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The perfect red for the holiday season 💄

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#mytalbots modernclassicstyle #wondersoftheseason #ltkover40 #ltkplussize #ltkmidsize #blackfridaysale
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@somaintimates makes it easy to shop for a range of personas this holiday season! #AD With gift guides for a range of personality types, you can easily find great gifts for your loved ones. I was drawn to the creative one, loving the rich colorful florals, luxe satin, lace trim, and of course Soma’s iconic Cool Nights sleepwear! Visit Soma’s gift guide for tips on finding the perfect present this holiday season. #SomaGiftGuide #SomaStartsWithMe
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Capsule Wardrobes · May 1, 2013

Sample SAHM Capsule Wardrobe for Summer

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. 

Some of you have requested it, and some of you have asked for it on forums (I see you BabyCenter peeps and welcome you to my blog!). I created a SAHM capsule wardrobe previously, but here’s an update for the warmer months of the year.

sahm capsule wardrobe summer
[collage source]

I don’t like a lot of prints most of the time – they are too memorable to wear often, and they look dated more quickly. However, my opinion changes for summer and for a few reasons:

  • They hide sweat and stains nicely
  • They are distracting during a season when so many silhouettes are fitted and shrunken

A solid blue tank can look cheap and dumpy if you have curves or if it gets washed too much, a printed tank creates an optical illusion, and also looks more expensive. A pair of solid capris can be a bit too harsh in summer and the thin fabric may show more than you like; a printed pair camouflages curves, adds a bit of light and if you choose wisely, a print can actually fade nicely with regular washings (I’m partial to light-background retro florals, Ikat prints, and dots). A print can also dress up and down nicely with a quick change of accessories.

I have a lot of dresses in this capsule, and it’s because I find them to be more wearable, more simple, and more comfortable in summer than skirts and separates. While you can find jersey dresses anywhere, they can cling with sweat and humidity if too thin. I’m partial to cotton, chambray, linen and silk (and blends with these two fabrics). Such fabrics dry quickly, catch the slightest breeze, float away from the body and don’t cling. If you choose a style with a bit fuller of a skirt (even a-line) that comes to knee or lower, you can still chase after your toddler and crawl under a table to capture a lost sippy cup. My secret for summer dresses? Bike shorts. Get a pair of moisture-wicking bike shorts in a solid color, and they will prevent chafing as well as provide modesty.

Social events in the summer are never as dressy as those in the colder months; you can get away with a night out with the girls in a pair of white jeans and an interesting top; leather sandals with some metal detail will be a dressy enough shoe and is just as comfortable as cheap flip flops. For summer weddings, a dress in a silk or linen blend paired with wedge or heeled sandals and an interesting necklace will be lovely, and such pieces can be incorporated into your daily wardrobe.

Switching out black accessories for tan makes most everything look more summery. This is a great way to make winter staples (chambray shirts, darker colored knits) look seasonably appropriate. Not only that, a tan bag doesn’t have to be stowed away come September. I always prefer leather bags over fabric because they can be cleaned and conditioned, and look good with a bit of wear. Fabric bags can be very hard to clean, and a stained tote can really ruin your overall look. A bag with a shoulder strap as well as a crossbody strap means you can sling it over your body when your hands are full, or carry it on your shoulder or the crook of your elbow if in a rush or have a little one on your back.

capsule wardrobe sahm mom summer
[collage source]

Shorts are terrifying for most women, but these days there’s more than 2” inseams and skintight cutoffs. Last summer I lived in two pairs of shorts – weathered denim and a pair of white chinos. With my curves, I find it best to size up with shorts – this way you get less creasing with sitting, less VPL, they’re more comfortable, and aren’t fitted on the thighs. I also like to cuff them once to get a better length on me – petites are too petite, regulars are too long; in denim and chino a single cuff isn’t a bad thing. When it comes to denim, I encourage a more distressed look so you have a modern and hip look to your outfits. Summer is the time for prints, and for a more distressed or boho feel to your wardrobe. Very dark denim shorts and longer denim shorts with a very severe cuff can look dated and dowdy. Last summer I bought a pair of denim shorts at Target and self-distressed them. Check out this post that has many tips on how to DIY denim. But once you get over your shorts fear, you’ll find they can be as flattering as skirts. If need be, take them to a tailor – a great fitting pair of shorts is worth the trouble. White is a great summer neutral and in denim or heavy chino they are relatively opaque. If you fear white, consider olive (military inspiration is all over this season’s fashion), or a signature color (I have a pair of faded orange chino shorts I love and pair with everything from hot pink to Breton stripes to a simple white v-neck).

