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 · July 30, 2021

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 by Wardrobe Oxygen

Sale Alert

equilibria promo code

The Equilibria subscription sale has been extended through the end of the month! With this sale, new customers who subscribe to a box or product from Equilibria will get 50% off their first month with promo code WARDROBEOXYGEN or clicking and using this link.

This is an awesome deal; subscriptions mean you receive orders autoshipped to you, free shipping, on a scheduled time. It's super easy to pause, change, and yes cancel your subscription. When you subscribe, you get access to a free Dosage Specialist who will have a phone call with you to discuss your needs, current health and issues, and customize a plan perfect for you.

I've been using Equilibria CBD for almost a year and CBD since 2018. Equilibria is a woman-owned organic CBD company that owns its own farm. The company is full of highly trained and educated specialists focusing on finding ways to have CBD help women and our unique bodies and needs. If you want to learn more, read my original review of Equilibria, or check out this IGTV I did with Equilibria regarding CBD and perimenopause.

soma summer sale

Soma has continued their sale of 30% off summer styles at this link. This sale isn't new, so selection may be limited, but the items in the sale and the amazing prices are worth checking out. If you are a fan of Cool Nights pajamas like I am, this is a sale you don't want to miss. But Soma also included in the sale great bras, undies, loungewear, activewear, and much more in styles and fabrics you'll want to wear now.

nordstrom annuversary sale

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is now open to the public; you can see my picks at this post. A few are still in stock. Pretty much everything on my wish list was sold out by the time I was able to shop but I ended up snagging this jumpsuit (you know me and jumpsuits!). I got my husband a pair of these shorts, and my kid one of these hoodies, and this sweater vest. I also bought a pack of these washcloths because cheap washcloths such and black washcloths hide makeup stains. The order is to arrive today or tomorrow so I should have reviews next week!

What I Bought and What I Thought

Screen Shot 2021 07 29 at 9.41.03 AM

So I was going through Nordstrom's selection writing a blog post and I came across this blouse from Marimekko that was on sale. I fell in love, and loved the sale price, but it was not available in my size. So I went Googling armed with the style name and found Pirkko, which is a shop in Seattle with an online presence.

While it wasn't quite as cheap as it was at Nordstrom, at the time I bought, it was available in the full size range. Unsure how I fit in Marimekko, I got an XL, figuring it would be easier to tailor down than try to make a blouse stretched over my boobs work. I'll let you know what I think when it arrives! If you like the print but not the blouse, there is also a dress though currently only available in Small and Large.

I'm thinking with white jeans, with wide-leg pants in any of the colors in the blouse as well as navy, dark olive green, camel, denim. I'm seeing it loose, tucked in, and belted. I'm seeing big gold hoops and crazy curls and a bold lip and maybe my wide-leg high-waisted jeans and a gold belt? I may hate the blouse, and that's always a risk when shopping from new retailers, but Pirkko allows returns within seven days with a prepaid ($10) label and I am going to try it out and see.

Screen Shot 2021 07 29 at 10.25.06 AM

Since buying my HOKA sneakers, I am super into the brand. When I saw these recovery slides, I thought they may be a nice switch from my EVA Birkenstocks for house shoes. I got mine at Zappos in the color black, but if you want a different color I found Runners Plus and REI to have the best color selection, even more than the HOKA site.

These are like walking on firm clouds with arch support. Cushy, but not squishy, supportive without feeling like you're standing on a golf ball. Because they are synthetic, your feet can sweat in them. Keep that in mind in this hot weather. But these are truly a recovery for my feet. After riding 50 miles on the bike, I put these on and they felt ahhhh-mayzing. I wear them after being on my feet all day, and I love wearing them when standing for a while, like preparing dinner.

I have wide feet and these slides were snug at first, but they stretched to fit my feet without stretching out or having my feet hang over the soles. I don't think you'll be seeing me rocking these with outfits on the blog, but they are such a treat for grumpy feet and a supportive and cushioned alternative to house shoes!

