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

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

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

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

I wish more communities would offer rental offices like @thegranitebuilding. With reasonably affordable monthly rates, it doesn’t have to just be business owners who get office spaces. It can be a place to work on a hobby or craft, a place to WFH that’s not home, or a place to just read and write and nap undisturbed. A literal room of one’s own. Because sometimes a person needs time to be a me and not a we. 💚
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Outfit Posts, Spring · April 26, 2017

What I Wore: Day One of #rSthecon

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. 

eliza j jumpsuit spring 2017jumpsuit | earrings | bag | shoes

rewardstyle conference pool party what i woreJumpsuit: Eliza J (14) | Shoes: Nine West | Bag: Loeffler Randall | Earrings: ASOS | Lipstick: Revlon

Last Thursday I arrived in Dallas, Texas for rewardStyle's conference known as #rSthecon. In its fifth year, this conference is for the top 200 influencers who use rewardStyle to monetize their blog or social media channel. I've always felt my blog was lower-mid tier; I make money from it but it's not like I'm rolling in the dough or being flown to tropical locations on a company's dime. I was invited last year too but declined  after hearing negative reviews from friends.  I also didn't realize that it was invite-only.  This year I decided immediately to go and booked my flight that same day. I think for an event like this you have to experience it at least right?

over 40 travel fashionI didn't get any decent photos of my flight outfit, and I know that is likely what you all are the most interested in. Here's the selfie I took at BWI airport that was so meh I didn't even share it on InstaStories. I wore my black ponte blazer from Rachel Roy, an old gray and white striped drapey tee from Gap, leather-front ponte leggings, and my Adidas Superstars. I carried my ALLSAINTS tote and I own this bag from Delsey and this bag from Delsey and took them. Nope, I made no attempt to fit my luggage for a fashion blogging conference in carry-on!

rewardstyle conference 2017 bikes liketoknow.itI got to the Hotel Crescent Court and immediately saw Susan from une femme d'un certain âge and Cathy from Bay Area Fashionista in the lobby. I have known Susan virtually for over a decade, but we had never met until this day. Cathy I connected virtually few months ago, but again, never before met in person. We hugged and chattered on like old friends, but after the flight all I wanted to do was check in, unpack, and take a long hot shower. We promised to meet up later.

rsthecon2017 what i wore rewardstyle conferenceThe first event of the conference was at the hotel's rooftop pool. A day or so before the event we were informed this party would be Tulum-themed. That's fine and good, but it wasn't changing what I was going to wear. DC Style Factory suggested I order this jumpsuit from Eliza J and I wondered what they were smoking. On the Nordstrom site it had a giant pink bow around the waist. “Trust me,” Rosana said and I ordered it. The giant bow was only held on by two threads (and is now in Emerson's dress up box). Without the belt, the jumpsuit looked light and airy.

asos crystal chandelier earrings on wardrobe oxygen loeffler randall fringe clutch purse shopbopWe styled it with orange suede pumps I already owned, a pair of dirt cheap but darn awesome chandelier earrings from ASOS, and an ivory fringy clutch bag.  To stay away from matchy-matchy, I went with a hot pink lip.

sole sociaety rooftop pool party rsthecon rewardstyle conference 2017I had exchanged numbers with a few bloggers I knew were coming; Cathy and I ended up ready at the same time so together we headed to the party. There was a DJ, a bar, a taco station that was beautiful but ignored, and dozens over overdressed women surrounding a pool decorated by floating lotus flowers. It was hot and there wasn't any shade. Everyone was either posing or taking a photo. It was weird, but Cathy and I did the same for one another.

over 40 bloggers at rewardstyle conference 2017Soon other bloggers and influencers we knew or knew of and followed showed up and conversations and greetings happened. I snagged this photo from Erin's InstaStory of Cathy, me, Maria, Angie, Beth, and Erin at the party.  Who says this conference is only for the 20-something bloggers?  It was fun to meet everyone but it was so hot, I think I lasted maybe an hour.

nine west orange suede pumps Cathy and I met up in one of the many beautiful courtyards of the hotel to take outfit photos of one another; she captured the ones you see in this post of me in my outfit. It was really great to know a few women ahead of time, to have a photo buddy and moral support the first night. However, people were quite nice. I have a post coming that delves more into this, but I was pleasantly surprised by how kind, friendly, and real the majority of the attendees were at this conference. Don't believe the snark, I met many of the women who are critiqued on message boards and in Facebook groups and I have to say for most of them, you're wrong with your assumptions. Super nice, super friendly, and yes, that beautiful and thin in real life. I'll delve more into this in a future post…

rewardstyle conference 20176 what i wore first night pool partyAs for the outfit, it was perfect. The chiffon overlay was festive and kept me cool while keeping me covered. The elasticized waistband gave me some shape but didn't dig. I love these heels, they're pretty comfy for the height and gave a necessary pop of color. The earrings got so many compliments, as did the bag.

