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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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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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Outfit Posts, Spring, The Business of Blogging · April 28, 2017

What I Wore: Day 3 of #rStheCon rewardStyle Conference

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. 

ALLSAINTS Paradise North South Totejacket | tee | jeans | boots | bag | sunglasses

what I wore rewardstyle conferenceJacket: Vince Camuto (14) | Tee: Topshop (14) | Jeans: Junarose via Dia & Co (14) | Booties: BCBG (old; similar) | Bag: ALLSAINTS | Sunglasses: Ray-Ban

what i wore to the rewardstyle conference in 2017I woke up Saturday raring to go. It had rained the night before and the temps were in the 50s. I opened the French doors of my room (it had a Juliette balcony) to let in the breeze as I got ready. This outfit felt very like me, and full of pieces I already owned in my closet but looked current. This Vince Camuto blazer has no closure and a shawl collar; it’s a drapey crepe fabric and gives the feel of a tux jacket. You’ve seen this choker neck tee on the blog before, paired with these same coated jeans. I wore my silver snakeskin booties I’ve had for a couple years, and again carried my ALLSAINTS tote.  The earrings I borrowed from Rosana of DC Style Factory.

IMG 4093This morning, breakfast was Nobu… and as I wrote this I completely forgot to share that the first night I had dinner at Nobu with Cathy, Jennifer and Susan! That was a great way to start the trip and deserves to be mentioned. So Nobu was again opened, with tables that had liquid yogurt/kefir drinks in little bottles, breakfast burritos, and fruit. More coffee, but this time also the option of tea, non-dairy creamers, and juices. I grabbed a table with Cathy; our friends dined at an outside restaurant that had gluten free options.

I didn’t have a classroom session until 10am so Cathy and I headed to the Networking Hall. It was a large ballroom set up with booths like you’d see at many conferences and trade shows but these were beauty and fashion brands. We skimmed through and stopped by the tde. booth where they would monogram a small leather good for you. I got a black Saffiano luggage tag and pale pink mock lizard business card holder but headed out to get to my first session.

My first classroom session for the day was The Modern Collaboration: The anatomy of Successful Brand Partnerships. I was looking forward to this. It may not be clear as a reader, but I’ve made some changes in the past year with sponsored content. I've stopped working with some companies and been saying no a lot more – if it doesn’t pay well, if they expect me to essentially host copy they wrote, if it’s not a good fit, if the turnaround is too short. I preach quality not quantity on the blog, I should show it with my partnerships too.

The session was hosted by two account managers at rewardStyle and it was a good session because they were super honest. No BS “Just be you!” spiels, they shared why brands ask for certain things, how you should over deliver to get better partnerships in the future, ways to communicate, and more. The audience felt comfortable enough to ask a lot of specific questions, and that’s always where I learn the most.

What I Learned at the First Classroom Session:

  • Don’t accept it if you won’t be proud of it. This is a duh, but often we bloggers will say yes because we fear saying no will put us in a negative light, or we say yes because it’s a new brand or company and we want to build a relationship. But it’s always better to say no, no matter the situation, and tell them WHY. If it’s money, it may be negotiable. If it’s because they want you to post on Facebook and you don’t have Facebook, they may be able to switch that out for a Tweet or InstaStory. If it’s a bad fit, let them know that and how so they can better partner you with products or brands in the future.
  • You can’t over-communicate. I always feel that those who reach out to me for collabs must have inboxes as insane as mine. I get my contract, sign it, reply back with the date I’ll schedule and usually don’t chat again unless I need to share links or metrics. I should be sharing when I receive the content, when I take the pictures, when I’m ready to go live, the links when they go live, and any post-collab feedback from me or my readers. Also let your rep know when you’ve gone above and beyond – extra Instagrams, an InstaStory unboxing, a share on Snapchat, etc.
  • Brands WANT your creativity, your eye, your voice. Don’t try to be them or try to be someone else. If you look at the big successful bloggers, they are all unique in some way. Find your uniqueness and celebrate it, sell it to brands. If they want X and that feels false to you and your readers, come back and offer Y and give them the reasoning. They likely will go with it because they too want to look authentic to your followers.
  • If you get a low price for a partnership, instead of saying no reduce the scope. For that price I can’t provide you with my first born, but instead I can do three Facebook posts and an Instagram tagging you. That sort of thing.
  • Be the infinite player. Baxter Box also said this the previous day. But look for ways to stay in the game. Stick to core values and your brands, but always be thinking ahead. No one player wins, but people will simply drop out. Staying true to you, going above and beyond, and looking for ways to stay fresh and current will keep you in the game.

