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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more of my throwbacks visit #wo2tbt
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Fashion Advice · October 2, 2020

The Friday Shop

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. 

the friday shop

Retail News

Nordstrom to ban sales of exotic skins and genuine fur by end of 2021. (Fashionista)

Inside the bidding war for the plus size fashion retailers Catherines. (Rascal Honey)

If there's a name you need to know in fashion, it's Kerby Jean-Raymond. This man is changing the fashion game and IMO he hasn't even gotten started. (New York Times)

From the Mailbox

Not exactly from the mailbox, but from the Wardrobe Oxygen Community, a member is looking for a great denim jacket in XL or XXL. She loved her old J. Crew one but when she repurchased it recently she was disappointed to find they changed the hardware from copper to silver. We members provided a few suggestions. Since I know not all of you are on Facebook and many of you may be looking for a denim jacket this fall I wanted to share the jackets that other members have and love:

the best denim jackets in cup sizes XXLRow 1: Ava & Viv for Target – $34.99 (X-4X) | Universal Standard – $98 (two colors sizes 00-40) | Talbots – $109 (XS-3X with petites and plus petites)
Row 2: Madewell – $128 (XXS-XL) | LOFT – $79.50 (sizes 18-20) | Maurice's – $59 (XS – 2XL)
Row 3: Torrid – $59.50 (sizes 10-30) | Lands' End – $49.97 (three colors sizes 2-16 and petites) | Sonoma for Kohl's – $34.99 (four colors sizes XS-XXL)
Row 4: Kut from the Kloth – $89 (XXS-XXL) | Old Navy – $39.99 (sizes XS-XXL with petites and talls) | Chico's – $99 (sizes 0-22 with petite)

I own the Talbots one and love it, it's my favorite denim jacket that is still available for sale. Here you can see me wear the Talbots denim jacket. I also own the Chico's one; here you can see me wear the Chico's denim jacket. I also love it but find it's a longer silhouette even in petite. I find that feature a bit less versatile for my wardrobe but a good choice if you're wearing this as outerwear or primarily with straight or slim silhouettes on the bottom. I tried on the Madewell jacket and liked it a lot; it is supposed to be oversized but done in a way that isn't bulky. If you have another recommendation do share in the comments!

Sale Alert

I love my beaded hoop earrings from 3 Shades Chic; see me wear them here and here. The Black woman-owned jewelry brand has several styles of earrings on sale 20% off. No code needed, prices as marked.

Miami Fitwear, a woman-owned business that makes activewear, has 15% off the entire site (excluding their RBG collection) with promo code FLASH15. I have a pair of their shorts and love the stretchy and comfy yet well-fitting fabric, the amazing prints, the size range, and the customer service.

Rack Room Shoes has a flash sale TODAY ONLY with 15% off your purchase with promo code ENJOY. Rack Room has free shipping on orders of $65+ and a 60-day return window.

Are you one of my luxe-loving readers? Head to DSW, no really!  They have a secret sale on Gucci where through the 3rd you'll get 5% off Gucci products with code KEEPITGUCCI. Considering Gucci never goes on sale, this is worth a visit.

Dagne Dover reached out and offered Wardrobe Oxygen readers 10% off their Signature Collection which can be found at this link.  Use promo code Alison10 at checkout to get the discount. There is no expiration date on this promo code, and stay tuned for a review of their Epic Crossbody which I haven't yet tried (and I've owned a LOT of Dagne Dover bags!).

What I Bought and What I Thought

I'm trying to get away with less makeup. The older I get, the more obvious it looks (and to be honest, the fewer effs I have about achieving some societal goal for beauty). However, I do like the way makeup can blur pores, wrinkles, and such. Wanting the cosmetic equivalent of Vaseline on the lens without being greasy or clogging pores, I ordered the Instant Line and Pore Perfector from NARS. It looks and feels like a lip balm, you rub it on the skin, and then depending on your taste and skin, rub/pat it in with your fingers or a brush, or just leave as-is. It feels silicone-y in that dry yet creamy soft feeling, but it isn't greasy. And wow, it works! Like, rub it on my 11's between my brows and they are 50% reduced in appearance without anything cakey or obvious, even close up. Reviews online say many use this to fill in pockmarks, and many like this under foundation as it prevents the makeup from falling into creases and looking clumpy. At the time of writing this, it was 15% off at Nordstrom and Nordstrom allows returns if it sucks. Reviews are mixed, for everyone that says this product achieves nothing there is another saying it is a game-changing product. I think this is a pretty personal product since it has a lot to do with your skin's texture, how oily or dry it is, how old it is, etc. It is clear on without any sheen and I didn't see any reviews discussing how it works on different skin tones, so I don't know if it will leave a cast on darker complexions. If you have used this, do share in the comments whether the experience was positive or negative to help others considering this. But for now, I dig it and it gives me just what I desired to go barefaced without looking like I just woke up!