It may seem too hot for jeans, but often you are spending time inside instead of out. Loose boyfriend jeans that cuff above the ankle bone are lighter weight denim, have some ventilation with distressing, and are a trendy way to update simple tee shirts and tanks. White jeans are a great way to dress up knit tops for the evening or even for a daytime event like brunch or a casual shower.

Come summer, I prefer beaded necklaces to metal. Costume jewelry doesn’t play nice with sweat – it will tarnish, peel, and often irritate your skin. Not only that, it gets hot when the sun beats down on it. You can find beaded necklaces for cheap, be it at craft shows, Etsy, big box discount shops, or the teeny-bopper jewelry kiosk in your mall.

Stick to a single color story and aesthetic for the season so pieces mix and match more easily. As you can see with the first collection, it’s black, white, and rusty orange shades. The second one, it's black and ivory with aqua and yellow.  For some, it may be shades of blue, for others it may be tans and browns. I recommend at least one pop of color for variety, and consider summer accessories to switch things up.

Speaking of accessories, I am all for signature sunglasses. A pair that is well-made, comfortable for long periods of time, and on trend will improve all outfits. I’m glad oversized Ray-Bans are back in style, I have a gold pair and a black pair; my sister is more the type to wear oversized plastic frames and my mom has been rocking the same black plastic Fendi frames for a few years and they still look quite chic.

For shoes, it’s tempting to spend all summer in $2 Old Navy flip flops, but I highly recommend investing in at least one pair of leather sandals – they’re just as or more comfortable and add a level of sophistication and style to your casual outfits. Sandals in a skin color with a wedge or slight heel can be worn with pants, dresses, skirts, and even shorts of all lengths and add a bit of a dressy vibe. A pair of canvas shoes, be they Keds, Chucks, or TOMS are perfect for mulch playgrounds, walking to the farmer’s market, or running errands around town while keeping you cool.

Sunglasses and shoes are two accessories you can find mega cheap come summer (hello Old Navy flip flops) but the quickest way to ruin your style. Buy the cheap v-neck tee shirt (hello Old Navy Vintage V-necks) but buy the best quality your budget can afford for sandals and shades and you will look more polished, trend aware, and sophisticated.

Finally, a comment to all – do not sacrifice comfort because you have an issue with your limbs.  Your arms, your legs, we all find them to not be toned enough, too veiny, too soft, too pale, to lumpy, too something.  No one is analyzing your arms and legs as much as you are.  While there are lovely cropped pants, below-knee skirts, and floaty sleeved tops out there, sometimes you just need to wear some shorts or a sleeveless top.  You will look more conspicuous sweating in an elbow-sleeve top and cropped pants than having fun and living life with exposed arms and legs.  Live your life, enjoy yourself, and dress the part!

Other posts you may find helpful:

  • What to Pack for Vacation
  • SAHM Capsule Wardrobe
  • Summer Office Attire
  • Stylish Summer and Spring Casual Attire
  • What to Wear for A Vacation at the Shore

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Comments

  1. Alicia says

    April 18, 2015 at 10:12 pm

    That last paragraph about arms & legs… TRUTH! I’ve had 2 babies in 3 years & been through TON of life change. I don’t LOVE anything when I look in the mirror except knowing WHO I am inside (cheesey, right ?) anyway, I’ve been saying to my self “confidence is your best accessory” EVERY time! Now I need to say that about sleeveless dresses!!!!! THANK YOU!!!

    Reply
  2. Katelyn says

    May 5, 2013 at 11:21 am

    Your suggestions are cute and a fun thought, but dresses or skirt just don’t work for me day and day out as a SAHM of a 2.5 year old boy. I’m not lunching or out for coffee with the girls. I’m wrestling on the floor, sliding down slides, climbing trees and jogging after a bicycle as well as going to the library and grocery store. A dress/skirt might work okay for a walk, but I think they look funny with tennis shoes and I’ve yet to find a sandal that doesn’t make my feet hurt long distance (2-4 mile walks while pushing a stroller or sometimes carrying my 30lb son.) I stick mainly with shorts or jeans (crops make my 5’2″ frame look stumpy) and a casual top/tank with my few skirts reserved for a rare family dinner out. Even then I have trouble finding tops (that aren’t wrap tops) that actually fit my (post nursing) 34DD/DDD chest and slightly broader shoulders without having a lot of excess material around the stomach area. And I am in tennis shoes (or barefoot when inside) a lot of the time with a few pairs of flats for the quick walk to the mailbox or through the grocery store. I’m not in sweats or a ratty tshirt, but I know I don’t look “fashionable” the majority of the time. However, every time I try to wear something that isn’t completely functional for my life first, I end up changing clothes after a few hours. Maybe I can get closer to some of your suggestions when my son is several years older and I’m not rough and tumbling quite so much.