Right after this session, I had my second classroom session: SEO Essentials: Attracting the Traffic. SEO is not my strong suit. I spent the majority of my blog career on Blogger; I just switched to WordPress in 2014 and have been playing catch up since. I have thousands of posts that haven’t been touched since being flipped over, and even once I was on WordPress I didn’t get an SEO plug-in until 2015. I see my traffic, and I know search engines isn’t where most is coming from so I feel this is a place where I can grow in 2017 without it affecting my content. This was another session where I was writing furiously in my journal, and most came from the audience questions.

What I Learned at the Second Classroom Session:

  • For your blog, have no more than 2-3 Categories, then an even amount of subcategories below them. As for tags, you can’t have too many, but keep using the same ones over and over.
  • Be sure your site is indexed with Google (if it’s not or you’re not sure, google this topic and Google will let you know how to create a sitemap and submit it to Google Search Console)
  • Sunday evening is the best time to post on Pinterest. Consider using Board Booster.
  • For Instagram:
    • Use hashtags, geotags, and tag brands. If you feel that tagging brands will decrease your LikeToKnow.it revenue, tag the brands on top of one another in the corner of your photo. For hashtags don’t be too broad but don’t be too niche
    • The more Instagram tools you use (live, stories, any future tools) the more likely you’ll show up on the Discovery page.
  • Your site NEEDS to be mobile friendly, and be responsive. If you have your site still on Blogger, it’s going to kill your SEO because m.yoursite.com is a redirect.
  • Your site needs to be fast, a max of 4 seconds for loading. Can check your speed with Pingdom, Google page Speeds, or GT Metrix. With GT Metrix, don’t get hung up on your score, worry more about the speed.
  • Link to yourself in posts, and don’t link to “in this blog post” or “here.” Instead say the last time I wore this J. Crew Breton top and put the link on J. Crew Breton top.
  • Rename the file name of your photos with keywords. You don’t need every photo on your post to have the same keywords either. Focus on one hero piece per image. You can use spaces and dashes but do NOT use underscores. Think of Google before Pinterest.

what I wore rewardstyle conferenceImmediately after this session, we had a Garden Lunch with Topshop. Topshop took the courtyard and turned it into a garden party – there was a wall with their logo for photos (a must at this event though I didn't take advantage of this one), they strung flowers into garlands and hung them in the trees, tables indoors and out with beautiful bowls of flowers and even a lucite menu at each place setting.

topshop garden lunch rewardstyle conference 2017They served a gorgeous meal and the prettiest mocktails. The whole thing was lovely… except for the weather. It was around 50 degrees, windy, and cloudy. The hotel brought out blankets. I felt for the blogger next to me who was in the most darling eyelet crop top; she and another blogger at our table wrapped up in blankets.

ezgif 3 65a5a4cf5eI usually run hot and I was in coated jeans, closed-toe boots and a blazer and even I was cold. I’ve been looking on Instagram but everyone has filtered their photos and their choice of photos to make the luncheon adorable and sunny. It was adorable, it just was cold as all get out.  So the Boomerang of me above is a more accurate depiction of the event.

