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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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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. 💚
Open
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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It’s Cozy Season, and @tjmaxx is here to update our wardrobes with stylish accessories and apparel from the best brands for less. #AD

I recently visited tjmaxx.com and was so impressed with the array of elevated designer labels, on-trend looks, and the best prices. This pearl-encrusted beanie is from a woman designer I have admired for years; tjmaxx.com has the matching gloves and other pieces from this label to make a great set for yourself or to gift another. These earrings I’ve seen from the same designer at department stores; in fact I own other earrings from this label and paid much more for them. I should have checked T.J.Maxx first! And this cozy poncho is the perfect layer for late fall in the DC area.

I love how the winter white pieces elevate my existing closet. And pearls can be worn for day or glam up for evening. I can see many ways I’ll be styling these designer accessories from #tjmaxx all season long!

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4o2dA
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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!
https://liketk.it/4nKRE

#ltkmidsize #ltkover40 #genxstyle #dagnedoverdakota
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Cleaning out my mom’s house my sister and I have found some true gems. She had a whole portion of her file cabinet dedicated to my blogging career which included two copies of @redbookmag from ten years ago this month. 

There was a page where I and other blogger/influencers were featured wearing bright-colored coats. It’s awesome to see how we have all grown and pivoted in the past decade! I tagged those who are on Instagram and allow tagging ❤️
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Outfit Posts, Fall · September 9, 2019

Transitional Dressing AKA Faux Fall

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. 

Wardrobe Oxygen dressing for faux fall in a blue coat and sweater from Talbots with white wide leg high waisted jeans

Friday was amazing.  It felt like camping weather.  I pulled out a hoodie to wear to yoga.  A hoodie!  I call these kinds of days faux fall. So when I received a box in the mail from Talbots that included a wool coat and cashmere sweater I felt Mother Nature was giving me permission to style them.  But since it is just a week after Labor Day, I wanted it to feel seasonally appropriate, AKA transitional dressing.  My favorite way of accomplishing that?  Pairing wintry fabrics with summery white, in this case, these white denim trouser from Talbots, previously seen in this blog post.

Wardrobe Oxygen dressing for faux fall in a blue coat and sweater from Talbots with white wide leg high waisted jeans

sweater | pants | shoes | coat | earrings | necklace | ring | bag

Wardrobe Oxygen dressing for faux fall in a blue coat and sweater from Talbots with white wide leg high waisted jeans

Sweater: Audrey Sweater c/o Talbots (L) | Coat: Italian Wool Lady Coat c/o Talbots (14 Petite) | Jeans: Denim High Waist Trousers c/o Talbots (12 Regular) | Shoes: Clarks | Bag: Large Allyn Tote c/o Dagne Dover | Necklace: Monogram Necklace c/o Jenny Bird | Earrings: Medium Quinn Hoops c/o Jenny Bird | Ring: Insignia Empress Luxe Ring c/o REALM

Wardrobe Oxygen dressing for faux fall in a blue coat and sweater from Talbots with white wide leg high waisted jeans

Styling this look made me realize I'm feeling some non-black shoes for fall.  Not necessarily brown, but maybe cognac or a dark taupey gray.  Something a bit softer, I think this look would have benefitted from it.  But I'm not going to buy just to buy so I wore my Clarks booties from last year which get the job done.  Black has always been my go-to and while it's still one of my favorite colors for my wardrobe… I think it's something about this new curly shorter hair that makes me want things a bit softer, more relaxed.  Even these shades of blue are different from my usual style; I liked the soft feel of them, it almost feels vintage.  These blues would look so chic with a dark wash of jeans (I'll likely wear again later this season with these jeans), or a gray or camel solid, tweed, or plaid trouser.  Ivory and cream too. But then, watch me wear this with a black leather pencil skirt and bold silver jewelry!  Maybe it's faux fall that has me feeling all soft and cozy; come the truly cold weather I'll be all about black again!

talbots coat back view talbots coat side view talbots blue wool coat

I know it seems too early to think about coats, but I think this one is good enough to get on your radar early. It comes in Misses, Petite, Plus, and Plus Petite; this is a 14 petite. It's a wool blend (75% wool) with a poly lining, no additional lining for warmth.  This is the kind of coat in the DC area you would wear through early December and then pack up until March.  It's a length that works with pants as well as skirts.  I really like the seaming at the waist and the black buttons, it's a vintage nod while still looking modern. I totally got this scarf too and it's gorgeous paired with the coat and sweater… but it's not quite cold enough yet for that kind of accessory!

