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The perfect red for the holiday season 💄

I love a red lipstick, especially in winter. It adds brightness to gray days and skin not exposed to the sun. Look in my dressing table and you’ll find at least a dozen different red lipsticks. But this winter my go-to red is “Relax” by @flyte.70 

Glossy but not sticky, long wearing but not drying, the Flyte.70 L+L.LipLacquer feels like a lip balm. One layer is a hint of color and shine; add more layers for more pigment, gloss, and impact. This isn’t the only Flyte.70 lip color I have and love; I regularly wear “Fast Car” which is a modern version of the brown lipsticks we loved in the 90s that looks so good with the neutrals popular right now.

And with products named after songs from the 80s and 90s I couldn’t not use this Frankie Goes to Hollywood song for this lip color!

This isn’t paid, it’s a PSA because I know it’s hard to find good red lip colors. And @flyte.70 is a U.S.-based woman-owned ethical beauty brand created specifically for U.S. grown women and I find the quality stellar.

Use code WOXYGEN15 for 15% off your order at Flyte.70

The quickest and cheapest way to update your wardrobe for the holidays is with a glossy red lip! 💄

#over40style #genxstyle #genxbeauty #flyte70
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The tree is trimmed! 🎄

When I was a single gal, I had the prettiest tree with a color story and theme. 20 years later, my tree is a hodgepodge of inherited ornaments, gifts from loved ones, and handmade pieces from both my childhood and by my child. And I think each year it veers further from the original concept the more beautiful it becomes!

My daughter and I donned our Santa hats, turned on the holiday playlist, a Yule log on the TV, and spent the afternoon getting our home into the Christmas spirit.

When she was little, my husband would pick her up so she could place the star on top of the tree. Now that she’s taller than I am, when he got home he just put his arm around her as she used the library stool to reach the top. Some traditions need to be modified with time but they’re still special! ⭐️

Top is a feather trimmed Breton from @talbotsofficial; the scarf as a belt is also Talbots but a few years old. The jeans are @landsend and the blanket on the chair in the second photo is by artist  @zanderschlacter
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My therapist recommended I walk outside more as I grieve the recent loss of my mom.

When it was time to pay for my mom’s funeral, the credit card I had in my wallet was my @bananarepublic Mastercard. I’ve had this card for decades because over the years, most of our family have worn some Gap brand. From onesies to tuxedos, we’ve updated our wardrobes with points.

And I got a serious chunk of points for charging my mom’s funeral expenses on my Banana card.

I decided to use them to buy clothes for winter outdoor walking. Nothing motivates me more than a chance to put together a cute outfit. This cute look is from @athleta, one of the few activewear brands that fits both my size and my style.

My Athleta purchase arrived on my doorstep and that day, a neighbor reached out, inviting me to join a group of women in our community who were supporting, not competing, to move 100k. I immediately said yes and signed up. 

This past week I hit 100k. And this past week week it has been two months she has been gone. I’m still going 💪 

Wearing XL. For reference I’m 5’3” and usually wear a size 14.

I share details on all my looks on the @shop.LTK app. You can use the app or desktop, search for @wardrobe_oxygen or use the link https://liketk.it/4pFaS
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Normalizing the normal everyday outfit…

It was a day of running errands, running to the office, and then running into friends. It rained off and on so I wanted shoes for potential puddles and a coat that wouldn’t soak through but also keep me warm.

The sweater is @universalstandard; I bought it thinking it was a bold purple but the color was off on the site and I got plum. But I think I like this better. I’m wearing a S. This is my second of this cardigan, it is super soft, dense, and holds up to washing. My other one I got a year ago and still wear all the time.

The jeans are @oldnavy and while they’re not perfect and stretch out throughout the day they were around $18 and I like the wash and weight of the denim. I’m wearing a 14 Short.

The boots are old Docs, the coat I got at @talbotsofficial last winter, and the bag is @maxwellscottuk and I’ve had for almost a decade. Earrings are @_jennybird, necklace is @gorjana. 

Disclosure: the coat was gifted last year but remains a favorite. The necklace was also gifted about a year ago but I keep wearing because I like it and it has held up quality-wise. The rest I bought. 

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!

