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The perfect red for the holiday season 💄

I love a red lipstick, especially in winter. It adds brightness to gray days and skin not exposed to the sun. Look in my dressing table and you’ll find at least a dozen different red lipsticks. But this winter my go-to red is “Relax” by @flyte.70 

Glossy but not sticky, long wearing but not drying, the Flyte.70 L+L.LipLacquer feels like a lip balm. One layer is a hint of color and shine; add more layers for more pigment, gloss, and impact. This isn’t the only Flyte.70 lip color I have and love; I regularly wear “Fast Car” which is a modern version of the brown lipsticks we loved in the 90s that looks so good with the neutrals popular right now.

And with products named after songs from the 80s and 90s I couldn’t not use this Frankie Goes to Hollywood song for this lip color!

This isn’t paid, it’s a PSA because I know it’s hard to find good red lip colors. And @flyte.70 is a U.S.-based woman-owned ethical beauty brand created specifically for U.S. grown women and I find the quality stellar.

Use code WOXYGEN15 for 15% off your order at Flyte.70

The quickest and cheapest way to update your wardrobe for the holidays is with a glossy red lip! 💄

#over40style #genxstyle #genxbeauty #flyte70
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The tree is trimmed! 🎄

When I was a single gal, I had the prettiest tree with a color story and theme. 20 years later, my tree is a hodgepodge of inherited ornaments, gifts from loved ones, and handmade pieces from both my childhood and by my child. And I think each year it veers further from the original concept the more beautiful it becomes!

My daughter and I donned our Santa hats, turned on the holiday playlist, a Yule log on the TV, and spent the afternoon getting our home into the Christmas spirit.

When she was little, my husband would pick her up so she could place the star on top of the tree. Now that she’s taller than I am, when he got home he just put his arm around her as she used the library stool to reach the top. Some traditions need to be modified with time but they’re still special! ⭐️

Top is a feather trimmed Breton from @talbotsofficial; the scarf as a belt is also Talbots but a few years old. The jeans are @landsend and the blanket on the chair in the second photo is by artist  @zanderschlacter
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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
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Counteract the gray days with cozy colorful clothes! 🌈 This cashmere sweater set is the prettiest teal and I loved how it looked with this candy pink Chesterfield coat. All are from @anntaylor one of my favorite places to shop because Ann has petites over a size 12. Also all of these items are on sale!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#mytalbots modernclassicstyle #wondersoftheseason #ltkover40 #ltkplussize #ltkmidsize #blackfridaysale
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@somaintimates makes it easy to shop for a range of personas this holiday season! #AD With gift guides for a range of personality types, you can easily find great gifts for your loved ones. I was drawn to the creative one, loving the rich colorful florals, luxe satin, lace trim, and of course Soma’s iconic Cool Nights sleepwear! Visit Soma’s gift guide for tips on finding the perfect present this holiday season. #SomaGiftGuide #SomaStartsWithMe
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Lifestyle · August 6, 2022

Weekend Reads #208

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. 

86 70 3 cropped
Robert Henri, Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney. 1916

I just got back from six nights in Mastic Beach, which is on Long Island in New York. An uncle and his partner live nearby on Long Island and three households from that side of the family come together for a week each summer to see one another and visit these relatives.

Last summer, we rented a house on Fire Island, which was AMAZING. We were in Davis Park, which is very quiet. No cars, no stores except a little general store/snack bar, no street lights, only one beach bar/restaurant (above the general store/snack bar). It took a lot of strategy figuring out what to take that we could carry ourselves onto the ferry and cart down the boardwalks to the rental house a few blocks away. It also took a lot of strategy when a tropical storm turned into a hurricane and was heading our way and we couldn't find a hotel within 50 miles that was dog-friendly. My husband ended up securing the rental home himself and staying in it with our pup Oscar while the rest of us waited it out in a Hampton Inn in Brookhaven.

This year we decided to have a lower-stress, lower-strategy vacation while still being close to family and the beach. We searched for rental houses on Long Island not far from the family that lives there and chose Mastic Beach. It was an excellent house, down the street from the bay, built where houses can no longer built so it was remote and surrounded by wildlife but still just a few minutes from a King Kullen grocery and other shops and restaurants.

We liked it so much, we stayed an extra day. Wi-Fi was spotty and I didn't bring my laptop so I am trying this at noon the day before Weekend Reads goes live trying to pull this all together. I'll try to do a full recap of our trip (for those curious, here is the Airbnb listing) and I'll also write about what I packed and wore hopefully this coming week!

orange by gerta conner 1973
The print hanging in the dining room of our vacation rental

As for the painting at the top of this Weekend Reads, it's related to the print I have just above this paragraph. This print was hanging in the rental house and I was immediately drawn to it. Orange is my favorite color, and I just liked the whole vibe of the piece. I came up short searching online but after asking on Instagram Stories, a few folks including Tara informed me that it was the work of Gerta Conner otherwise known as Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney Henry. Gerta Conner was married to the famous illustrator Mac Conner. The signature matches Conner's.

