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My therapist recommended I walk outside more as I grieve the recent loss of my mom.

When it was time to pay for my mom’s funeral, the credit card I had in my wallet was my @bananarepublic Mastercard. I’ve had this card for decades because over the years, most of our family have worn some Gap brand. From onesies to tuxedos, we’ve updated our wardrobes with points.

And I got a serious chunk of points for charging my mom’s funeral expenses on my Banana card.

I decided to use them to buy clothes for winter outdoor walking. Nothing motivates me more than a chance to put together a cute outfit. This cute look is from @athleta, one of the few activewear brands that fits both my size and my style.

My Athleta purchase arrived on my doorstep and that day, a neighbor reached out, inviting me to join a group of women in our community who were supporting, not competing, to move 100k. I immediately said yes and signed up. 

This past week I hit 100k. And this past week week it has been two months she has been gone. I’m still going 💪 

Wearing XL. For reference I’m 5’3” and usually wear a size 14.

I share details on all my looks on the @shop.LTK app. You can use the app or desktop, search for @wardrobe_oxygen or use the link https://liketk.it/4pFaS
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Normalizing the normal everyday outfit…

It was a day of running errands, running to the office, and then running into friends. It rained off and on so I wanted shoes for potential puddles and a coat that wouldn’t soak through but also keep me warm.

The sweater is @universalstandard; I bought it thinking it was a bold purple but the color was off on the site and I got plum. But I think I like this better. I’m wearing a S. This is my second of this cardigan, it is super soft, dense, and holds up to washing. My other one I got a year ago and still wear all the time.

The jeans are @oldnavy and while they’re not perfect and stretch out throughout the day they were around $18 and I like the wash and weight of the denim. I’m wearing a 14 Short.

The boots are old Docs, the coat I got at @talbotsofficial last winter, and the bag is @maxwellscottuk and I’ve had for almost a decade. Earrings are @_jennybird, necklace is @gorjana. 

Disclosure: the coat was gifted last year but remains a favorite. The necklace was also gifted about a year ago but I keep wearing because I like it and it has held up quality-wise. The rest I bought. 

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

#liketkit #LTKfindsunder50 #LTKover40 #LTKmidsize #midsizestyle #genxstyle #over40style #size14 #usinthewild 
https://liketk.it/4pDXG
Open
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
Open
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. 🌴
Open
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
Open
@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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Lifestyle, Life in DC, Travel · March 2, 2018

Weekend Getaway at National Harbor

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. 

national harbor prince georges county marylandI have lived in Prince George's County, Maryland almost all my life. My parents moved here from DC when I was a toddler. I even went to the University of Maryland College Park which is in PG County. After college I lived in Annapolis for a stint, but when Karl and I moved in together in 2000, we came back to where the two of us grew up. PG County is a great community right outside of Washington DC that is full of beauty, culture, history, and attractions. And one of those attractions is National Harbor.

Visiting National Harbor for Restaurant Week

Many think National Harbor is in DC, but actually it's in Prince George's County. However it's super close to DC and right across the Potomac River from Northern Virginia. It's a fantastic destination for dining, shopping, and nightlife. National Harbor hosted me and my husband for a quick getaway during Restaurant Week. During Restaurant Week, many of the National Harbor restaurants have special menus that offer the best of their dishes at a reduced price. It's a fantastic way to try a restaurant that is usually outside your budget or to try out a new dining spot. We stayed Thursday night through Saturday afternoon.

The AC Hotel National Harbor

lobby of th4e ac hotelThis is the second time we've visited National Harbor, and yet again we stayed at the gorgeous AC Hotel. Located on the main drag in National Harbor, the AC Hotel is positively stunning. The lobby is so chic with a fireplace, covetable books and art, a terrace overlooking the hottest National Harbor attractions, and a bar that serves craft cocktails and tapas. This hotel is a popular destination not just for guests but others looking for a chill place for cocktails.

view from the AC Hotel National HarborThe rooms at the AC Hotel are modern, sleek, and luxurious. We had a plush king-sized bed with luxe linens where from our pillows we could see the iconic Capital Wheel and the sunset. There's a mini fridge they keep stocked with chilled water and glasses. The huge 42″ LCD TV lets you connect to your streaming accounts to watch Netflix, Hulu, and more on the big screen. National Harbor provided a welcome gift including items from Wolfgang Puck, Capital Teas, tickets to the Capital Wheel, and some awesome branded merchandise (can't wait to add the Capital Wheel gondola ornament to our Christmas tree next year!).

