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

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

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

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

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

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4jcBL #ltkmidsize #ltkover40 #midsizestyle #genxstyle #usinthewild #concertstyle
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For years I’ve trusted @somaintimates for the right bras and the right fit but it had been a while since I visited a Soma boutique to try on all the styles they currently have for a large bust. I must say I was impressed! Knowledgeable staff, extensive collection in larger sizes, and some of the most comfortable and innovative bras in up to H cups! Each body is different but what I loved:

- The Stunning Push-Up: targeted for the DD+ customer gives amazing lift and great shape under fitted knits.

- The Unbelievable Lift Scoop Balconette: sexy, supportive, and so lightweight!

- The Embraceable Wireless: I’ve recommended this wireless bra for large busts for years and was in need for a new one! 

- The Stunning Support Smooth Balconette: this is the perfect t-shirt bra for large busts with padded straps and disappears under knits

- The Stunning Starlet Multi-Way Strapless: recently improved for more support and more comfort, this wireless bra stays put and gives fab shape

I also picked up some of Soma’s iconic Vanishing Edge panties which keep you line-free. The whole Vanishing collection is genius. I loved being able to donate my gently used bras at my local Soma boutique to give to those in need. We all deserve a lift and Soma strives to achieve that. It’s why I’ve been a fan and customer for years and am honored to partner with them. Soma is the perfect fitting bra solution. Visit the link in my bio to shop and to find your local Soma boutique! #SomaPartner #SomaBraFit #SomaStartsWithMe
Open
If I close my eyes you can’t tell one is still bloodshot 😜

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4ipHy #bombas
Open
Happy gotcha day, Oscar! Four years ago he came into our life and we are so happy to have in our family!

Oscar was a rescue and came with some… quirks. Over the years we have come to understand him and he has come to trust us. He’s a diva, a snuggler, he could play catch for hours, and he’s my husband’s shadow. 

We’ve never had a small breed dog before and it’s a whole different experience. But we adore Oscar and couldn’t imagine our life without him! Thank you for coming into our life Oskie McGoskie! 🐾❤️
Open
I can see clearly now…

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

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

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

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

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4idXm
Open
#throwbackthursday to what I wore 10 years ago in September…

A decade ago I was working full time in an office and was promoted to manage a good portion of my department. My blog was doing quite well, I was featured in local and national publications and websites. I was embracing what I felt to be a polished professional with an edgy vibe. Less color, more interesting accessories, and my first semi-designer bag (I still have that leopard print mini M.A.C. In the back of my closet). 

I have come to embrace color and have way less black in my closet now, but a lot of these looks are timeless and I would wear now… just likely with lower heels! 😂

Do you recall what you were wearing a decade ago? How similar is it to how you dress now?

For more of my throwbacks visit #wo2tbt
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Fashion Advice · February 10, 2010

Product Review – Second Base

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 am not a fan of putting a camisole under everything. I find the look to be juvenile and that the added layer usually ruins the silhouette of most tops. I think that usually, if a top is too low cut to be worn without a camisole, you shouldn’t purchase it. Finally, very few women with curves feel comfortable (or have their clothes hang correctly) with extra layers.

But then, there are times when a camisole is a necessity and enhances a look. A wrap dress can be perfect for evening with its low v-neckline, but adding a hint of camisole can make this piece far more versatile and now appropriate for work or a house of worship. Some pieces are created just for a camisole, such as a recently purchased cashmere cowl-neck that is now in my wardrobe. Alone, one could even see the tips of a demi bra; with a camisole in the same color I have that needed modesty but the sweater’s silhouette is not affected. Camisoles are also great to have on hand to pair with sheer tops – I find that being a busty woman, fabric can look a bit sheer in the chest area and a camisole under the piece in the same color as my blouse or skin gives me the opacity I desire.

That being said, I have been dealing with my camisole needs with two pieces – a black synthetic cami from H&M that has adjustable straps (so I can adjust to accommodate different garments) and a stretchy black cami from Limited that I bought almost a decade ago and cut off at the bottom of the bust – this is used purely as a little bit of modesty at a neckline. Unfortunately this homemade demi-cami will roll up and show under fabrics and I often find myself pinning it to my sweater to keep it in place. The longer cami from H&M is okay, but I hate the extra length – it bunches and I get hot in the warmer months.

second base logo

I recently was offered to review a demi-camisole from Second Base. I saw the Second Base demi-cami and thought, wow someone has been reading my mind! This accomplishes all that I desire in a camisole.