Gerta Conner was the granddaughter of sculptor and heiress Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney. Yep they are those Vanderbilts, and yes that Whitney of the museum. Gerta Conner passed in 2009. This piece very well could have been by her; I have no idea as this article has the only picture of any of her work that I've found online.

The panting above is by Robert Henri and is of Conner's grandmother, Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney. This paragraph from this article in the New York Times about the artist that I found during my search made me decide this would be this Weekend Read's work of art:

“In addition to being a leading patron of American art, Whitney also had the spirit — and style — of a rebel. A 1916 portrait by the painter Robert Henri, which hangs in the new Whitney building, shows her lounging on a couch, wearing a silky tunic and a pair of loose blue pantaloons. At the time, it was highly unusual to see a woman of her class and status wearing pants — and her husband, Harry Payne Whitney, refused to hang the portrait in their Fifth Avenue townhouse. Whitney’s granddaughter, Laura Miller Biddle, remembers her as a beautiful woman who ‘loved sensuous clothes' — and was tough when it came to advocating for artwork she believed in.”

Weekend Reads

People naturally want to help others who are in need, and that’s a good thing. To avoid creating more strain for already hard-hit communities, it’s best to give cash. Here’s why, plus a list of ways to contribute to recovery in Eastern Kentucky. (The Daily Yonder)

FYI, Wardrobe Oxygen donated to SAMS Lonesome Pine Mutual Aid and Appalachian Citizens Law Center Flood Recovery Fund.

Jane Fonda on her new H&M campaign, the legacy of her iconic VHS workout, and feeling youthful in her 80s. (Vogue)

As a child of immigrants, I feel guilty for embracing the minimalist aesthetic. (Dwell)

Pop culture’s problem with middle-aged women. (Catapult)

How the anti-aging industry turns you into a customer for life. (Vox)

You may not be the age where you watched iCarly or Sam & Cat, but you may have a kid or younger person in your life who did and will recognize this actress. Even if you don't, this is a traumatic story, and sadly one that is all too familiar with child stars. Jennette McCurdy lived a teen star dream. Silently, she was suffering. (The Washington Post)

Seriously, what are you supposed to do with old clothes? (The Atlantic)

The feminist backlash has always been with us. That doesn’t mean we should be afraid. (Men Yell at Me)

With little government guidance on a fast-spreading virus, a new form of social-media vigilantism has emerged. (New York Times)

Why Instagram’s quest to combine community and discovery won’t work. (Link in Bio)

Jazzercise is alive and kicking decades after it got started. (Bloomberg)

For the third summer, the most worn swimsuits I own are the Lands' End Tugless Tank and the Sunsets Taylor Bikini. Not your typical bikini top, the Taylor has underwires and molded cups, adjustable straps, and looks a bit like a cropped tank or sports bra. It's made specifically for large busts. It stays in place when I dive in the pool, when kids grab on me in the ocean, holds my bust up off my stomach and gives great shape, and is my top choice when I want the convenience of a two-piece but the support and function of activewear. It also looks and fits great three summers and counting. I have this matching bottom; I also think this one is great but honestly, it's the same swimsuit fabric as most brands so the top probably goes with any swim bottom you already own. Want to cover your midsection? Sunsets makes the same exact Taylor but in a tankini.

Way to go, Mom! Why it’s better to encourage those parenting through a public meltdown. (The Baltimore Banner)

“Today I am a woman”: Why I had a Bat Mitzvah ceremony on my 60th birthday. (Jumble & Flow)

A Texas blueprint for converting the ‘abortion-minded’: Lattes and a view. (Washington Post)

On my vacation, I wore these shorts on the car ride there with a rainbow-striped Breton and Birks, feeling cute enough to stop for lunch. I then wore them the next day over my swimsuit as I went kayaking, kept them on as we pushed our kayaks onto the shore and floated in the bay. They were dry by time I got back to the house. I took them into the shower with me, washed them with a bar of Ivory soap and hung them over the deck railing to dry in the sun. They dried so quickly I put them back on for a bike ride, which ended up getting muddy when I got stuck. They went back into the shower with me, and the following day they were worn with a lightweight sweatshirt as I enjoyed my morning coffee and a book before most of the house woke up. I own two pairs and am tempted to get another.

On the road with America’s female truckers. (Huck)

If you too watched Hulu's The Bear you may too enjoy this profile: Jeremy Allen White is not afraid to cry. (InStyle)

Thank you for calling the perimenopause hotline, where our hold times are completely unpredictable. (McSweeney's)

How compassionate are you with yourself? (Self-Compassion)

Hear/See/Read

zeving tomorrowandtomorrowandtomorrowushc

Our rental house in Mastic Beach was essentially in the middle of a wildlife refuge with a view of the bay and a deck that was the perfect place for spectacular sunrises and dramatic sunsets. And a great place to read each morning with a cup of coffee. With my morning coffee (as well as afternoon water and evening tea) I read the book Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow: A Novel by Gabrielle Zevin.

