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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
Open
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
Open
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
Open
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
Open
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, Summer · June 17, 2019

On Coveralls and Figure Flattery

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 in the Universal Standard Kate Twill Jumpsuit in green with silver Birkenstocks and the Jenny Bird Cober Hoops in Silver

They always say the older you get, the fewer f*cks you have to give. I see this when it comes to my wardrobe.  I have less patience for clothing that is difficult.  I don't want to be pinched or sucked in, I don't want anything too complicated to care for, and I've started breaking all the rules regarding figure flattery.  I mean, what is considered flattering anyway?  Nine times out of ten, it is a garment that makes us look taller and slimmer or to have a more hourglass shape.  And why do we desire length, a slimmer figure, or an hourglass shape? Sometimes I love to highlight my bust, to showcase how I now have a waist and curves above and below it.  And I like the look of having pieces of clothing end at points on my body that makes me look more proportional. And other times… I don't have any more f*cks to give and I just want to wear what is comfortable and fun.  

Wardrobe Oxygen in the Universal Standard Kate Twill Jumpsuit in green with silver Birkenstocks and the Jenny Bird Cober Hoops in Silver

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Wardrobe Oxygen in the Universal Standard Kate Twill Jumpsuit in green with silver Birkenstocks and the Jenny Bird Cober Hoops in Silver

Coveralls: Kate Twill Jumpsuit c/o Universal Standard (XS) | Earrings: Cober Hoops c/o Jenny Bird | Bag: ALLSAINTS (sold out, this one is almost exactly the same one) | Shoes: Birkenstocks | Sunglasses: Ray-Ban | Lipstick: L'Oreal in Matte-Traction Red

universal standard coveralls petite 3 Wardrobe Oxygen in the Universal Standard Kate Twill Jumpsuit in green with silver Birkenstocks and the Jenny Bird Cober Hoops in Silver

I love overalls, coveralls, and jumpsuits.  Any fashion advice column would say that being short, busty, and solid that these items would not be figure flattering.  I have proven those experts wrong and own many that do create a flattering effect on my body.  This red jumpsuit is a fave; this black short-sleeved one always makes me feel six feet tall, and I even own overalls that don't make me look like Mr. Potato Head.  But other ones I wear not because they are flattering, but because they are fun.  My black overalls are one, this denim jumpsuit another (oh how I miss you, one of the saddest things to give up when my body changed shape).  And these coveralls… as soon as Universal Standard launched them I HAD to have them.  They come in black or green; I liked the idea of green for summer. They are supposed to be cropped, but on my 5'3″ body they were this weird length that wasn't long enough nor cropped enough.  I am not sure what length I want, so I put up a temporary hem with Stitch Witchery and my iron and wore them out and about at this length.  I think I'll like them a hair longer; I'll adjust it, try it out and if I like it take them to the tailor for a permanent crop. 

universal standard twill coveralls 3 1 Wardrobe Oxygen in the Universal Standard Kate Twill Jumpsuit in green with silver Birkenstocks and the Jenny Bird Cober Hoops in Silver

This jumpsuit is stretchy, and unlike many coveralls that have buttons, this one has snaps.  And snaps that go long enough so if you're in the bathroom you can yank this thing open, easily slide it down and get to business.  AKA this is a piece of clothing that allows you to remain hydrated.  I love the giant pockets; this day I ran a lot of errands and had my sunglasses, my car keys, and my iPhone Plus in my front pockets and they felt secure. Come fall and winter I'd love to style this with a black or striped turtleneck and heeled ankle boots. 

Wardrobe Oxygen in the Universal Standard Kate Twill Jumpsuit in green with silver Birkenstocks and the Jenny Bird Cober Hoops in Silver

Continuing with the no f*cks look, I paired the jumpsuit with silver Birkenstocks.  These are three years old, perfectly broken in, and one of the only pairs of shoes I have where my feet feel better after wearing them all day than going around barefoot or in my slippers. As I mentioned in this post, I love adding big bold shiny jewelry to a casual look to make it more purposeful.  I find red lipstick accomplishes the same thing; this lipstick is my absolute favorite red.  It's matte and I like how it wears away so gently so I don't end up with a ring around my lips or a weird patchy effect and it's not too intense that it can't be worn with an otherwise simple or bare face.

Wardrobe Oxygen in the Universal Standard Kate Twill Jumpsuit in green with silver Birkenstocks and the Jenny Bird Cober Hoops in Silver

I really believe the most flattering thing to wear is what makes you feel comfortable, happy, and true to yourself.  I'm finding with age, a new hairstyle, and a new fitness routine my personal style and what I enjoy wearing keeps evolving.  But I'm getting more joy out of wearing what may be seen as unflattering or even ugly to others and finding ways to make it mine and therefore, quite flattering for me. Have you had your style evolve with age, life changes, or body changes?

