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What I wore ten years ago this month with the top song of June 2013…

I love this monthly challenge of looking at my outfit posts on wardrobeoxygen.command seeing what I wore a decade ago. It flashes me back to that time, who I was then and why I wore what I did.

I worked for a health policy nonprofit in the digital space, conducting webinars and on-demand training and we were really rocking it. Our department kept growing and we were a cohesive team and I started elevating my look to represent my position as a manager.

My blog was growing; this look in the splashy printed dress from @karenkane was used a LOT on other blogs as an example of “flattering” fashion. It reminds me of this time where so many TikTokkers and YouTubers steal images from influencers, don’t give credit or ask permission and use them as examples for their style advice videos. But there’s a good chance you’ve seen this look on Pinterest or in an advice article, now you know the person wearing the dress!

The blog was growing. I was mentioned in some major publications, my traffic was constantly increasing, and it was exhilarating. I had been at it for many years and now it felt like this hobby could really be a THING.

At home, we had three dogs and a baby (well actually a 4-year-old). It was chaotic but it was happy and I seemed to have unwavering energy. I think my style in June 2013 shows the creativity inspired by Emerson at that age, my growth professionally, and how I pushed myself sartorially with the growth of the blog.

Do you remember any of of these looks from 2013? Did you wear any of them yourself?

See more of my throwbacks at #wo2tbt

When I saw this drapey matte satin pantsuit at @anntaylor I knew I was looking at a winner. The fabric could dress up with a silk camisole for a wedding, dress down with sneakers and a graphic tee, or be a great night out look with just a black t-shirt bra peeking out from the buttoned blazer.

Last night I attended opening night of @hadestown at @broadwaynatdc and wore this suit with a black @lovechicos microfiber tank. These tanks are amaaaazing; slightly shiny, smooth and opaque, they are great camis under other pieces, shells under suit jackets, or look great all on their own. I have several in my closet.

I added gold accessories: a gold leather dumpling clutch from @etsy and my beloved gold @margauxny heeled sandals that not only come in widths but are comfortable enough to wear all evening.

Hadestown was phenomenal, I’m honored @broadwaynatdc invited me. If you’d like to see it as well, use code SONGBIRD for 20% off select seats Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday performances. But get those tickets soon, it was a full house last night!

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this look and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4aW2n #thisisann

Go big or go home 👗

I bought this dress from @universalstandard because I loved the black and white print. I also love that the straps are adjustable and wide enough to cover my bra. The pockets are hella deep and in this photo are containing two pairs of sunglasses, a pair of readers, a lipstick, a lipgloss, a bandana, and an iPhone max. But at first I didn’t love how… big it was.

This dress is cotton sateen and it doesn’t lay flat, it doesn’t drape. It’s like wearing a bell and it’s a bit heavy. But that means this dress hardly touches my body. It’s barely grazing my belly, it’s hardly skimming my bum, and even when sweaty and sitting and then standing up it doesn’t cling to my legs. And this is a lovely thing, lovelier than a lightweight fabric that may “breathe” but also turns to Saran Wrap in DC humidity.

The “bigness” almost had me return this dress because it doesn’t make me look slim or hourglass shaped. The waist isn’t fitted, it’s a bit above my natural waist, and with my upper arms exposed, it breaks every style rule I was taught growing up. But it’s cool and comfortable and it’s so damn fun to wear! I feel like a doll and it swishes when I walk and I love pockets so deep I don’t need a purse. And you know what? This dress may not follow any style rules but it garnered many compliments from strangers.

I share this to encourage you to try breaking some rules and finding comfort and joy in what you wear. You may be surprised to find breaking those rules can be not only fun but also look pretty great too!

As for the dress, I heard this print is currently sold out; it’s also available in green. I am wearing @universalstandard size XS. If in doubt size down, even if you have a large bust. I’m 5’3” so it likely will be a true midi length if you’re not petite. The earrings are vintage, the sandals are @teva

Having fun in the sun with @landsend ☀️

I’ve been a fan of Lands’ End swimwear for years. Classic and chic styles, a beautiful range of sizes (hello petite, long, plus, cup sizes, and even mastectomy suits!), and quality that lasts season after season.

My personal picks? The Carmela suit, the SlenderSuit wrap one-piece, the quarter zip UPF 50 tunic (of course I picked stripes) and personalized beach towels and canvas totes!

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and learn more about Lands’ End products!
https://liketk.it/4avNM #sponsored #MyLandsEnd

I believe in quality not quantity, and that price doesn’t equal quality. This 100% cotton dress which is less than $60, available in a dozen colors and sizes XS-5X has been such a quality purchase for me for many summers, I bought a second one in this chartreuse color this year!

