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

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

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

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4j0LM #ltkmidsize #midsizestyle #over40style #ltkover40 #genxstyle
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It was so funny and so quick I couldn’t not share! I bought this @hulkenbag a year ago and use it all the time. Carting shoot supplies, groceries, packing for road trips, and carting donations. This weekend @thenewdealcafe in @cityofgreenbelt hosted a community clothing swap so I made sure my family and I went through our summer wardrobes to gather that which we no longer needed or fit.

This wasn’t the first clothing swap and folks in town know my style (and my job) so there were some waiting for my arrival. Look how fast I cleared out this big bag! Speaking of the bag one other swap attendee said she got herself a Hulken after seeing mine in action!

It’s so great to know our old clothes are getting a good life and this bag makes carting them to the cafe so easy! I got my Hulken on Amazon, it comes in other colors and sizes too: https://amzn.to/48iTY4Y yep the bag is as great as all those ads you see on social media, I’m a big fan!
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I had to see… I asked my husband how often he thinks about the Roman Empire, and then asked our 14-year-old 😂
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#ad Go through my archives on Wardrobe Oxygen and one thing is clear: my family and I are a fan of @bombas socks! From their no-slip no-show socks to their iconic crew socks, Bombas makes great socks for the whole family while having a great heart.

Socks are the #1 requested article of clothing from homeless shelters. For every item purchase from Bombas, one is donated to someone experiencing homelessness. 

Save 20% on your first purchase at Bombas with my exclusive promo code: WARDROBE20

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4ipHy #bombas
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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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Outfit Posts · October 15, 2012

Monday: Modern Cowgirl

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. 

curvy fashion blogger6
alison gary
leather midi skirt
long black leather skirt vintage
mommy fashion blogger1

Tee: Old Navy
Scarf (as cummerbund): H&M
Skirt: Saks Fifth Avenue via eBay
Booties: Miss Sixty (similar)

So, I have a thing for leather clothing. I always have, and am always cised when it comes back in fashion. In the late '90s, my uniform was a pair of leather jeans with a fitted v-neck or turtleneck sweater and I still have all my size 10 leather pants waiting for if I ever return to that size. I search eBay for reasonably-priced leather pieces and have wanted a long black leather skirt for years; when I saw this one selling for under $50 I had to get it. You can tell by the snaps on the bottom and the fly that it's not a modern skirt, but I don't care. It's big, soft, and has ginormous pockets. I feel like a cowgirl in it, and want to pair it with a pair of sturdy boots, a hat, and a bandanna around my neck. I feel as though I would be protected from the elements, could hop on a horse, and even hide things under here. Most flattering skirt I have ever owned? Nah, but it's surely one of the most fun!

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Comments

  1. mauro says

    June 28, 2016 at 9:41 am

    I think it is really beautiful!

    Reply
  2. Grace Mitchell says

    October 17, 2012 at 5:34 pm

    I sure wish I’d seen this post earlier! I thrifted a skirt almost exactly like this one a few years back and just recently donated it back because I just could not figure out how to wear it. I love it on you!

    Reply
  3. Melissa Gier says

    October 17, 2012 at 2:20 pm

    AWESOME skirt! I do think it’s flattering, and can think of a bazillion ways I’d wear it, too! Must go hunting on eBay…

    Reply
  4. ONEWEIRDWORD says

    October 16, 2012 at 3:07 am

    Love it – so luxurious. I like your makeup with this too.

    Reply
  5. Happinessatmidlife says

    October 15, 2012 at 11:16 pm

    What a score for a leather skirt! I am not a leather skirt fan because I don’t think it’s cold enough to wear them in Southern California. Love how you kept the outfit simple to highlight the belt and skirt!

    Alice
    http://www.happinessatmidlife.com

    Reply
  6. Lynne DeVenny says

    October 15, 2012 at 8:40 pm

    I think the retro detailing actually makes it much more beautiful and interesting. What a great find! I can’t wait to break out my $3.75 leather skirt from GoodWill, if only fall would ever get HERE 🙂

    Reply
  7. El Bucho says

    October 15, 2012 at 8:00 pm

    You look *awesome*. Love your taste in clothing.

    Reply
  8. Margie says

    October 15, 2012 at 6:32 pm

    I think you look great Allie! I barely wear leather, because I live in FL and I would be sweating my butt off! 🙂 I also have to say that Emerson looks so cute!

    Reply
  9. Pastel Lady says

    October 15, 2012 at 4:14 pm

    Wow, you look great and the outfit is so cool! Love how you softened the leather with the print scarf – PL (physwalkofcats.wordpress.com)

    Reply
  10. Maud says

    October 15, 2012 at 2:25 pm

    I’d never heard the word “cised” before yesterday, and then it appeared twice in succession. I had to look it up in Urban Dictionary to find that it’s a DC-Metro-area speciality! So thank you for expanding my vocabulary.
    The scarf is beautiful!

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      October 15, 2012 at 2:29 pm

      This weekend I was at a party and there was a friend from another state and they kept using local slang on him and he was terribly confused. It made me realize cised isn’t used often enough and I jsut HAD to put it in a post! 🙂 Though it was funny to talk about “bammas” to someone from Alabama… completely different meaning in the DC area!

      Reply
      • Maud says

        October 15, 2012 at 2:46 pm

        …and off I go again to the Urban Dictionary. I think I need to take a class in DC slang.

