Open
If @thechicks are in town you can bet @debbiefaye78 and I will be there! So when we heard they were coming to @merriweatherpp we were so excited. And their concert did not disappoint. As always, a phenomenal show! If The Chicks come to your neck of the woods I highly recommend you go!

Okay I know you want to know about what we’re wearing! 

My sister’s caftan is from @anthropologie (bought this summer so maybe you can find on resale sites).

I’m wearing a @bananarepublic dress also from this summer with the @universalstandard denim chore jacket and a hat I got from a @madewell collab a year or so ago. I glammed it up with some gold chains and gold drop earrings, but kept it comfy for a night of standing and dancing with @birkenstock sandals.

This was my first big outing since my eye surgery, and with a pocketful of eye drops I felt good (and grateful we splurged for good seats!).

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4jcBL #ltkmidsize #ltkover40 #midsizestyle #genxstyle #usinthewild #concertstyle
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For years I’ve trusted @somaintimates for the right bras and the right fit but it had been a while since I visited a Soma boutique to try on all the styles they currently have for a large bust. I must say I was impressed! Knowledgeable staff, extensive collection in larger sizes, and some of the most comfortable and innovative bras in up to H cups! Each body is different but what I loved:

- The Stunning Push-Up: targeted for the DD+ customer gives amazing lift and great shape under fitted knits.

- The Unbelievable Lift Scoop Balconette: sexy, supportive, and so lightweight!

- The Embraceable Wireless: I’ve recommended this wireless bra for large busts for years and was in need for a new one! 

- The Stunning Support Smooth Balconette: this is the perfect t-shirt bra for large busts with padded straps and disappears under knits

- The Stunning Starlet Multi-Way Strapless: recently improved for more support and more comfort, this wireless bra stays put and gives fab shape

I also picked up some of Soma’s iconic Vanishing Edge panties which keep you line-free. The whole Vanishing collection is genius. I loved being able to donate my gently used bras at my local Soma boutique to give to those in need. We all deserve a lift and Soma strives to achieve that. It’s why I’ve been a fan and customer for years and am honored to partner with them. Soma is the perfect fitting bra solution. Visit the link in my bio to shop and to find your local Soma boutique! #SomaPartner #SomaBraFit #SomaStartsWithMe
Open
If I close my eyes you can’t tell one is still bloodshot 😜

Still recovering from my eye surgery but feeling more myself. Getting dolled up helps me feel me. Bright colors and bold jewelry have been signature Alison since I was a kid! 

Sweater: @favorite.daughter 
Earrings: Amazon
Necklace: @_jennybird (old)
Ring: @realmfinejewelry 
Bra: @lovebravissimo 
Lipstick: @glossier 
Pins as “cufflinks”: vintage

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4j0LM #ltkmidsize #midsizestyle #over40style #ltkover40 #genxstyle
Open
It was so funny and so quick I couldn’t not share! I bought this @hulkenbag a year ago and use it all the time. Carting shoot supplies, groceries, packing for road trips, and carting donations. This weekend @thenewdealcafe in @cityofgreenbelt hosted a community clothing swap so I made sure my family and I went through our summer wardrobes to gather that which we no longer needed or fit.

This wasn’t the first clothing swap and folks in town know my style (and my job) so there were some waiting for my arrival. Look how fast I cleared out this big bag! Speaking of the bag one other swap attendee said she got herself a Hulken after seeing mine in action!

It’s so great to know our old clothes are getting a good life and this bag makes carting them to the cafe so easy! I got my Hulken on Amazon, it comes in other colors and sizes too: https://amzn.to/48iTY4Y yep the bag is as great as all those ads you see on social media, I’m a big fan!
Open
I had to see… I asked my husband how often he thinks about the Roman Empire, and then asked our 14-year-old 😂
Open
#ad Go through my archives on Wardrobe Oxygen and one thing is clear: my family and I are a fan of @bombas socks! From their no-slip no-show socks to their iconic crew socks, Bombas makes great socks for the whole family while having a great heart.