This unusual color is more versatile than you’d think. It can dress up with gold jewelry and heeled sandals, and look equally at home with a baseball cap and a pair of Tevas. I’ve styled with an olive field jacket and a denim jacket, sneakers and sandals with ease.

And for this day with a hint of chill I styled it with my ivory @universalstandard Better Than Wool sweater. I tied it around my shoulders and it fell to the side and I liked the asymmetry and left it that way. I added a pair of ivory chunky sneakers I bought a couple of years ago to keep the color going.

I encourage you to play with what’s already in your closet. Tie that item off-center, mix unexpected colors together, switch up a silhouette with a belt. You may be surprised that a change in styling can give your wardrobe the lift it needs without having to purchase more. You may already have quality with the quantity in your closet.

But if you are in need to a dress like this, you can shop this dress directly at https://amzn.to/3C0FCXV or shop the entire look through my @shop.ltk app (I’m @wardrobe_oxygen) or via this link: https://liketk.it/4accN

#midsizestyle #midsizefashion #size14 #genxstyle #usinthewild

I love wearing a scarf as a belt; it breaks up the line from tucking in a shirt and is more comfortable than structured leather. But when you’re larger than a size 10 it’s hard to find scarves that work as a belt.

Often a larger scarf is made of a heavier fabric, creating too much bulk. I found this one at @bananarepublicfactory it’s their “large scarf” and it’s 43” square and a fabric that looks like silk. Folded on the diagonal it fits nicely through belt loops and has long enough tails for my 14/16 self. Banana Republic Factory has a few different scarves this size and are all on sale this weekend $35 or less (this exact one is $21). Find all of them at https://bit.ly/3qlOeFS

You can also follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK for details on this entire outfit:
https://liketk.it/4a794

In fact most of this look is on sale. The pants are @madewell, the bag is @portlandleather and both have sales this weekend. The shirt is @saintjames and several years old so a good purchase, same with the @baublebar hoops I’ve owned since PrePan. And you know I can’t resist a pair of @birkenstock sandals!

Have you found other retailers or designers that carry larger scarves for belts? I’d love to hear about them!

I’m all about real-life style and here I am in yet another look from latest capsule wardrobe, shopping at Whole Foods! 🛒

This is the same @mmlafleur blazer in my last post and in the capsule. I recreated one of the looks using a ribbed knit tank dress already in my closet and sneakers. For a bag I chose a black belt bag I’ve owned for a few years, but a crossbody with a pop of color would be a chic alternative.

This look appears “fancy” but the blazer is soft like a spring jacket, the dress is a simple ribbed knit that has been washed many times, and the bag and shoes are practical. It’s amazing how a quality blazer can elevate old closet basics!

Shop this look via the @shop.ltk app (I’m @wardrobe_oxygen on there) or visit https://liketk.it/49QaE

Take all those old dated style rules and throw them out the window. I’m short and wearing an oversized blazer. I’m curvy and pairing that blazer with wide leg pants. I’m busty and wearing horizontal stripes. And it works! 2023 is the year where we take up the space we deserve. Wear the trends that look fun even if “experts” say they’re not “flattering.” And have some fun with fashion! The chicest thing you can wear this season is confidence.

This look inspired my latest capsule: the @mmlafleur O’Hara blazer that I based the capsule on with a striped @universalstandard Tee Rex and @madewell Harlow wide leg trousers. Same style of @baublebar hoops but a bigger version, and instead of the Vera sneakers I’m wearing the @birkenstock Bend sneakers I recently reviewed. When I create my capsule wardrobes I want them to work whether you’re a size 2 or 22, and when possible I test them myself!

See more of my real-life style and capsule wardrobes as wardrobeoxygen.com

Inspired by an @mmlafleur blazer I tried on when visiting their showroom, I created this capsule wardrobe by playing with similar items already in my closet. Mixing pieces from M.M.LaFleur with extended size & budget-friendly brands like @oldnavy @target @bananarepublicfactory @universalstandard and @madewell this capsule will take you from work to weekend and beyond.

If you visit wardrobeoxygen.com you’ll find more detail on how I put this capsule together, alternatives to this blazer, and additional styling tips. I strive to create real-life style for us grown-ass women. Clothing that looks great but also makes us feel great, giving us the armor to get through life with confidence and style. Let me know what you think!

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· January 20, 2021

I love my Peloton

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· January 19, 2021

Styling Faux Leather Leggings

Styling Faux Leather Leggings

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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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wardrobe_oxygen

Jun 7

When I saw this drapey matte satin pantsuit at @anntaylor I knew I was looking at a winner. The fabric could dress up with a silk camisole for a wedding, dress down with sneakers and a graphic tee, or be a great night out look with just a black t-shirt bra peeking out from the buttoned blazer.

