treadmill at the gym in my town but never consistently. The last time I consistently went to a gym was college and that was only for one semester. Yet for some reason I connected with Elite Technique, a gym in Beltsville, Maryland and signed up for weekday personal training sessions.

Over 40 fitness one year after starting weight training by wardrobe oxygen. How to start a fitness routine

I’m famous for giving up when things get tough, but I stuck with the gym. Over an entire year, excluding vacations and business trips, I have only missed eight training sessions. Every weekday morning, I go to Elite Technique and work with my trainer Khalil for a half hour. Often, the session starts with 10 minutes on the treadmill, then we do weight training.

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When I joined the gym, I didn’t have big dreams about getting thin. I just wanted to get back under 200 lbs and I wanted to be strong again. I achieved my goals in this past year and with it, learned so much about myself and what defines health.

Over 40 fitness one year after starting weight training by wardrobe oxygen. How to start a fitness routine

When I joined Elite Technique, I was a size 16 with a 38F chest. Now, I am a size 12 with a 36DDD chest. I haven’t had a migraine since I started working out. My cholesterol and blood pressure both dropped into a nice comfortable, healthy range. No more back pain, hardly any knee pain. My skin looks better, my posture is better, and my body is a completely different shape.

Over 40 fitness one year after starting weight training by wardrobe oxygen. How to start a fitness routine

I mentioned in this post, but with all these changes I’ve only lost 10 lbs. But these photos show that weight is not the only factor in determining health, shape, or strength. And at age 43, I show that it’s not too late to start. In fact, my mom is 75 and she just started working out at Elite Technique this year. She recently had surgery and the doctor said she likely healed so well and got through the procedure so beautifully in part because of her weight training routine.

Over 40 fitness one year after starting weight training by wardrobe oxygen. How to start a fitness routine

Society may make us feel bad for its size, shape, or ability but our bodies, all of our bodies, are awesome. Our body is the only reason we are here, and deserves to be nurtured and respected. Weight training helped me reconnect with my body and improve my relationship with my self. It has helped me fight past that bad influence on my shoulder that encourages me to hit the snooze button, has retrained my mind to crave different things when I am sad, mad, or frustrated. It helped me find routine and time for myself as a work from home entrepreneur who could spend all day in her pajamas in front of a computer. It made me an inspiration for my daughter, reduced the number of days I was sick or out of commission, and made me a more equal partner with my husband when we went camping, kayaking, biking, and completing home improvement projects.

Over 40 fitness one year after starting weight training by wardrobe oxygen. How to start a fitness routine

Here’s to one year of fitness, I cannot wait to see what I can achieve in 2019!

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I know some of you are curious about what I am wearing.  I stopped trying to make my hair work at the gym so I wear baseball caps; they also keep sweat out of my eye. The sports bra is the Catalyst from Knix.  The leggings are Core10, you can design your own for a good price and they've held up beautifully.  They're my favorite leggings; Zella is a close second. The navy shirt is from Daily Ritual, the turquoise one is Zella, but my favorite workout top is from Universal Standard.  My favorite workout underwear, as well as everyday underwear is the boyshorts from Knix. My favorite socks for working out are SmartWool Hide and Seek (they keep the sweat and funk at bay and last for years). My current favorite sneakers are these from Asics which give a lot of arch support and stability.

For those who live in the area, Elite Technique offered me a promo code for Wardrobe Oxygen readers: sign up with Elite Technique by December 25, 2018 with promo code OXYGEN20 and get 20% off your first package.  Discount for new clients only, promo valid until the 25th or when their schedule fills up.  If you have any questions about Elite Technique or their trainers let me know in the comments.  I am not paid by Elite Technique and pay for my sessions just like everyone and will provide honest answers.

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In: Health and Wellness, Activewear, Fitness · Tagged: activewear, Elite Technique, weight training

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Comments

  1. Gervy says

    December 12, 2018 at 6:01 am

    So impressed Allie – you look fantastic. Thanks for disclosing that you lost a relatively small amount of weight – interesting to know given you look like you’ve lost much more than that and might encourage people (me!) who get disappointed when the scales stay the same with exercise – it is CLEARLY achieving something for you physically. And I love that you have taken the time for this self-care and how it is paying off in how you feel.