I also bought a replacement lash curler – I use this one from Kevyn Aucoin and have used this brand for… gosh well over a decade. I didn't learn until a year or two ago that not only are you to replace the pads on your curler, but the curler itself! Over time, it stops working as well because it gets stretched out, changing its shape and also how well it crimps. They say each pad lasts three months and a curler should be replaced every 6-9… yeah, I think I use the pads at least six months… I wipe them off and clean them every so often and replace once they look worn. I replace my lash curler when I find myself wondering why my lashes look so sad and curled in the middle but straight on the sides… usually every 12-18 months.

One of the items that received the most comments this week on Instagram Stories was a pack of Sharpie pens I purchased! I was totally influenced by a person I don't know on Twitter who said these pens were amazing and someone I follow retweeted it. I've been journaling again and finding that half the pens in my house have died and the other half just isn't enjoyable to write with. Everyone has their own opinion on the best writing utensil and notebook (I do best with a medium point rollerball in a 5-subject notebook for journaling, and a classic blue ball-point in a Leuchtturm1917 Medium A5 notebook for lists) but this guy's description on Twitter (can't find the Tweet) made me click “buy.” And these Sharpie rollerball pens are pretty fabulous. No drips, no smears, no scratchy sound on the paper, no bleed-through even on college-ruled spiral notebook paper, that lovely flick at the end of lines, plus I like how the cap has a different texture from the pen, there is a translucent tip so I can see when the pen has run out of ink, and I like the way the metal clip is set up so it can fit over several sheets of paper without denting or scraping them.

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In: Fashion Advice · Tagged: The Friday Shop

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Comments

  1. Kristi says

    October 4, 2020 at 1:46 pm

    Hi – some of the reviewers mention a horrible smell from the jacket that is difficult to get rid of – did you find that?

    Reply
  2. ErinG says

    October 2, 2020 at 9:44 am

    As for the denim jackets- in your advice I purchased the Talbots one a year (or two!) ago, and I LOVE it. It has a bit of stretch that makes it so much more comfortable than other denim jackets I’ve owned.

    Reply
    • Kristi says

      October 4, 2020 at 1:45 pm

      Hi – some of the reviewers mention a horrible smell from the jacket that is difficult to get rid of – did you find that?

      Reply
      • ErinG says

        October 4, 2020 at 9:16 pm

        Not at all! And I have a pretty sensitive nose!

        Reply
  3. Toni Strother says

    October 2, 2020 at 8:44 am

    I like my LLBean 1912 denim chore jacket. It is cut straight, is long, and doesn’t have the hip-accentuating band around the bottom. It is on sale, too, for $29.99. Not a fashion statement, but a good third layer, and pockets!

    Reply
    • Toni Strother says

      October 2, 2020 at 8:47 am

      I should have said third piece, not layer. I usually wear it over a tee shirt, but a white shirt with a collar would be crisp.

      Reply
  4. RoseAG says

    October 2, 2020 at 8:33 am

    That’s a nice selection of denim jackets. I think you don’t have to spent a lot to refresh this wardrobe staple.
    With pant waists moving up -yeah!- I like a jacket that is shorter. My gripe with many jackets is that they have that buttoned band on the bottom and often the shoulders will fit but the band won’t button. So the shorter ones get around that issue.

    Reply
  5. Susan says

    October 2, 2020 at 8:19 am

    I have the Kut from the Kloth jean jacket in a dark wash and a light wash. I love both. I honestly didn’t think I was a jean jacket person until I got the first one. Audrey at Putting Me Together recommended that one and I 100% agree. I found both of mine on Poshmark.

    Reply
  6. Leu2500 says

    October 2, 2020 at 7:54 am

    re the Talbots jean jacket. Talbots gas a sale this weekend, 40% off 1 regular priced item with the code SMILE40

    Reply

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Is a $35 Merino Sweater Too Good to Be True?

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

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Sep 21

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

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

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

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

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

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

wardrobe_oxygen

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Sep 19

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

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

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

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

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Sep 11

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

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

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

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Sep 8

Open
I can see clearly now…

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

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

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

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

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

wardrobe_oxygen

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Sep 5

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

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

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

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

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

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Aug 30

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Ladies who lunch…

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

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

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

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

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Aug 29

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Scenes from a week in Savannah… 

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

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

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Aug 28

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Stripes are always right…

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

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

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

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

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Aug 27

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The family that wears @printfresh together stays together 🥰

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

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

#printfresh #printfreshpajamas #printfreshpartner

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Aug 12

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Shuts laptop until Monday… #RehobothBeach

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