    Reply
  3. Nebraskim says

    May 3, 2013 at 3:46 pm

    I love all these capsules and wish I could embrace your advice on limb love but no. I am lucky enuf to almost never be too hot and am always cold in summer AC so I never go sleeveless nor wear shorts as I end up shivering. I wear a white denim jacket to cover up and keep me warm enough. If it’s so hot that even I am too warm, then it’s too hot for normal people to function. I would and have declined attending events if I feel that sleeveless or shorts will be required.

    Reply
  4. JulieHeinrich says

    May 2, 2013 at 10:12 am

    You have inspired me to create my own summer capsule wardrobe. I will be spending the summer in far south Texas so I needed very cool clothing to deal with the hot Texas summer.

    Reply
  5. rella12 says

    May 2, 2013 at 9:18 am

    I love these options, especially the chambray sleeveless dress. Can you give some more information about where you found it, please? thanks.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      May 2, 2013 at 1:37 pm

      The dress is from Adrianna Papell, I see it’s for sale at Nordstrom: http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/adrianna-papell-faux-wrap-chambray-dress/3456760

      Reply
  6. Cassandra Westfall says

    May 2, 2013 at 1:13 am

    Really wonderful advice!! I live in dresses in the summer. I have never really been a huge fan of shorts (hate how they can ride up into an inverted v), but I’m starting to reconsider as I’ve been seeing some really cute ones this spring.

    Cassie
    http://stylecassentials.blogspot.com

    Reply
  7. Jen says

    May 1, 2013 at 6:24 pm

    LOVE it! I am a teacher, so during the summer months I turn into a SAHM (and a VERY poorly put together one, at that). Since I’ve been working on looking more put together in my career (thank you for introducing me to Gwynnie Bee, by the way), I think this is the summer I need to polish my summer look. These ideas are spot-on as always!

    Reply
  8. Cammila says

    May 1, 2013 at 2:16 pm

    Dang, woman, you have such effing good taste. Which is different from being “tasteful”! You just know how to pick the stuff that looks good — every. single. time. Just look at these collections and find a single item that wouldn’t look not just good, but DAMN GOOD on practically any woman you pick out of the crowd! That takes hardcore skill, and it’s not even as easy as having a good eye for what looks good on yourself — which can be challenging in and of itself.

    Sorry to ramble on and on, but a lot of ladies are posting suggested “summer wardrobe staples” lately, and as I’m sure you know, you’re a cut above the rest, babe.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      May 1, 2013 at 2:17 pm

      Aww thanks Cammila!

      Reply
    • bubu says

      May 2, 2013 at 10:52 am

      Ditto! This whole post got me really excited to re-think what I have and ways to augment to make it work better. Thanks so much Allison!

      Reply
  9. Sonia says

    May 1, 2013 at 12:21 pm

    Great info, as always. I prefer wearing white tops and shirts a lot during the warmer months, due to the light reflecting the heat away from my body and the fact that it looks crisp and clean with jeans, khakis or shorts.

    Reply
  10. Ignorant Awareness says

    May 1, 2013 at 11:43 am

    It’s funny how, except for the jeans, these outfits look like what I wear to teach- although I may very well have to add some casual jeans once I’m teaching out in laidback Latin America!

    Oh & also, you have a forum? 😮

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      May 1, 2013 at 11:44 am

      nope, I have a comment form at “contact” tab 🙂

      Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      May 1, 2013 at 11:53 am

      Oh dur I completely answered this wrong. Nah, I see on my stat counter that I get hits from message boards and forums and a few mom ones are asking for a summer version to my SAHM capsule wardrobe. 🙂 Whoops!

      Reply
      • Ignorant Awareness says

        May 1, 2013 at 2:52 pm

        Oh ok- you had me thinking there was some sort of live comment party going on in your ‘contact’ tab, haha!

        Reply
        • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

          May 1, 2013 at 2:53 pm

          Now THAT would be fun!! LOL

          Reply
          • Ignorant Awareness says

            May 1, 2013 at 3:14 pm

            Yes but don’t give yourself more to do when you already have your plate full Allie! Invite me if it does happen though, haha 😉

          • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

            May 1, 2013 at 3:15 pm

            IF it ever happens, I’ll be sure to send you an invite! <3

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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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Dec 5

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The tree is trimmed! 🎄

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

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

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

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

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Nov 28

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

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

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Nov 19

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

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

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

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

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

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Nov 17

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

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

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

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

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Nov 15

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

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

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

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
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#ltkmidsize #ltkover40 #genxstyle #dagnedoverdakota

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Nov 6

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

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

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

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Nov 4

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Early voting poll worker style 🗳️

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

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

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

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Nov 2

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

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

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

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

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

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Oct 18

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

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

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

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

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Oct 17

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

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

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

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

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

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

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