Immediately after lunch I had my third brand meeting, this time with Raymond Weil. Some other bloggers told me they met with the brand the previous day and the brand rep was rude, on the phone the whole time, dismissive. I went in thinking if I got the same experience I would just leave. I did not have that same experience, in fact I had a really good experience. I went in thinking Raymond Weil is a crazypants choice for me and the blog, I mean how many of us can afford one of their watches? But as we were talking we were discussing quality. They knew my reader isn’t one to latch on to every brand, and loves admitting she is wearing the same ring/dress/bag she’s had for over a decade. Yes, their watches are expensive, but they’re quality. They’re the kind of watch you wear for the rest of your life and then it is passed down to another woman in the family. They have a collab with Repetto, the shoe company, and there’s a watch that comes with three different bands and the ability to buy more for a watch wardrobe with a single base face. After talking to them I didn’t think it was a crazypants that they met with me.

raymond weil rewardstyle 2017After Raymond Weil, I was free until the evening party. I went back up to the Networking Hall where I chatted with a few brands, got some swag (follow me on Instagram, I’ll be sharing a giveaway next week in my InstaStories of the swag). It wasn’t as busy, and it was a mix of super nice reps wanting to talk about their brands, and some who literally looked me up and down and didn’t say hi. Funny how I was surrounded by skinny beautiful young women in designer clothes who were the nicest people and the ones who were judgy were the brand reps stuck in the Networking Hall all day. Though it wasn’t the brands you’d think that were snobby or rude to me. I met amazing women at the boots for Lole, a fabulous athleisure brand that carries nothing my size as well as Abecrombie (who BTW is cleaning up their rep – they now have a female CEO, all female exec board, they go up to size 14 and have petites and talls). I was given time and respect at Raymond Weil and was blatantly ignored at low-cost clothing retailers. Oh well, I didn’t get mad. These brands did me a favor by letting me know not to feature them on my blog!

I went back to my room to drop my swag and reached out to Beth to see if she was free. We’ve been blogging buddies for a while, but had yet to find time during the conference to sit down and chat. She met me in the lobby where we had a glass of wine and gabbed. Next thing we knew dinner was happening in an hour so we both raced to our hotel rooms to get ready.

donna morgan off the shoulder maxi dressI didn’t have time to wash and redo my hair, but since the day was so cold, I didn’t get sweaty and frizzy like the day prior. I just brushed and hit a few pieces with the curling iron to smooth. I was also excited that I chose an outfit that was super easy and comfortable to wear – while I did need a strapless bra I was able to go sans control garment and just a pair of Jockey Skimmies underneath for comfort! Since it was cold, I used my blazer from earlier in the day, wearing it cape style over my shoulders.

donna morgan chiffon maxi dressdress | shoes | bag | earrings | ring

rewardstyle conference 2017 over 40 bloggersDress: Donna Morgan (14) | Bag: Loeffler Randall | Earrings: J. Crew | Ring: Stella & Dot from years ago (similar idea) | Shoes: Naturalizer | Blazer: Vince Camuto

A few of us over-40 bloggers decided to get dinner together before the evening affair. We again met at The Capital Grille since it was so close by and had such a varied menu. We ended up with the same table and waitress too! Again, wonderful conversation with these women. Some I knew before the conference, some I didn’t, all I now consider friends. We then headed back to the hotel. There was a new rewardStyle wall set up in the lobby for a photo op, and we all took advantage of it. I know many of you follow Audrey at Putting Me Together; I got a chance to meet her at the conference and we got a photo in front of the wall. Yes, she’s just as nice as she seems online!

black tie optional rewardstyle conferenceThe event was black tie optional. Limo buses picked us up outside the hotel and took us to the AT&T Performing Arts Center. When we arrived, men in tuxes were there to escort us inside. I was trying to walk with the glass of champagne they gave me, my clutch, my caped blazer, and this gentleman holding my arm and well, champagne got on me and my jacket fell off! I don’t know how people function with caped jackets!

