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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!
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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!).

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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

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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
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Fashion Advice, Entertainment, Lifestyle · July 13, 2007

Reader Survey

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. 

So tomorrow I am going to the theater (for those of you in DC, we are going to dinner first at Notti Bianche, and then walking to the Kennedy Center) to see Phantom of the Opera. I have seen lots of theater performances, but never Phantom (though I did see the movie but that doesn't count). We are going with a couple who we have been friends with for many many years but haven't seen in a bit since they moved to Virginia.

I spoke to my female friend in the couple, she said she would probably wear pants and heels; we both agree jeans are not theater-appropriate, but feel that in the summer getting super dressed up seems inappropriate. She is a petite little thing who carries off the very simple styles of J. Crew and Banana Republic with ease, I can see her in a soft blue tailored shirt with cuffs, crisp black trousers, very cute black kitten heels, a Tiffany bracelet, delicate necklace and a Coach purse. She has red hair and beautiful pale skin. As we all know, simple is not my middle name.

So what should I wear?

I was thinking the olive shift dress with the leopard-print heels, long gold necklace and gold bracelet, but we will be taking the Metro, so will be walking several blocks. Those heels are fabu, but so skinny of a heel they get caught in every sidewalk crack and wouldn't be good for walking to the restaurant, walkign then to the theater, and then walking to the metro. My husband said we could take cabs, but I think the weather is going to be lovely.

I don't mind walking in heels, and think any shoes would be fine except the leopard, the black and brown crocos in the same style, and my hot pink pointy pumps. Should I just be a commuter and tuck my black ballet flats in my bag for the longer of the walks? this is what I am currently thinking, to have them if the going gets rough. But I would love to hear what you suggest, since you always ask me for my suggestions! 🙂

UPDATE: One should always check the Metro website before stressing. It is one block from the Metro to the restaurant, four blocks from the theater to the Metro come the end of the evening, and our friends are driving so they may give us a ride to the Metro at the end of our double date. but still, I would love to hear your ideas!

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Comments

  1. Amethyst says

    July 16, 2007 at 6:06 pm

    I love what you decided on! The red necklace looks great with the black dress and heels. Excellent!

    Reply
  2. Amethyst says

    July 16, 2007 at 1:10 pm

    I suggested black trousers because for most people this is a basic staple item in their wardrobe. (Is there anyone out there who doesn’t have at least one pair of black pants?) and I think I recall one post of Allie’s where she was wearing a printed kimono top. Good luck and please let us know what you decide to wear!

    Reply
  3. laundrygirl says

    July 15, 2007 at 1:54 am

    Well, I’m late leaving this comment and you are probably at the theatre as I write this. My vote is for the black ribbed tank from Caslon, black and ivory print jersey skirt from Rachel Palley, silver hoops from The Icing, silver cuff, black leather thong heels from Target. I’ll be interested in hearing what you chose…

    Reply
  4. Genuine Lustre says

    July 14, 2007 at 2:15 pm

    Since you asked!!
    I vote for your black t-dress, a scarf and jazzy jewelry with the leopard heels. I would tuck the ballet flats into a bag if it were me. Nothing ruins an evening like mincing along with sore feet.

    Reply
  5. kaili says

    July 14, 2007 at 2:14 pm

    I like the sounds of the outfit- but I would consider black wide legged trousers under the shift dress… could really take it up a notch! have a great time!

    Reply
  6. Jennifer says

    July 14, 2007 at 3:49 am

    I can’t wait to see what you chose!!! I’m sure you looked great! Hope you had a great time.

    I’m so happy I finally delurked after approx. 2 years of reading!!!!! It’s nice to come out of hiding. I don’t know what took me so long.

    Thanks again for blog!

    Jennifer from PA

    Reply
  7. Melody says

    July 14, 2007 at 1:36 am

    My vote is your Teal jersey dress from Proenza Schouler for Target. Very classy!

    Reply
  8. Anonymous says

    July 13, 2007 at 9:06 pm

    I am so relieved to hear you dress up for theatre. I am a theatre technician, which means, I make the magic and I get so frustrated with people who wear grungy clothes to what should be a special occasion.Even when Ive worked at The Kennedy Center people have dressed like they tumbled out of bed. I ADORE your blog- I am addicted to it. You really should look into a book deal!

