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Counteract the gray days with cozy colorful clothes! 🌈 This cashmere sweater set is the prettiest teal and I loved how it looked with this candy pink Chesterfield coat. All are from @anntaylor one of my favorite places to shop because Ann has petites over a size 12. Also all of these items are on sale!

While I did receive these clothes as a gift from Ann Taylor I am under no obligation to share with you. This is what I wore to work and when I saw these colors against the green of my building door I had to prop up my phone and capture the color combo!

This sweater is a classic and with the skirt is created a dress effect you can style with tall boots, ankle boots and tights, or dress down with sneakers. I linked to other pieces in this color that would also look dreamy with this skirt, as well as other gorgeous colorful coats.

For reference I am wearing the coat in XL petite and the sweater set in L. I am 5’3” and usually wear a 14/16

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

#LTKmidsize #ltkover40 #midsizestyle #genxstyle #size14 #midsizepetite #ThisIsAnn
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Just got back from a 4-night getaway with my sister @debbiefaye78 at @curacaomarriottbeachresort. It was a last-minute planned trip that ended up being perfect. We weren’t ready to celebrate Thanksgiving without our mom and this escape what just what our hearts needed. 

I’ll be sharing more once I finally unpack my suitcase and organize my photos and thoughts; but I couldn’t not share this picture from yesterday morning. Debbie and I got up early to enjoy some of the day at the resort before flying home to DC. We had the infinity pool to ourselves, finished our books, and relaxed before a long day of travel. 🌴
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It’s hard when you’re petite and most models aren’t; you have no idea how clothes, especially jeans will fit. To promote @universalstandard’s Denim Drive sale, the company sent me two pairs of jeans of my choice. And I chose to make this video to show how they fit on my 5’3” body. I am usually a 14/32 in jeans but at Universal Standard I wear a 12 because they’re super stretchy and generously sized. 

With jeans as low as $35 in sizes 00-40, this is a sale not to be missed. And use code INFS-BFALISON10 for an additional 10% off sitewide!

The Farrah Flare is a favorite because at my height, most flare jeans will lose what makes them special once hemmed. At a 30” inseam these are great with low heels or lug soles.

The Etta is a straight jean with a vintage fit. If in doubt size down. They’re also super stretchy and the 28” inseam (they also come in 31”) works with my boots and sneakers.

While I was provided the apparel in this Reel for free, I was not paid or contracted to create this content. Consider it a PSA for my fellow shorties shopping this fab denim sale!

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4oWOQ #ltkmidsize #ltkplussize #ltkover40 #ltksalealert #uspartner #midsizestyle
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Thanks to @talbotsofficial I’m ready for the holidays! #AD

I love Talbots for holiday fashion and this season’s new arrivals do not disappoint. And for Black Friday the entire site is 40% off with free shipping on orders $150+. Until noon, you also receive 50% off 1 regular price item!

I ordered pieces from the Talbots Holiday Collection and found great quality, great style, and great versatility. How cute is the Breton stripe bateau neck with the removable feather cuffs? The metallic plaid patio skirt is so fun, and these two dresses can glam up or dress down with a change of footwear and bag. For reference, I am wearing everything in either XL or 16 petite.

The ivory cords are also Talbots; the black trousers are from last year’s Talbots Holiday Collection showing how Talbots has lasting style. I’ve linked to exact or very similar in my LTK shop. Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.ltk app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content! https://liketk.it/4oDJF

#mytalbots modernclassicstyle #wondersoftheseason #ltkover40 #ltkplussize #ltkmidsize #blackfridaysale
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@somaintimates makes it easy to shop for a range of personas this holiday season! #AD With gift guides for a range of personality types, you can easily find great gifts for your loved ones. I was drawn to the creative one, loving the rich colorful florals, luxe satin, lace trim, and of course Soma’s iconic Cool Nights sleepwear! Visit Soma’s gift guide for tips on finding the perfect present this holiday season. #SomaGiftGuide #SomaStartsWithMe
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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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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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Outfit Posts · January 5, 2010

Tuesday Cheating

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. 

We are not supposed to wear denim to work except on Fridays. Lately I have been cheating because, A. I only own like two pairs of trousers that currently fit and one is Dry Clean Only, and B. I work on the 9th floor (execs and 90% of the company is on the 7th floor) and sit behind two computers all day so like a newscaster, no one sees me from the waist down.