We entered and took an elevator up to a rooftop deck. There was the LTK made into a light-up sign and people were taking selfies in front of it. They were passing around water and champagne and hors d’ourves. The deck was a true deck, many had their heels fall into the cracks; I was glad to be wearing my block heel platforms! We walked around, but it was loud and not much was going on so we went downstairs.

Downstairs there were these giant white balls lit up with the LTK logo on it. A full bar, and more passed goodies. Outside there were some heaters, a DJ and a few who were dancing. We didn’t really get the event, it felt like a Bar Mitzvah. Someone said that the real party was starting at 10. It was 9:15 and a bunch of my friends said forget it, we’re out of here and took a limo bus back to the hotel. Cathy and I stayed and danced for a bit.

At 10:00 a drumline arrived wearing shirts with the LTK logo. They performed for us and then walked up the ramp and we followed them up and around a corner to where there was a tent. Tent is the wrong word… it was a house made of plastic sheeting and silver poles. Very cool. Inside was an LED wall with a crazy pattern of the LTK logo and another photo wall with a stand to take photobooth pictures. Servers were offering food… I saw mini cheeseburgers and the whole tent smelled of French fries. The drum line began performing again to Bruno Mars and the audience went bonkers and everyone started dancing.

A little thing about me… I’m not afraid to dance in public. I’ll get down with no fear. And when I dance, my PG County (where I grew up right outside of DC) ends up showing. Don’t play go-go or Rob Base or I’ll go crazy.

The DJ played go-go, and Rob Base, and Salt n Pepa and I had a blast going crazy. Most people were shimmying and looking elegant, a few who seemed to be the type who always are in the center of a dance circle came up front and showed their stuff, and a few of us just did our thing where we were (I was kind of up front).  Another rave for these Naturalizer shoes; my feet didn't hurt, I felt secure in my heels, no blisters.  So many other attendees were taking off their shoes but I felt great!

And another thing about me… I’m a sweater. Not the garment, the type of person who “glistens” at a moment’s notice. So combine the two and I had wet hair and a wet red face. But it was the last night, and honestly, I didn’t care. There were SO MANY PHOTOGRAPHERS everywhere hired by rewardStyle but they were amazing at finding the most flattering times for photos. I knew they wouldn’t be capturing my wet lobster self, and I wasn’t worried what anyone else thought. I danced with Cathy, with Audrey, and with myself. But at 10:30 I was done so Cathy and I caught a limo bus back to the hotel.

delsey titanium suitcaseThe next day I packed up and headed to the airport and was home in time for dinner!  Here you can see my Delsey carry-on and checked-size suitcases and my ALLSAINTS tote chock-full of my in-flight essentials:

  • Kindle Paperwhite (with orange cover, natch)
  • Real paper book (currently reading The Price of Illusion and I can't recommend it enough)
  • Headphones that are noise-cancelling
  • Pashmina
  • KIND Bars
  • Body Shop Vitamin E Spray
  • Kiehl's lip balm
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Journal and pen
  • Gum

What I Learned Day 3 of the rewardStyle Conference:

