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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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Outfit Posts · January 26, 2011

What’s In My Closet?

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. 

Having this blog, I often get comments that I have a small and boring collection of clothing, or people comment on how much clothing I have and ask where the heck do I keep it all. I think both groups of folks are correct – I have a pretty simple collection of clothing, but I feel as though I have a lot because I shop smart, stay on track, and take care of the quality items that I purchase.

If you go to this post, you can learn about my recent closet clean-out and see pictures of my closet. Though it is considered a walk-in closet, it is pretty small and I share it with my husband. I believe that my bar of clothing is shorter than most individuals have in a regular closet in their homes.

When my husband and I moved into this home ten years ago, we didn’t have this closet. Out house was build in the ‘40s and the bedroom closet seemed to be an afterthought – it was placed over the stairwell so it had a sloping side wall, making half of the hanger bar useless. my husband and I shared about four feet of closet space in our bedroom. We didn’t have a hallway closet, or our guest bedroom’s equally small closet (sloped wall was replaced by built-in deep shelves made from splintered scrap wood – not useable for clothing) was used for outerwear and out-of-season clothing that could not handle being packed into a box in the attic.

Due to such little closet space, I learned to make do with less. In fact, when I moved from my bachelorette pad to our nest, I had to get rid of several lawn and leaf bags full of clothing because I just didn’t have the room. After working so many years in apparel retail, I had amassed quite a collection of clothing and accessories. I went through cocktail dresses with the tags still on them, sparkly tops for a night out that were worn only once, dozens of pairs of jeans in my current size, a size bigger, and several sizes smaller just in case I lost the weight I had been carrying for more than two years.

I thought about my life – I am not one who attends cocktail parties on a regular basis, and I rarely go to flashy nightclubs. I needed clothing for work, and casual attire for the weekend. A handful of fun tops and versatile dresses would get me through any social event. I went through each item, deciding whether it was worthy to be in my closet, should be stored for the future, be donated, or be passed on to a friend. I ended up keeping about 25% of my original wardrobe.

Once I had my core wardrobe, I had to stick to it. No shopping sprees – where would I store my purchases? If I bought something new, it had to be for a good reason. Usually if I bought something new, it meant it was replacing something I already owned. Shoes had the same rules, as that I only had so much space on that single shelf above the hanger bar.

Off-season clothing was stored in plastic tubs in the attic, and I had one tub in the attic that held clothing that I kept for sentimental value – my denim jacket from high school, a sweatshirt with my sorority letters on the front, the Diane von Furstenberg wrap dresses I bought for a steal that weren’t my current size but were too nice to donate. Because I kept it to being in just one tub, I had to be picky with what was worthy of sentimental real estate.

I lived with this cramped clothing setup for ten years, and it was the best experience. Not having space made me care more about what I purchased. There wasn’t any dusty corner of a closet for bad purchases to hide, or the room to wade through too-small or dated pieces to find something to wear to work each morning. When I went into stores, I was constantly thinking, “Do I need this? Will it go with what I already own? Is it worthy of my precious closet space?” If I had any hesitation, I wouldn’t purchase.

Now I have a bigger closet – my daughter’s room is the old guest room, but we still have that sloping old bedroom closet which now holds our coats (and camping gear, and boxes of photographs we inherited from my father-in-law, and winter boots, and Christmas gifts I buy in advance, and the vacuum cleaner, and…). Though my new closet has more space, I try to stick to the habits I acquired over the past decade. What is currently in my closet:

closet wardrobe oxygen
Click on image to see it larger
Abbreviations: AT (Ann Taylor), ATL (Ann Taylor LOFT), S/S (short-sleeved), L/S (long-sleeved) NYDJ (Not Your Daughter's Jeans),  BR (Banana Republic), B&W (black and white), Cardi (cardigan), LE (Lands End), LEC (Lands End Canvas), RL (Ralph Lauren)

As you can see, it’s not as much as you would think. Go ahead, go through the past couple of months of outfits I have worn on here, you will see that it’s the same darn things I am wearing over and over and OVER, just in different ways. The items in gray are out-of-season items that I still have in my closet because I think they could possibly be combined with other items to make them wintry. That which is in red are items I need to replace or remove from the closet – too big, worn out, etc.

