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The perfect red for the holiday season 💄

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top is a feather trimmed Breton from @talbotsofficial; the scarf as a belt is also Talbots but a few years old. The jeans are @landsend and the blanket on the chair in the second photo is by artist  @zanderschlacter
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My therapist recommended I walk outside more as I grieve the recent loss of my mom.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#liketkit #LTKfindsunder50 #LTKover40 #LTKmidsize #midsizestyle #genxstyle #over40style #size14 #usinthewild 
https://liketk.it/4pDXG
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Counteract the gray days with cozy colorful clothes! 🌈 This cashmere sweater set is the prettiest teal and I loved how it looked with this candy pink Chesterfield coat. All are from @anntaylor one of my favorite places to shop because Ann has petites over a size 12. Also all of these items are on sale!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#mytalbots modernclassicstyle #wondersoftheseason #ltkover40 #ltkplussize #ltkmidsize #blackfridaysale
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@somaintimates makes it easy to shop for a range of personas this holiday season! #AD With gift guides for a range of personality types, you can easily find great gifts for your loved ones. I was drawn to the creative one, loving the rich colorful florals, luxe satin, lace trim, and of course Soma’s iconic Cool Nights sleepwear! Visit Soma’s gift guide for tips on finding the perfect present this holiday season. #SomaGiftGuide #SomaStartsWithMe
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Lifestyle, Health and Wellness, Nutrition · September 12, 2017

With This Ring…

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. 

wardrobe oxygen engagement ring
Dropping my ring off at Fleisher's of Maryland

When I got engaged, I was 27 and a size 12. Karl bought me a ring in a size 8 which fit perfectly in November 2002 when he proposed, but was a bit snug in the warmer months when hands swell.

When I got engaged, I went on a diet. Actually, I went on a few different diets, finally settling on the South Beach Diet. By time I was having my wedding dress altered, I was a size 10. This was the time when we also bought my wedding band, also a size 8.

I got married in June of 2004. By August, wearing both rings was uncomfortable. By December, I was down to just wearing my engagement ring, only putting on the wedding band for social situations. When I got pregnant, the engagement ring no longer fit. I would try to squeeze it on occasionally, but couldn’t wear for long before it got uncomfortable.

wardrobe oxygen engagement ring
Let's be honest, that ring was still snug in 2011…

I shared on the blog when thanks to Weight Watchers I was able to fit my ring again. But that didn’t last. I stopped Weight Watchers when I saw myself adopting bad habits to stay within my points. I haven’t been able to wear any of my wedding set for more than a couple hours for many years.

This made me feel bad, every time I opened my jewelry box and saw that gorgeous engagement ring Karl bought me. He picked it out himself, I had no say, he just knew me and my style so well. And now I was too fat to wear it. I felt bad about my body, I had no willpower, my priorities were clearly out of whack when I would choose sleep over the gym. It was as clear as that ring collecting dust, judging me.

I am constantly preaching on this blog to buy clothing in the size you are now, not the size you used to be or hope to be or just know you will be if you do X, Y, or Z. Yet here I am, not wearing my most prized accessory because my body doesn’t fit in it.

So last month I got my engagement ring resized. Why the hell did I wait so long? I waited so long because I felt I didn’t deserve it because I didn’t get myself thin again. Thin to a size that even then, 29 and never had a baby, was still hard to maintain.

But I do deserve it. This body deserves it, no matter what size or shape it is. My love for my husband and his love for me haven’t changed even though both of our bodies have changed with the time we have been married. The only person who was punishing me for gaining weight was myself.

We often punish ourselves without even realizing it. No one else sees us as fat, or ugly, or lazy, or bad but we do and we restrict, chastise, criticize, withhold, and feel shame for this invisible fault. And doing this doesn’t improve us, it only makes us feel guilty and resentful.

So buy the dress, eat the dessert, take your shoes off and go on the dancefloor. And resize that ring because you deserve to wear it. Right now, just the way you are.