Socks are the #1 requested article of clothing from homeless shelters. For every item purchase from Bombas, one is donated to someone experiencing homelessness. 

Save 20% on your first purchase at Bombas with my exclusive promo code: WARDROBE20

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4ipHy #bombas
Open
Happy gotcha day, Oscar! Four years ago he came into our life and we are so happy to have in our family!

Oscar was a rescue and came with some… quirks. Over the years we have come to understand him and he has come to trust us. He’s a diva, a snuggler, he could play catch for hours, and he’s my husband’s shadow. 

We’ve never had a small breed dog before and it’s a whole different experience. But we adore Oscar and couldn’t imagine our life without him! Thank you for coming into our life Oskie McGoskie! 🐾❤️
Open
I can see clearly now…

Actually I can’t, but things after my retina surgery are much improved! My next appointment is in a month and I’m cleared to get back into the world (with some restrictions to protect my eye).

With a sclera buckle, it changes your eye shape and now I am nearsighted again (I had lasik a few years ago). Once the eye is stabilized I can get glasses or contacts but until then I’m 20/20 in one eye and right now 20/60 in the other. But the eye is healing beautifully and I feel positive!

And I could see clearly enough to fall for this poppy-colored cotton jumpsuit from @pistoladenim. It comes in a few colors but this one is my favorite. I went with XL (im@a 14, sometimes 16) and likely could have sized down but I enjoy the relaxed fit and the drawstring waistband to create shape. And hello zipper closure making it super easy to get on and off!

My husband took this photo right after my eye appointment, I think it reflects my positive attitude and feeling of hope! 🧡

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4idXm
Open
#throwbackthursday to what I wore 10 years ago in September…

A decade ago I was working full time in an office and was promoted to manage a good portion of my department. My blog was doing quite well, I was featured in local and national publications and websites. I was embracing what I felt to be a polished professional with an edgy vibe. Less color, more interesting accessories, and my first semi-designer bag (I still have that leopard print mini M.A.C. In the back of my closet). 

I have come to embrace color and have way less black in my closet now, but a lot of these looks are timeless and I would wear now… just likely with lower heels! 😂

Do you recall what you were wearing a decade ago? How similar is it to how you dress now?

For more of my throwbacks visit #wo2tbt
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Fall, Outfit Posts · October 19, 2016

What I Wore: The Season of the Blouse

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, over 40 blogger in Ann Taylor blouse, JAG Jeans, Rebecca Minkoff moto bag and leopard calfhair ankle bootsblouse | jeans | jacket | bag | shoes | lipstick

Wardrobe Oxygen, over 40 blogger in Ann Taylor blouse, JAG Jeans, Rebecca Minkoff moto bag and leopard calfhair ankle boots Wardrobe Oxygen, over 40 blogger in Ann Taylor blouse, JAG Jeans, Rebecca Minkoff moto bag and leopard calfhair ankle boots Wardrobe Oxygen, over 40 blogger in Ann Taylor blouse, JAG Jeans, Rebecca Minkoff moto bag and leopard calfhair ankle bootsBlouse: Ann Taylor (XL) | Jacket: Vintage via Poshmark (similar) | Jeans: c/o JAG Jeans (14P) | Shoes: Nine West (similar) | Bag: Rebecca Minkoff (this year's version) | Bag Strap: Rebecca Minkoff | Sunglasses: Ray-Ban | Lipstick: Maybelline ‘Burgundy Blush'

As a curvy woman, blouses aren't always my friend.  They gape at the buttons, pull at the bust, suffocate my upper arms, cling to my belly.  But this season, blouses are more forgiving with flowing silhouettes, pleats, ruffles, and blended fabrics incorporating stretch.  I recently got this blouse from Ann Taylor and chose to size up so it's more like a tunic.  I can tuck it in to trousers, wear under a blazer, or throw on over skinny jeans.