#liketkit #LTKfindsunder50 #LTKover40 #LTKmidsize #midsizestyle #genxstyle #over40style #size14 #usinthewild 
https://liketk.it/4pDXG
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Counteract the gray days with cozy colorful clothes! 🌈 This cashmere sweater set is the prettiest teal and I loved how it looked with this candy pink Chesterfield coat. All are from @anntaylor one of my favorite places to shop because Ann has petites over a size 12. Also all of these items are on sale!

While I did receive these clothes as a gift from Ann Taylor I am under no obligation to share with you. This is what I wore to work and when I saw these colors against the green of my building door I had to prop up my phone and capture the color combo!

This sweater is a classic and with the skirt is created a dress effect you can style with tall boots, ankle boots and tights, or dress down with sneakers. I linked to other pieces in this color that would also look dreamy with this skirt, as well as other gorgeous colorful coats.

For reference I am wearing the coat in XL petite and the sweater set in L. I am 5’3” and usually wear a 14/16

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

#LTKmidsize #ltkover40 #midsizestyle #genxstyle #size14 #midsizepetite #ThisIsAnn
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Just got back from a 4-night getaway with my sister @debbiefaye78 at @curacaomarriottbeachresort. It was a last-minute planned trip that ended up being perfect. We weren’t ready to celebrate Thanksgiving without our mom and this escape what just what our hearts needed. 

I’ll be sharing more once I finally unpack my suitcase and organize my photos and thoughts; but I couldn’t not share this picture from yesterday morning. Debbie and I got up early to enjoy some of the day at the resort before flying home to DC. We had the infinity pool to ourselves, finished our books, and relaxed before a long day of travel. 🌴
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It’s hard when you’re petite and most models aren’t; you have no idea how clothes, especially jeans will fit. To promote @universalstandard’s Denim Drive sale, the company sent me two pairs of jeans of my choice. And I chose to make this video to show how they fit on my 5’3” body. I am usually a 14/32 in jeans but at Universal Standard I wear a 12 because they’re super stretchy and generously sized. 

With jeans as low as $35 in sizes 00-40, this is a sale not to be missed. And use code INFS-BFALISON10 for an additional 10% off sitewide!

The Farrah Flare is a favorite because at my height, most flare jeans will lose what makes them special once hemmed. At a 30” inseam these are great with low heels or lug soles.

The Etta is a straight jean with a vintage fit. If in doubt size down. They’re also super stretchy and the 28” inseam (they also come in 31”) works with my boots and sneakers.

While I was provided the apparel in this Reel for free, I was not paid or contracted to create this content. Consider it a PSA for my fellow shorties shopping this fab denim sale!

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4oWOQ #ltkmidsize #ltkplussize #ltkover40 #ltksalealert #uspartner #midsizestyle
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Thanks to @talbotsofficial I’m ready for the holidays! #AD

I love Talbots for holiday fashion and this season’s new arrivals do not disappoint. And for Black Friday the entire site is 40% off with free shipping on orders $150+. Until noon, you also receive 50% off 1 regular price item!

I ordered pieces from the Talbots Holiday Collection and found great quality, great style, and great versatility. How cute is the Breton stripe bateau neck with the removable feather cuffs? The metallic plaid patio skirt is so fun, and these two dresses can glam up or dress down with a change of footwear and bag. For reference, I am wearing everything in either XL or 16 petite.

The ivory cords are also Talbots; the black trousers are from last year’s Talbots Holiday Collection showing how Talbots has lasting style. I’ve linked to exact or very similar in my LTK shop. Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.ltk app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content! https://liketk.it/4oDJF

#mytalbots modernclassicstyle #wondersoftheseason #ltkover40 #ltkplussize #ltkmidsize #blackfridaysale
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@somaintimates makes it easy to shop for a range of personas this holiday season! #AD With gift guides for a range of personality types, you can easily find great gifts for your loved ones. I was drawn to the creative one, loving the rich colorful florals, luxe satin, lace trim, and of course Soma’s iconic Cool Nights sleepwear! Visit Soma’s gift guide for tips on finding the perfect present this holiday season. #SomaGiftGuide #SomaStartsWithMe
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Fashion Advice, Underpinnings and Sleepwear · February 1, 2018

My Lingerie Must-Haves: Bras, Panties, Shapewear, and More

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. 

photo of a woman's body in a bra with a sweater off her shoulders covering most of her body., Over it is text stating my favorite lingerie for a curvy frame.When I featured an off the shoulder sweater in a recent post there were a lot of comments on the blog, on Facebook, and by email… and they weren't about the sweater but what was I wearing underneath? As a full-figured woman, I'm not comfortable without a bra and there were no visible straps. Yes, I was wearing a strapless bra and a comfortable one at that! I've worn it on cross-country flights, for work days, for long evenings, and find it comfortable and supportive. I decided to share what are my favorite and must-have items in my lingerie drawer. Not only strapless bras but all sorts of other underpinnings for all kinds of occasions.

