Open
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
Open
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. 🌴
Open
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
Open
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
Open
@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
Open
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. 💚
Open
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
Open
It’s Cozy Season, and @tjmaxx is here to update our wardrobes with stylish accessories and apparel from the best brands for less. #AD

I recently visited tjmaxx.com and was so impressed with the array of elevated designer labels, on-trend looks, and the best prices. This pearl-encrusted beanie is from a woman designer I have admired for years; tjmaxx.com has the matching gloves and other pieces from this label to make a great set for yourself or to gift another. These earrings I’ve seen from the same designer at department stores; in fact I own other earrings from this label and paid much more for them. I should have checked T.J.Maxx first! And this cozy poncho is the perfect layer for late fall in the DC area.

I love how the winter white pieces elevate my existing closet. And pearls can be worn for day or glam up for evening. I can see many ways I’ll be styling these designer accessories from #tjmaxx all season long!

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4o2dA
Open
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!
https://liketk.it/4nKRE

#ltkmidsize #ltkover40 #genxstyle #dagnedoverdakota
  • Fashion
    • Capsule Wardrobes
    • Outfit Posts
  • Beauty
    • Skincare
    • Curly Hair
  • Lifestyle
    • Perimenopause
    • Health and Wellness
    • Travel
  • Subscribe
  • Exclusive Promo Codes
  • Home
  • Exclusive Promo Codes
  • About
    • Contact
    • Work with Me
    • Privacy Policy
  • Fashion
    • Capsule Wardrobes
    • Outfits
    • Plus Size Fashion
    • Denim
    • Footwear
    • Activewear
    • Swimwear
    • Underpinnings and Sleepwear
  • Beauty
    • Curly Hair
    • Skincare
  • Lifestyle
    • Perimenopause
    • Travel
    • The Business of Blogging

Wardrobe Oxygen

Real-life style for grown women

  • Home
  • Exclusive Promo Codes
  • About
    • Contact
    • Work with Me
    • Privacy Policy
  • Fashion
    • Capsule Wardrobes
    • Outfits
    • Plus Size Fashion
    • Denim
    • Footwear
    • Activewear
    • Swimwear
    • Underpinnings and Sleepwear
  • Beauty
    • Curly Hair
    • Skincare
  • Lifestyle
    • Perimenopause
    • Travel
    • The Business of Blogging

Capsule Wardrobes, Fashion Advice, Plus Size Fashion · November 11, 2014

Does Plus Size Minimalism Exist?

This article may contain affiliate links; if you click on a shopping link and make a purchase I may receive a commission. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 

I’m a size 16 and a 35yo full time professional. I want to embrace a minimalistic wardrobe but every blog I find about minimalism is written by someone young and skinny without a real job. Is it possible to be minimalist when you don’t fit in Rick Owens or look good in leather leggings? Can a fat grown ass woman be a minimalist?

I LOVE YOUR LAST QUESTION! Let’s get straight to the point! And the answer is YES. YES WE FAT GROWN ASS WOMEN CAN BE MINIMALISTS! And so can us grown ass tall women, short women, slim women, curvy women, and everything in between. Minimalism isn’t Isabel Marant wedge sneakers and Rick Owens. Minimalism is a concept, and a concept that can work with any size AND any personal style.

plus size minimalism capsule wardrobe fall winter
Scroll and Shop Similar Looks:

350

This pared-down capsule is of all plus sized pieces (and quick vent to plus size retailers, I know your clothes look better on a model but us bloggers and magazine editors would love the pieces on a white background sans bodies for collages like this, please do it more often and we’d feature you more often!). Simple pieces, simple color palette, styles that won’t be passé in a year. It may not be Rick Owens, but it can provide you with outfits appropriate for a Business Casual office as well as an outside of work life.

One thing to consider with minimalism is quality. The fewer pieces you own, the more often they will be worn. Not only that, you want a piece to last more than one or two seasons, you want to build a life wardrobe. There’s been many an article in the past year (like this one and this one) about how plus size women won’t drop money on designer clothes and more often than not women say their reason is because they feel it’s not a worthy investment. Either they feel they won’t stay this size, or they don’t feel their current body deserves expensive clothes. If you want to pare down and have a minimalistic wardrobe, the only way to be successful is to buy the best you can within your budget. The best quality, the best construction, and befriend a tailor for the best fit. Quality, not quantity.

