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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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Fashion Advice, Footwear · May 16, 2023

6 Top Summer Shoe Trends for Grown Women: 2023 Edition

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. 

Top Summer Shoe Trends for Grown Women: 2023 Edition

We grown-ass women wear whatever we want, but sometimes we like to know what's fashionable each season and add some trends to our existing closet. The easiest way to update your existing summer wardrobe is with a switch to shoes. Each summer new shoes are considered “hot” but not all are comfortable or work with the wardrobe of a grown woman. Below I share on-trend summer shoes that are great for us.

6 Top Summer Shoe Trends for Grown Women

There are many summer shoe styles this year that are different from previous summers, but I am sticking to the six styles I think are more wearable and will give you the most bang for your buck if added to your existing wardrobe.

Square-toe Kitten Heel Sandals

If you're looking for dressier summer shoes to wear for a special occasion or just to jazz up your white jeans and linen wide-leg trousers, the square-toe kitten-heel sandal is a great choice. Low enough of a heel for comfort, and space for all toes to wiggle, this is a shoe that is trendy but wearable too.

Square-toe Kitten Heel Sandals

Shop the Collage:
one | two | three | four | five | six | seven | eight | nine | ten | eleven | twelve | thirteen | fourteen | fifteen

350

The alternative is a flat to low heel where the straps are round and a bit “puffy” instead of the traditional flat option. Preferably in black, but also in neutrals like brown, tan and cream, this is an equally versatile sandal that isn't too dressy but elevates summer closet staples.

Elevated Flip Flop

The flip-flop is back, but unlike previous times when we squeaked and slid around on foam platforms with straps from webbing or rubber, this year's flip-flop goes glam. Molded soles, leather straps, and even metallic hardware are seen on these flip flops that work great with the “coastal chic” trend that has continued since 2022.

Elevated Flip Flop | Top Summer Shoe Trends for Grown Women 2023

Shop the Collage:
one | two | three | four | five | six | seven | eight | nine | ten | eleven | twelve | thirteen | fourteen

350

The alternative is the thong sandal. Thongs in general are a trend this year, and you will see plenty of sandals that have ankle straps and a thong front. This summer, you will even seen slides and heels with thong features.

Dad Sandal

The “Dad Sandal” has a substantial sole and thick straps with one going around the ankle. Chanel revived this style but now you can find it at all pricepoints. Keep this elevated by looking for leather and smooth fabrics, tonal hardware and sole. However, for casual situations a Teva-style sandal, especially in fun color combinations and/or with chunky soles, will also be a great choice.

Dad Sandal | Top Summer Shoe Trends for Grown Women 2023

Shop the Collage:
one | two | three | four | five | six | seven | eight | nine | ten | eleven | twelve | thirteen

350

An alternative to the “Dad Sandal” is the fisherman sandal. However, I encourage my fellow grown-ass women to tread carefully into this trend. Look for fun colors, chunky soles, and modern detailings so you look stylish and not as though you forgot to switch out your Merrells from your morning hike. Nothing wrong with Merrell sandals, but this is advice for on-trend summer shoes, not functional and practical summer shoes.

Birkenstock Sandals

Birkenstock sandals aren't going anywhere. They, and brands that carry similar styles, have elevated the sandal in 2023 to be found in patent leather, bold colors, and cool prints and finishes. I find a pop of color with either tonal hardware or big gold or silver buckles can look elevated enough to wear beyond the music festival to pair with linen pantsuits and elegant sundresses.

Birkenstock Sandals

Shop the Collage:
one | two | three | four | five | six | seven | eight | nine | ten | eleven | twelve | thirteen | fourteen | fifteen | sixteen | seventeen

350

While Birks are known for their cork soles, this summer you can choose any type of footbed that works for you, but still gives the vibe of thick substantial straps, a solid sole, and chunky buckles.

Elevated Ballet Flat

If you're looking for a closed-toe summer shoe, the ballet flat is where it's at. As I mentioned in my 2023 fashion trends article, this year's ballet flat is a bit more structured than in the past. Chunky soles, structured leather, square toes, wide elastic cross straps… most have some detail that makes the ballet flat look substantial. This balances the volume of this summer's breezy linen and midi dress trends.

Elevated Ballet Flat

Shop the Collage:
one | two | three | four | five | six | seven | eight | nine | ten | eleven | twelve | thirteen | fourteen

350

An alternative that is equally on trend this year is a flat Mary Jane. While not as easily found right now, I expect the Mary Jane trend at all heel heights to continue to gain popularity throughout 2023.

Retro-Inspired Sneakers

As I reported earlier this year, retro-inspired sneakers are still a hot shoe trend in 2023. A sleek, low-profile version, especially in summer-friendly canvas is a great choice to wear with everything from midi sundresses to denim cutoffs.

Retro-Inspired Sneakers | Top Summer Shoe Trends for Grown Women 2023

Shop the Collage:
one | two | three | four | five | six | seven | eight | nine | ten

350

Instead of sticking with all-white options, look for pops of colors to truly embrace the retro trend. It's okay if that green or red or blue matches absolutely nothing in your look, in fact that will add a “cool factor” to your outfit!

What Summer Shoe Trends Are a Continuing Classic?