Best Strapless Bra: Fantasie 4530 Smoothing Strapless Bra

I bought this when I was a 38 F, when I was a 36 DD, I have one now (36 E). It's a molded cup bra, which helps keep the breasts lifted and looking full without straps. The band is very wide under the arms and thins a bit as it gets to the hooks, but still is a three-hook wide band. It also has silicone strips so the width and the grip keep it in place without having to dig. This bra is completely smooth so it's virtually invisible even under fitted garments and lightweight knits. My sister's rule for strapless bras is go down one band size and up one cup size; I find this can make my breasts look a bit sad and saggy in the cups, but everyone's breasts are different so if you're not finding the support you desire, consider trying this technique. I have one in beige, one in black. This bra is replaced every year because it does stretch out and also because I find that even if I don't change my diet and fitness level my breasts keep changing in size and density with age.

Best Everyday Bra: Fantasie 4510 Underwire Smoothing T-Shirt Bra

Again, this is a molded cup bra. I found with age and after breastfeeding that my breasts lost density and fullness but not size. A molded cup for me provides the shape I desire, prevents “headlights,” and gives a smooth finish that I like with my clothing. Those who find molded cups too stiff or fake looking may be wearing the wrong size; even one cup or band too big and I find the bra looks like I'm trying to be Dolly Parton. But when it's the right fit (I replace these every 6-12 months) it's sooo good. This bra is comfortable, it doesn't dig, no seams to irritate, it supports, it could be slept in. I always have at least two nudes and one black in my drawer, in a variety of ages. I say this is my everyday bra because it truly is. I could be wearing a cocktail dress or overalls and 99% of the time this bra will be underneath.

Best High-Impact Sports Bra: Panache Underwire Sports Bra

I like a sports bra that functions like a normal bra (meaning separate, lifted breasts instead of a mound of flesh mushed against my breast bone) but looks like a sports bra (so it can show and I don't feel half naked). This one does all this AND it can convert to a racerback! This is a pretty heavy-duty bra which is great for those of us with large breasts who want to run, dance, and do other higher-impact activities. I have it in black, but there's a lot of fun colors if that's your thing.

Best Medium- to Low-Impact Sports Bra: Berlei High Impact Sports Bra

I bought this thinking it was high-impact. Eh, it's far better than a standard sports bra but it's as high impact as my everyday molded cup bra. However, unlike my everyday bra this one is breathable fabric with ventilated places, it washes great and doesn't hold odor, the cups are cotton lined so they're comfortable, and it comes in a lot of fun colors and patterns which is rare for large busted ladies. The straps can be made criss-cross easily which is a nice feature. This is the bra I wear for my daily workouts at the gym which is mostly weight training and cardio (treadmill and agility).

Best Pretty Bra for Large Busts: Wacoal 65191 Embrace Lace Underwire Bra

I don't like how my breasts look in a lot of unlined, lacy, pretty bras. Well maybe my breasts look great but the effect under clothing isn't what I desire. I hate seeing the texture of the bra, the edge of the cups, the seams, and the shape. This bra gives my breasts a great shape, sand sure it's lacy and frilly but somehow it doesn't show as much under clothing. Not only that it doesn't itch or annoy me like many lace bras. And gosh, it's pretty and comes in really pretty color combinations too!

Best Pretty Undies to Go with the Pretty Bra: Wacoal Embrace Lace High Cut Brief

If bikinis are more your jam, that too is available. But I like this brief because it's not too high (just below my belly button), it really makes my tummy look cute, hides what I want to hide, flaunt what I want to flaunt, is super comfortable, doesn't ride or roll or sag, and it's nice to have a few matched sets in the drawer for days you want to feel fierce and fabulous. For reference, I wear a 14/16 and get these in XL.