Today is a cheating sort of day. I wore my black pants yesterday (blackj New York & Company trousers with blood orange scoop necked fine gauge scoopneck sweater from Lands End and olive and silver bead necklace also from NY&Co) and I am not in a dress mood (or living in dress weather right now – Brrrr!).

I didn't take a picture because I haven't figured out yet how to take a picture in my house while it is still dark out without waking a baby or a husband. When I figure it out, I will resume with regular full-length photos. But here I am just five minutes ago at my desk:

010510 006
And yes, I did whip out my cosmetic bag to reapply my lipstick before shooting the picture!  The evidence is sitting right on my desk!
Anyway, today I am wearing a navy waffle-knit shawl-collar sweater from Ann Taylor LOFT that I got on clearance AND with a store credit (more on that in a bit), my Seven jeans (no clue the style, they were on sale, they are stretchy, they have a fake scratch/tear in them at the right knee that is big enough for me to fiddle with during a boring meeting but small enough that I don't look like Lita Ford), my Bern boots from DUO (under the jeans – jeans not tight enough and boots not dark enough for the tuck-in look).  Around my neck is a silver chain with my wedding band (nope, haven't gotten it resized yet), wearing silver hoops and my silver cuff.
Makeup is a blend of Stila Illuminating Tinted Moisturizer ir?t=whaevewomneei 20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B0013N1REQ and Estee Lauder Nutritious foundation (the combo gives me a sheer look but isn't too pale or too dark – really trying to use what I have on hand), Laura Mercier Secret Camoflaugeir?t=whaevewomneei 20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B001M8VHYM, Nars blush in Orgasm and a touch of Laura Mercier Bronzer ir?t=whaevewomneei 20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B001M5D96Oover it.  On eyes is my beloved Revlon Colorstay shadow quad in Neutral Khakis ir?t=whaevewomneei 20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000YDHLW8 – khaki on the lid, brown in the crease and along lash lines.  I splurged this holiday season and went back to DiorShowir?t=whaevewomneei 20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000N4CIDU for my mascara.  I had bought L'Oreal Voluminousir?t=whaevewomneei 20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B0000531PR but it dries out quickly, clumps the first week or two, dries out my lashes and just doesn't offer the same OOMPH of DiorShowir?t=whaevewomneei 20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000N4CIDU.  Anyhoo, that with a Shu Eumura lash curler  is my fave combo by far.  On lips is Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honeyir?t=whaevewomneei 20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000AM501C.
As for the hair… well yesterday I decided to straighten it with my Croc wet-to-dry flat ironir?t=whaevewomneei 20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B0010VSUI2.  I thought it looked flat but got lots of compliments, even from my shy male new colleague.  Hrm…  well today it is “second day hair” so I just took big sections and twirled them around my Vidal Sasson curling iron for fine hairir?t=whaevewomneei 20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B001AFGTH2 and then held it with a couple blasts of Elnettir?t=whaevewomneei 20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B001DJ2USM.  It looked fabulous, but then I decided to try on my new hat from LOFT and really jacked it up (while realizing I only should wear hats when it is super duper cold out – I am not a floppy beanie sort of gal).
So anyway… my frugal tip for the day:
TAKE IT BACK!
I worked a decade in retail, and I hated hated HATED returns.  Man, you would get people who would pull the DREGS out of their closet, bring it to the store and we had to accept it (one reason why return policies in stores have gotten far more tough – that and shoplifting and returning…).
However, I do returns.  If I buy something and it breaks or doesn't turn out well after following the laundry directions to the letter, I return it.  If I get buyer's remorse, I return it.  And if I decide to clean out my closet during my holiday staycation and I find a pair of chinos and two sweaters I ordered from LOFT this past Spring with the tags still on and also find the shipping receipt… I return it.  And I did return it and ended up with enough store credit to get myself a lovely berry-colored cable knit scarf, a matching beanie, and the sweater I am wearing today.
I also went through my closet and found a bunch of stuff I could return to Nordstrom – shoes I haven't worn, dresses with tags still on them, makeup still in the packaging.  Things I bought over the year in an attempt to feel better with retail therapy.  Luckily with Nordstrom, there isn't a time limit so these returns go straight back into my bank account.  I received two items as gifts that I did NOT like and didn't open so I returned to Sephora for a lovely store credit.  I also found a top I got at Old Navy that I didn't like – it had been less than 45 days and I took it back to the store for a refund back on my card.
“But it was only ten bucks!”
“I feel like a jerk”
“It's my fault for buying it in the first place”
“What a PITA to go back to the store”
“Ugh, I don't want to pay $5.95 to send it back”
The thing is, ten bucks is ten bucks.  If you saw a kickass cashmere sweater and it was $10 off, wouldn't you be happy?  Then return that silly top you picked up at Old Navy/Forever 21/H&M/Wal-mart that doesn't fit right, looks a bit cheap but was only $10.  And use that $10 toward something really of value.
Yes, salespeople at stores HATE returns because it affects their bonuses, their sales, their standing with the company, yadda yadda.  But a good salesperson doesn't roll her eyes at you and get nasty when you come to the counter – a good salesperson will be sweet as pie and figure out a way to make that return an exchange (or at least convince you to return and shop another time).  And yes, it may cost to return and online purchase, but it's better to lose $5.95 for shipping than lose $12.95 on a stupid top you will maybe wear once.
FYI: USPS will do free pickups right to your front door.  You can register carrier pickups online.  This makes many returns much easier to swallow – no need to stand in line at the post office or drag that box to your place of employment!
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Comments