Last winter I was on a mission for a leather biker jacket that fit my petite curvy frame.  Like blouses, biker jackets aren't always forgiving and I find to accommodate my bust I end up with it too long in the sleeves and too full in the torso.  I found this one on Poshmark.  It was well loved and broken in by a woman who said she too was petite and a size 14 so I took a chance.  This is a true biker jacket with plenty of insulation and thick leather that will protect a rider.  While I still desire a lighter weight jacket to replace a blazer or denim jacket, this one is great for windy cold days. Come winter you're likely to see me wearing it with a beanie and a pashmina looped around my throat!

350

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In: Fall, Outfit Posts · Tagged: Ann Taylor, Jag Jeans, Maybelline, Nine West, Ray-Ban

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Comments

  1. Amy H. says

    October 23, 2016 at 11:09 pm

    This is one of my favorite looks of yours of all time! Nice.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      October 27, 2016 at 8:04 am

      Thanks Amy!

      Reply
  2. Janet Newberry says

    October 22, 2016 at 10:07 am

    This post has inspired me to buy a romantic white blouse I have found at a local store. I have a standard white button up that I almost never wear – I have always shied away from fancier white blouses thinking they can only be worn for dressed up occasions, but you have paired it perfectly for a classy, but relaxed vibe. Love it!

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      October 27, 2016 at 8:04 am

      Aww so glad to hear it! A romantic blouse is surprisingly versatile!

      Reply
  3. crtfly says

    October 19, 2016 at 7:04 pm

    Allie,

    I like the shirt except for the fabric. Any ideas where I can get a similar style in cotton, rayon, or silk? I can’t wear polyester, especially if it is all poly like this one is.

    Thanks,
    Chris

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      October 20, 2016 at 7:41 am

      This one from Iris and Ink is silk crepe de chine: http://bit.ly/2enrA6N
      This one from Frame is white cotton and the bow is removable: http://bit.ly/2eb71PR
      This one is a pretty spruce green and in silk, also Frame: http://bit.ly/2eb5s4o
      This one from Levi’s says it’s cotton (though I saw elsewhere like Amazon http://amzn.to/2eUI363 and it was described as viscose): http://bit.ly/2ensobY

      Reply
      • crtfly says

        October 20, 2016 at 4:33 pm

        Thank you so much Allie! Whereas I am good online at finding information related to my job, finding clothing and beauty products I want is painfully slow. You’re so fast at locating just the right item. Nevertheless, you do spend some time, time that you could rightfully charge for. I want you to know how much I appreciate you.

        Thank you,

        Chris

        Reply
        • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

          October 27, 2016 at 8:05 am

          <3

          Reply
  4. SunDapple says

    October 19, 2016 at 5:16 pm

    Did you get new aviator sunglasses? I was bummed when you had your backpack incident because not only could I empathize the whole loss of backpack and the stuff in it but I really liked your aviators. I tried on and bought a pair by Bebe because you look so cool in yours.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      October 20, 2016 at 7:43 am

      I’m a bit of an aviator junkie. I have silver mirror, gold with dark green lenses, all black (here) and gold with gold. I was wearing the all black on my trip to Raleigh so I didn’t lose them but I thought the gold ones were in my backpack. But I didn’t lose them! I started with one backpack and then decided to go with a smaller one. I went to use that bigger backpack the other weekend for a camping trip and at the bottom of the bag were my sunglasses! I forgot to transfer them, was such a happy accident!

      Reply
  5. Jodie Filogomo says

    October 19, 2016 at 2:24 pm

    I totally agree with bubu…this blouse is not something I’d normally gravitate towards, but the whole outfit is a perfect example of how you can take one item and make it better with it’s pairings!!
    Those booties—they are to die for!
    jodie
    http://www.jtouchofstyle.com

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      October 19, 2016 at 2:37 pm

      Thanks Jodie, and I love these booties I hardly wore them last year but this year I wear them all the time!

      Reply
  6. Jenny says

    October 19, 2016 at 1:08 pm

    Hi Allie – is the blouse you linked the same that you are wearing? It looks like the one in your pics has some sort of pleating along the sides that I really like, but the AT model doesn’t seem to have the same details?