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In: Lifestyle, Health and Wellness, Nutrition

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Comments

  1. Jenny says

    September 19, 2017 at 4:53 pm

    My husband lost a lot of weight because of chronic illness, and his wedding ring was spinning loose on his finger for over a year. I kept urging him to resize it but he didn’t want to because it was engraved on the inside. Ultimately, he lost it while gardening and mourned it deeply. We got new, matching ones this summer (I wear mine on top of my original band and engagement ring) and recommitted after 23 years. But he still wishes he had had his original one resized!

    Reply
  2. Little Black"domicile"! says

    September 15, 2017 at 8:09 pm

    Bravo…simply bravo. The ring is only the symbol of the fantastic view you portray for all of us.

    Reply
  3. Teresa L says

    September 15, 2017 at 12:20 pm

    This translates to clothing – buy new clothes! Don’t wait until you hit that perfect size. My bff has told me for 20yrs that she would buy that cute item when she lost weight…she’s been the same size. Live in the present.
    I instill this in my daughters, find clothes that fit you – beauty comes in all sizes! I think the clothing industry doesn’t take sizes over sample seriously because we don’t embrace who we are today.

    Reply
  4. Christine says

    September 13, 2017 at 7:21 pm

    Good for you! Great decision. And what a lovely, classic ring.

    Reply
  5. Sarah B says

    September 13, 2017 at 2:39 pm

    Good for you, and that ring really sets off the sparkle in your eyes. I hope you get your wedding band resized next month.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      September 16, 2017 at 8:51 am

      The wedding band can’t be resized because it’s channel set diamonds and they won’t be secure. But I found a cheap sterling silver and CZ ring on Amazon that looks almost exactly like it and I bought that for the time being! http://amzn.to/2xahMIJ

      Reply
  6. bubu says

    September 13, 2017 at 8:20 am

    Brava! Good for you for doing that and sharing it here and inspiring so many others. One other person I bet is really happy is your husband — seeing you wear the ring he picked out, shows him both that you love and appreciate him, and also that you love and appreciate the woman he loves and appreciates. So happy for both of you.

    Reply
  7. Dawn says

    September 13, 2017 at 12:05 am

    Applause!

    Reply
  8. Sonia says

    September 12, 2017 at 8:51 pm

    I’m just plain lucky that my ring still fits after 14 years and three dress sizes, but I did size up a bit as recommended by the jeweler. I wouldn’t resize it though as it would ruin the pattern and with no engagement ring to speak of. What do you think: style:https://www.weddingrings.com/14k-multi-color-wedding-ring-modern-design-8mm/handmade-wedding-rings/9/34/77/item

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      September 16, 2017 at 8:49 am

      That is such a cool ring Sonia! It may mess with the pattern, though it may hide in the back.

      Reply
  9. Alison French-Tubo says

    September 12, 2017 at 8:48 pm

    Done this and glad to have, thanks fir encouraging others.

    Reply
  10. Ginger says

    September 12, 2017 at 8:35 pm

    It’s not even a matter of putting on weight that does your rings in. I started a drug that made my hands swell, just a bit, and my rings started leaving an indent in my finger. I work near a not too notable mall -CVS, Dress Barn, Post Office- and BINGO – a small jeweler. He resized my rings, it didn’t cost much at all. If they don’t fit, don’t acquit — get’em fixed!

    Reply
  11. LindaR says

    September 12, 2017 at 8:12 pm

    Way to go, Allie! I had several beloved rings resized and it makes me so happy to wear them.

    Reply
  12. Claire says

    September 12, 2017 at 6:22 pm

    I appreciate your sharing this. It boosts my fragile confidence to know that even a woman as stylish and comfortable in her own skin (and clothes!) as you has moments of not feeling as sure of herself and her right to claim her present body’s beauty. Thank you for stepping forward with courage and sharing your journey with us.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      September 16, 2017 at 8:48 am

      Everyone, EVERYONE feels insecure and unsure at times. Especially these days, it seems like women exude all this confidence and self-love but all of us have times when we look in the mirror and find ourselves less than. It’s important for us to motivate one another, but it’s also important to know we’re not alone. <3

      Reply
  13. Jessica says

    September 12, 2017 at 5:38 pm

    a thousand times this. Well done – and I love your ring, Karl has great taste.