  1. Anonymous says

    April 1, 2010 at 4:09 pm

    Gosh, I think some the clothes I’ve bought over the years where I could have returned them for refund, but didn’t.

    Now I buy things I must really love — it my gauge. The things I kind of like, but not really love, eh, then I put them back. Or come back another day to see if I still want it.

    Stores have a specific return policy, I go by that if I really have to return something.

    Reply
  2. Anonymous says

    January 17, 2010 at 11:08 pm

    Stores return policies are there for a reason & I see nothing wrong with taking advantage of it (as long as the item is a new, unworn condition and you abide by the stated retrun policy). I realize that the store takes a hit but ultimately, the price is passed onto us, the consumers, so I don’t feel bad about a privilege that I essentially pay for anyway.

    I am the mother of two small children and my size is a little unstable post-partum. Online returns are inevitable since I am not able to “try before I buy.” if stores were better about giving accurate measurements for their items (love Boden for giving these), this would not be the case. But sizing is very inconsistent from store to store and it can be hard to judge. I often by 2 sizes of the same item just so that I can determine which one will fit.

    Reply
  3. Yicke says

    January 8, 2010 at 12:25 pm

    American return policies don’t stop amazing me… Of course, if something breaks, and it’s still under some sort of waranty, or it’s very obvious that it was faulty, returns are possible, but other than that, just buyers remorse… Nope, won’t work. Most stores let you return within two weeks, but not months or years later, here in my nook of the world. Must be nice: buy a dress, see if it’ll be worn and if not, you just return it!

    Reply
  4. Lisa says

    January 6, 2010 at 8:31 pm

    Allie, GREAT advice! Nothing wrong with store credit, and shouldn’t be a problem if we follow the “must-buy?” rules of fellow commenters, and get great customer service.

    THANKS for the tip on USPS though…I could have shipped out some items efficiently instead of letting them gather dust, forgotten, in my car.

    Reply
  5. Anonymous says

    January 6, 2010 at 7:13 pm

    I still do not think returns are bad. I think the majority of big box retailers are doing just fine with returns. Shoplifting is another story. I think returns/ store credit seems to benefit everyone. A happy customer is a repeat customer. If a customer has a negative experience regarding a return then they are less likely to shop at that store again. I’ll be honest – I’m less likely to return things to a little mom and pop individually owned store than to a big box store. I am also careful to abide by the stated return policy. I feel if I am within their return policy then it is my right as a consumer to return an unused item, or a defunct item. Until that changes I guess I will continue to return the things that do not work.

    Stores have tightened up their return policies which means that perhaps we are finding a balance between customers still enjoying the right to return and stores maintaining their bottom line.

    Interesting to hear all the points of view.

    Reply
  6. Cate says

    January 6, 2010 at 6:33 pm

    I agree with you, Allie. I wouldn’t generally recommend returning things after you’ve had them for something like two years (even if they still have tags), but I think that’s usually the exception–not the rule. Personally, I LOVE stores who will accept pretty much all returns and give you store credit. I feel like it’s a win/win.