Last night I attended opening night of @hadestown at @broadwaynatdc and wore this suit with a black @lovechicos microfiber tank. These tanks are amaaaazing; slightly shiny, smooth and opaque, they are great camis under other pieces, shells under suit jackets, or look great all on their own. I have several in my closet.

I added gold accessories: a gold leather dumpling clutch from @etsy and my beloved gold @margauxny heeled sandals that not only come in widths but are comfortable enough to wear all evening.

Hadestown was phenomenal, I’m honored @broadwaynatdc invited me. If you’d like to see it as well, use code SONGBIRD for 20% off select seats Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday performances. But get those tickets soon, it was a full house last night!

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this look and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4aW2n #thisisann

wardrobe_oxygen

Jun 6

Go big or go home 👗

I bought this dress from @universalstandard because I loved the black and white print. I also love that the straps are adjustable and wide enough to cover my bra. The pockets are hella deep and in this photo are containing two pairs of sunglasses, a pair of readers, a lipstick, a lipgloss, a bandana, and an iPhone max. But at first I didn’t love how… big it was.

This dress is cotton sateen and it doesn’t lay flat, it doesn’t drape. It’s like wearing a bell and it’s a bit heavy. But that means this dress hardly touches my body. It’s barely grazing my belly, it’s hardly skimming my bum, and even when sweaty and sitting and then standing up it doesn’t cling to my legs. And this is a lovely thing, lovelier than a lightweight fabric that may “breathe” but also turns to Saran Wrap in DC humidity.

The “bigness” almost had me return this dress because it doesn’t make me look slim or hourglass shaped. The waist isn’t fitted, it’s a bit above my natural waist, and with my upper arms exposed, it breaks every style rule I was taught growing up. But it’s cool and comfortable and it’s so damn fun to wear! I feel like a doll and it swishes when I walk and I love pockets so deep I don’t need a purse. And you know what? This dress may not follow any style rules but it garnered many compliments from strangers.

I share this to encourage you to try breaking some rules and finding comfort and joy in what you wear. You may be surprised to find breaking those rules can be not only fun but also look pretty great too!

As for the dress, I heard this print is currently sold out; it’s also available in green. I am wearing @universalstandard size XS. If in doubt size down, even if you have a large bust. I’m 5’3” so it likely will be a true midi length if you’re not petite. The earrings are vintage, the sandals are @teva

wardrobe_oxygen

Jun 2

Having fun in the sun with @landsend ☀️

I’ve been a fan of Lands’ End swimwear for years. Classic and chic styles, a beautiful range of sizes (hello petite, long, plus, cup sizes, and even mastectomy suits!), and quality that lasts season after season.

My personal picks? The Carmela suit, the SlenderSuit wrap one-piece, the quarter zip UPF 50 tunic (of course I picked stripes) and personalized beach towels and canvas totes!

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and learn more about Lands’ End products!
https://liketk.it/4avNM #sponsored #MyLandsEnd

wardrobe_oxygen

May 30

I believe in quality not quantity, and that price doesn’t equal quality. This 100% cotton dress which is less than $60, available in a dozen colors and sizes XS-5X has been such a quality purchase for me for many summers, I bought a second one in this chartreuse color this year!

This unusual color is more versatile than you’d think. It can dress up with gold jewelry and heeled sandals, and look equally at home with a baseball cap and a pair of Tevas. I’ve styled with an olive field jacket and a denim jacket, sneakers and sandals with ease.

And for this day with a hint of chill I styled it with my ivory @universalstandard Better Than Wool sweater. I tied it around my shoulders and it fell to the side and I liked the asymmetry and left it that way. I added a pair of ivory chunky sneakers I bought a couple of years ago to keep the color going.

I encourage you to play with what’s already in your closet. Tie that item off-center, mix unexpected colors together, switch up a silhouette with a belt. You may be surprised that a change in styling can give your wardrobe the lift it needs without having to purchase more. You may already have quality with the quantity in your closet.

But if you are in need to a dress like this, you can shop this dress directly at https://amzn.to/3C0FCXV or shop the entire look through my @shop.ltk app (I’m @wardrobe_oxygen) or via this link: https://liketk.it/4accN

#midsizestyle #midsizefashion #size14 #genxstyle #usinthewild

wardrobe_oxygen

May 28

I love wearing a scarf as a belt; it breaks up the line from tucking in a shirt and is more comfortable than structured leather. But when you’re larger than a size 10 it’s hard to find scarves that work as a belt.