        Reply
      • Hems for Her, a.k.a. Katie says

        October 15, 2012 at 6:13 pm

        Oh, no! Hopefully that doesn’t originate from Alabama. Then my feelings would be hurt 😉

        Reply
        • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

          October 15, 2012 at 6:36 pm

          Oh no, not at all! Just random DC-area slang!

          Reply
  11. Jessica Fritsche says

    October 15, 2012 at 1:57 pm

    I love that you take things I would never think of wearing together and pull them off beautifully with your panache and sass! You inspire me to step outside of the box, Allie. Thanks for that 🙂

    Reply
  12. Odyssey Home says

    October 15, 2012 at 1:36 pm

    I see nothing wrong with the skirt. The proportions are exaggerated compared to what we currently see in the stores. You’ve taken a gorgeous vintage item and updated it with contemporary pieces to make a unique ensemble. And that’s a good thing. 🙂
    Your shoes…I like them!

    Reply
  13. Bethany says

    October 15, 2012 at 1:11 pm

    I cannot even imagine trying to wear that skirt but somehow you look awesome! I used to have a floor-length denim skirt in middle school. I did not look awesome.

    Reply
  14. Ginger says

    October 15, 2012 at 12:35 pm

    I don’t think the skirt is all wrong, it’s vintage. Not so long ago skirt waists hit higher and if the skirt was flared the flare started right at the waist. It looks odd to our eye at present because that’s not how current skirts are cut.
    Today’s waistbands sit lower on the waist and are often contoured with flare starting lower. I think adding the wide scarf at the waist works nicely.
    Having just spent the weekend on a horse I think I’ll stick with jeans or a split skirt. That’s a lot of stiff material to be dealing with in the saddle.

    Reply
  15. gretchen says

    October 15, 2012 at 11:55 am

    I did read the text, but you put yourself out there and I responded. I do admire your confidence !

    Reply
  16. Elena says

    October 15, 2012 at 11:41 am

    I love that you took the piece and made it your own. That scarf makes a great belt, the fitted white tee is so flattering to your figure, and those silver hoops rock~go, Allie!!!

    Reply
  17. anya says

    October 15, 2012 at 11:40 am

    This is one of the “true fashionista looks” where you take an item that’s not “in” but make it beautiful and stylish by the power of style! But i want to ask you about your hair. It looks especially pretty , have you got a new haircut/style?

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      October 15, 2012 at 11:43 am

      I cut my bangs with cuticle scissors a week ago, and today I straightened with the flat iron. Worked out nicely, though I really need to get myself to the salon for a proper cut!

      Reply
  18. em says

    October 15, 2012 at 11:37 am

    Yes the skirt is “all wrong” but altogether the image you make today is deliberate, aware, polished, and gorgeous in all details head to toe. This to me is a perfect example of personal beauty in fashion and not being enslaved to a few certain looks that are supposedly currently “permitted” to be attractive. There are going to be people seeing you today and being inspired in individuality and beauty!

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      October 15, 2012 at 11:39 am

      Wow, thank you!

      Reply
  19. Tashia @HipsandHangers says

    October 15, 2012 at 11:24 am

    Rock on lady! Sometimes it’s good to just have a fun piece and not give a darn if it’s “uncool” or “unflattering”. It’s all about how you feel:) Can I also say that I kind of wish they made your daughters outfit in my size?

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      October 15, 2012 at 11:25 am

      Seriously, when she picked it out this morning I thought how I wouldn’t mind that ensemble in my closet! 🙂

      Reply
  20. Sonia says

    October 15, 2012 at 11:09 am

    Everyone has an opinion, but, frankly, I LIKE this look…like a funky fun cowpoke! I love leather too and try wear it whenever I can. It began with my love for Billy Idol back in the 80s (now I’m aging myself) and just continued from there LOL!!
    Miss Emerson looks very coordinated herself!

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      October 15, 2012 at 11:10 am

      Loved me some Billy Idol!! Well still do…!!!

      Reply
  21. gretchen says

    October 15, 2012 at 10:41 am

    that skirt is all wrong!

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      October 15, 2012 at 10:47 am

      Tell me something I don’t know. Did you even read the text or did you just scan the pictures?

      Reply
      • versatilestylebytracey.com says

        October 15, 2012 at 9:09 pm

        I read the text! To me looking at just the photos means missing out on so much and is too shallow of an experience. I want the details!

        Reply
    • ONEWEIRDWORD says

      October 16, 2012 at 3:11 am

      Sheesh. Why contribute to the discussion when you can just be a jerk? C’mon gretchen, make the world better, not worse.

      Reply

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Don’t Buy the Boots

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

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Sep 26

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Scenes from a Friday night…

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

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

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Sep 23

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Night and day…

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

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

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

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

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Sep 21

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Sep 19

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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! 🐾❤️

wardrobe_oxygen

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Sep 8

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I can see clearly now…

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

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

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

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

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
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Sep 5

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

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

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

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

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

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Aug 30

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Ladies who lunch…

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

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

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

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

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Aug 29

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Scenes from a week in Savannah… 

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

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

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Aug 28

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Stripes are always right…

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

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

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
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#usinthewild #bretonstripes #midsizestyle #midsizefashion #size14 #over40style

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