  • Steam or iron your clothes. I can’t tell you how many beautiful women I saw in beautiful gowns that still had the creases from them being delivered in the mail.  Even if they hung them in the bathroom during their shower it would have been better!
  • Tailor your clothes. Beautiful women, beautiful clothes constantly being hiked up, adjusted, stepped on, or showing underpinnings.
  • Black tie optional is not scary. There were women in full-out pageant gowns, and women in beautiful trousers with dressy tops. I wore a dress that easily could be worn more casual with sandals but the accessories made it appropriate for the affair.
  • Everyone has my earrings. Seriously, I saw 50 women over the weekend wearing these J. Crew earrings in various colors. Second place goes to the Baublebar Pinata tassel earrings, third to the brand’s Crispin Drop earrings.
  • You learn the most from your peers.  I learned in the classroom sessions, but the best knowledge I got was over lamb chops at the Capital Grille dishing with fellow bloggers.  The random conversations with strangers in the elevator, questions asked in sessions, follow-up discussions in the hallways.
  • Be yourself. This is the biggest lesson I learned from this conference. You’re unique, and quirky, and that’s a good thing. I hired a personal stylist because I didn’t have time to plan my outfits, but also because I didn’t want to over-think it and try to be someone else. My wardrobe felt comfortable and a good representation of me and my blog. I spilled, I tripped, I laughed too loud, I tripped over my words, I sweated buckets on the dance floor and I wouldn’t change any of it. The thing that makes blogs special is that they are featuring humans, not models or mannequins. Whether it’s the rewardStyle conference or another blogging event, or an event in your everyday life… be yourself and be proud. You’re more awesome than you realize.

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In: Outfit Posts, Spring, The Business of Blogging · Tagged: ALLSAINTS, BaubleBar, Delsey, J. Crew, Loeffler Randall, Naturalizer, rewardStyle, Stella & Dot, Topshop, Vince Camuto

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Comments

  1. McShaina says

    May 1, 2017 at 4:12 pm

    I could not wait to read your take on the conference compared to other blogs I follow. I knew you would be real and share the good and bad.

    Reply
  2. Kara says

    April 30, 2017 at 11:10 am

    Thanks so much for sharing all these details! It’s been so insightful reading your posts about the conference. I was curious to hear if most people were nice/friendly at this conference and it surprised me to see that it was the low-end retail brands that were dismissive. Why bother exhibiting at a blogger conference if you’re just going to judge people? What a waste of marketing money for them LOL. Love your outfit posts too! xo

    Reply
  3. Glamagrrl says

    April 29, 2017 at 8:31 pm

    I really enjoyed following your instastories during the convention, and seeing all your outfits put together from D.C. Style! Was it me though, or did the conference seem super white and super straight sized? I really hope that the company starts to embrace the vast rest of the blogging world. it was disappointing, to say the least. Maybe it’s because I try really hard to diversify my IG feed and Blogroll that I forget about the rest of the size six fashionista world. Plus fashion and diversity are only growing in popularity, though, and it would be a poor business model for LTK to ignore them. If I’m wrong about my impression please let me know. I was just going off the backgrounds of the photos you were posting and the group shots. Thanks also for being a rep for the curvy world while you were there 🙂

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      April 29, 2017 at 8:40 pm

      No, your impression was correct. Predominately white, slim, and young. The top sellers within rewardStyle were invited, they didn’t hand pick the attendees. I don’t know what goes into being invited into rewardStyle, but looking at their liketoknow.it account on Instagram. it’s predominately young, thin, and white women that are featured. This is an issue in the blogosphere with brands who don’t seek out diversity. Blogs became popular because they were a realistic alternative to models in magazines, but the blogs that make the money are the ones that look like models. I could go on and on, but my plan is to keep representing and doing what I can to promote and support diversity in blogging!

      Reply
  4. Sadie von Scrumptious says

    April 29, 2017 at 6:45 pm

    Funnily enough I have been thinking about a Good Watch lately. Um… is your link to Weil working correctly??

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      April 29, 2017 at 6:54 pm

      Wow it wasn’t, and even when I tried to replace it, it still didn’t work. Here’s a link to their watches at Bloomingdale’s, none to their actual site are working correctly: http://bit.ly/2oBO4d8 thank you for the heads up, and you can’t go wrong with Raymond Weil, I was highly impressed

      Reply
  5. Krista Alexander says

    April 28, 2017 at 6:30 pm

    I love that dress from Modcloth. You look fabulous. Question: Is there a post somewhere with links to the other blogger buddies from the conference? I love your style and take on things but it’s impossible sometimes to find a blog for women that are over 25. Keep being fabulous!