    PS – Obviously I love this look enough to try to track it down, lol!

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      October 19, 2016 at 1:33 pm

      You know what, I don’t think it is! That’s the picture and description from my order confirmation email but looking online I think it’s actually this one: http://bit.ly/2elbYAL off to update the post, thank you!

      Reply
  7. Lorena Lorena says

    October 19, 2016 at 11:56 am

    I just pinned a few blouses from the Dries Van Noten runway as I realised I have similar vintage ones unworn – I really like how you pulled this one off.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      October 19, 2016 at 12:19 pm

      Thank you Lorena!

      Reply
  8. Around Colours says

    October 19, 2016 at 10:44 am

    That romantic blouse looks amazing with the leather jacket! It’s such a gorgeous combo. Who would’ve thought?

    Marta – http://www.aroundcolours.blogspot.com

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      October 19, 2016 at 12:19 pm

      I love mixing tough with romantic, always a win in my book!

      Reply
  9. bubu says

    October 19, 2016 at 9:01 am

    Wow! If you just showed me a picture of that blouse, or the other elements you planned to combine it with, I would be like “hmmm… I don’t know….” but it is fabulous, the whole thing ensemble works so well, is so flattering — especially the hit of dark red nails and lipstick to finish it off. Brava!

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      October 19, 2016 at 12:19 pm

      Thank you!

      Reply
      • Emily says

        October 20, 2016 at 9:43 am

        Agreed! On paper I would have been all “but will that neckline really work with a bust, and won’t the loose fit just eat your waist?” but it looks GREAT on. You’re inspiring me to step out of my sartorial comfort zone 🙂

        Reply

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What I Wore: Versatility

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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Sep 21

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If @thechicks are in town you can bet @debbiefaye78 and I will be there! So when we heard they were coming to @merriweatherpp we were so excited. And their concert did not disappoint. As always, a phenomenal show! If The Chicks come to your neck of the woods I highly recommend you go!

Okay I know you want to know about what we’re wearing! 

My sister’s caftan is from @anthropologie (bought this summer so maybe you can find on resale sites).

I’m wearing a @bananarepublic dress also from this summer with the @universalstandard denim chore jacket and a hat I got from a @madewell collab a year or so ago. I glammed it up with some gold chains and gold drop earrings, but kept it comfy for a night of standing and dancing with @birkenstock sandals.

This was my first big outing since my eye surgery, and with a pocketful of eye drops I felt good (and grateful we splurged for good seats!).

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4jcBL #ltkmidsize #ltkover40 #midsizestyle #genxstyle #usinthewild #concertstyle

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Sep 19

Open
If I close my eyes you can’t tell one is still bloodshot 😜

Still recovering from my eye surgery but feeling more myself. Getting dolled up helps me feel me. Bright colors and bold jewelry have been signature Alison since I was a kid! 

Sweater: @favorite.daughter 
Earrings: Amazon
Necklace: @_jennybird (old)
Ring: @realmfinejewelry 
Bra: @lovebravissimo 
Lipstick: @glossier 
Pins as “cufflinks”: vintage

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4j0LM #ltkmidsize #midsizestyle #over40style #ltkover40 #genxstyle

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Sep 11

Open
Happy gotcha day, Oscar! Four years ago he came into our life and we are so happy to have in our family!

Oscar was a rescue and came with some… quirks. Over the years we have come to understand him and he has come to trust us. He’s a diva, a snuggler, he could play catch for hours, and he’s my husband’s shadow. 

We’ve never had a small breed dog before and it’s a whole different experience. But we adore Oscar and couldn’t imagine our life without him! Thank you for coming into our life Oskie McGoskie! 🐾❤️

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Sep 8

Open
I can see clearly now…

Actually I can’t, but things after my retina surgery are much improved! My next appointment is in a month and I’m cleared to get back into the world (with some restrictions to protect my eye).