011210 second base

The demi-camis from Second Base are made of a lightweight modal/spandex fabric that looks great with all sorts of other fabrics – slinky synthetics, matte jersey, tee shirts and knits and even sweaters. Unlike my homemade demi-cami, the ones by Second Base have a band at the bottom that doesn’t cling, but it holds the cami in place all day. Some styles (like the black “Sarah” one I have) has adjustable straps so I can make it a higher or lower neckline depending on my top garment. Other styles like the “Meredith” is made to not only provide modesty at the neckline, but also cover your bra straps at the shoulder and the bra under the arms (great for floaty summer tops and dresses). The Second Base camis wash and dry beautifully, and they are also made in the USA.

Second Base demi-camis are designed with a large-busted woman in mind; I chose a size Large and it fits great on my size 14/38DD frame. It didn’t shrink with washing, and it feels like nothing on. It doesn’t cling to other knits and it doesn’t get linty like some cheap spandex blends. I really can’t find anything wrong with my Second Base demi-cami, and it has made me into a bit of a camisole convert. I have already worn it twice this week – once with the previously mentioned cowl neck sweater, but another time under a black scoop-necked tee shirt just to give a bit more opacity at the bustline.

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Comments

  1. Thrift Store Mama says

    November 19, 2012 at 3:21 pm

    I am taking the plunge and signing up for Gwynnie Bee. Since I am KRAZY short (5′ even) and am heavy/large busted, I often wind up showing too much cleavage. In preparation for the knit wrap dresses, I came to search your website for camisole recommendations.

    Reply
  2. chundo says

    August 28, 2012 at 3:06 am

    Unfortunately, the buyers at most clothing stores don’t leave me with any choice but to go with the “juvenile” layered look or keep wearing the same three shirts in my closet until they fall apart. Almost everything on the rack is too low cut for me. I wish it weren’t that way, as I also don’t like having to layer up in summer, but If I bend down to pick up one of my kids and the world can see all the way to my bellybutton, that shirt needs something under it. I know not all other women agree, because I’ve seen a lot of bras and bellybuttons being flashed at the library, the grocery store, and in office buildings over the last decade or so. I love all the demi options that are available these days. I’m partial to the layering pieces at DownEast Basics.

    Reply
  3. Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

    June 15, 2012 at 7:41 pm

    I’m sorry they weren’t right for you. Second Base states right on the front page of their site that they are to be worn over a bra. I do agree a Fruit of the Loom sports bra would be a far better choice for what you desire. For a large-busted woman like myself, there’s no way in heck I can get away without an underwire bra, so Second Base is perfect for me to have a bit of modesty with low-cut tops because of the elastic band, lightweight fabric, and adjustable straps. As you have seen, there are different perfect products for different people based on needs, and as you pointed out, location. 🙂

    Reply
  4. Klea says

    June 15, 2012 at 7:22 pm

    I disagree. I purchased three demi camisoles “Meredith”. At $30 a piece, I was disaapointed with the lack of quality. They are made out of one layer of cheaply-made modal fabric. They provide NO support especially for the mid to big busted woman. I wear a “C” cup. Yes there are a wonderful array of colors available! But are we supposed to wear a bra under the demi camisole? I live in Floridaa, but the last time I checked, it gets hot almost everywhere during the summer in the United States.
    I subsequently  purchased three for $12 “Fruit of the Loom”  sports bras (or half camisoles) directly from Her Room or on Amazon.)  I got two packages – with six different colors. They were FAR superior in quality and support. I got pink, blue , white, red, black and gray– all for $24! They are light weight, but they do offer some support and great camisole-type coverage. If second base charged $12 to $15 for each demi-camisole, I MIGHT purchase one, but only for a specific color.
    Sorry to break the “Second Base bubble, but as far as I’m concerned, I never made it to first!