Wardrobe Oxygen dressing for faux fall in a blue coat and sweater from Talbots with white wide-leg high waisted jeans

The sweater is a favorite, in fact I still have a navy one from last year (seen in this blog post).  I like the higher neckline and the weight of this cashmere is utterly decadent.  I like them fitted, I think it looks more polished but if you prefer a straighter fit, consider going up one size.  Since it has three-quarter sleeves and a high-hip length, petites may wish to size up to regular for a bit more length as well.  This sweater also comes in Misses, Petite, Plus, and Petite Plus and there are 11 colors to choose from (this is the Twilight Teal).  Inspired by the fall color trends, I mixed blues together that aren't exactly the same but I really like the effect.

how to style white jeans in fall

These pants are a hair too long for comfort.  I feared the petite would be too short for heels, but a petite would have been better for both length and rise.  I tried shrinking them in a hot wash and dryer but they didn't budge – darn Talbots quality! If the pants were shorter, I would have likely replaced the black boot with a suede loafer like these which I own. I like how clean these pants are – wide waistband, smaller coin pockets, they look chic with a tucked-in top or an untucked one and the effect is polished enough for business casual.  FYI, Talbots also has them in a dark denim.

dagne dover allyn tote large review

The bag I have had for a while; click here to read my Dagne Dover Allyn Tote review.  This is the Large size and this color is no longer available, though if I didn't have this one I'd totally getting the Graphite or the Ash Blue. In the bag are my laptop and cord, wallet, a cosmetic bag, notebook, phone, sunglasses, and a small water bottle.  This is a fabulous work tote that doesn't scream work tote, and the leather I have found to be very durable.  I got this bag in… I think the summer of 2017 and I am not kind to bags yet it still looks great.

fall color trends

I seriously received these items from Talbots and an hour later my husband and I were parked behind the local grocery store taking these photos super quick before he had to go to teach yoga.  I just couldn't wait, I'm so excited to be able to wear fabulous fall clothing like this, I had to take advantage of this quick faux fall we're experiencing!

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In: Outfit Posts, Fall · Tagged: Clarks, Dagne Dover, Jenny Bird, REALM Jewelry, Talbots

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Comments

  1. HokieKate says

    September 20, 2019 at 4:34 pm

    My faux fall is the opposite of yours! I want to wear boots and sweaters and corduroy but it is still 90+ degrees and very humid.

    Reply
  2. Alison French-Tubo says

    September 14, 2019 at 4:26 pm

    This coat is gorgeous! Possibly a little too warm for my climate but it makes me hopeful to see more of this color (my favorite) this year.

    Reply
  3. Susan says

    September 11, 2019 at 8:06 am

    I love cashmere, but many times have problems with significant pilling on inside arms and side boob (where they rub up against one another). This happened with a Talbots cashmere too. Any suggestions? Perhaps I should buy one to two sizes larger (although then it will look more casual). BTW, love the look you pulled together in this one..colors are gorgeous!

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      September 12, 2019 at 9:01 am

      Unfortunately, it’s something I experience with almost all cashmere, no matter the pricepoint. The only one I didn’t have it happen with was Everlane, but it’s a very tight weave and lightweight/almost sheer.

      Reply
  4. Sonia says

    September 10, 2019 at 8:34 pm

    I love how you stayed in the same color family for the sweater, coat and the tote. However, I am most impressed by your naturally curly hair! Why didn’t you feature this style long ago? It’s stunning. I’m very interested in the coat and hope that it’s worthwhile for the ever temperamental weather here in the NYC area.

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      September 12, 2019 at 9:01 am

      I didn’t realize my hair was this curly until I got a shorter cut! I’ll be writing about my hair soon, it’s been a journey to get it to maintain curls but I love it!

      Reply
  5. Sadie says

    September 10, 2019 at 5:17 am

    Fall clothing is the best! And I’ll be stalking Talbots for their holiday coats release – they’re almost the only option for a quality plus petite coat.