With a sclera buckle, it changes your eye shape and now I am nearsighted again (I had lasik a few years ago). Once the eye is stabilized I can get glasses or contacts but until then I’m 20/20 in one eye and right now 20/60 in the other. But the eye is healing beautifully and I feel positive!

And I could see clearly enough to fall for this poppy-colored cotton jumpsuit from @pistoladenim. It comes in a few colors but this one is my favorite. I went with XL (im@a 14, sometimes 16) and likely could have sized down but I enjoy the relaxed fit and the drawstring waistband to create shape. And hello zipper closure making it super easy to get on and off!

My husband took this photo right after my eye appointment, I think it reflects my positive attitude and feeling of hope! 🧡

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

wardrobe_oxygen

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Sep 5

Open
I’ll be a bit quiet on here and other channels because I had eye (retinal) surgery this past weekend. I was having what I thought were ocular migraines but come to find out I was experiencing lattice degeneration, which is thinning/holes in the retina. I had surgery Saturday for my right eye and later on they’ll work on the left eye, which isn’t as bad and can be remedied by laser, in office.

I share not because I’m Mrs. Frizzle meets Iris Apfel as I recuperate at home, but because this whole thing has been a lesson on trusting my gut. And I want to remind you to do the same.

As we get older our bodies can feel like strangers. Things are constantly changing and it’s easy to just assume your annual physical will catch anything wrong. But if you slow down and listen to your body you’ll know when things are just a sign of aging and life and what seems unusual. That nagging issue may be something more serious.

And if you’re seeing flashing lights, floaters, spiderwebs or other odd eye things get checked out ASAP. It may be nothing but take it from me, it may actually be something. ❤️

Okay, going back to my big sunglasses caftan recuperation life!

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Aug 30

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Ladies who lunch…

While in Savannah, I made sure to get lunch reservations for me and E at @theoldepinkhouse she loves the color pink, historic homes, and ghost stories so it was a perfect choice! 

Built in 1789 on Reynolds Square, there are stories of guests seeing ghosts, cutlery and wine bottles moving along with an elegant and truly delicious dining. 

While we didn’t see any apparitions, we did have a lovely lunch with impeccable service and after toured all floors of the home. I highly recommend a visit if you’re visiting Savannah!

My dress is from @cosstores (no longer available); hat is @furtalk and bag is @talbotsofficial (no longer available).

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Aug 29

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Scenes from a week in Savannah… 

The three of us (and our dog Oscar!) had a warm and humid but wonderful time exploring Savannah, Georgia earlier this month. Our daughter visited this gorgeous city last summer with her @girlscouts troop but wanted to return to experience more. We let her choose our adventures and play your guide and it was awesome. We cannot wait to visit again, though next time it won’t be August 🥵

For more of our trip check the “Savannah” highlight on my profile page!

wardrobe_oxygen

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Aug 28

Open
Stripes are always right…

Y’all know I love stripes and when @universalstandard came out with their Breton-stripe dresses and tops I HAD to try them! As expected, the quality is stellar, the fit boosts my confidence, and I appreciate the range of colors (5 different stripes to choose from) and sizes (00-50). For reference, I’m wearing XS but preferred S for the top and I usually wear a 14 or XL in other brands.

The tote is @able and it’s a soft yet durable leather that just looks better with time. This color (cognac) is one that transitions nicely from summer to fall. 

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

#usinthewild #bretonstripes #midsizestyle #midsizefashion #size14 #over40style

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Aug 27

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The family that wears @printfresh together stays together 🥰

Use code wardrobe_oxygen for 15% off your order of size-inclusive organic cotton sleepwear, dresses, bags & more https://glnk.io/qk04/wardrobe-oxygen

I’ve been raving about my Printfresh pajamas for years, my family also wanted to try them. Thank you Printfresh for gifting these for our annual three generation girls’ getaway to Rehoboth Beach, DE. We had a great time and being all matchy matchy in our pajamas was a fun addition! 🐅🍃🥰

#printfresh #printfreshpajamas #printfreshpartner

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Aug 12

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Shuts laptop until Monday… #RehobothBeach

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