Often a larger scarf is made of a heavier fabric, creating too much bulk. I found this one at @bananarepublicfactory it’s their “large scarf” and it’s 43” square and a fabric that looks like silk. Folded on the diagonal it fits nicely through belt loops and has long enough tails for my 14/16 self. Banana Republic Factory has a few different scarves this size and are all on sale this weekend $35 or less (this exact one is $21). Find all of them at https://bit.ly/3qlOeFS

You can also follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK for details on this entire outfit:
https://liketk.it/4a794

In fact most of this look is on sale. The pants are @madewell, the bag is @portlandleather and both have sales this weekend. The shirt is @saintjames and several years old so a good purchase, same with the @baublebar hoops I’ve owned since PrePan. And you know I can’t resist a pair of @birkenstock sandals!

Have you found other retailers or designers that carry larger scarves for belts? I’d love to hear about them!

wardrobe_oxygen

May 23

I’m all about real-life style and here I am in yet another look from latest capsule wardrobe, shopping at Whole Foods! 🛒

This is the same @mmlafleur blazer in my last post and in the capsule. I recreated one of the looks using a ribbed knit tank dress already in my closet and sneakers. For a bag I chose a black belt bag I’ve owned for a few years, but a crossbody with a pop of color would be a chic alternative.

This look appears “fancy” but the blazer is soft like a spring jacket, the dress is a simple ribbed knit that has been washed many times, and the bag and shoes are practical. It’s amazing how a quality blazer can elevate old closet basics!

Shop this look via the @shop.ltk app (I’m @wardrobe_oxygen on there) or visit https://liketk.it/49QaE

wardrobe_oxygen

May 19

Take all those old dated style rules and throw them out the window. I’m short and wearing an oversized blazer. I’m curvy and pairing that blazer with wide leg pants. I’m busty and wearing horizontal stripes. And it works! 2023 is the year where we take up the space we deserve. Wear the trends that look fun even if “experts” say they’re not “flattering.” And have some fun with fashion! The chicest thing you can wear this season is confidence.

This look inspired my latest capsule: the @mmlafleur O’Hara blazer that I based the capsule on with a striped @universalstandard Tee Rex and @madewell Harlow wide leg trousers. Same style of @baublebar hoops but a bigger version, and instead of the Vera sneakers I’m wearing the @birkenstock Bend sneakers I recently reviewed. When I create my capsule wardrobes I want them to work whether you’re a size 2 or 22, and when possible I test them myself!

See more of my real-life style and capsule wardrobes as wardrobeoxygen.com

wardrobe_oxygen

May 17

Wow! @beetlejuicebway is a must-see!

@broadwaynatdc hosted me and my daughter to experience opening night of Beetlejuice and it was phenomenal! Not exactly like the film, it is it’s own wacky, wild, and entertaining experience!

As for what I’m wearing, it’s the same @mmlafleur silk tee and pants from Sunday. I glammed them up with some bold gold earrings, a decades-old gold chain belt, and my comfy yet cool @margauxny gold heeled sandals. The bag is from Amazon and is also a couple of years old.

You can shop this look and all the content I create on the @shop.ltk app. Screenshot this image or follow me (@wardrobe_oxygen) on the app, or visit https://liketk.it/49tnM for outfit details

wardrobe_oxygen

May 15

Washable silk FTW

I already owned this @mmlafleur top in pink and the same cut of pants in solid colors. When I saw both in this cool black and white print AND in washable silk I had to have it! Both great separate but together it created a jumpsuit effect.

For a street festival in my town I kept it colorful and comfortable pairing with my tomato red @birkenstock sandals and silicone bangle bracelets my husband gave me as a gift. The sunglasses are @lovechicos from last year and I liked the funky vibe that fit with the print. I felt cool literally and figuratively in this!

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/49jft

wardrobe_oxygen

May 13

Summer suiting, fun and colorful edition!

When I saw this gorgeous blue color at @anntaylor I knew I had to have it in my closet. These pull-on wide leg linen pants and sleeveless sweater are so versatile and could be weekend workhorses, but paired with the perfectly matching pique blazer it makes a smart summer pantsuit.

I added some pops of color with an orange leather tote from @talbotsofficial I’ve been rocking all spring with magenta heeled sandals I’ve owned for several years. My @hermes matches perfectly so I used it in place of a belt. The large and huggie hoops are from @baublebar

For reference, I’m wearing the blazer in 16P, sweater in XLP, and the pants in XLP (could have sized down).

I’ll be sharing this look in detail and where I wore it soon on the blog. In the meantime to shop this look follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on @shop.LTK
https://liketk.it/4937F

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