As for shoes, I currently have:

Click on image to see it larger

Same rules apply – red means they need to be replaced (old, no longer fit, etc.), gray is out of season (I store all my shoes in my closet at all times – nowhere else to keep them). Pretty small collection, especially when you consider that three of the 11 current shoes are for dressy occasions.

I don’t have a specific clothing budget for each month, or each season. I have a budget for that which isn’t necessary for the family unit – clothes and beauty products for me, clothes for Emerson and my husband, home décor, dinners out, concerts, Starbucks runs, that sort of thing. Some months I find a show at the 9:30 Club more important than a new pair of shoes, sometimes the shoes win. Some months, there is no money for shoes or shows. I go with the flow, and know I have a base wardrobe that will cover any last-minute situation.

I don’t go to malls to shop because there is too much temptation. I will go into stores to try on, but rarely purchase same day. I will mull it over, and then either return to buy or look online to find it cheaper. I do a lot of online window shopping where I will find things that look good, put them in my virtual shopping cart, then close the shop’s site and think about it. If I can come back later and still find it as lovely and versatile and useful, then I may purchase if it fits into my current budget.

I stick to a pretty simple color palette, and purchase mainly solids so they are more timeless and mix and match with ease. Lately I have been on a stripes kick, which is a cheap and easy way to add some variety to the wardrobe. In the past I have had kicks for animal prints, pinstripes, polka-dots, leather, all things green… this is usually the way I add a fresh spin to my wardrobe basics. These little accent pieces can become wardrobe staples or can easily be replaced come the new season without losing too much money on the situation.

I carry with me a list of what I really need – right now it’s pencil skirts in black and denim in my new size, new tall boots in black, and I would like a crisp white shirt that looks great with the sleeves buttoned or rolled up. This way, if I get distracted by some expensive indulgence, I can think, “Do I really need this sequined miniskirt more than a black pencil skirt? Think how much mileage I got out of my current black pencil skirt – wouldn’t it feel good to have another great piece like that in my wardrobe?” It keeps me balanced and always on the hunt for the perfect blend of quality, price, and fit.

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In: Outfit Posts

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Comments

  1. missnasti says

    March 12, 2016 at 12:47 pm

    Which template did you use to make your inventory?

    Reply
  2. Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

    January 15, 2012 at 11:16 pm

    Not nitpicking at all! However, this post is a year old; I didn’t own those pieces at the time of this posting. 🙂

    Reply
  3. curious says

    January 15, 2012 at 11:13 pm

    I feel like  you have more than this…. what about all of your colored skirts? Like that orange one, or the teal one? Sorry to nitpick.

    Reply
  4. tinyjunco says

    February 22, 2011 at 5:49 pm

    Allie, thank you so much for ‘putting it all out there’ and creating this wardrobe inventory. I love style blogs and find them incredibly inspirational. But the great bulk of them begin and end with showing great outfits/looks, and some of them move on to showing you HOW to create great outfits/looks….but the key to looking great consistently (with limited funds, space, and time) is building a great WARDROBE.

    and there is a huge dearth of information on wardrobe building! which is why i love your blog so much. Thank you for your efforts and time and guts (!) in letting us all learn from your experiences! steph

    Reply
  5. Gervy says

    February 3, 2011 at 11:56 am

    LOVE this post – and love that inventory. Particularly like how you’ve highlighted the things which need to be replaced etc – I think that applies to lots of my clothes. I know I have plenty of clothes but I guess a lot of them are looking very tired and it’s time to do some staged retirement!

    I’ve been weeding out my closet off and and on over the past couple of years during pregnancy, house move, and post-baby, but it’s still not where I want it to be in terms of matching my current lifestyle. I am definitely inspired to do this list thingy on the weekend and see if I can see things a bit more clearly. Thanks Allie. x

    Reply
  6. Southern Belle says

    January 27, 2011 at 5:38 pm

    I started making a list last night and realized just how much stuff I have in my closet! Thanks for the idea. I haven’t even finished yet–have yet to do shirts and tops. But I did find a t-shirt from last year that I had forgotten about that I am wearing under my cardi today! And I have been told that I look as if I’m losing weight. Score!