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      September 12, 2019 at 9:04 am

      It’s shocking how hard it is to find plus petite when the average American woman is 5’3″ and 67% of the population is plus sized!

      Reply
  6. Barbara says

    September 9, 2019 at 11:03 pm

    I’m going on a weeklong trip to the DC Area the week of Nov. 12. I’m a Californian so not sure at all what typical weather is like there at that time of year. Would this Talbot coat be a good choice at that time of year? Or am I better off in a trench coat in case of rain? Would value your opinion!

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      September 12, 2019 at 9:05 am

      Oooh that’s a toughie. We’ve had snow in November, and we’ve been in short sleeves in November. It’s not a super wet month, but rain happens all year long in the DC area. Depending on how much you plan to be outside, I’d either do a coat like this with a golf-sized umbrella or else a trench with removable insulated lining.

      Reply
  7. Lee says

    September 9, 2019 at 9:36 pm

    Love this outfit so much—it’s gorgeous & you’re beautiful in it! It’s also so helpful to see white pants/jeans styled for fall & winter. Your faux fall sounds absolutely lovely. We’re still experiencing 100+ temps in Arkansas. My sandals are going nowhere! 🙂

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      September 12, 2019 at 9:06 am

      It’s hot again in the DC area and I’m back into my sandals too! Oh this wacky weather!

      Reply
  8. Cee says

    September 9, 2019 at 9:21 pm

    Love the sweater, love the coat, but the combination of the two is perfection!

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      September 12, 2019 at 9:07 am

      Thank you Cee!

      Reply
  9. Tracie says

    September 9, 2019 at 8:26 pm

    I love the coat on you and think the length and color are great. I’d consider the cashmere sweater but I can’t remember if Talbots has regular long sleeve ones. I get too cold in the winter if I wear three quarter length sleeves and I don’t want any long underwear showing. I’ve had good luck with LL Bean cashmere.

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      September 12, 2019 at 9:08 am

      It’s wild, Talbots does NOT have any long-sleeved cashmere, at least so far this season. LL Bean is great!

      Reply
  10. NICOLE KOWALSKI says

    September 9, 2019 at 4:43 pm

    I love these colors on you and the jeans look awesome. I love the idea of the sweater with gray or tweed and the mixing of the blues is spot on trend, but classic.

    You’re showing us how good fit is important too, because these look made for you.

    That teal is on my wishlist!

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      September 12, 2019 at 9:11 am

      Thanks Nicole!

      Reply
  11. dmc says

    September 9, 2019 at 4:27 pm

    You look great! Those are the two items I was eyeing in the latest catalog. Do I need the coat….? No, but it sure looks fabulous on you.

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      September 12, 2019 at 9:11 am

      Thank you!

      Reply
  12. TURNER says

    September 9, 2019 at 3:04 pm

    I think with the black buttons on the coat, black boots/shoes are the way to go.

    Reply
    • JD in VA says

      September 9, 2019 at 6:20 pm

      I just bought the same coat last week. My size goes out quickly. I am totally loving your styling suggestions with the white jeans and black skirt. Thank you for all of the alternate ideas. I’ll have to go back for the scarf and sweater.

      I would love more “date night” or weekend ideas for locations and fashions.

      Any suggestions on what makes a good tailor and questions I should ask first. Thank you.

      Reply
      • Alison Gary says

        September 12, 2019 at 9:09 am

        I suggest asking neighbors for tailor recommendations. Facebook groups, Yelp, NextDoor are all good places to start. Also ask local bridal salons, they work with seamstresses and tailors. On your first visit go with something simple – shortening pants or a skirt. This way you won’t ruin a beloved piece but get to know the tailor and build a relationship.

        Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      September 12, 2019 at 9:12 am

      It does pair nicely.

      Reply
  13. Makayla Dianne Sampson says

    September 9, 2019 at 11:50 am

    The coat is gorgeous on you! Love the color!

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      September 12, 2019 at 9:12 am

      Thank you Makayla!

      Reply
  14. Kate says

    September 9, 2019 at 11:44 am

    Love the curly hair, it looks so vibrant and energetic!

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      September 12, 2019 at 9:12 am

      Thanks Kate!