Svetlana Legetic who I've known for years through Brightest Young Things (RIP) and various other DC communities, regularly recommends books on her Instagram. She has rarely steered me wrong, having a mix of intelligent, slightly odd, and thought-provoking suggestions in a mix of genres. And when I saw she recommended this book after seeing several other love it, I decided to buy it and take it on vacation.

This book deserves the praise it is receiving. When folks on the trip asked what I was reading, I said it was a book about two friends who came together for a love of gaming. That sounds like… well it sounds like a book I wouldn't want to read but it was exactly the book I needed right now.

It's a book about love. About friendships that sustain even when the individuals in the friendship are flawed and make poor decisions. It's about how a non-romantic love can be so powerful and important, and how it can survive even after years of abuse and/or neglect. How creative collaboration is intoxicating and infuriating and wonderful.

tomorrow and tomorrow and tomorrow review 1
Reading the book at Smith Point, sharing where you find the connection to the title, but blurring out anything else so not to ruin the book for those who have yet to read it!

I don't play video games, I'm not a coder, I've never been in that world yet I was rivited by the gaming aspect of this novel. I loved how it connected to interpersonal relationships, how we deal with difficult emotions and trauma, and how it reminded me of longterm friendships in my life. And it reminded me of how I thrive in an environment of creative collaboration, one I haven't really had since leaving Corporate America.

But instead of making me feel sad or upset about this lack of collaboration, Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow left me feeling hopeful and positive. Anyway, I don't want to ruin the book for any of you who may wish to read it, so I'll stop here. But clearly, I loved it.

We had a power failure last night while writing this, so no time to get a song for your Saturday. We'll be back to normal programming next weekend!

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In: Lifestyle · Tagged: weekend reads

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Comments

  1. Tara says

    August 10, 2022 at 5:29 pm

    Right on, Alison! I was confusing myself between the grandmother and granddaughter on my phone but so excited help attempt to solve the mystery of the print on your vacation. Both women sound fascinating–I need to look into some biographies to learn more! Thanks for all you do–have heard other who’ve really enjoyed the book as well so need to put THAT on my reading list as well! 🙂

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      August 11, 2022 at 10:24 am

      Thank YOU Tara, you helped me go on this journey and it was so fun to learn more about these women and their art!

      Reply
  2. Ann Marie says

    August 7, 2022 at 10:17 pm

    Hi Allie,

    I know it is a million degrees out but I am starting to think about fall fashion and I don’t know what is in style this year. With COVID, etc., I have been wearing the same fall/winter clothes for years and I am over them. I opened my draw with my fall/winter tops in them today and got nauseous at the idea of putting them back on again. I also can’t stand the thought of wearing my combat boots/chunky boots again that I wore to death last year. I am reading that knee high/over the knee boots are in again but is that really the case? I want to switch up my fall/winter wardrobe but I am also a 40-year old woman living in NYC, so I need comfortable shoes with arch support and good jackets since I have to walk everywhere.

    Can you do a post regarding your thoughts on fall fashion?

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      August 11, 2022 at 11:02 am

      Tomorrow/Friday’s post is for you!

      Reply
  3. Kate says

    August 7, 2022 at 1:24 pm

    AJ Fikry is a great book, too! It kind of has the vibe of a cozy, book club read but with more interesting, thought-provoking observations than you’d expect from a book about a bookstore.

    Reply
    • Alison Gary says

      August 11, 2022 at 11:03 am

      Thanks for this recommendation!

      Reply
  4. Michelle says

    August 6, 2022 at 10:07 am

    So glad you enjoyed your beach trip with your family! And thanks for including the Air B&B link. This probably sounds crazy, but I find it incredibly relaxing to look at beach vacation rentals & think about future vacation ideas. So that was very enjoyable. Ok, that book—you’re probably the 4th or 5th person I’ve seen recommend it— and you all loved it in spite of not being gamers, coders, etc. So, I’m adding it to my library queue. I will look forward to your post about what you packed & wore on your trip. It’s always impressive! I just returned from a visit to a North Carolina beach & then a few college visits further South. We flew, so I couldn’t pack as much, yet I had to take things for 2 different parts of the trip. I’m not good at packing light—ha—so I did ok but still managed to take a few things that didn’t work. Live & learn…

    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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Dec 5

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The tree is trimmed! 🎄

When I was a single gal, I had the prettiest tree with a color story and theme. 20 years later, my tree is a hodgepodge of inherited ornaments, gifts from loved ones, and handmade pieces from both my childhood and by my child. And I think each year it veers further from the original concept the more beautiful it becomes!

My daughter and I donned our Santa hats, turned on the holiday playlist, a Yule log on the TV, and spent the afternoon getting our home into the Christmas spirit.

When she was little, my husband would pick her up so she could place the star on top of the tree. Now that she’s taller than I am, when he got home he just put his arm around her as she used the library stool to reach the top. Some traditions need to be modified with time but they’re still special! ⭐️

Top is a feather trimmed Breton from @talbotsofficial; the scarf as a belt is also Talbots but a few years old. The jeans are @landsend and the blanket on the chair in the second photo is by artist  @zanderschlacter

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Nov 28

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

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

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Nov 19

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

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

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

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

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

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Nov 17

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

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

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

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