    Reply
  7. Allie says

    January 6, 2010 at 2:19 pm

    You know what – I fully agree with those of you who say returns are bad. I am usually one who buys and keeps and if I don’t like it I swap with a friend, I sell it on eBay or Craigslist, I donate it, I do something. I will window shop even online and put something in my virtual shopping cart and if I still like it and feel the need for it a week later, I will then buy it. I pride myself on not buying crap and not buying that which I don’t need and not really love.

    And then this year was a different year and a year where I fell into old habits and tried to buy happiness and realized I purchased a lot of things that I did not need, did not love. And I returned. And I am back to my old self who buys that which is necessary and not that which will offer temporary pleasure and long-term financial regret. 🙂

    But I do place much blame on poor customer service in stores. I worked retail, and I know that 75% of the returns that come in a store could have been prevented or can be made into an exchange. It’s about caring about your customer and making sure she buys what she really loves and loves her in return. This is why I hardly ever step in a mall any more – everyone is about the fast buck without consequences, creating lasting relationships and caring about the customer as well as the store.

    Reply
  8. Madeleine says

    January 6, 2010 at 10:19 am

    Welcome back, Allie, and happy new year! Love this post. I am with you on returns (up to a point- after 28 days, it’s probably getting a bit late..) but would urge the even more frugal tip of think before you buy. Ask yourself these questions:
    – do I feel amazing in it?
    – does it fit me (and that does not mean ‘can I get into it?)?
    – can I think of at least three outfits it will go with/form part of?

    If the answer to all 3 is yes, then buy it. If not, don’t. I have observed that I find that necessity buying (heel broke/need outfit for wedding/etc) when I feel under pressure to buy a particular item to a deadline is when I end up buying stuff that I end up not liking- anyone else have that?
    By the way, I LOVE your description of the hole in your jeans- funny and spot-on perspicacious.

    Reply
  9. Southern Belle says

    January 6, 2010 at 4:28 am

    I actually agree with the last poster–the first time I have disagreed with you also! This is nothing personal–just my $.02.

    I have never returned anything in my life. Never. Some of this is my own silliness in not wanting to be a bother to a poor SA (and I admit that that is silly because taking returns is part of their jobs), but most of it is because I feel that if I am purchasing something, it is within my responsibility to make sure that it is something that I like, need and will use. If I don’t end up liking it, needing it or using it, that is tough banana crackers for me–just a bad purchase on my part. I shouldn’t have bought it in the first place. To be honest, I have made some pretty stupid purchases (as I’m sure we all have), but I like to think that I make these less as time goes on because I have learned my lesson. Perhaps that would be my corollary to this frugal tip–don’t buy the damn stuff in the first place.

    Moreover, I’m always happy to donate my stupid purchases to either a charity or to someone I know who could use them. My mom and I live 8 hours away from each other, and every time we see each other we trade cosmetics–samples we get, things we bought and didn’t like as much as we thought we would. It is very fun. And a lot better than toting it back to the store.

    Holy moly, I’m amazed at how much I sound like my husband right now. Let’s keep this one between us, shall we? 🙂

    Reply
  10. FashionAddict says

    January 6, 2010 at 4:17 am

    Oh geesh, I return all the time! If retailers want you to shop online with ease (and spend your money with only a little “click” of the mouse), they have to accept the fact that items will be returned. Great post, and it’s nice to see your gorgeous face! Love your makeup and hair!

    Reply
  11. Anonymous says

    January 6, 2010 at 1:46 am

    Allie,

    This is the first time I have disagreed with you so I hope you take this suggestion in the right spirit.

    I do not believe in returns after a reasonable time period. Even NWT items! I am not on the side of big bad retailers but in the spirit of fairplay, I request you think more about this. If you have buyer’s remorse, you should sell or donate the item on your own without making the retailer take the hit. Actions have consequences. Personal responsibility is important. Entitlement is not good.

    Reply
  12. Anonymous says

    January 5, 2010 at 11:31 pm

    Thanks for the encouragement to return things. There have been so many times that I bought items that I regretted and wore only out of guilt or not at all.

    I do feel bad for sales associates; I feel I should be stronger in resisting the hard sale. A friend of mine briefly worked at Saks this holiday season and she was on straight commission. So if you don’t push really hard, she said, you made no money. And then of course if something was returned, all the things Allie mentioned happened. I obviously don’t shop there much, but I guess turnover is really high and morale is really low.