Lessons Learned Day 1 of the RewardStyle Conference:

  • Don't judge a book by its cover.
  • Get your clothes tailored. You can hide a visible bra strap or a gaping waistband in an outfit photo but you can't in real life.
  • This season is about the statement earring. It's a cheap and fun way to update your wardrobe.
  • Kindness always wins. Give strangers compliments, when standing alone wear a smile with your sunglasses, say excuse me and thank you, if you go to the bar offer to grab a drink for another.
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In: Outfit Posts, Spring · Tagged: #rSthecon, ASOS, Delsey, Eliza J, Loeffler Randall, Nine West, rewardStyle

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Comments

  1. Little Black"domicile"! says

    May 5, 2017 at 9:41 am

    Your confidence shines thru…again!-Laurel Bledsoe

    Reply
  2. Jo says

    April 27, 2017 at 2:13 pm

    Who is Beth?? I follow Jennifer, Susan, Allie, Pam, and Jodie. I must find Beth!!

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      April 27, 2017 at 2:18 pm

      She’s Style at a Certain Age and she is awesome! http://www.styleatacertainage.com/

      Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      April 27, 2017 at 2:18 pm

      Who is Pam and Jodie?

      Reply
      • Jo says

        April 27, 2017 at 7:52 pm

        Pam of Over 50 Feeling 40 and Jodie of Jodie’s Touch of Style.

        Reply
        • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

          April 27, 2017 at 7:55 pm

          Oh yes, great women!

          Reply
  3. Barbara Dolak says

    April 27, 2017 at 12:36 pm

    obsessed with this look on you…very flattering jumpsuit on you and love the choice of the pop color shoes!

    Reply
  4. Marti W. Lew says

    April 27, 2017 at 6:08 am

    Have I ever looked better in an outfit than the actual model? Not sure but you definitely did!

    Reply
  5. Lorena Lorena says

    April 26, 2017 at 11:12 pm

    You nailed it.. and you know it !

    Reply
  6. Alison French-Tubo says

    April 26, 2017 at 9:35 pm

    Nice!

    Reply
  7. J9 says

    April 26, 2017 at 8:17 pm

    Allie: did you have to alter the jumpsuit other than removing the pink bow? Really enjoying your blog! Rock on woman!

    Reply
  8. crtfly says

    April 26, 2017 at 7:17 pm

    Are the white bicycles for show only or can you use them?

    Chris

    Reply
  9. SunDapple says

    April 26, 2017 at 6:45 pm

    Allie, I “found” you thru Susan’s blog, and I love you both. Thank you for the introduction to Beth! I just subscribed to her blog. So much fun to attend the conference vicariously, without the pressure of dressing for it. You look fabulous, dahling, fabulous! 😀

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      April 26, 2017 at 7:24 pm

      Aww thanks! Beth is awesome and Susan is the best!

      Reply
  10. disqus_rrx3HNnGM1 says

    April 26, 2017 at 6:13 pm

    I don’t like many of the other bloggers because they are too skinny. It’s just that I don’t care about their clothes because I doubt they would good on me. I’m a 12 and you rock the clothes in a way I feel I could.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      April 26, 2017 at 7:25 pm

      What’s so cool about blogs is there’s different sizes, ages, heights, body types and there’s likely one for everyone!

      Reply
  11. crtfly says

    April 26, 2017 at 4:04 pm

    Were there speakers or is it not that kind of event? If so, what were the talks like? I’m happy to hear folks were nice. I know you’re at home in the fashion world but I can’t imagine an event where I would be more uncomfortable.

    I feel fairly confident in venues where it is about my work or education. But it this situation? I’m convinced everyone would say, “Who let that homeless person in here?”