Best Everyday Underwear: Hanky Panky Retro Vikini

I freaking love Hanky Panky, and I adore this underwear. Every time Nordstrom has a sale, I buy a pair or two. I like that they hit right below my belly button so they're hidden with jeans and tops, but aren't segmenting my lower belly. They don't fall down, they don't ride up, they don't dig, they don't cause wedgies, and they look pretty too. When I was a full 16 the XL fit great; now that I am closer to a 14 I can still wear my XLs no problem but plan on buying new pairs in L to replace over time.

Best Thong: Hanky Panky Retro Thong

They have the same rise as the Retro Vikini, which I find works best with a soft lower belly. I find the thong to be extremely comfortable, more comfortable than most any other thong I've ever worn. The lace is sexy but also practical, these don't ride up, I rarely end up having them rise and feel like they're slicing me in half (hate it when thongs do that), and the skin colors blend nicely enough that they are invisible under white pants and shorts.

Best Workout Underwear: ExOfficio Give-N-Go

I have the Bikini Brief, Lacy Full Cut Brief, and the Lacy Bikini. The bikini brief is my favorite because they cover the lower belly and don't slip under it when exercising, and don't dig in along the leg openings, but aren't higher than my leggings. However, I still wear my lacy bikinis, I just don't reach for them first. Like Hanky Panky, I am still wearing my XLs but will be buying new pairs in L. This underwear isn't cheap, but gosh is it pretty fantastic! Antimicrobial treatment reduces odor, breathable mesh keeps you cool and comfortable, the fabric is so durable you can wash them multiple times a week and they will still look great and fit the same in a year. These are awesome for travel because they're so comfy and breathable, and you can hand wash them in the sink and have them ready to go the next day.

Best Shaping Garment: TC Fine Intimates Firm Control Open Bust Torsette Bodysuit

Nine times out of ten I'm wearing this bodysuit in an outfit shoot. I love how it smooths the entire back and torso yet I can wear my favorite bra. It has silicone strips on the rear so it stays in place and also is virtually invisible (no VPL!). It doesn't constrict so much I end up with gas pains or look like a stuffed sausage, but gives a smooth look under all types of garments. The only problem with this is when I wear strapless or tank-style pieces because the wide straps end up showing. But I have one in black, one in nude, and I replace them every year or so when they get stretched out or my size changes.

Best Shaper for Strapless/Thin Strapped Looks: SPANX Slim Cognito High Waist Shaping Briefs

I recommend if unsure, size up with this baby. When it's too small, it rolls down and causes VPL. Even if it doesn't suck in as much in the larger size, it will give a more natural effect, be more comfortable, stay in place, and be virtually invisible. This isn't as comfortable as the bodysuit from TC Fine Intimates, but is a great choice when wearing spaghetti straps, strapless, or tank style tops. It has straps to hook it to your bra, but because I'm short-torsoed it comes up over my bra in the back and that keeps it in place.

Best Full Slip: Commando Full Cami Slip

This hits right at the top of my kneecap with the straps shortened as much as possible. It's not too high in front, just enough to cover my bra so it can also work as a cami with low-cut dresses. It's super lightweight and disappears under dresses. I often wear in winter for a bit of wind protection sand love it under sweater dresses to prevent cling. I have one in nude, one in black. The M/L works fine, it's a bit fitted but doesn't affect drape of clothing and I think makes it even more invisible under clothing.

Best Anti-Chafing Shorts: Jockey Skimmies

I would happily be the poster child for Jockey Skimmies, they are AMAZING. I find them thin enough to disappear under knits, thin enough to not cause heatstroke, the right length to prevent chafing without showing under shorter skirts, and comfortable even in swampy humid weather. I've tried other brands but these in my opinion are near perfect.  Read my first review of Jockey Skimmies, and my second Jockey Skimmies review.

Best Anti-Chafing Non-Shorts Product: Bandlettes

Did Bandlettes change their manufacturing? Because I used them years ago and hated them but this year tried them again and became obsessed. These are stretchy lace bands with silicone strips on the inside that you put on your upper thigh (I find it best for coverage and staying in place when they are right at the leg joint on the inner thigh and angle down about an inch lower on the outer thigh). These are awesome when you're wearing a flowy dress where a pair of Skimmies will just ruin the look, when you're all glammed up and just want to prevent chub rub, when you want to feel sexy while stopping the chafe. I've even gone with just one when the second was lost in the laundry and it gets the job done.