    Reply
    • crtfly says

      April 28, 2017 at 6:35 pm

      I was wondering a similar thing. I wonder if the conference put together a directory/proceedings with all the attendees info. If they didn’t they should. Other, non-fashion related conferences I have gone to always publish a printed directory and or a CD with all the presentations, attendee info. This is very helpful for reviewing presentations, contacting colleagues later.

      I have found a number of the attendees blogs simply by searching on “Rewardstyle conference” or “blogs referencing Rewardstyle conference”. I found a bunch of the “older” bloggers that way.

      Reply
  6. crtfly says

    April 28, 2017 at 4:44 pm

    I’ve always wondered what kind of work you do at your “day job”. And do they ever have an issue with your blogging job, blogging events, etc? You balance so much.

    Are you at all surprised by how interested your non-blogging readers are in the conference? I felt you took us along with you. It was nice to get an inside look without having to be there and be observed myself.

    OK, I’ll stop bugging you now about the conference.

    Chris

    Reply
  7. Ginger says

    April 28, 2017 at 4:22 pm

    That t is cute.

    Reply
  8. ZombieWaylandFlowers says

    April 28, 2017 at 3:26 pm

    You look beautiful and confident in all these pics! So glad you had a chance to connect with other bloggers. It sounds fun, though exhausting.

    Reply
  9. crtfly says

    April 28, 2017 at 2:38 pm

    Allie,

    I was looking at Maria’s blog and noticed her url. Did she come all the way from Britain to attend the conference? That’s impressive and expensive.

    Chris

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      April 28, 2017 at 3:13 pm

      She did and it was her second year attending! Many visited, there were 10 nationalities at the conference. Blogging is a lucrative business, and most people who use rewardStyle find the largest percentage of their income from it. It’s a great networking and learning experience, and it IS a business expense!

      Reply
  10. LoriM says

    April 28, 2017 at 1:22 pm

    I am ridiculously pleased that you met Audrey and also hung out with Beth (who is more MY age).

    And Wow, what a lot of preparation went in to this conference! All the details really looked (and sounded) awesome and I loved all your commentary – thanks!

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      April 28, 2017 at 3:13 pm

      Glad you liked it!

      Reply
  11. crtfly says

    April 28, 2017 at 12:35 pm

    Interesting that you should mention ironing. I actually love to iron. One of the fun parts of going on a trip is the ironing board and iron in the hotel/motel rooms. I can iron in peace by myself. To me, ironing is a very Zen exercise. No one would ever accuse me of being stylish, but my clothes at a conference are always freshly pressed.

    When I graduated from university, everyone buys those cheesy, graduation gowns from the bookstore. I was amazed how many people wore their gowns with the creases from the packaging showing. As awful as those gowns are, ironing improves them considerably. I don’t know how it is for everyone, but I put a lot of blood, sweat, and tears into getting my science degree. I was determined to present myself in the best possible light for my big day.

    I am furious that some of the reps just looked you up and down and didn’t say anything. Way to not sell their products! Such arrogance! Who the hell do they think they are, for heaven’s sake? They are brand reps at a conference, which is not a role that most of us aspire to.They are basically salespeople and not very good ones at that.

    Chris

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      April 28, 2017 at 3:14 pm

      Meh, I’m not stressed over the brands. It’s not as much selling their brands but securing partnerships. And I don’t want to partner with those who don’t want to partner with me!

      Reply
  12. Hope Springs says

    April 28, 2017 at 10:50 am

    I’ve just started following you and I love your style! Also, I’ve already gotten several ideas that will make my life better, although I’m no fashionista (Jockey Skimmies? never heard of them…) and I have to read that memoir now. You look fabulous and your voice is real!

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      April 28, 2017 at 3:14 pm

      Thank you so much! And YASSSSSSSS Jockey Skimmies, they are amazing!