The Drop Womens Ilana Loose Sleeveless Wide Hem Poplin Maxi Dress

I love my Christopher John Rogers for Target dress but it's no longer available for purchase. A reader told me that this dress was a good dupe so I ordered one to see if it really was similar. It doesn't have the same colors (only available in black and earth) but otherwise a similar concept. I got one in black, size Large.

black poplin drop waist dress plus size

The neckline is a bit more snug in this dress, but I can still get it over my head without unbuttoning it. It feels a hair more snug in the chest/shoulders but this dress has a thin lining that is from shoulder to just the bottom of my bum, which affects the size. Considering I got it in black, I am thinking of snipping it out so the dress has more give and is also cooler in the summer. In general, this dress is nice and super similar to my orange Target dress.

christopher john rogers for target dupe

The dress is available in XXS-3X; I am usually a 14 and think the Large is the right size for me. However, this dress runs more narrow than the Target dress. It doesn't have much stretch and not a lot of extra fabric so if you have a larger chest and/or larger rear/hips you may want to size up. These photos are taken straight out of the bag; I'll do a proper outfit post once I've washed it and given it a test drive.

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In: Fashion Advice · Tagged: The Friday Shop

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Comments

  1. Rebecca says

    July 31, 2021 at 2:41 pm

    Alison, I like to have a sleeve on my dresses but I liked some of the gauze ones you shared, so I got this one from QVC:
    https://www.qvc.com/LOGO-by-Lori-Goldstein-Regular-Sun-Faded-Crinkle-Gauze-Dress.product.A399274.html

    I wasn’t crazy about the colors available, but I got it in the alabaster and I really like it. I went with a M because of the cut and how QVC often runs large, but I see a lot of folks sized up and still liked it. I have washed ir and hung it to dry and it’s come out good to go.

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      August 3, 2021 at 8:41 am

      Thanks so much for sharing this!

      Reply
  2. Lissa says

    July 31, 2021 at 11:13 am

    I love love love Marimekko clothes. I am usually an L in their cotton items, and (oddly) and XL in their knits which are cut to be more form fitting.

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      August 3, 2021 at 8:43 am

      Good to know because I was eyeing a printed knit maxi dress and if I like this top I may consider getting it!

      Reply
  3. Nicole Kowalski says

    July 30, 2021 at 10:10 pm

    Hi Alison! The Hoka Recovery slides sound like something I need. I wear a 7.5, so wondering if I should size up or down? I size down to a 7 in Tevas. What size did you get?

    Thanks!

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      August 3, 2021 at 8:47 am

      Since I have wide feet, I usually size up. I’m an 8 and the 8 works for me. Reading reviews, it sounds unless you have wide feet, size down if you’re a half size.

      Reply
      • Nicole Kowalski says

        August 3, 2021 at 5:34 pm

        Thanks Alison! I appreciate the time you took to reply.

        Reply
  4. Susan L says

    July 30, 2021 at 11:06 am

    I also wear the Recovery Slides as house shoes. My feet, knees and back love them!

    Reply
  5. Lee says

    July 30, 2021 at 11:04 am

    I can’t believe you’ve moved on from our beloved EVA’s—ha, ha (kidding!). The new shoes sound comfy & that’s always good. Nordstrom’s sale—most of my wishlist items were sold out—big surprise, right…But, maybe it’s good in the long run since it saves me money! I did order 3 items & will be interested to see how they work out. Zella has become a brand I do like, so o ordered a new sports bra (have 2 in a different style that I love) & a pair of joggers in navy (got black ones last year & wear them a lot when it’s cooler so I assume these will work well). My item I’m not sure about is Blondo ankle boots. Some reviewers said they are true to size, while others said they run small. I went with my usual size for now, hoping they fit. Cute boots that are waterproof (but don’t look like rain boots) are something I’d get a lot of use out of.

    I will say, so many other retailers are having good sales, so I’ve taken advantage of that. Recent orders from Banana Republic & BR Factory came in yesterday & I was pleasantly surprised that I liked everything!

    Reply
  6. Lisa says

    July 30, 2021 at 7:47 am

    Do you find that you need to size up when buying Soma panties? I want to try them but the reviews are mixed when it comes to sizing. Thanks!

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      July 30, 2021 at 8:14 am

      I buy a size large, my usual size. I like the modern brief best, followed by the high-cut brief. I don’t wear the bikinis, they may run differently size-wise.

      Reply
      • Lisa says

        July 30, 2021 at 12:30 pm

        Thank you for your (quick) response! Ordering now …

        Reply

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Dressed In Joy Shirtdress

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

View

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

View

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!

wardrobe_oxygen

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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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