Minimalism fashion blogs… well all us blogs that spew fashion advice have a bias to a certain aesthetic or body type, usually their own. It’s hard to provide advice for that which you are not familiar. We hope to inspire, to get you to start thinking in a slightly different manner and find your own answer.

When I think of a blogger who inspires me with her minimalism discussions yet has a different personal style from me, I think of Grechen at Grechen's Closet. While we’re not that different in age, we live in different parts of the country, have different jobs, different home lives, different body types, and different personal styles. Yet I read her posts on minimalism and always get ideas, inspiration, and aha moments.

Another blogger that inspires me to think smaller in regards to wardrobe is Janice at The Vivienne Files. Her choices aren’t always what I’d wear, but she makes me think about what I already own, how to restyle it with different colors, different accessories, give my current pieces new life, and how to be more choosy with what I buy in the future. Her advice is the type that can benefit anyone, regardless of age, figure, or personal style.

I also gain insight from personal style bloggers who may not embrace minimalism but either have a similar shape as me, or have a similar lifestyle. Even if we don’t have the same personal style, through them I learn about new brands that may better offer what I’m looking for, but also they have me think about pieces in my wardrobe more differently, seeing versatility I never saw before.

While I don’t post my outfit every day here on Wardrobe Oxygen, I show most of my outfits on Instagram. Photographing my outfits and being able to see quickly in a grid on my phone what I wear, what I gravitate towards, and what I enjoy most has helped me greatly in minimizing my wardrobe. While I may have purchased the prettiest blouse ever, I may never wear it because it’s too complex. However, I’ll see how I can style my cream cable knit sweater in five different ways without tiring of it or how I was really lacking a pair of pointed toe ankle boots in my closet. Use yourself for inspiration, take a step back, examine your wardrobe but also your personal style with a fresh eye and see how your can start achieving minimalism with what you already own and enjoy.

As usual, I rambled on and on but my point is YES FAT GROWN ASS WOMEN CAN BE MINIMALISTS! You can do whatever the hell you want fashion wise, you can make it work, but you may have to look harder for inspiration. But I do believe the best inspiration is yourself. Trust your gut, know your life, and dress the part. Keep me posted on your journey!

alison signature

In: Capsule Wardrobes, Fashion Advice, Plus Size Fashion

Did you like what you just read?

Consider tapping here to buy me a coffee in thanks. The best gift you can give a content creator is the gift of sharing. Consider sharing this article on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest. Thank you so much for your support!

join the community

You’ll Also Love

True Fashionista: Interview with Erin Dyan Johnson
Wednesday
The White Shirt

Comments

  1. Tashia Graham says

    August 11, 2017 at 11:38 am

    I’m really feeling a minimalist wardrobe for fall and would love an update of this one 🙂

    Reply
  2. Plain Jane says

    August 28, 2016 at 8:51 pm

    Can anyone please tell me the names of the items in the above picture?

    I’m starting my capsule fall wardrobe for the fall.

    Thank you.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      August 29, 2016 at 9:29 am

      Do you mean the exact brands or descriptions for similar pieces? This post was written a couple years ago so these exact items will no longer be available in stores. A few descriptions:
      – Dress is fit and flare style (fit at waist and fuller skirt), and a wrap style (wraps across the bodice, often an actual wrap style dress like a bathrobe)
      – The two pieces below it are tunics
      – The pants are ponte knit, which is a tightly woven heavyweight knit that can look professional but is very comfortable. A straight or slight bootcut is well liked for balancing a larger upper body but is subtle enough for the workplace.
      – The jeans are skinny jeans, but the trend is getting fuller so these could be replaced with straight or slight/baby bootcut jeans
      – The skirt is a midi length (knee to calf), and gathered
      – The black drapey/crossover top is often called a surplice top
      – The blazer is also of ponte knit to make a suit or wear on its own
      – A pointed toe flat will elongate the figure
      – The boot is called a Chelsea boot
      – The bag is the Rebecca Minkoff… I think Moto Satchel. It’s a satchel style bag.