      Reply
  13. Jodie Filogomo says

    April 28, 2017 at 9:45 am

    It has been incredibly interesting to read your accounts.
    Not that I’ll ever be big enough to be invited, but these conferences are so hard for the introvert like me. Yet the classes would be so informative and I do love meeting others on a one on one basis!!
    Thanks for letting us in on the events and scenes!!!
    Jodie
    http://www.jtouchofstyle.com

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      April 28, 2017 at 3:15 pm

      It’s not that bad if you know one or two people, you can stick with your group and you don’t have to be social 🙂

      Reply
  14. Kim says

    April 28, 2017 at 9:40 am

    I swear this isn’t my only takeaway from this post but I got re-interested in Joan Juliet Buck because of your post a while back and I’m just finishing The Price of Illusion and I have loved it. So, thanks for that! Anyone who loves film and fashion from the 60s, 70s and 80s would love it, I think.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      April 28, 2017 at 3:15 pm

      Agree (and spoiler alert I may be having a piece that goes more in depth about her in the next week or so!)

      Reply
  15. Lissy says

    April 28, 2017 at 9:28 am

    I loved reading about your experience at the conference. Seems like all in all, it was worth it. Love the white Camuto jacket on you by the way!!

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      April 28, 2017 at 3:16 pm

      Thanks Lissy! And yes, all in all I am gad I attended!

      Reply
  16. Patricia says

    April 28, 2017 at 8:20 am

    This inside view is really interesting. I’ve been to conferences before but none so chic as a Style Blogger’s. You definitely got better food, prettier settings and much more stylish attendees! It sounds like something you’d attend in the future. Your readers want you to be successful so you’ll keep on giving us great content and style tips (for free).
    And I love what you wore; you felt good and looked that way too.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      April 28, 2017 at 3:16 pm

      Thanks so much Patricia!

      Reply
  17. Barbara Christensen says

    April 28, 2017 at 7:59 am

    I have really enjoyed your posts about this conference. Its fun to learn a little about the business side of blogging, though a lot of what you said slipped in Greek for me since I’m not a blogger, lol. I did want to say, however, your Raymond Weil piece is spot on as I have worn my RW Parsifal everyday since the day my husband gave it to me in 1989. I first saw it in a display case in I. Magnin, went home and told him, ” If you never buy me another gift for as long as I live, I want that watch!” And I meant it. And, it is in my will who will inherit it; not kidding. Great series of posts, thanks!

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      April 28, 2017 at 3:17 pm

      I am really glad you shared your Raymond Weil story, it cements what the rep and I spoke about. No idea if I will ever feature the brand, but your story is the reason why I would consider!

      Reply
      • Barbara Christensen says

        April 28, 2017 at 5:17 pm

        I think it falls in the category of the price tag is the least of it. There are things in everyone’s life where it will be cherished for so long the cost per use becomes nil. Thanks again for the blogging insight.

        Reply
  18. Jaymie Ashcraft says

    April 28, 2017 at 7:54 am

    Great looks and tips!! Growing my blog has and is hard!!
    Jaymie
    http://www.jaymieashcraft.com

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      April 28, 2017 at 3:17 pm

      It’s not an easy profession!

      Reply

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What I Wore: Day Two of the rewardStyle Conference

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!
https://liketk.it/4o4bQ #ltkmidsize #midsizestyle #genxstyle #ltkover40 #over40style

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Nov 15

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My husband has a special backpack he fills with weight to wear while hiking; it’s called rucking. I wear a @dagnedover Dakota and fill it with my laptop, my iPad, a full water bottle, and my purse and walk to work; it’s called commuting. 💁🏻‍♀️

But seriously, I’ve had this backpack for five years. It has been shoved under plane seats, in overstuffed car trunks, under feet in the passenger seat. I’ve worn it as I’ve walked miles in major cities and from my house to my town center. My daughter also has a Dagne Dakota; it survived middle school and continues to work through camping, sleepovers, and road trips. It’s genially designed, comfortable, and can take a beating and still look great.