Best Fleece Tights: Berkshire Plus Size Cozy Tight with Fleece-Lined Leg

When you're short, tights are frustrating. They could practically be a strapless catsuit, they ride up so high and they bag at the ankles. Add less-stretchy fleece to the mix and it's pretty ridiculous. Berkshire carries a Queen Petite which is specifically for women my height and size and they fit better than any other fleece tights I've tried and have held up enough that I am wearing pairs from last winter. They're really rich black, opaque, and have survived the washer AND the dryer.

Best Opaque Tights: Commando Ultimate Opaque Control Top Tights

So many tights have a thick band at the top that segments your middle. These have a super wide high-waist that becomes invisible even under fitted dresses. I wear a Large which I don't find too tight/shaping to be uncomfortable and they don't bag at the ankles. These have also accidentally gone in the washer and dryer, have been worn more than one winter, and still look fantastic.

Best No-Show Socks: Smartwool Hide and Seek Socks

I've raved about these socks before. These are fantastic when you're wering loafers, oxfords, or sneakers and don't want a hint of sock to show. The wool wicks away moisture and reduces odor and is comfy even the summer. I find these on Amazon, they often have them at crazy good prices but they're worth even buying full price as they maintain their shape and quality (I have pairs that are two years old that I still wear and love).

Best Ankle Socks: Bombas

These are my favorite socks for wearing with ankle booties, to the gym, over tights to give my feet a bit more warmth. They're cushioned, well-shaped, durable, cute, and comfy. And with each pair of Bombas socks you provide a pair of socks to someone in a homeless shelter.

Now I want to hear from you! What are your favorite items in your lingerie drawer?

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In: Fashion Advice, Underpinnings and Sleepwear · Tagged: Bare Necessities, Bombas, Commando, ExOfficio, Fantasie, Hanky Panky, Panache, Spanx, Wacoal

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Comments

  1. k-t says

    February 1, 2018 at 11:26 am

    Thank you for sharing your favorites! As a 32G, I really appreciate the insights into bras that are comfy.

    I am also a big fan of Smartwool. I find that the Secret Sleuth works better for me in loafers, boat shoes, Chucks, etc., as they are lower in the vamp than the Hide and Seek. A close second are the no-show socks from Old Navy. They actually stay put pretty well on my feet. As I wear a 6.5 N, YMMV.

    Questions about the Commando slip: is it shapewear or a regular full slip? Trying to figure out the price vs the Vassarette slip. Any recommendations for a full slip that isn’t that long? I have a few sweater dresses and tunics that could use a slip, but “above the knee” is too long. And a half slip’s waist band is the last lump I need to add to my body. 🙂

    Reply
    • Alison at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      February 1, 2018 at 11:37 am

      It’s not shapewear, just a slip. And there’s a mini version too from commando (same name just add mini to it) that hits on me about an inch below my bum.

      Reply
  2. Jennifer says

    February 1, 2018 at 9:19 am

    Question about the Smartwool Hide and Seek Socks – do you think they would work with loafer style shoes? I just purchased a pair of Halogen “Emily” flats (they’re loafers, not flats) and am having trouble finding socks that are low enough to not show but also don’t slide off my heel, even with a “gripper.”

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      February 1, 2018 at 9:41 am

      Those are cute! I think they would work, they have a similar profile to my Bass oxfords which I wear with the Smartwools. Sometimes I need to tuck a bit here or there with lower style shoes, but I doubt you’ll have to with the Emilys.

      Reply
      • Jennifer says

        February 1, 2018 at 1:41 pm

        Thanks! I think I’ll order a pair and try them.

        Reply

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Cashmere Tunic and Skinny Jeans at the District Wharf

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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Dec 5

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The tree is trimmed! 🎄

When I was a single gal, I had the prettiest tree with a color story and theme. 20 years later, my tree is a hodgepodge of inherited ornaments, gifts from loved ones, and handmade pieces from both my childhood and by my child. And I think each year it veers further from the original concept the more beautiful it becomes!

My daughter and I donned our Santa hats, turned on the holiday playlist, a Yule log on the TV, and spent the afternoon getting our home into the Christmas spirit.