    I’m inspired!

    Reply
  2. Curvy CEO says

    December 10, 2018 at 12:05 am

    As always you continue to amaze and inspire me!! Just wondering if, in addition to working out five days a week (!!) you made any changes to your diet? I just joined a fancy new gym and I’m thinking that the amenities will really get me going there much more often.

    Reply
  3. LindaB says

    December 9, 2018 at 8:26 am

    Congratulations Alison! Being strong and healthy really is the goal, and you have set a fantastic example for your family and your readers. Life is so much better when we move. And I agree —it’s not about the number on the scale.

    Reply
  4. Bridget says

    December 8, 2018 at 10:42 am

    I’m so glad this has become a force for good in your life! Well done you. 🙂

    Reply
  5. L H Carter says

    December 7, 2018 at 8:23 pm

    Congratulations Alison on the changes you have made in your health and well being. A whole year of commitment and consistency looks good on you!!!
    Yes, you did it for yourself, but your mother, husband, daughter and your job benefited as well. Sometimes we think going to the gym, walking, jogging, skating, skiing, or biking is selfish but it’s good for everyone you are connected to.
    I look forward to hearing your achievements with your trainers and reaching new goals all during 2019.

    Reply
  6. Pura says

    December 6, 2018 at 8:09 pm

    Allison!!! Thank you for sharing this year’s journey with fitness. You look so healthy and so beautiful. I love reading your letters and blog and hope you continue to be successful in the coming years. The amazing thing with taking care of oneself is that it gives one so much energy to take care of those we love and in the same swoop it provides an example for others to follow.
    Thanks and Happy Holidays.

    Reply
  7. Chris says

    December 6, 2018 at 6:38 pm

    I think many folks are much too focused on weight. There are so many factors that play into health and fitness. The first time I went to a gym, the trainer told me to forget about the weight and use the tape measure to gauge my progress.

    I would not be surprised if Allie gained weight while she continues to work out. Muscle is dense, heavy, but takes up less space than fat does. At this point, I think Allie is seriously muscled and will continue to reduce body fat percentage.

    I stopped going to my favorite gym when they closed their business. I haven’t found another that I am comfortable with. I have a few weights at home and
    work out some but it’s not nearly as good as when I could go to a gym
    with all the machines and free weights to pick from.

    I had better get back at it and soon. I’m tired all the time and one knee is
    giving me fits. I felt and looked so much better when I was a regular gym
    patron.

    Thanks Allie for encouraging us all to get or continue on track!

    Reply
  8. Elizabeth says

    December 6, 2018 at 5:31 pm

    You look AMAZING! Congrats on all your hard work paying off!

    Reply
  9. b says

    December 6, 2018 at 12:01 pm

    Your enthusiasm and energy are inspiring. Can you share how much your gym and personal training cost? I live in a high cost of living area without a car and am finding the price of gyms daunting. Thanks.

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      December 8, 2018 at 12:04 pm

      It costs $400/month for five sessions per week. They offer 2x/week and 3x/week packages as well.

      Reply
  10. Mary says

    December 6, 2018 at 8:17 am

    You look fabulous. A true inspiration

    Reply
  11. Maia says

    December 6, 2018 at 6:56 am

    You’re a badass, Allie!!

    In case you (or other readers) haven’t seen this website, I ran into the other day and it think it is an interesting project idea, though the photos are fairly low resolution and it certainly does not cover the full diversity of body types or weight for heights.

    http://www.height-weight-chart.com/heightweight.html

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      December 8, 2018 at 12:05 pm

      This is a fantastic resource, thank you Maia!

      Reply
  12. Connie Harich says

    December 6, 2018 at 6:23 am

    Alison, you are an inspiration! Keep on keepin’ on. 🙂

    Reply
  13. karen says

    December 6, 2018 at 6:14 am

    WOW! good for you for your commitment to yourself…you look great, but more important, as you state, you feel great.

    Reply
  14. Katy says

    December 6, 2018 at 1:00 am

    Woot. Go girl! And I love that the sessions are only 30 minutes. I wish more places offered 30 minutes as it’s a super manageable amount of time. Tell Elite Technique that they should open more branches in the DC area (Navy Yard!) and they’ll have more customers! (Realistically, Beltsville is just too far for me to go consistently!)