As for the rest of the look, the vest (XL) is a new purchase from @athleta; the Rainier tights (L) are also Athleta but two years old. The purple top is @nike and about a decade old. Hat is @llbean and it’s on sale for less than $15. And my trusty @hoka sneakers that have had their own set of adventures.

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
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#ltkmidsize #ltkover40 #genxstyle #dagnedoverdakota

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Nov 6

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Another day of early voting for our city election, another outfit I wore as an election judge! 🗳️

I got this sweater set from @mmlafleur last spring and it continues to be a favorite. The color and popcorn stitch makes it wearable three seasons of the year. I’ve styled it with gold heels and dramatic gold earrings, with sneakers and a crossbody belt bag, and more than once with knee-high boots and a scarf at my throat. The color works with brown and black boots, the skirt silhouette and length with heels and flats. These brown riding boots are from @duoboots and almost a decade old. The scarf belonged to my dad; I have a feeling it was styled with a leisure suit back in the day!

I may have been more dressed up than other election judges but I think seeing democracy in action is a cause to celebrate! 🇺🇸

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Nov 4

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Early voting poll worker style 🗳️

I’ve been an election judge (AKA poll worker) for several years but this year I decided to take it a step further and join my city’s Board of Elections. I’m passionate about fair and accessible elections for all. The Board is acting as election judges for early voting so it’s great to use my previous experience on a city level!

I believe voting is a special occasion and I dressed the part. The puff sleeve sweater and pants are from @anntaylor; these pants are the same ones from the suit I wore earlier this week. I added a beloved @hermes scarf as a belt and silver hoops (they belonged to my mom) as a hint of shine.

If your area is having an election this coming week; I implore you to vote. Your voice deserves to be heard. And please ensure your neighbors know of the election and where to vote. 🇺🇸

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Nov 2

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Always fun to see my name in lights! 💡 I was a panelist at the annual @jaofcentralmd Leading Ladies event that connects local high schoolers with women in business. My panel was on using social media for promoting one’s business or personal brand. Along with other social media experts, we guided students and adults on how to create compelling and engaging social content and together created content for the conference’s feed. It was fun and I loved being able to share my almost two decades of personal and professional experience!

The dress code for the conference was business professional and since the event’s theme color was pink, they encouraged us to wear the color. 

This @anntaylor suit has been a favorite since late summer. I’ve dressed it down with a white tank and sneakers and glammed it up with a silk cami and gold heeled sandals. I love how Ann Taylor has petite suiting up to size 16; I know I’m not the only short curvy girl who desires suits and professional attire!

For this event I chose a berry-colored microfiber tank from @lovechicos. I own several of these tanks; they wear like iron and the tight weave and subtle shine make them great shells under suits. 

The look fit the theme but was also comfortable. I was glad to share my expertise and encourage others to see how they can donate their time and knowledge to a local @juniorachievementusa #JALeadingLadies #JALeadingLadies2023 #JACMD #JuniorAchievment

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Oct 18

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Sharing this from my #iPadOS17 thanks to @apple! A bit belated with all that has been going on lately but I’m really enjoying using an iPad to improve how I work, stay organized, and find new ways to be creative. Can I just say that editing video on an iPad instead of a phone is a game changer!

Recently, I attended an event at the gorgeous Apple Carnegie Library hosted by @flourishplanner_ to learn ways to make the most of #iOS17 and it was awesome. I brought my new iPad and learned about the new wallpaper, stickers, and organizing tools.

As for my look, the dress is from @bananarepublic’s summer collection. Kept it comfy with a pair of Samba sneakers and held down the volume of the dress with my black recycled leather @ganni crossbody. Added an old @_jennybird link necklace and a silver cuff I’ve had since the ‘90s.

#todayatapple #genxstyle #midsizestyle #midsizefashion #size14 #over40style

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Oct 17

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

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

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

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

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

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

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