When she was little, my husband would pick her up so she could place the star on top of the tree. Now that she’s taller than I am, when he got home he just put his arm around her as she used the library stool to reach the top. Some traditions need to be modified with time but they’re still special! ⭐️

Top is a feather trimmed Breton from @talbotsofficial; the scarf as a belt is also Talbots but a few years old. The jeans are @landsend and the blanket on the chair in the second photo is by artist  @zanderschlacter

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Nov 28

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Just got back from a 4-night getaway with my sister @debbiefaye78 at @curacaomarriottbeachresort. It was a last-minute planned trip that ended up being perfect. We weren’t ready to celebrate Thanksgiving without our mom and this escape what just what our hearts needed. 

I’ll be sharing more once I finally unpack my suitcase and organize my photos and thoughts; but I couldn’t not share this picture from yesterday morning. Debbie and I got up early to enjoy some of the day at the resort before flying home to DC. We had the infinity pool to ourselves, finished our books, and relaxed before a long day of travel. 🌴

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Nov 19

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Working on the weekend is far more enjoyable when it’s in my office 💚

Perimenopause and the pandemic and homeschooling made our row home feel even smaller. So when neighbors revitalized an office building in our town center and offered individual offices for rent, I felt it would be good for business and personally. And I kept it when the world opened up and our kid went back to public school because it helps me have a clear start and end to the work day, but also because I created a space I really enjoy.

This weekend I went to the office to shoot some content. And once I was finished I enjoyed just sitting here, watching the light change. I think I may switch the furniture around, switch up the energy. I love that I can do that without consulting another or having another person’s opinions matter.

When you have a family, things go from me to we. I don’t regret leaving Corporate America to do this full time, but I do miss being part of a team. And I missed having an office, a place away from home that’s just for me. 

I wish more communities would offer rental offices like @thegranitebuilding. With reasonably affordable monthly rates, it doesn’t have to just be business owners who get office spaces. It can be a place to work on a hobby or craft, a place to WFH that’s not home, or a place to just read and write and nap undisturbed. A literal room of one’s own. Because sometimes a person needs time to be a me and not a we. 💚

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Nov 17

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You’re never too old for a Rory Gilmore sweater… this cotton fisherman sweater is from @llbean and inspired by @marielle.elizabeth I shopped the men’s department for a better size range. The influencer influenced the influencer!

The jeans are @landsend I got last year and I’m glad they brought them back this year in several washes, inseam lengths, and plus sizes. If in doubt, size down. They will shrink in length slightly but not anywhere else, they’re super comfy and stretchy but don’t stretch out. 

Kept the collegiate vibe going with a trucker cap, HOKAs, and my trusty commuter bag for years: the large @dagnedover Dakota backpack!

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4o4bQ #ltkmidsize #midsizestyle #genxstyle #ltkover40 #over40style

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Nov 15

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My husband has a special backpack he fills with weight to wear while hiking; it’s called rucking. I wear a @dagnedover Dakota and fill it with my laptop, my iPad, a full water bottle, and my purse and walk to work; it’s called commuting. 💁🏻‍♀️

But seriously, I’ve had this backpack for five years. It has been shoved under plane seats, in overstuffed car trunks, under feet in the passenger seat. I’ve worn it as I’ve walked miles in major cities and from my house to my town center. My daughter also has a Dagne Dakota; it survived middle school and continues to work through camping, sleepovers, and road trips. It’s genially designed, comfortable, and can take a beating and still look great.

As for the rest of the look, the vest (XL) is a new purchase from @athleta; the Rainier tights (L) are also Athleta but two years old. The purple top is @nike and about a decade old. Hat is @llbean and it’s on sale for less than $15. And my trusty @hoka sneakers that have had their own set of adventures.

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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#ltkmidsize #ltkover40 #genxstyle #dagnedoverdakota

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Nov 6

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Another day of early voting for our city election, another outfit I wore as an election judge! 🗳️

I got this sweater set from @mmlafleur last spring and it continues to be a favorite. The color and popcorn stitch makes it wearable three seasons of the year. I’ve styled it with gold heels and dramatic gold earrings, with sneakers and a crossbody belt bag, and more than once with knee-high boots and a scarf at my throat. The color works with brown and black boots, the skirt silhouette and length with heels and flats. These brown riding boots are from @duoboots and almost a decade old. The scarf belonged to my dad; I have a feeling it was styled with a leisure suit back in the day!

