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 · November 16, 2015

The Power of Accessories: Sunglasses

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 Power of Accessories: The case for purchasing quality sunglasses and the most stylish yet classic frames for women over 30I was a lifeguard every summer of college. At some pools, I wore the requisite red one-piece with the white cross on the front. At others, they let me wear the swimwear of my choice. But at all, it seemed important… no NECESSARY to have cool sunglasses. Sitting in that chair, twirling the whistle, you had to look tough and cool behind your shades. The must-have sunglasses were Oakley Frogskins. I had some cheap copies but finally saved up enough for the real deal. The store had a 2 for deal so I bought clear with red mirrored lenses, and black with blue mirrored lenses. I was so PSYCHED! I continued through the mall, did a bit of shopping, went to the food court… and realized I left my new sunglasses in a department store fitting room. Raced back and of course they were gone. Burned by the experience, I didn't buy nice sunglasses for years and made do with cheap knockoffs from discount marts, street vendors, and even the occasional truck stop.

Then I became an adult. I learned how to take care of my things, and started understanding how quality surpassed quantity. My family and I went on a trip to Italy, and there I bought a pair of Gucci sunglasses. The shape, the weight, the view through those lenses… I saw how these weren't anything like truck stop shades. I cleaned those Gucci sunglasses with a proper cloth, stored them in a hard case and well… I still own those Gucci sunglasses and they still look like new.

Sunglasses are a powerful accessory. They can really create a signature look and define your personal style. I bought my first pair of Ray-Ban aviators a week before Emerson was born. I was on bedrest but going slowly insane. My midwife appointment was down the street from Annapolis Mall and after my checkup, my mom, sister, and I went into Nordstrom. My mom said I could have 30 minutes on my feet and I raced around the accessory department and bought a pair of silver earrings and my first pair of Ray-Bans. Total retail therapy; it was December and I was homebound but I put on those aviators and those earrings and felt that though I was a swollen beach ball, I still retained a bit of Alison. It also made me realize how much I like aviators, and they are now part of my signature look. And like my Italian Guccis, I find that even with equal care, my Ray-Bans fit, feel, look, and perform far better than any cheapy knockoff. Once I was over 30, I realized even more how a quality pair of sunglasses can complete your look just like a quality bag, great pair of shoes, or a fabulous haircut.

best sunglasses for women over 30

350

Sunglasses are a quick way to give your look a dramatic update.  It's easy to grab a pair and wear them until they break or get lost, but often we purchase without thinking long term.  One should think not just of quality, but a style that flatters but will still look stylish after one season.  Nordstrom asked me to share my favorite fall sunglasses styles; below I'm sharing styles I think can create a signature look and complete one's personal style without looking dated in a year.

  1. They looked cool in the '80s and they still look so cool now.  The ‘Classic Wayfarer' from Ray-Ban is simple, sleek, and oh so sophisticated.  I'm partial to the original black or tortise, but they now come in a variety of colors and textures that can flatter more skintones and personal styles.
  2. Ray-Ban's original 58mm aviator sunglasses have been in style for decades.  Ray-Ban hasn't changed the style, but now has a bevy of lens colors to fit the personal style of anyone.  Show off your signature color while keeping your shades classic; I'm a fan of the Red Mirror (sort of reminds me of my lifeguarding Oakleys!).
  3. MARC BY MARC JACOBS' 58mm ‘Retro' sunglasses are a classic. The brand has been selling this style for a while, and it makes sense because it's an elegant oversized style that flatters so many faces. While it's a large shape, it's not heavy and isn't prone to sliding down the nose. Tortoise or black, you can't go wrong.
  4. The Ray-Ban ‘Large Original' 62mm aviator is my signature sunglasses style.  I've got a pretty big and round noggin and the oversized shape ends up looking just right on me.  My personal preference and everyday pair is the classic gold frame with green lenses; however I have been eyeing the fun tinted colors they now have available.
  5. Before I became an aviators gal, I loved an oversized black plastic frame with a squarish shape.  I thought it looked modern, strong, and was a nice balance to my round face.  ‘The Sara' from Bobbi Brown is one I would have picked up in a second, and would wear now if I hadn't already found my signature look.  Bold, modern, yet completely wearable and three great colors to choose from.
  6. When I was in high school, I had a cheapy version of the Ray-Ban ‘Clubmaster' sunglasses and felt so cool.  It's amazing how this frame is still in style and still makes people look so casually cool when they wear them.  I had tortoise and gold frames back then and they still are my favorite.
  7. Good looking sunglasses that do good – the TOMS ‘Noah' frames have the classic styling of the Wayferer but with a rounder, more feminine shape. With TOMS' One for One® program, the company will help give sight to a person in need with each pair of sunglasses purchased.
  8. A perennial favorite for quality and face flattery, Tory Burch's 54mm Cat Eye sunglasses are a great purchase.  Polarized lenses are great when driving or in harsh sunlight, the style is classic and will look great for years to come.
  9. Tom Ford's ‘Penelope' 59mm sunglasses have a retro vibe yet look oh so modern and sophisticated.  This is a feminine frame with slim, clean lines and metal details.  This is a frame that would look good on a multitude of face shapes.  It comes in three frame colors; I'm particularly drawn to the ivory/rose gold combination.
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Comments

  1. Curvy CEO says

    November 16, 2015 at 5:54 pm

    As a grown-up, I’ve found sunglasses to be an absolute necessity…there have been many days when I stepped onto the white concrete that covers Capitol Hill and thought, “Dang, it is *bright* out here!” So yeah…sunglasses aren’t *just* about looking cool…although they certainly help. I keep a few high quality pairs stashed in several places – my car, my desk, etc., etc.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      November 17, 2015 at 10:38 am

      You’re like me, I have pairs all over the place!

      Reply
  2. Emily says

    November 16, 2015 at 4:41 pm

    Great recommendation on the Ray Ban aviators!! I have the gold/brown ones (although really the lens is more flame orange!) and they make me feel like a total badass every time I wear them. Next summer I plan to get some Wayfarers – but I haven’t picked what colour yet, too many choices!! The one thing I would add to this post though … get polarised lenses!! It makes such a difference in bright sunlight (less squinting!) and they’re better for your eyes too 🙂

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      November 17, 2015 at 10:38 am

      Great point regarding polarized lenses!

      Reply

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Birchbox x Rent the Runway Georgetown Launch Event Recap

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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

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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

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

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

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

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

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

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Aug 30

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Ladies who lunch…

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

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

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

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

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Aug 29

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Scenes from a week in Savannah… 

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

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

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Aug 28

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Stripes are always right…

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

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

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