Dinner at Bond 45 National Harbor

Bond 45 National HarborAfter getting checked in and unpacked, we were ready for dinner. National Harbor made reservations for us at Bond 45. A legend in New York's theater district, Bond 45 opened their second location in National Harbor. And walking in feels like walking into old New York. A stunning restaurant, we were guided through the kitchen to one of their conservatory rooms. All glass and green paint, we had a view of the docks and the setting sun. The service was impeccable, as was the food. We both started with their chopped salad which was unique, fresh and delicious. I ordered one of their famous aged steaks and it was divine. It said it came with parmesan mashed potatoes, I asked if I could switch for a vegetable and they suggested their rosemary potatoes which were crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and totally delicious (we couldn't finish them and took them and half my steak back to the hotel in a doggy bag).

Bond 45 manager review national harborThe manager stopped by our table (and every table) to see how things were and even took a photo of us (and a selfie with him in it too which was too funny). After dinner, he came by with a tray of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies. I looked around and each table was treated with the same care and attention we received.

bond 45 national harbor reviewThis would be a fantastic restaurant for a romantic evening or to celebrate a special occasion. The conservatory rooms would be amazing for a small party; I can't imagine how gorgeous they must be on a sunny day! We will definitely be returning to Bond 45, it was a highlight of the trip.

Day Two of our Getaway

breakfast ac hotel national harborThe next morning, we had breakfast in the AC Hotel lobby. The hotel offers European-style breakfast buffet with meats, cheeses, berries, granola, pastries, yogurt, juices, coffee, and more. The seating is in a sunny part of the lobby and in nicer weather, there's a courtyard off the dining room with couches and tables for dining and relaxing.

ac hotel national harbor gymWe decided to hit up the hotel gym. With several treadmills, ellipticals, and plenty of new weight equipment, it's a great space. While there we also refilled our reusable water bottles from the filtered water machine.

Lunch at Grace's Mandarin

graces mandarin view second floorNational Harbor set us up for lunch at Grace's Mandarin. Grace's Mandarin is the third restaurant in Prince's George's County by Grace Tang. The first, Grace's Fortune, opened in 1990 a few miles from where Karl and I grew up. One of our first dates when we were still in high school was at Grace's Fortune so it was fun to visit Grace's Mandarin for the first time. The place is amazing, with a two-story gold Buddha statue, ornate stairs, stunning décor, and a wall of windows facing the water. We were seated on the second floor next to the windows with a great view of the water, the Gaylord resort, and the dining room.

graces mandarin national harbor sushi

Karl ordered mushroom lettuce wraps and I decided to try out the Restaurant Week menu with a yellowtail appetizer and lamp chops for the entrée. We ordered the sushi roll, “Heart of National Harbor” to share. I think this was the best sushi I have ever tried. The lamp chops were also delicious. Service was amazing, the restaurant is extremely clean, and it's a fun experience day or night.

Visiting MGM National Harbor

We spent the afternoon doing photo shoots, which is clear from this week's previous posts! For dinner we weren't scheduled so we decided to check out the MGM National Harbor and eat at one of its restaurants. Friends of ours raved about Fish by José Andrés. I am a fan of Andrés and his DC-based restaurants and made a reservation the day prior. A reservation is a must at this establishment; 24 hours prior I could only get a table at 5:45 or 10pm. We were happy with the earlier dining time and decided to get there a bit earlier to check out the MGM.

MGM National Harbor MGM National Harbor OutsideThere is a shuttle that goes from downtown National Harbor to the MGM, but it's two blocks from our hotel, I was wearing heels, and it was cold. We decided to drive there, which is less than two miles. There's a ginormous parking garage at MGM, and the night we went parking was free. The elevator closest to our car ended up being right at Fish, and right at a door that went outside. There was a humongous screen outside showcasing photos of Washington landmarks, videos of flowers blooming, and other scenes. A large fountain was above it. There were outdoor areas for the restaurants, and an amazing view of National Harbor.

couples getaway to national harborThe whole thing was very surreal, I felt as though I was in The Capitol in the Hunger Games. You can see some photos from this outdoor area in my ELOQUII post (the colorful wall I'm in front of is actually the reflection of the jumbo screen on the windows of the MGM).

fish by jose andresFish by José Andrés is, as the name states, a seafood restaurant. Celebrating the seafood of the Chesapeake Bay, this restaurant prides itself on fresh fish cooked in time-honored traditions. It seems there was a staffing issue while we were there; while we were immediately seated and offered drinks, after 20 minutes we had to flag someone down to ask if we had a waiter. Our waitress seemed flustered, she raced through our order, our oysters were provided without explaining which ones were which, and again we had to flag someone down to get our check at the end. However, the food was quite delicious and the place is clean and attractive. I bet it's gorgeous in nicer weather when the doors are opened and there's outdoor seating available.