    Reply
  7. Allie (Wardrobe Oxygen) says

    January 27, 2011 at 5:07 pm

    I keep most everything in my closet except for workout/sleep wear. I own two pairs of yoga pants, one pair of casual knit pants, two hoodies, one sweatshirt, two tanks and about four casual tee shirts. If it doesn’t fit in the bottom drawer of my bureau, there’s a problem and I need to pare down.

    Top drawer – lingerie and socks
    Second drawer – knit tops (my tanks, striped tees, etc.)
    Third drawer – Jeans
    Bottom drawer – Workout/loungewear

    The drawers aren’t especially large – my bureau is actually my nightstand. 🙂

    Reply
  8. 20 York Street says

    January 27, 2011 at 6:13 am

    Wow, this has got to be one of the most detailed closet organization effort I have ever seen!

    Stay Happy and Positive!

    besos,

    ML

    20 YORK STREET

    Reply
  9. Cynthia says

    January 27, 2011 at 2:50 am

    I think that I really need to do this – because I’m pretty sure that, like Grace, I don’t have enough tops that go with my various bottoms. Fortunately, I’ve pared down considerably due to my weight loss, so it should be easier to accomplish. In fact, I’m pretty sure that I only have two pairs of pants and 4 pairs of jeans right now – and 2 of the jeans of bordering on too big.

    I’m wondering though – did you only do the closet? And do you have other clothes in a dresser? The only reason I ask is that I don’t see any casual t-shirt and yoga pants type items on there – so I thought that maybe you just didn’t list workout clothing. Although really, I should inventory that stuff too because I’m pretty sure that I have way too many pairs of yoga pants (for yoga, not for wearing out in regular public spaces!).

    Reply
  10. Sabrina Bruinsma says

    January 27, 2011 at 1:11 am

    Thank you so much for the great post. I have been reading your blog for awhile now but have never commented. Your’s is one of the first style blogs I started reading, and it is my favorite! (I learned about Sofft shoes and Lands’ End Canvas from your blog, and they are now some of my go-to brands). I appreciate your classic style and how chic and well put together you are. I recently cleaned out my closet and have a list of items I am shopping for, but didn’t think of listing the items I currently have. Great idea!

    Reply
  11. Allie (Wardrobe Oxygen) says

    January 26, 2011 at 9:02 pm

    I got my hanging organizer at a store called Hold Everything which was an offshoot of… I think Williams Sonoma. However I know other stores have these things – Real Simple now has a line of storage solutions and they have a sweater organizer and bins that fit: http://www.realsimple.com/magazine-more/real-simple-solutions-closet-products-00000000029196/page12.html

    And BTW, your pivot table sounds like something my sister would do – I admire her organizing skills, and yours!

    Reply
  12. Jenny Snyder says

    January 26, 2011 at 8:39 pm

    Where oh where did you find that hanging closet organizer? After reading your post, I looked on Target, Walmart, Bed Bath, and even Ebay – but can’t find one like yours with the drawers.

    I just started a “closet audit” last week. As OCD as this sounds, I’ve created an excel pivot table that lists categories (tops, sweater, pants, etc.), the item, what dates it was worn on, and the total times worn since Jan 1st. And then I have another sheet that lists the entire outfit for each day (helps remind me how many different looks can come from the same pieces). One of my resolutions was to cut my yearly clothes spend in half, so I’m trying to start by shopping in my own closet and focusing on having staples and key pieces… instead of lots of “stuff” that I only wear once or twice. Your cleanup blog was fantastic and inspirational to my efforts!

    Reply
  13. Randa says

    January 26, 2011 at 8:19 pm

    This is exactly why you’re my fashion role model. You’re always so well put together and I never see something and think “oh, she’s worn that a TONS time before.” And you have a relatively small wardrobe!

    Thank you for posting this – it’s definitely an inspiration to someone like me [lots of stuff in the closet, nothing to wear, etc].

    Reply
  14. Allie (Wardrobe Oxygen) says

    January 26, 2011 at 6:43 pm

    Exactly Karina – this entire blog was based upon my German exchange student in HS – she had a teeny amount of clothes that were perfect for any situation, her body, her lifestyle. I learned from her.