I may have been more dressed up than other election judges but I think seeing democracy in action is a cause to celebrate! 🇺🇸

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Nov 4

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Early voting poll worker style 🗳️

I’ve been an election judge (AKA poll worker) for several years but this year I decided to take it a step further and join my city’s Board of Elections. I’m passionate about fair and accessible elections for all. The Board is acting as election judges for early voting so it’s great to use my previous experience on a city level!

I believe voting is a special occasion and I dressed the part. The puff sleeve sweater and pants are from @anntaylor; these pants are the same ones from the suit I wore earlier this week. I added a beloved @hermes scarf as a belt and silver hoops (they belonged to my mom) as a hint of shine.

If your area is having an election this coming week; I implore you to vote. Your voice deserves to be heard. And please ensure your neighbors know of the election and where to vote. 🇺🇸

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Nov 2

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Always fun to see my name in lights! 💡 I was a panelist at the annual @jaofcentralmd Leading Ladies event that connects local high schoolers with women in business. My panel was on using social media for promoting one’s business or personal brand. Along with other social media experts, we guided students and adults on how to create compelling and engaging social content and together created content for the conference’s feed. It was fun and I loved being able to share my almost two decades of personal and professional experience!

The dress code for the conference was business professional and since the event’s theme color was pink, they encouraged us to wear the color. 

This @anntaylor suit has been a favorite since late summer. I’ve dressed it down with a white tank and sneakers and glammed it up with a silk cami and gold heeled sandals. I love how Ann Taylor has petite suiting up to size 16; I know I’m not the only short curvy girl who desires suits and professional attire!

For this event I chose a berry-colored microfiber tank from @lovechicos. I own several of these tanks; they wear like iron and the tight weave and subtle shine make them great shells under suits. 

The look fit the theme but was also comfortable. I was glad to share my expertise and encourage others to see how they can donate their time and knowledge to a local @juniorachievementusa #JALeadingLadies #JALeadingLadies2023 #JACMD #JuniorAchievment

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Oct 18

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Sharing this from my #iPadOS17 thanks to @apple! A bit belated with all that has been going on lately but I’m really enjoying using an iPad to improve how I work, stay organized, and find new ways to be creative. Can I just say that editing video on an iPad instead of a phone is a game changer!

Recently, I attended an event at the gorgeous Apple Carnegie Library hosted by @flourishplanner_ to learn ways to make the most of #iOS17 and it was awesome. I brought my new iPad and learned about the new wallpaper, stickers, and organizing tools.

As for my look, the dress is from @bananarepublic’s summer collection. Kept it comfy with a pair of Samba sneakers and held down the volume of the dress with my black recycled leather @ganni crossbody. Added an old @_jennybird link necklace and a silver cuff I’ve had since the ‘90s.

#todayatapple #genxstyle #midsizestyle #midsizefashion #size14 #over40style

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Oct 17

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I love an excuse to dress up, especially if it’s for a good cause! This weekend was the @thenewdealcafe Masquer-AID fundraiser to support this independent cafe, art gallery, and live music venue in @cityofgreenbelt.

My family and I have loved going to The New Deal Cafe for all these years. Grabbing coffee with friends, having a meal, seeing an amazing band, participating in an open mic or one of their Reel and Meal events. So @debbiefaye78, our mom, and I got tickets and even chipped in for a plaque from us “Ashpes Girls.” 

Our mom passed before she could attend the event; we asked our like a sister best friend @shellymingram to join us in her place and we had a great time, dancing all night as our mom would have, connecting with neighbors, and supporting a local business we all love so much.

As for the outfit, the dress is @ronnykobo the bag is @ganni and I borrowed both from @renttherunway The shoes I’ve had for years and the gold metal mask I found on Amazon and liked how it could mold to my face and not put pressure on my still-healing eye.

And I know y’all will ask because I received so many DMs this weekend when I shared this event in my Stories… my sister’s dress is from @eshakti she bought it a few years ago and it’s even more gorgeous in person!

#newdealcafe #greenbeltisgreat #onlyingreenbelt #midsizestyle #genxstyle #over40style #greenbeltmd

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