    Reply
  15. oneWEIRDword says

    December 5, 2018 at 6:23 pm

    You inspired me to start working out in February. Your instagram stories really helped me along. I was having terrible lower back pain and lost a lot of strength after getting a job in another town 3 years ago. Driving instead of cycling and transit gave me pain and weakness. So I joined a workout group, and with that and your persistence and consistency helped me feel like I could be badass too!

    In September, I slipped on a hill while walking my dog and injured my foot. I can’t do leg-day like I could before, so I’m concentrating on core, arms, shoulders, and back. Here now all these months later, I want to thank you for your inspiration. Ally works out so often! I can do it too! I feel SO MUCH BETTER.

    Congratulations!

    Reply
  16. Melissa says

    December 5, 2018 at 5:41 pm

    You look great Allie. Kudos to you. But I have got to say….190 lbs and a SIZE 12? That hardly seems possible. I am 5’3” tall. 190lbs. Average frame. 36B. Walk on the treadmill 3-4 times a week. I am not even close to a size 12 and except for my chest, my body shape looks pretty close to yours, by your pic. Really? A size 12?

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      December 5, 2018 at 6:22 pm

      I’m sitting here typing this in a pair of size 10 Universal Standard jeans with a L J. Crew top, earlier today I was wearing a pair of size 12 pants from WHBM. I always state my clothing sizes in my outfit posts. This is an example why focusing on the number on the scale isn’t the best thing. I have a much larger chest than you and I lift heavy weights; muscle weighs more. I have no need to lie nor any need to squeeze into a size too small. 🙂

      Reply
      • melissa says

        December 5, 2018 at 8:40 pm

        I did not imply you were lying. I simply stated that 190lbs, no matter what the muscle mass, is typically not a size 12. I was 170 lbs two summers ago, and I was in a size 16. I still find it unusual. Take care.

        Reply
        • Alison Gary says

          December 5, 2018 at 8:52 pm

          If I came off sensitive, it’s because you’re not the first, or second or even tenth person so question my weight to size. Each time I share a photo of me in a swimsuit or cocktail dress, or mention my weight I get emails, DMs, comments, and threads on message boards questioning if I was being accurate and often sharing what size or weight they really think I am. The way you worded your comment came across in a way that seemed like you felt I wasn’t accurate and I got defensive. I’m sorry if I misinterpreted your message and I thank you for being part of the conversation and coming back to explain.

          Reply
        • JenW says

          December 6, 2018 at 12:08 pm

          All of our bodies are different, and even though you two are similar in height, if she’s working out with weights and you are doing cardio, she is going to be a smaller size at the same weight. If it seems unusual to you, check out Pinterest for photos of women who gain weight while weightlifting and still look dramatically smaller than their before photos. I’ve been lifting weights for over 25 years and so I don’t find this unusual at all. After giving birth to my son I weighed my all time high of 284, and wore a size 20. Now at 190 pounds I wear a size 8/10 or a medium lifting 2-4 times a week for 20-30 minutes, walk as part of my work with kids, and doing gentle yoga for 20 minutes daily. If you aren’t happy with your results, perhaps Allie’s results might inspire you to explore other fitness routines.

          Reply
  17. Cynthia says

    December 5, 2018 at 4:53 pm

    You are amazing and inspiring. Thanks for showing those before-and-after photos; they really show off your hard work!

    Reply
  18. Pahola says

    December 5, 2018 at 4:00 pm

    You are an inspiration!

    Reply
  19. Nicole K says

    December 5, 2018 at 3:23 pm

    OK, great! Now I have to renew my commitment to fitness. (heh heh) Like you, I am notorious for quitting when the going gets tough, but you’ve inspired me. And it will start with a new bra for the girls! Yay (they say)!

    Reply
  20. Debra says

    December 5, 2018 at 2:46 pm

    Great job! You are such an inspiration to me in so many ways. Thank you for sharing your success with us!

    Reply
  21. Susan says

    December 5, 2018 at 12:53 pm

    You look amazing, thank you for putting yourself out there. It’s very inspiring. Congrats on 1 year in. That’s a lot of commitment and it shows.