    Reply
  5. Klea says

    June 15, 2012 at 3:22 pm

    I disagree. I purchased three demi camisoles “Meredith”. At $30 a piece, I was disaapointed with the lack of quality. They are made out of one layer of cheaply-made modal fabric. They provide NO support especially for the mid to big busted woman. I wear a “C” cup. Yes there are a wonderful array of colors available! But are we supposed to wear a bra under the demi camisole? I live in Floridaa, but the last time I checked, it gets hot almost everywhere during the summer in the United States.
    I subsequently  purchased three for $12 “Fruit of the Loom”  sports bras (or half camisoles) directly from Her Room or on Amazon.)  I got two packages – with six different colors. They were FAR superior in quality and support. I got pink, blue , white, red, black and gray– all for $24! They are light weight, but they do offer some support and great camisole-type coverage. If second base charged $12 to $15 for each demi-camisole, I MIGHT purchase one, but only for a specific color.
    Sorry to break the “Second Base bubble, but as far as I’m concerned, I never made it to first!

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      June 15, 2012 at 3:41 pm

      I’m sorry they weren’t right for you. Second Base states right on the front page of their site that they are to be worn over a bra. I do agree a Fruit of the Loom sports bra would be a far better choice for what you desire. For a large-busted woman like myself, there’s no way in heck I can get away without an underwire bra, so Second Base is perfect for me to have a bit of modesty with low-cut tops because of the elastic band, lightweight fabric, and adjustable straps. As you have seen, there are different perfect products for different people based on needs, and as you pointed out, location. 🙂

      Reply
  6. Tina says

    February 16, 2010 at 6:20 pm

    When I saw this I immediately went to the website and ordered one! I was so excited by this product! I do like to wear cami’s under my clothing for extra support and coverage, but like you said, it does ruin the silhouette of the top and I for sure do not need to add any more bulkyness to my figure! Well, I got it today in the mail and I can’t wait to get home and whip it on! Actually, I am quite tempted to go into our work bathroom and put it on now, but I think I’ll wait, lol. Thank you so much for the product review AND the 25% off code!!! Love it!

    Reply
  7. Allie says

    February 14, 2010 at 9:18 pm

    You know I never thought of tucking it under my bra! 🙂

    Reply
  8. Erin says

    February 14, 2010 at 5:43 pm

    Looks like a great product. I have a question though – why pin your cut off cami when you can tuck it under your bra?

    Reply
  9. Saige says

    February 11, 2010 at 7:11 am

    Hi! I don’t think I’ve ever commented but I am a long-time reader and enjoy both blogs. I saw these on Mama Bargains today for $12! Amazing! Had to tell you and your readers…
    http://www.mamabargains.com/

    Reply
  10. Katherine says

    February 11, 2010 at 12:39 am

    Wow, that does sound like a great product!

    Reply

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

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Sep 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

wardrobe_oxygen

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Sep 19

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

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

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

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4j0LM #ltkmidsize #midsizestyle #over40style #ltkover40 #genxstyle

wardrobe_oxygen

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Sep 11

Open
Happy gotcha day, Oscar! Four years ago he came into our life and we are so happy to have in our family!

Oscar was a rescue and came with some… quirks. Over the years we have come to understand him and he has come to trust us. He’s a diva, a snuggler, he could play catch for hours, and he’s my husband’s shadow. 

We’ve never had a small breed dog before and it’s a whole different experience. But we adore Oscar and couldn’t imagine our life without him! Thank you for coming into our life Oskie McGoskie! 🐾❤️

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Sep 8

Open
I can see clearly now…

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

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

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

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

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

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Sep 5

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

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

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

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

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

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Aug 30

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Ladies who lunch…

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

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

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

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

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Aug 29

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Scenes from a week in Savannah… 

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

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

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Aug 28

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Stripes are always right…

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

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

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

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

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Aug 27

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The family that wears @printfresh together stays together 🥰

Use code wardrobe_oxygen for 15% off your order of size-inclusive organic cotton sleepwear, dresses, bags & more https://glnk.io/qk04/wardrobe-oxygen

I’ve been raving about my Printfresh pajamas for years, my family also wanted to try them. Thank you Printfresh for gifting these for our annual three generation girls’ getaway to Rehoboth Beach, DE. We had a great time and being all matchy matchy in our pajamas was a fun addition! 🐅🍃🥰

#printfresh #printfreshpajamas #printfreshpartner

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Aug 12

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Shuts laptop until Monday… #RehobothBeach

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