    Chris

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      April 26, 2017 at 4:07 pm

      Yep I’ll go into it tomorrow. This was just the welcome party.

      Reply
  12. Shelley A. says

    April 26, 2017 at 3:16 pm

    You look stunning. Perfect outfit and accessories!!

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      April 26, 2017 at 3:17 pm

      Thanks Shelley!

      Reply
  13. Lee4 says

    April 26, 2017 at 2:52 pm

    You look marvelous!! And I have been hoping so much that you’d do some posts about your conference experience. Yay! You keep it real & that’s much appreciated. There are a few other bloggers I follow that also attended & it’s very interesting to read your similar comments regarding feeling a bit anxious about what to wear, meeting other bloggers, how nice most people were, etc. Again, it shows how “normal” you are & I really enjoy your thoughts.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      April 26, 2017 at 2:55 pm

      Thank you!

      Reply
  14. Lindsay says

    April 26, 2017 at 2:37 pm

    That jumpsuit looks fab on you! Nordstrom and Eliza J need to re-think their pictures of it, I would never look twice at it one their site but it looks SO great on you!!!

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      April 26, 2017 at 2:37 pm

      Thank you so much!

      Reply
  15. Jodie Filogomo says

    April 26, 2017 at 9:37 am

    What a perfect jumpsuit for this occasion, Allie!
    So what is Tulum inspired?
    Jodie
    http://www.jtouchofstyle.com

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      April 26, 2017 at 1:05 pm

      LOL not really sure! I know there were a lot of raffia bags, espadrille wedges, and tassel earrings!

      Reply
    • Lindsay says

      April 26, 2017 at 2:35 pm

      Tulum is a place in Mexico that’s gotten really popular as a tourist destination. So probably a trendy beach vacation type of theme.

      Reply
      • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

        April 26, 2017 at 2:36 pm

        Yep, it’s a hot place for bloggers to go to. But wasn’t sure how I was supposed to dress differently, especially since no one went in the pool!

        Reply
  16. Patricia says

    April 26, 2017 at 9:36 am

    After clicking on the outfit photo, that pink bow is perfect for Emerson! And you looked perfect without it. Good call!
    i’m now re-thinking of pulling out some palazzo pants I bought but never worn and trying it out a few ways. Thanks for the inspiration.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      April 26, 2017 at 1:04 pm

      Awesome!

      Reply
  17. Belinda Manley says

    April 26, 2017 at 9:16 am

    In that group photo you and Beth are by FAR the best dressed and appropriate.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      April 26, 2017 at 1:04 pm

      Actually, we were some of the most reserved. It was a party of peacocks, and some of the most fantastic fashion. One woman wore a jumpsuit I swore was vintage, maybe Pucci, but thanks to LikeToKnow.it I found out it was Lauren Ralph Lauren and ordered it immediately. Granted, there was some utterly ridiculous and bad fashion, but this was an event where you could wear the stuff that has no purpose anywhere else but a rooftop cocktail party at a fashion conference!

      Reply
      • Patricia says

        April 26, 2017 at 2:02 pm

        Oh, how many times have I bought clothes I’d never wear anywhere but at a rooftop cocktail party at a fashion conference! Or strolling on a beach in the moonlight…
        Actually the hardest thing for me to dress for is not my “real life” but events like this, or fashion shows where everybody is on their “A game”. And in your case, you’re going to be photographed and have to blog about it.

        Reply
        • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

          April 26, 2017 at 2:37 pm

          I’ve done this so many times. I often say that there’s a bit of Studio 54 hanging out in the back corner of my closet!

          Reply
  18. Liz says

    April 26, 2017 at 8:55 am

    I really enjoyed following your InstaStories from RSCon and getting a behind the scenes look at the conference! Love this look — that jumpsuit looks great on you. So much better than the image on Nordstrom’s website for sure 🙂

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      April 26, 2017 at 1:02 pm

      Thanks so much Liz!

      Reply
  19. Christine says

    April 26, 2017 at 8:41 am

    You look beautiful in this jumpsuit! You and Beth Djalali are two of my favorite American fashion bloggers. How fun to see you in the same photo.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      April 26, 2017 at 1:02 pm

      Thank you! I adore Beth, we’ve been blogging buddies for a while but this is the first time we met in person!

      Reply

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What I Wore: Little Bit Rock & Roll

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.

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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

Open
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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