MGM National Harbor AtriumWe decided to walk around MGM and check out the shops. Sarah Jessica Parker opened her first shoe store in MGM so of course I had to check it out. Staff pretty much ignored us, and it just seemed like the same pump over and over with spotlights perfectly angled to capture the glitter or shine. We walked through an atrium that was decorated for the Chinese New Year. There were all these ginormous dog figurines, decorations from the ceiling, and everyone who entered was filming the spectacle. We stopped by Starbucks where I ordered a chai for dessert and I could see into the casino (the Starbucks has two counters, one inside the casino and one in the mall area). That's the closest I got to the casino.

An Evening at Bobby McKey's

bobby mckeysWe came back to the hotel, got into warmer clothes and headed out for some nightlife. National Harbor invited us to visit Bobby McKey's, a dueling piano bar only a couple blocks from the AC Hotel. This is a fun spot for groups, and there we saw bachelorette parties, birthdays, engagement parties, and after parties from weddings and high school reunions. You sit at long tables so a whole group can be together or you may be seated with strangers.

bobby mckeys national harborBut at Bobby McKey's with the singalong music and flowing libations everyone quickly becomes friends. The variety of people and their ages was refreshing, this is a place that can be enjoyed by a 21 year old or a 71 year old, as long as you know pop tunes from the past 3-4 decades.

Day 3 of our Getaway

The Pinkwell National Harbor

the pinkwell national harborSunday morning, we woke to grey skies that soon turned into rain. After breakfast, we headed to The Pinkwell, a boutique in National Harbor that offers cute fashion in regular and plus sizes. Such a rarity, most boutiques in the DMV stop around a size 12. The fashion is budget-friendly but full of fun. If you follow me on InstaStories you've seen me wear this dress a couple times. It's a navy, ivory, and brick red stripe with an asymmetrical hem. I tie the belt in a knot on the long side of the skirt and have paired it with black knee-high heeled boots and when the hair or weather is bad, a beret. In nicer weather I think this dress would be super cute with a pair of sneakers or pointy-toe flats. It's breezy, cute, and gets compliments every time I wear it. I also got a top (not on the site) and a few accessories and plan to visit again in the future.

National Harbor American WayWe walked around and checked out the other shopping in National Harbor. Karl got a quick haircut, and admired the statues throughout American Way.

The Capital Wheel

view from the capital wheel national harbor capital wheel national harbor februaryAfter shopping we took a trip on The Capital Wheel. This 180′ tall wheel has become a DC-area landmark, and from the top of it you can see several other area landmarks such as the Washington Monument and National Cathedral. The gondolas are climate-controlled, pipe in soothing soft rock and R&B, and provide a very smooth ride. The huge windows let you have a panoramic view of DC, Maryland, and Virginia.

couples selfie on the capital wheelSince it was February and a rainy one at that, we had a gondola to ourselves. It was an awesome experience and I hope to come back again this summer to see everything green and blooming!

Sadly, our getaway to National Harbor had to come to an end. However, what's nice is that National Harbor is just a quick drive from where we live so we were back home in a jiffy. We look forward to our next National Harbor visit, each time we find new great places to dine, visit, and explore. To see more from our trip to National Harbor, visit my Instagram profile on the app and click on the black circle that says “National Harbor.” Thank you National Harbor for hosting us!

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In: Lifestyle, Life in DC, Travel · Tagged: AC Hotel, National Harbor, weekend reads

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Comments

  1. LindaR says

    March 5, 2018 at 6:48 pm

    Allie,
    You could write a travel blog because your descriptions of places, restaurants, shopping, art and other attractions is so vivid, I feel like I’m there with you. I love all the photos too. I certainly want to visit National Harbor after reading this. Happy travels, fashionista!
    LindaR

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      March 12, 2018 at 4:39 pm

      Thank you so much Linda!

      Reply
  2. Katy says

    March 2, 2018 at 8:13 pm

    National Harbor is only 10 minutes from me, but I’ve yet to go! Would love to check it out!

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      March 12, 2018 at 4:40 pm

      You should! At least for the restaurants. Succotash and Bond 45 are my faves!

      Reply
  3. Lee says

    March 2, 2018 at 5:51 pm

    Looks like such a fun trip!

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      March 12, 2018 at 4:40 pm

      It was a nice getaway 🙂

      Reply
  4. Susie says

    March 2, 2018 at 1:07 pm

    It looks as if you had a fabulous time! My husband and I have been talking about a quick getaway and this might fit the bill. Fun side note? My former boss opened Bobby’s after he sold the company I had formerly worked at — Capitol Advantage 🙂

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      March 12, 2018 at 4:40 pm

      Oh gosh what a small world! Bobby’s was very fun!

      Reply

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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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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

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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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!
https://liketk.it/4nKRE

#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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