      Hope that helps!

      Reply
      • Plain Jane says

        August 29, 2016 at 10:09 pm

        Thanks so much!!! All this helps a lot.
        Love your blog.

        Reply
  3. Lynn says

    December 7, 2014 at 9:35 am

    My daughter is minimalist because she hates shopping for clothes, and doesn’t enjoy spending time deciding what to wear. A large busted size 16 and barely 5′, little in the shops really fits well. Her wardrobe comprises 5 dresses, 2 cardigans, a belt, a scarf, a necklace, a coat, a pair of boots and a few pairs of shoes. As well as dresses fitting better than separates, they require little co-ordination and provide plenty of variety in style and color. So often the outfits put together from larger capsule wardrobes of separates look ‘samey’. The main problem with this minimal wardrobe is that the items tend to look washed up and worn out fairly quickly, so buying better quality is important. There is no reason why larger women cannot be as minimalist as slimmer women, if they are confident in what they want to wear.

    Reply
  4. Brynn says

    November 15, 2014 at 11:06 pm

    I’m a size 16 and have been doing a 35 piece capsule wardrobe for the past three months…and I’m loving it! Plus sized women can be minimalists for sure!!!

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      November 16, 2014 at 9:36 am

      Fabulous!

      Reply
  5. Thrift Store Mama says

    November 12, 2014 at 7:02 pm

    I am totally inspired to clean out and organize my closet. I don’t think I can use the “but I just moved” excuse anymore since it was 15 months ago!

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      November 13, 2014 at 9:31 pm

      Awesome, let me know how it goes!

      Reply
  6. Aimee says

    November 12, 2014 at 6:15 pm

    Once in awhile, I get on this kick where I want to have a very minimalist closet. I never really accomplish the goal although I give it a good try. Somehow I always end up junking up my closet again with, well—junk. So once again I am inspired to buy quality pieces and to really think about what I am doing before making a purchase. I actually have a pretty good grasp on a minimalist fall/winter closet. It’s the summer and spring that gets me. Everything out there just seems cheaply made and does not look good on me. I really hate how I look all summer long! It’s too hot to wear anything tailored and nice. One day I hope to figure that out.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      November 13, 2014 at 9:31 pm

      I go from tailored classic with a bit of a rocker vibe in winter to boho style in the summer because I feel you on how hard it is to look polished in the summer. I’ve just accepted the fact that my wardrobe has multiple personalities!

      Reply
  7. GoddessMel says

    November 11, 2014 at 6:24 pm

    Love, love, love this question and your response Allie! I too am struggling with this issue. I’m an Australian size 16-20 (yep, it varies that much between labels and styles), 157cm / 5 foot 1 inch, no kids and a full-time government job. While my office doesn’t have a strict dress code I’m required to look professional and neat for work. My ‘down time’ attire has been pushed aside and mostly consisted of unflattering shorts or jeans and easy t-shirts, or the ubiquitous black tube maxi that did nothing to flatter my frame. Since trying to reduce my spending, and my wardrobe, I’ve been heavily inspired by your blog (and my Angie over at You Look Fab) to find versatile items that I can wear for multiple purposes. This post has reiterated that and given me even more handy hints. Thanks so much Allie 🙂

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      November 13, 2014 at 9:30 pm

      My pleasure! <3

      Reply
  8. Helen says

    November 11, 2014 at 4:05 pm

    Thank you for this post! It made me post my first comment, and I’m the type of blog reader that normally hides in the shadows and keep quiet. 🙂
    I’ve recently started playing with minimalism in my wardrobe and I’m on my second turn on Project 333. I love this post, and your blog over all, I’ve learned a lot about style and quality from you since I discovered your blog this summer. Thank you so much!
    Now I have a quality question for you about knits. I’m a student in my thirties, a casual girl (studying to be a teacher for the after school program) but I like to look grown up and put together and my go to look is nice jeans, a short sleeved top and a v-neck cardigan. I usually buy cotton/lycra cardigans, because any kind of wool (and some fuzzy acrylics) makes me itch like crazy, so I can’t wear even a mix with as little as 5% wool or angora in it directly on my skin. But cotton knits wears out and looks bad really quick… Or have I just been buying too cheap? What material should I look for? Do you have any suggestion? And I would very, very much appreciate it if it’s a mix if you could give the proportions, I’m from Sweden and textile words are too tricky for google translate (I still haven’t really figured out what ponte might be called here, for example!). Thank you in advance!