      Reply
  15. Vicki says

    September 9, 2019 at 11:09 am

    You look fantastic. I love that teal. I think it’s one of those universally flattering colors, i.e. it suits every color season. I’m an autumn and it looks good on me, even though at first thought it’s a cool tone.

    I’m mentally set to wear my new white jeans into fall, but they have white-on-white embroidered flowers on the legs, so they might not work for winter. But then again I live in so Cal, so would anyone care?

    This is one of those posts that has my fingers itching to shop online. Curses!

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      September 12, 2019 at 9:57 am

      I think in Southern California you can totally rock white embroidered jeans!

      Reply
  16. Diane says

    September 9, 2019 at 11:05 am

    That coat fits you beautifully, and love the blues!

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      September 12, 2019 at 9:57 am

      Thanks Diane!

      Reply
  17. Lisa says

    September 9, 2019 at 10:51 am

    I am not ready for Fall or Winter, but you look terrific! I love the way the white lightened the whole look. As for the shoes, I am feeling the same way and am considering burgundy. I think that will be neutral enough but a little warmer.

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      September 12, 2019 at 9:57 am

      I love burgundy shoes.

      Reply
  18. Nichole Bailey says

    September 9, 2019 at 10:26 am

    I was so excited to buy cashmeres from Talbots last year. Unfortunately, I don’t think it’s a good quality, giving that both my sweaters pilled terribly.
    I have cashmere that’s 15 years old that doesn’t pill, so that what I thought all cashmere was like.
    Disappointed in Talbots.

    Reply
  19. Ally says

    September 9, 2019 at 9:26 am

    Is the $179 price point for the sweater a good one? For that, I don’t want it to pill or fall apart within 5 years, so are the seams strong and the fabric good?

    (The $20 additional for plus sizes is a conversation for another day.)

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      September 9, 2019 at 9:33 am

      I HATE when brands charge more for plus sizes, it’s so ridiculous and rude. But Talbots cashmere is quite good. I do dry clean them because I suck at hand washing, the navy one from last year looks almost new – there’s a bit of pilling under the arms but nothing compared to say my Halogen cashmeres which have gone threadbare and they’re much thicker than say Everlane or Banana Republic. My oldest Talbots cashmere is three years old and I still wear it.

      Reply
    • leu2500 says

      September 9, 2019 at 10:30 am

      If you get on Talbots email/mailing list, you get so many 20% off coupons, special sale on that, etc notices that there’s really no need to ever pay full price.

      Reply
  20. Leu2500 says

    September 9, 2019 at 8:29 am

    Question on the Clark’s loafers. I wear a wide, and I’ve found that sometimes their toes narrow too much for a wide. Since you also have a wide foot, how do you find the toe area in this style?

    And doesn’t talbots have some gorgeous clothes this year.

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      September 9, 2019 at 9:13 am

      These are super comfortable, I find the toebox roomy without looking frumpy. I do have short toes, but I am quite wide in the front of the foot. You can see them on me in this post: https://www.wardrobeoxygen.com/the-hot-pink-banana-republic-pantsuit/

      Reply
      • leu2500 says

        September 9, 2019 at 10:32 am

        Thanks! Looks like they will work.

        Reply

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Weekend Reads #69

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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Nov 28

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

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

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Nov 19

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

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

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

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

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

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Nov 17

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

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

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

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

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Nov 15

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

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

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

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

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Nov 6

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

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

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

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Nov 4

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Early voting poll worker style 🗳️

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

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

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

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Nov 2

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

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

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

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

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

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Oct 18

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

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

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

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

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Oct 17

Open
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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Oct 11

Open
The biggest fashion trend this fall is a return to classics. For decades I have turned to @talbotsofficial for quality classics with style.  This season, Talbots has a fantastic range of pants to update the wardrobe. 

I love how these @talbotsofficial ivory stretch corduroy straight leg pants elevate closet classics! Available in Misses, Petite, Plus, Plus Petite, Curvy, and in 10 colors, these cords are a chic alternative to jeans and just as easy care! I can run errands and have a bit of quiet time with an ebook and a coffee with comfort and style. 

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4kFNi #talbots #mytalbots #talbotspartner #ltkover40 #modernclassicstyle #liketkit #ltkover40

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