    Christine

    Reply
  13. Anonymous says

    January 5, 2010 at 10:09 pm

    Thank you Miss Allie! I didn’t mean that in any way to sound unpleasant; you’ve actually really helped me to understand. it is unfortunate that corporate cannot delineate the returns from the sales…because I know I often return online merch to a store, etc and I hate the notion of affecting someone’s paycheck. thanks for the info! Food for thought, though I will still do returns. Nordstroms has the best attitude about returns in my experience that I have ever encountered. Fabulous customer service!!

    Reply
  14. Allie says

    January 5, 2010 at 7:34 pm

    Haha, a friend recently recommended Mama Gena and I am receiving her Daily Fluff! Small world! 🙂

    Reply
  15. Anonymous says

    January 5, 2010 at 7:32 pm

    Hey Gorgeous gal..
    Lighten up on your self.
    You made a person, you are working full time, and you are still stylish and lovely.
    I am going to be really bold here and recomend a fabulous woman and her books, Mamma Gena, one thing she says is quit judging yourself.
    You are lovely, your baby is so precious and lucky.

    Reply
  16. Allie says

    January 5, 2010 at 7:24 pm

    Well as an ex retail manager, I hated returns because my sales bonuses were dependent on how much I made per month and per quarter. If you sell $5,000 in one day, and then someone comes in and returns $500, it shows that you only sold $4500. Corporate doesn’t care that it’s an online return or from another location or someone’s husband made them do the return for them. They just see that you sold $4500 that day.

    Returns also affect things like Units per Transaction and Average Dollar per Sale. Stores are supposed to not just sell a lot of money, but really sell a lot of items and money to each person who enters the door. If you’re selling three items to each person, it’s showing that you are making an effort to get the money in the drawer, not chewing gum and twirling your hair and being lucky. When you return items, it cuts the average dollar per sale (since it’s a negative sale) and average units (since again, you’re averaging in a negative number). Again, corporate doesn’t care that someone made a return, they just see the numbers and think you aren’t making enough of an effort.

    Finally, returns affect profit and loss because items that are not current may be returned at full price but now have to be either sold at a sale price or need to be shipped back to corporate because they are last season’s style or packaging. Items that are damaged or worn need to be sent back to corporate and for many shops, that affects the P&L for the manager, and their bonuses can be based upon this P&L.

    This is only from my experience prior to 2004 at three different retailers, but this is often why salespeople hate returns. 🙂

    Reply
  17. Anonymous says

    January 5, 2010 at 7:16 pm

    I would love additional clarification from the point of other sales people on why returns are so unwelcome. Regarding new merchandise with tags, not old nasty stuff. Assuming it does not literally take money out of a sales persons pocket, then what is so doggone bad about returns anyways? I truly don’t get it! I worked retail for 5 years and it never affected my pay. Returning things just seems to have a stigma attached to it and I don’t think that is necessary….thanks!

    Reply
  18. LT says

    January 5, 2010 at 6:23 pm

    I’m with you on returns! Sales people can try and make you feel bad about making a return but, I could care less! I would rather have my money back than worry about how someone will look at me if I make a return.

    Reply

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My Personal Best Buys from the Past Five Years

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

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I love an excuse to dress up, especially if it’s for a good cause! This weekend was the @thenewdealcafe Masquer-AID fundraiser to support this independent cafe, art gallery, and live music venue in @cityofgreenbelt.

My family and I have loved going to The New Deal Cafe for all these years. Grabbing coffee with friends, having a meal, seeing an amazing band, participating in an open mic or one of their Reel and Meal events. So @debbiefaye78, our mom, and I got tickets and even chipped in for a plaque from us “Ashpes Girls.” 

Our mom passed before she could attend the event; we asked our like a sister best friend @shellymingram to join us in her place and we had a great time, dancing all night as our mom would have, connecting with neighbors, and supporting a local business we all love so much.

As for the outfit, the dress is @ronnykobo the bag is @ganni and I borrowed both from @renttherunway The shoes I’ve had for years and the gold metal mask I found on Amazon and liked how it could mold to my face and not put pressure on my still-healing eye.

And I know y’all will ask because I received so many DMs this weekend when I shared this event in my Stories… my sister’s dress is from @eshakti she bought it a few years ago and it’s even more gorgeous in person!

#newdealcafe #greenbeltisgreat #onlyingreenbelt #midsizestyle #genxstyle #over40style #greenbeltmd

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Oct 11

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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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