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In: Outfit Posts, Summer · Tagged: ALLSAINTS, Birkenstock, Jenny Bird, Ray-Ban, Universal Standard

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Comments

  1. Chris says

    June 20, 2019 at 6:00 pm

    You’ve already got the sunglasses and the flight suit. Now all you need are some leather shoes and to borrow a Dave Clark aviation headset and you’ll be ready for your intro flight lesson. I don’t like to miss an opportunity to promote aviation.

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      June 24, 2019 at 3:03 pm

      LOL I love it!

      Reply
  2. Deborah Stinedurf says

    June 18, 2019 at 4:47 pm

    Yes to jumpsuits, yes to Birks and a great big yes to zero f*cks given!!❤️ You look fabulous my friend.
    Debbie
    http://www.fashionfairydust.com

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      June 24, 2019 at 3:03 pm

      Thank you so much Debbie! <3

      Reply
  3. RoseAG says

    June 18, 2019 at 11:17 am

    A great deal with the good look of this is that it fits you properly. Your waist is where the rouching is.

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      June 24, 2019 at 3:03 pm

      I was so happy to realize that even though it’s not petite!

      Reply
  4. Peggy Powers says

    June 17, 2019 at 11:20 pm

    This looks so good on you. I had to order one. Can’t wait to get it – and I have some great silver hoops to go with.

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      June 18, 2019 at 8:45 am

      I know you’ll love it as much as I do!

      Reply
  5. Carol-Anne says

    June 17, 2019 at 9:07 pm

    Your links just don’t work for me, but I’d love to know which red lipstick that is!
    You really are hitting your stride this year Allison, and you look great!

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      June 18, 2019 at 8:47 am

      Oh darn I wonder why not! It’s L’Oreal in Matte-Traction Red, I know it’s a bit hidden but it’s after the third photo. It used to be called Eva’s Red. For outfit posts like this I will always provide the name of the product when available, but it may get hidden if you have ad-blockers since they are hyperlinked.

      Reply
  6. Tori says

    June 17, 2019 at 8:47 pm

    This actually looks way better on you than on the model. 🙂

    I’m short, stocky, and curvy, and yes, I believe that jumpsuits can be cute on me! I have a navy one with a tie waist, and on my more confident days, I love it! It doesn’t make me look skinnier than I am, and it doesn’t hide that I have a stomach, so sometimes I don’t feel confident in it. But other times, I recognize that an outfit doesn’t have to make you look skinny to be cute, and if I like it that’s all that matters!

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      June 18, 2019 at 8:47 am

      Yes yes yes, love this Tori!

      Reply
  7. Bette says

    June 17, 2019 at 6:11 pm

    You remind me of a female Tom Cruise from Top Gun. You look awesome in your flight suit. Amazing!

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      June 18, 2019 at 8:47 am

      Oooh thank you Bette!

      Reply
  8. Patricia says

    June 17, 2019 at 3:18 pm

    With the hoops and bold lips and black hair, you remind me of Elizabeth Taylor …

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      June 18, 2019 at 8:48 am

      Thank you so much Patricia!

      Reply
  9. Julia McCabe says

    June 17, 2019 at 1:53 pm

    Have you read about the Rational Dress Society? Their manifesto ties in a lot to what you’re talking about in this.

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      June 18, 2019 at 8:50 am

      I had not! Thank you for the heads up Julia! For anyone else curious, here is the Wikipedia page for Rational Dress Society: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rational_Dress_Society and they’re looking to make a jumpsuit/coveralls! https://www.jumpsu.it/

      Reply
  10. Maggie Morris says

    June 17, 2019 at 12:49 pm

    Love this, this is so weird but I have always worn gold jewelry with olive (old habits die hard). The silver hoops and berks look terrific with this outfit! Who knew? I am a little nervous about wearing such large hoops, but maybe I will say, “Who gives a f***!” and do it!

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      June 18, 2019 at 8:53 am

      YES! I love big hoops, they make such impact! And it’s only been in recent years where I’m switching up metals and wearing the unexpected combo. Olive, brown, khaki, cream, and leopard with silver or gray and icy tones with gold. All rules have gone out the window in the past decade, this is an easy way to dip your toe into rule breaking to see if you like it!

      Reply
  11. Caitlin says

    June 17, 2019 at 12:44 pm

    SO cute! I bought silver Birks 2 years ago after seeing your awesome ones. I’ve worn them constantly and they are currently at the cobbler getting the heels fixed up a bit so I can wear them again all summer. Those coveralls are adorable, might have to get some myself!

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      June 18, 2019 at 8:53 am

      They’re really comfy, I wore this same look again yesterday but added a brown leather safari hat since I didn’t feel like doing my hair!