If you have espadrilles, huaraches, or delicately strappy heels, they are still on trend this summer. Such shoes won't be going out of fashion any time soon.

What Color Shoes Are Stylish This Summer?

For the past few years, summer shoe trends have been about white or light, with a focus on shoes that are low contrast to the body to elongate the frame and feel summery. However, this summer a black sandal is quite chic.

A neutral is still stylish, and likely always be. The same holds true with metallics, especially gold. Pops of color, especially unexpected brights like yellow, candy pink, lime green, and coral look fresh.

A key trend this summer is having your sole match your shoe with hardware also matching your straps. An all-black sandal will look more stylish and more elevated than one with a tan sole, contrast stitching, or brass buckles. The trend concept is clean, modern, crisp.

But What About [Enter Summer Shoe Trend Here]?

This list doesn't encompass all the hot footwear trends for Summer 2023, just the ones I think are the most comfortable, versatile, and easy to add to an existing closet for us grown-ass women. These are new styles (or revisit of styles we've worn before) that will update your existing not-so little black dresses, linen and chino pieces, and breezy sundresses.

But I Need [Enter Foot Problem Solver Here]

I never believe in sacrificing comfort and health for fashion. My advice is a guide, not gospel. If you need a certain style of shoe to deal with your foot issues, then rock those shoes without shame. In fact, you may find this year with the trend towards more substantial sandals and the added variety of “cool” sneakers, you may have more luck than in past years in finding shoes that fit your personal style aesthetic and your comfort and health needs!

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Comments

  1. Chris says

    May 22, 2023 at 3:20 am

    i definitely have a foot issue that landed me in the hospital in 2021. Infection in both heels that got into the bone. 3 surgeries on my poor heels. My feet have healed (it’s hard to avoid a pun here) but I still need footwear that protects and covers my heels. It looks like Fisherman’s sandals could be just what I need for summer. And I like the clunky, heavy look.

    Reply
  2. Adrienne S. says

    May 17, 2023 at 4:06 pm

    What shoe is in your top picture (the title slide)? It looks like a couple featured in the Dad Sandal section, but none seem to match exactly. It’s just the style and color I’m looking for.

    Thanks!

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      May 23, 2023 at 12:27 pm

      The top picture is stock photography, unfortunately I do not know when it was taken or more details on that shoe.

      Reply
  3. Lynn says

    May 17, 2023 at 8:51 am

    Love this post! Always looking for shoe advice from you – from my Ally pumps to my new Birkenstock sneakers you’ve never steered me wrong.

    Headed to Europe for a big touristy vacation this summer for the first time since Covid and would love to see a shoe post about comfortable shoes to wear as a tourist – shoes I can wear all day hiking around cobblestone streets but still look nice in!

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      May 23, 2023 at 12:28 pm

      If I were going on such a trip, I’d take my Birkenstock Bend sneakers and likely a pair of Teva sandals, the ones with the more molded sole like the Hurricanes. Both have done me well for walking a lot on uneven terrain.

      Reply
  4. Heidi says

    May 16, 2023 at 9:03 pm

    Birk Mayari’s are super comfortable, too. I have ugly bunions and have trouble finding shoes that fit, but these work well and look cute.

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      May 23, 2023 at 12:29 pm

      Thank you for this recommendation!

      Reply
  5. Alison says

    May 16, 2023 at 11:45 am

    I love this! Shoes are my jam! Now that my life has changed and my feet are older (and wiser??) I stick to styles that have at least some arch support and aren’t too narrow.

    I love a classic fisherman/gladiator style sandal. I had a brown pair I bought from Eddie Bauer years ago that had just the right lift and good support. They looked great with everything – pants, dresses, shorts, etc. I wore those until they literally fell apart and regretted not buying another pair while I had the chance. I am always looking for one that could replace what those were for me.

    I am also a huge fan of Birks and Dansko sandals. I was just trying on shoes yesterday and was very tempted by the #9 (Dansko Kandi) in the Birks collage. They have good arch support, the straps are adjustable and they add a little height but are lightweight. They are a nice sandal for summer! I may have bought them yesterday but they had only blue in my size. I was hoping for the pink or maybe black.

    And omigosh! I love the retro sneakers! Tretorns! I dearly want a pair but most I have tried in past seasons have either been too narrow and/or very little arch support. If I can find a pair I like that are wide enough I may need to break down and just get some good insoles to wear with them.

    Love this!

    Reply
  6. Bette says

    May 16, 2023 at 11:34 am

    Great round-up, thanks! I love ballet flats and the square-toed version currently considered stylish fits me perfectly. Of all the ones I’ve tried, I like the Sam Edelman versions the best: May, Marisol, and Meadow. I recommend going a half size smaller than your usual size, and they should be snug at first wear because, being leather, they will stretch.

    Reply
    • drift hunters says

      May 23, 2023 at 3:13 am

      Which shoe is shown in your header image (the first slide)? A few pairs in the Dad Sandal area appear similar, but nothing quite clicks. It’s the perfect shade and design for me.

      Reply
      • Alison Gary says

        May 23, 2023 at 12:21 pm

        I am so sorry but that is stock photography and not a sandal I found online.

        Reply

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Weekend Capsule Wardrobe: Getaway to Miami in a Carryon

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

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

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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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