    Reply
  22. Pam says

    December 5, 2018 at 12:48 pm

    Good for you!!!
    You look fabulous, and better than that you feel fabulous.

    Reply
  23. Stacie says

    December 5, 2018 at 12:04 pm

    So inspired and proud of you Ali!

    Reply
  24. Tara says

    December 5, 2018 at 11:51 am

    Congratulations on your hard work! You have inspired me and lots of others to recommit to fitness this past year–so thank you for your example and your willingness to share the process with all of us. The payoff in terms of mood, strength, health improvements and pride in yourself will continue to reap benefits–so glad to hear that your migraines have dissipated. They are the worst! I love how you’ve demonstrated that once it is part of your day, it just becomes a lifestyle. Thanks!

    Reply
  25. Nebraskim says

    December 5, 2018 at 11:29 am

    Good work rewarded! I know it’s physically hard and sometimes emotionally you just don’t want to do it, but I find a workout is the best way for me to get my head into a better place. I have been messing with foot injuries (that are uncureable/untreatable) and have had to adjust to the fact I will no longer be able to do long-distance running/walking again. But I started yoga this year, got more serious about short distances (5Ks), and weight training. I have no idea my starting weight or my current weight, but recently during a closet cull, I sent 12 pairs of pants and some skirts to the charity bin as they are too big. And a down puffer coat I was going to consign as it was kind of tight is now perfect. I also overhauled my eating. My body has changed, proving that even at the elderly age of 63, all things are possible. I’ve always been a person who enjoyed working out, but this year, I got way more serious as Ihad more time and decided to get back on track. You are an inspiration for many. Good work.

    Reply
    • oneWEIRDword says

      December 5, 2018 at 6:26 pm

      Way to go, Nebraskim!

      Reply
      • Nebraskim says

        December 6, 2018 at 5:25 pm

        Thank you!

        Reply
  26. Emily R says

    December 5, 2018 at 10:29 am

    So happy for you! You look SO much healthier/happier. Congrats for sticking with it for an entire year. You actually inspired me to join a gym and I’ve been consistently going every other day for the past month and a half – I hope to keep that up in 2019!

    Reply
  27. sharon says

    December 5, 2018 at 10:21 am

    You go, girl! I also love weight training.

    Reply
  28. Patricia says

    December 5, 2018 at 9:57 am

    I have just started working out 5 days a week. If you don’t mind sharing, is there a specific order that you work your muscle groups in?

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      December 5, 2018 at 6:24 pm

      Usually Monday is leg day, then we switch it up one day back, one arm, one chest. Then Friday is a mixed bag; sometimes we do cardio, sometimes agility, sometimes we revisit a part of the body.

      Reply
      • Patricia says

        December 5, 2018 at 9:56 pm

        Thank you! You are great!

        Reply
  29. Krista says

    December 5, 2018 at 9:21 am

    Get it girl! You are another example of how being fit and healthy does not have to mean a size 2 with six pack abs. You look great. Not because you’ve lost some inches or toned up. You have a healthy glow about you that says “I’ll snap your skinny arm like a twig if you mess with me”. You are a strong, beautiful example for all of us!

    Reply
  30. Jayne says

    December 5, 2018 at 8:59 am

    I don’t know why but I was wondering about your results with your work out. I am really excited to see the inches you have lost. I too am not athletic and gym is a dirty word. But gosh the results, tenacity determination you have displayed is so so encouraging. Thank you for continuing to post your after work out posts.

    Reply
  31. Sarah says

    December 5, 2018 at 8:57 am

    In July I signed up for personal training sessions, because of your posts. I haven’t missed a session since. I could tell how good they made you feel. Like you, I don’t have illusions of being a swimsuit model at my age of 43. I just don’t care about that. But I adore my new firm muscles, even if they are hiding under my wobbly upper arm flesh. It’s just so satisfying and my trainer pushes me farther than I would have ever gone alone. Thanks for the inspiration!

    Reply
  32. Tonya Parker says

    December 5, 2018 at 8:39 am

    I love watching your strength training workout videos! And, I love that you continue to inspire on so many different levels! Here’s to a strong 2019!

    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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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

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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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Sep 11

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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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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! 🧡

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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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Aug 12

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Shuts laptop until Monday… #RehobothBeach

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