    Reply
  14. Samantha Stephens says

    September 12, 2017 at 2:13 pm

    Another great post Ali; thanks for sharing 🙂

    Reply
  15. ZombieWaylandFlowers says

    September 12, 2017 at 2:10 pm

    This is so brilliant. I am on the other side of this, having unintentionally lost weight because of illness, and wearing my too-big ring felt like a promise to myself that I would be well again and back to the same size, but I am going to go get my ring resized so it is comfortable now instead of waiting until I am “fixed”.

    Reply
  16. LoriM says

    September 12, 2017 at 1:09 pm

    Such a cute pic of you. Great post!!

    Reply
  17. Jodie Filogomo says

    September 12, 2017 at 12:56 pm

    You’ve really hit a nerve with this one, Alison!! Bravo!!
    Why are we so hard on ourselves? I try so hard to tell women they are fabulous no matter what size they are….and we are!!
    XOXO
    Jodie
    http://www.jtouchofstyle.com

    Reply
  18. Christina Swanson says

    September 12, 2017 at 12:55 pm

    OMG…I blogged about this a while ago (https://pinkchick.wordpress.com/2010/01/09/ponderings/ )
    I agree…we shouldn’t be letting our beautiful rings collect dust just to punish ourselves for not being what size we think we should be. I just had my rings resized as well and I wish I had done it sooner. Yay for you, Alison and thank you for being an inspiration to us all!

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      September 12, 2017 at 12:58 pm

      Edited to fix the link, thank you for sharing!

      Reply
  19. Erin says

    September 12, 2017 at 11:16 am

    Wow I’ve got to say this post caught me off guard. By the time I got to the end of it I had tears in my eyes. I’d never really looked at why I feel gross every time I see my too small wedding ring in my jewelry box. But when I read your words “I felt I didn’t deserve it because I didn’t get myself thin again”… that’s when the tears started stinging my eyes. Ef that!! I miss my ring…I’ve been married 18 years and we’ve been through a lot of “life stuff”… it holds even more meaning to me now. I can’t wait to resize my ring and wear it everyday! Thank you!!

    Reply
  20. Jennifer Connolly says

    September 12, 2017 at 10:12 am

    Perfectly said! Thank you

    Reply
  21. snaphappy says

    September 12, 2017 at 10:02 am

    This.

    Reply
  22. Elizabeth Fitzsimmons says

    September 12, 2017 at 9:36 am

    Love this! Wear that gorgeous ring and honor your wonderful partnership.

    Reply
  23. Susan B. says

    September 12, 2017 at 9:31 am

    **standing ovation** Yes!!!

    Reply
  24. Karen Short says

    September 12, 2017 at 9:29 am

    I feel like when people are preaching about “authenticity” – this is what they mean. Thanks so much for sharing <3 I'm in the process of planning my wedding. The biggest hurdle for me was to stop looking at dresses with my "what if i lose the weight" blinders on, and find something that I love NOW. Something that I can wear NOW (and maybe for my anniversary?). Shedding for the wedding be damned 😉

    Ended up finding the perfect dress for me, and there's no shame in wearing my size 16 dress!

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      September 12, 2017 at 12:57 pm

      NO shame and I bet you look GORGEOUS in it!

      Reply
  25. Alison Larabie Chase says

    September 12, 2017 at 8:47 am

    Been there, done this, felt so much better when I had my rings back on my finger! Well done you, and well said.

    Reply
  26. Jessie says

    September 12, 2017 at 8:20 am

    Thank you for this post, Alison. My rings have been sitting in my jewelry box for the past 4.5 year for the very same reason. Time to get moving on getting them resized!

    Reply
  27. Julia Silge says

    September 12, 2017 at 8:17 am

    Oh, I need to do this. Like, literally exactly this, resizing my engagement ring. ❤️

    Reply

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What I Wore: Tassels and Fringe

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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