      Reply
  12. Judy says

    June 17, 2019 at 12:00 pm

    You look totally fab in this outfit. The green suits you with your coloring. I would wear this many many times. Bravo!

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      June 18, 2019 at 9:39 am

      Thank you Judy!

      Reply
  13. Lee says

    June 17, 2019 at 10:31 am

    I’m with all the others who have posted—you look great in this outfit! Beauty comes from within and you’re just proving that today!

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      June 18, 2019 at 9:39 am

      Thanks so much Lee!

      Reply
  14. Linda B says

    June 17, 2019 at 10:25 am

    I think this outfit on you is absolute proof that wearing what we like is the best way to looking fantastic, whether or not our clothing flatters in a conventional way, or is currently in style. Wearing what makes you feel good on any given day is the absolutely the best way to approach dressing!

    I am currently in the early weeks of a huge life transition–I retired three and a half weeks ago, and two weeks ago today I became a grandmother. In anticipation of that joy, three weeks ago I arrived in lovely Corvallis, OR, to help my daughter with her baby for the summer. I brought a limited “palette” of clothing. . . and find I am not even wearing all of what I brought. Because in this situation, I am really truly dressing just for myself. There is no one here to even notice what I do or don’t wear! So I definitely wear whatever feels comfortable and makes me happy every on any given day. I thought I was doing that before in my life but maybe not!

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      June 18, 2019 at 9:59 am

      Congrats on becoming a grandmother! And isn’t it funny how we can plan our wardrobes so carefully and then find we don’t wear it, or it just isn’t right for the situation? Have a wonderful time with your family this summer!

      Reply
  15. Stephanie says

    June 17, 2019 at 10:13 am

    I feel like you would enjoy the “No More F***’s to Give” song: https://youtu.be/Vqbk9cDX0l0

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      June 18, 2019 at 9:59 am

      This is awesome!!! Thank you Stephanie!

      Reply
  16. Jamie says

    June 17, 2019 at 9:44 am

    You look fantastic – I love the jumpsuit, and your hair is just the best!! I love wearing cropped wide-leg pants during the summer (the wider, the better!)…maybe not the most flattering, but they make me happy. Keep doing (and wearing) what makes your heart sing! 🙂

    Reply
    • Alice says

      June 17, 2019 at 10:24 am

      The wide the better… love it! I’ve been getting wider and wider pants, they just make me smile! To teh extent that anything that clings around the knees or calves can be really annoying, especially when its hot. Who cares about ‘flattering’ if you feel energised and fresh!

      Reply
      • Alison Gary says

        June 18, 2019 at 10:00 am

        Amen, Alice!

        Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      June 18, 2019 at 10:00 am

      Thank you Jamie!

      Reply
  17. Brenna McC says

    June 17, 2019 at 9:28 am

    As a reader for probably close to ten years (albeit a mostly silent one), I have to say that you look radiant. Your hair, your skin, your smile… I know you’ve mentioned lately that this is the healthiest you’ve been in years, and it shows. You’re an inspiration. 🙂 Just had to pass along that praise this Monday morning; I don’t think women compliment each other enough. Thanks for all the great content!

    Reply
    • hmbalison says

      June 17, 2019 at 1:31 pm

      Ditto!

      Reply
      • Alison Gary says

        June 18, 2019 at 10:07 am

        Thank you!

        Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      June 18, 2019 at 10:07 am

      Thank you so much Brenna! <3

      Reply
  18. L H Carter says

    June 17, 2019 at 9:18 am

    I’m having jumpsuit envy here. You look great in it— like a green, relaxed, summer vacation day.
    Yep! Giving no f***ks about what used to send me into a pretzel is a wonderful benefit of my age. I enjoy the freedom and creativity that those two words provide.

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      June 18, 2019 at 10:07 am

      YES!!! And thank you!

      Reply
  19. littleblackdomicile says

    June 17, 2019 at 8:46 am

    With you all the way on the birks…mine are probably as old as you are and still the go to when feet need a refresh. The silver shoes, super ear rings and your amazing hair make this overall fab! Proof comfort and style do not have to be independent.

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      June 18, 2019 at 10:26 am

      Thank you so much!

      Reply
  20. Michelle Ries says

    June 17, 2019 at 8:41 am

    LOVE this post! I just turned 40 last month and the transition to no f*cks is moving fast!

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      June 18, 2019 at 10:26 am

      Yess! Welcome to what I’ve found to be the best decade yet!

      Reply
  21. Dana Studer says

    June 17, 2019 at 8:20 am

    That is super cute on you!

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      June 18, 2019 at 10:26 am

      Thaks Dana!

      Reply

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Weekend Reads #57

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. 💚

wardrobe_oxygen

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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

wardrobe_oxygen

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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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