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      November 11, 2014 at 4:18 pm

      A bit about Ponte knits: https://www.fabric.com/apparel-fashion-fabric-knit-fabric-double-knit-fabric-ponte-de-roma-knit-fabric.aspx but they’re a heavy weight polyester as for cardigans, cotton can do well if it’s high quality, washed on gentle or by hand and dried flat. I have a cotton cardigan from Lands’ End that is 10 years old and looks almost new because I am careful with it and it is good quality cotton. I have also had luck at Boden for cotton cardigans. I hope I help you! I just had a call with a man from Sweden for work this morning, it is true Google Translate only helps a small amount!

      Reply
  9. terezib says

    November 11, 2014 at 2:10 pm

    sigh…the “Similar Looks” on the scroll below look NOTHING like your examples. The pants are wide-legged (elephant leg pants) not skinny, no cute short sleeved dress like the one you show…they’re the usual “fat woman” clothes, not stylish.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      November 11, 2014 at 2:15 pm

      Here’s the link to the original Polyvore set: http://www.polyvore.com/fall_winter_pared_down_plus/set?id=138360637 I make the collages before I look for similar pieces, my goal with these capsules is to give an idea. I didn’t even used to share similar links because the goal is never to be literal with a capsule concept but find your own look. And the pants in my similar links are the Taylor suiting pants from Halogen, I have a pair and they’re a clean classic silhouette and not at all elephant legs.

      Reply
  10. Jodie Filogomo says

    November 11, 2014 at 1:57 pm

    I have to disagree with showing clothing items on a white background–I don’t think it’s that wonderfully helpful. Even in your blogs and in the magazines, I really want to see the clothes on people…but real sized people and many differently shaped ones!! I like to see how the item drapes and pulls as opposed to being 2-dimensional!

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      November 11, 2014 at 1:59 pm

      I hate when online shops only have the item and no model, I agree with you about needing the drape and see the fit. But for collages and concept pieces having the body makes it hard to make the image, it can be distracting. I often contact brands asking for high-res images in white backgrounds for my collages and it seems the smaller sizes have them and the plus size brands never do. I think it’s helpful to have both for different purposes, and having a photographer husband I know it won’t be too much of an investment 🙂

      Reply
      • Kathryn Braun Fenner says

        November 11, 2014 at 2:12 pm

        I want both when I buy–too often the model is contorted, so while I like seeing how the item moves, I still want to check the silhouette. I love that Lands’ End gives actual product dimensions now. From my eBay shopping, I have determined what dimensions work for me, and knee length on me is mid-calf for most, say.

        Reply
        • Jodie Filogomo says

          November 11, 2014 at 2:22 pm

          Yes!!! The dimensions would be so helpful for online shopping! Allie, will you get on this and make all the shops do this? ha ha!

          Reply
          • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

            November 11, 2014 at 2:23 pm

            LOL wish I was so influential!

  11. Kathryn Braun Fenner says

    November 11, 2014 at 1:56 pm

    Love this, Allie. I follow Gretchen now, too, thanks to your link, but she ADORES Everlane, which stops at a ridiculously tiny size. I wrote them about it, and got back a polite response about keeping manufacturing costs down–without acknowledging the point I made in my letter that the AVERAGE American woman is too big for their clothes! James Perse is a tad better, but still…. Her Minimalist Closet, though, is indeed inspiring. She led me to Jennifer L. Scott’s TEDx talk on the Ten Item Wardrobe, inspired by her time living with a “chic” French family. I will have more than ten pieces, but her book has inspired me to “step up my game” in terms of quality of life and wardrobe!
    I also recommend Marie Kondo’s book for anyone in search of joyful minimalism in wardrobe and life.
    You are the best source of practical advice, though. Keep on bloggin’