    Thanks for that link Kristen, I may have to check that top out! 🙂

    Reply
  15. Kristen says

    January 26, 2011 at 6:37 pm

    Allie – here is a white button down with ribbed sides that I recently purchased. I can NEVER close these types of tops without them puckering at the middle buttons. However, this one is fab because of the extra knitlike give provided by the sides!

    http://www.nyandcompany.com/nyco/browse/productDetailWithPicker.jsp?productId=prod3050285&categoryId=cat350004&productId=prod3050285&categoryId=cat350004&addFacet=1002:cat350004

    Reply
  16. Karina Russell says

    January 26, 2011 at 6:35 pm

    European women do the same thing. They don’t have tons of clothing, but a small wardrobe of quality pieces that will mix and match and last a while. They spice it up with accessories that take up much less storage room. American women are the queens of excess. I for one, could pare down considerably and still have plenty to wear.

    Reply
  17. Allie (Wardrobe Oxygen) says

    January 26, 2011 at 6:18 pm

    As the queen of non-button down work-appropriate tops, I’ll take that challenge! It’s on the list!

    Reply
  18. grace says

    January 26, 2011 at 6:16 pm

    This was a really well-timed post for me. I am back in the office and needing to work on my work wardrobe some, as it seems I have a ton of clothes but very little that I can actually wear. The way you listed things out makes it pretty clear to me, even before making a list of my own, what the problem is: no tops! I have a few pants, a lot of skirts and dresses, and a lot of sweaters and jackets, but no tops to base everything on. Any chance you want to do a post on non-button down work appropriate tops soon?

    Reply
  19. Nanne says

    January 26, 2011 at 6:00 pm

    Thanks for an inspiring post! This year I’ve decided to not buy any item of clothing without needing it, and at the same time start creating a good basic wardrobe, and there are so many great tips here. I have very little closet space too, and need to downsize my wardrobe.

    Reply
  20. Allie (Wardrobe Oxygen) says

    January 26, 2011 at 5:52 pm

    I am really not that organized, I just don’t have a lot of spending money so I am far more thoughtful with my purchases. Sometimes they are misses and I end up donating or selling or swapping them, sometimes they are hits. 🙂

    Reply
  21. overcaffeinated says

    January 26, 2011 at 5:50 pm

    I am so impressed! You are so organized, and make good use of all the items in your closet (as shown by your awesome daily outfits).

    The thought of making a list of my own makes me shudder because it would be sooo long. Probably not a bad idea in that case since it would make me really evaluate my purchases, and not just buy stuff because I
    “like” it, or it’s a great deal.

    Reply
  22. Allie (Wardrobe Oxygen) says

    January 26, 2011 at 5:12 pm

    My pleasure! Great distraction on a busy day at work, and I also want to make fashion simple and accessible for everyone! 🙂

    Reply
  23. Anonymous says

    January 26, 2011 at 5:11 pm

    thank you so much for putting it all out there! i really appreciate it. and you’re right, seeing everything in separate categories, does show where more/less is needed. if i get home early today b/c of snow, I may start this task of cataloging my closet. it is so nice to see it all in a spreadsheet like that. thanks again for all of the work you put in to this!!!

    Reply
  24. Allie (Wardrobe Oxygen) says

    January 26, 2011 at 4:59 pm

    Yeah, I totally made the list today when I was supposed to be using Excel for something work-related. But the closet contents are so minimal and used so often it was easy to whip up. I was glad to do it because it really made me see that which I have plenty of (dresses) and that which is lacking (pants and skirts).

    Baby steps is a great way to get on the road to simplicity and organization. Working full time and dealing with a toddler, I have found the only way i can keep my house relatively clean is baby steps – I will clean the toilet today, the sink tomorrow, do one load of laundry the next day, clean out the fridge the next. The same holds true for a wardrobe – little is better than none at all! 🙂

    Reply
  25. Lorena says

    January 26, 2011 at 4:55 pm

    YOU are SO organized !
    OMG! you even have a list ???!!!
    I have THOUGHT of doing this BUT I have always said that first I need to clear my closet.
    I do it bit by bit every month, weeding out things that no longer fit, look good or I simply do not wear. But, it’s not enough as I continue to struggle
    with space. My goal is to FIT in the space I have. I have a long journey to go.

    Reply
  26. Kirsten says

    January 26, 2011 at 4:34 pm

    This inspires me to clean out my closet….and take my dry clean clothing to the cleaners more bc I tend to forget I own it!

    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!
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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