    Reply
  9. Aisha says

    July 13, 2007 at 7:50 pm

    why not your black and white rachel palley skirt, with your old navy tape waist empire sweater, and either your black peep toe croco shoes or your red peep toe croco shoes?? bring the flats in your bag so you can wow with the shoes!!

    BTW i LOVE your blog, I read it all the time!! your posts are so inspiring!

    Reply
  10. De in D.C. says

    July 13, 2007 at 7:11 pm

    Ditto the earlier comments. I was going to suggest black trousers and a bright sweater (the pink one from yesterday works or the apple green one). As much as I love your teal dress, I think that might be a bit too much even. You could do the black Lily dress though.

    The Kennedy Center isn’t really dressy… more just classy.

    Reply
  11. Brandy says

    July 13, 2007 at 6:48 pm

    Olive dress is a bit sloppy, I agree.

    Thursday, May 17, 2007 outfit with the shoes from Tuesday May 8th. Or the leopard print pumps. Very posh.

    Reply
  12. Allie says

    July 13, 2007 at 6:37 pm

    Okay, you guys are all so fabulous! Tonight my husband works late so I will be playing dress up looking for inspiration!

    Reply
  13. Jennifer says

    July 13, 2007 at 6:28 pm

    The olive dress I don’t think would be your best choice. Since it’s linen it gets very wrinkled and sloppy looking.

    What about that long black dress? Or the teal baby doll with black pants? By the way, you look great in teal.

    Also, I’m officially delurking! I enjoy reading your blog and seeing what you are wearing! Thanks!

    Jennifer from PA (who’s brother lives in DC and owns a cool bar/billiard on U Street called, Cue Bar). FYI

    Reply
  14. maddie says

    July 13, 2007 at 5:41 pm

    okay, here are my suggestions:

    your black t-dress, a sassy scarf tied around your neck and fun shoes.

    your teal baby doll top and a pair of charcoal or black slacks.

    your coral crinkly gauze baby doll top and a pair of charcoal or black slacks.

    and your silver cuff, natch.

    Reply
  15. Anonymous says

    July 13, 2007 at 5:11 pm

    I have no fear you will look super cute in whatever you choose.

    Reply
  16. Katie says

    July 13, 2007 at 3:26 pm

    Regarding the shoes, I’d wear the leopard print heels and see how you do. In the meantime, throw the ballet flats in your bag in case the sidewalks present a problem and you need a break (or your hubby asks you to stop holding onto him for support). 🙂

    Reply
  17. Anonymous says

    July 13, 2007 at 3:23 pm

    Nice Amethyst, but does Allie even own any of those things? i think she wants to go with what she has in her closet all ready.

    Allie, how about that black dress you recently wore to a wedding, but with your black thong heels? That can dress up or down and those shoes must be comfortble since you wear them all the time!

    Have fun!

    -Shanee from Chicago

    Reply
  18. Amethyst says

    July 13, 2007 at 3:18 pm

    I would opt for practical yet stylish and wear an outfit like this: a pair of black pants/trousers and a brightly colored top (maybe a kimono print top or a bright colored tunic) and with trousers, you can get away with wearing a low-heeled or flat shoe without feeling frumpy because the trouser hides it. Add a long dangly chain necklace and earrings if you wish and you’re set. Make the blouse the focal point of the entire outfit. After all, it’s a fun night out, so I wouldn’t want to bother carrying another pair of footwear in my purse.

    Reply
  19. Andrea says

    July 13, 2007 at 2:34 pm

    Oooh, what a fun project! Well knowing how those in DC dress for the theater, the olive shift may be a great choice, or even black pants and your black heels with some cute little top… will you be going to a bar or club afterwards?

    Reply
  20. Anonymous says

    July 13, 2007 at 2:25 pm

    I’m not sure the olive shift dress is the best choice for the theatre. Maybe your teal dress from Proenza or the green and white wrap dress from H&M. They are more flattering and seem a little dressier. As long as you can hang onto your husband in case you step in a crack, I’d say go with the heels! Have fun tonight!

    -Sharon from Catonsville

    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 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!
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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

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

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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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