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      November 11, 2014 at 2:01 pm

      Everlane contacted me wanted to send me some merchandise and I sent them an email about their lack of sizes and how I and most of my readers wouldn’t fit in their clothes. I got a similar response and they sent me their Weekender tote and a wallet for Karl. Very nice, but it would be nicer if they recognized that the average American woman is a size 12 so larger sizes can equal larger number of sales! As an aside, I worked with LiveTheLook.com and told them their sizes weren’t broad enough and they just shared that they now go up to an 18 thanks to my feedback. So keep on giving feedback, some brands do listen!

      Reply
      • Kathryn Braun Fenner says

        November 11, 2014 at 2:03 pm

        I really love their style and quality ethos. Stupid short-sightedness. I mean just a couple more sizes and a huge market would open up!

        Reply
        • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

          November 11, 2014 at 2:06 pm

          You never know, as they grow in popularity they may grow their line. I hope so, they completely fit my personal style and blog direction!

          Reply
          • Kathryn Braun Fenner says

            November 11, 2014 at 2:09 pm

            Mine, too!

          • Kathryn Braun Fenner says

            November 11, 2014 at 2:10 pm

            It would be, um,….if you could find Everlane clones for a post. 😉

  12. Not Impressed says

    November 11, 2014 at 1:38 pm

    I think it’s really fucked up that to shop the similar looks I need to turn off my ad blocker. Greedy.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      November 11, 2014 at 1:43 pm

      All my collages are on Polyvore, you can see the actual pieces at http://woxy.polyvore.com/ and then you can give affiliate revenue to that site instead.

      Reply
    • Mallory says

      November 12, 2014 at 12:59 pm

      Unless you’re willing to cut Allie a cheque for her style advice, you get ads, that’s how free stuff on the internet works. Chill out.

      Reply
  13. Kp says

    November 11, 2014 at 12:34 pm

    Check out And I Get Dresses. She is not a minimalist, but some of her looks are.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      November 11, 2014 at 1:20 pm

      Thanks for the suggestion!

      Reply
  14. Carrie says

    November 11, 2014 at 11:24 am

    So here’s a question for you ladies – how do you ladies keep your wardrobes pared down as fashion bloggers? I’m not a blogger but I’m a fashion aficionado and half my reader is filled with fashion blogs. Then there’s my inbox – daily emails with links to fabulous clothes ALL. The. Time. How do you ladies resist the constant temptation? My guess is that the answer comes down to quality and is there a need in your closet. But for me, I have the mindset of “I can’t have too many flattering shirts” or “I’m kind of loving this right now.” Make sense?

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      November 11, 2014 at 11:32 am

      1. Unsubscribe. That was the best thing I ever did for my style was to pare down the inbox. It’s so easy to justify it being ONLY X price. I mean, i still do it on occasion but not as often.
      2. Put it in the virtual shopping cart and come back three days later. If you still LURVE it, then try to make it work with three things you already own for legit outfits you would wear.
      3. Learn from history. Don’t forget those purchases you made that you swore would change your style and wardrobe. Write about them, photograph them, remember how that money was lost or how hard you worked to style it.
      4. Stop with the more of the same. A couple years ago I bought a drop-pleat skirt from Talbots that was so pretty, so flattering, and so six months later I owned 8 skirts of the same style. And I still only wore the Talbots one because none of the others were ever quite as magical. Just because a cut or color is a good thing doesn’t mean you need to binge buy. Things lose their magic when they’re not unique any more. Nothing wrong with having signature pieces (easier on the mind than being fewer), being known for wearing that amazing dress to weddings, how well you style that phenomenal leather jacket, and how your single pair of jeans just seems to be custom made for you with a better fit each time you don them.
      5. Create a mantra, create a list, and stick to them. Style comes from quality, not quantity!

      Reply
      • Carrie says

        November 11, 2014 at 12:43 pm

        BRB, I’m going to print this out and put it on my wall. Thanks!

        Reply
        • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

          November 11, 2014 at 1:20 pm

          🙂

          Reply
      • Kathryn Braun Fenner says

        November 11, 2014 at 1:59 pm

        Bridgette Raes (another link from you) calls those duplicates you never wear benchwarmers. You always wear your favorites before you wear these.
        Sorting your closet thoroughly can help you identify what is a benchwarmer.

        Reply
        • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

          November 11, 2014 at 2:01 pm

          Yes!

          Reply
        • Kathryn Braun Fenner says

          November 11, 2014 at 2:14 pm

          I get suckered into buying another when something that is hard to fit on me, like pants, works–but then my body or lifestyle or taste changes….I love NYDJ, too, thanks to you, and they seem to have a consistent product line, so…

          Reply
  15. Janice Riggs says

    November 11, 2014 at 10:35 am

    Thanks for the mention! I think it’s important for us ALL to embrace a more minimalist approach to shopping and getting dressed, insofar as minimalism is a focus on personal expression, high quality, and trying our darndest to have a more modest effect on the environment and on our fellow women who sew “fast fashion” in deplorable conditions. You, Gretchen and I should be proud of what we’re accomplishing, and press on into the future with the same bright ideas!
    big hug,
    Janice

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      November 11, 2014 at 10:47 am

      Fully agree Janice! <3

      Reply
  16. greedygrechen says

    November 11, 2014 at 9:14 am

    oh my gosh! thank you so much for mentioning me, i’m honored 🙂
    i get so frustrated when i hear people say that certain sizes, income levels, body types, etc., can’t be “minimalists” – as if there’s ONE way to be a minimalist. but like you said, minimalism is what you make it, it’s what fits your lifestyle, your body, and makes you feel “right.” not what anyone else says it is.

    i get it though, because there’s a perception that you have to have a certain body type to dress “minimally” – and that’s because most of the minimalist designers seem to produce more for tall, straight body types, and their lookbooks, etc., always reflect that aesthetic.

    but don’t forget that minimalism essentially is just about having fewer more meaningful things, it doesn’t mean you have to dress all in one or two colors. again, it’s what you make of it.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      November 11, 2014 at 10:44 am

      Amen! Ack clicked submit too quickly! I love your posts on minimalism because they’re not about some ideal of minimalism, but what works for you. I think a feminine romantic, a quirky artsy type, a prep, a punk, we can all be minimalists if we just analyze our closets and lifestyles more carefully!

      Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Next Post >

What I Wore: Old School Allie

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.

Archives

Search Wardrobe Oxygen:

Categories

  • Fashion
  • Beauty
  • Lifestyle
  • Health & Wellness
  • Outfits

instagram

Follow @wardrobe_oxygen

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Nov 28

Open
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. 🌴

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Nov 19

Open
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. 💚

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Nov 17

Open
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

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Nov 15

Open
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!
https://liketk.it/4nKRE

#ltkmidsize #ltkover40 #genxstyle #dagnedoverdakota

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Nov 6

Open
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! 🇺🇸

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Nov 4

Open
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. 🇺🇸

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Nov 2

Open
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

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Oct 18

Open
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

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Oct 17

Open
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

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Oct 11

Open
The biggest fashion trend this fall is a return to classics. For decades I have turned to @talbotsofficial for quality classics with style.  This season, Talbots has a fantastic range of pants to update the wardrobe. 

I love how these @talbotsofficial ivory stretch corduroy straight leg pants elevate closet classics! Available in Misses, Petite, Plus, Plus Petite, Curvy, and in 10 colors, these cords are a chic alternative to jeans and just as easy care! I can run errands and have a bit of quiet time with an ebook and a coffee with comfort and style. 

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4kFNi #talbots #mytalbots #talbotspartner #ltkover40 #modernclassicstyle #liketkit #ltkover40

Info

  • About
  • Contact
  • Advertise
  • Exclusive Promo Codes

join the community

On the Blog

  • Capsule Wardrobes
  • Curly Hair
  • Plus Size Fashion
  • Perimenopause
  • Privacy Policy
  • Cookie Policy
  • Disclosure

Copyright © 2023 Wardrobe Oxygen · Theme by 17th Avenue