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
Open
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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Outfit Posts, Winter · January 18, 2017

What I Wore: Test Drive

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. 

steve madden bomber jacket ll bean fleece leggingsJacket: Steve Madden (XL; plus size option) | Sweater: LL Bean (XL; plus size option) | Fleece Leggings: LL Bean (L; plus size option) | Socks: Lands' End | Boots: Merrell | Hat: Halogen (old; this year's version) | Sunglasses: Ray-Ban | Crossbody Travel Mug: GOAT STORY

Monday my office was open but after taking care of some emails and tying loose ends, I took the day off.  I had an appointment in the morning; my sister offered to take Em for a whole day of fun and then drop her off for a late afternoon playdate and dinner with a bestie.  But this meant an unexpected date day with Karl!  We got some tasks accomplished, and then we strapped on our hiking boots and went for a long walk around town, the lake, the roads.  This gave me a chance to test drive these new boots.

merrell arctic grip waterproof boot review vibram soleSince slipping on ice in 2014 and breaking my arm, I'm pretty nervous when the temps drop.  Karl found out about Vibram's Arctic Grip soles and I was sold.  They keep their grip, even on wet ice! One of Karl's yoga students got a high-shaft pair from Merrell and I liked how the soles were a tad bit gritty, but not enough to scratch up wood floors.  I knew the tall shaft wouldn't work with my wide calves and I felt a shorter boot would be easier to wear with work clothes as a commuter boot.  There's a lot of styles from Merrell with the Arctic Grip sole; I decided to go with the Aurora 6 because it's almost all black, it's fuzzy and warm, a shorter boot, and pretty subtle looking.

merrell arctic grip vibram waterproof bootI went up a half size to be sure there was room for thick socks and my wide feet; while the shoe is perfectly comfortable I think I could have stuck with my normal size.  It's roomy but it doesn't slip.  The boots are warm, but my feet don't get sweaty on a warmer day, even with wool socks.  The laces are the bomb; they don't slip.  Tie them in a basic bow and you can hike all day without having to retie.  As for the slipping, I haven't had the chance yet to try it – the weather has been too warm for ice but the boots have been through puddles and mud, worn on asphalt and slick DC sidewalks, on gravel and slippery rocks across a stream.  No blisters, no hot spots, and hopefully when the ice comes to the DC area, no slips and falls!

This outfit was also a bit of a test drive of what I may wear Saturday to the Women's March. I'm thinking these fleece leggings (they're thick enough I was comfortable this day without my Thermaskin leggings underneath; if thinner or colder out I'd do both), different wool socks that fit under the leggings, these or another pair of waterproof boots.  On top, considering the weather will be in the 50s I'll likely wear either this jacket or the longer jacket I'm wearing in this post.  Underneath, I'm not sure.  I ordered a March shirt but it hasn't arrived yet.  I wouldn't do this sweater; it's cotton and heavy and I got sweaty wearing it. Likely two thin layers so I can adjust and then a lightweight scarf.  As for a bag, I'm still figuring it out.  We have this fanny pack which is just a hair larger than the size allowed for the march, I may try to get away with it.  If not, I have a smaller fanny pack I'd likely use.  I also have this clear tote which is regulation size for a clear bag; it has a crossbody strap and I may take that.  However, I'm really getting into Festie/Prepper Allie mode for this day and am trying to go as light as possible.  I know for long days I do better with weight on my back or hips/fanny than on my shoulders. Each person is different, wear what makes the most sense to you.  But if you're going, wear thin layers, have the top layer be waterproof, and be sure your feet will be comfy!

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In: Outfit Posts, Winter · Tagged: LL Bean, Merrell, Ray-Ban

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Comments

  1. Cassie says

    February 7, 2017 at 3:00 pm

    Those boots may mean I could get up the hill in my parking lot to my apartment! I note they don’t have wide width – I normally go up a half size to make up for that. Should I with these, you think?

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      February 7, 2017 at 3:46 pm

      I have wide feet. I went up a half size for the same reason (also wide ankles/shins) and didn’t think I really needed to. I ended up wearing them for the march and since then and they don’t slide, don’t rub. The half size does help when wanting to wear thick socks!

      Reply
  2. A.S. says

    January 19, 2017 at 11:39 am

    I’m trying to decide on a purse too. I was really hoping that I could try out my hydration pack at the march but no backpacks. 🙁 I’m leaning toward wearing my bean boots with wool socks and arch support inserts.

    Reply
  3. ReadBarbara says

    January 18, 2017 at 10:57 pm

    I have an undying, years long, verging on worrisome devotion to Merrells. They never wear out and they are crazy comfortable.

    Reply
  4. TinaLou says

    January 18, 2017 at 9:51 pm

    Hi Ali, Thanks SO MUCH for the info on Merrell and their new no-slip hikers. I’m in New England, and need something to walk the dog in the snow and ice that will fit my short stubby feet. I just scored the last pair of these in my just-shy-of-size 5 in Graphite from Merrell’s website – fingers crossed that they’ll fit.

    I’ll be breaking my ban on watching news coverage to keep up with Saturday’s activities. Be safe; I’ll be there with you in spirit!!

    Reply
  5. SunDapple says

    January 18, 2017 at 1:53 pm

    Allie, if you ever find fleece tights/leggings that aren’t LL Bean please share!

    Reply
  6. Around Colours says

    January 18, 2017 at 12:08 pm

    I don’t really need those boots because it doesn’t snow here (unfortunately) but I do tend to slip a lot when it rains… Maybe those would be helpful afterall! haha

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

    Reply
  7. Krista Alexander says

    January 18, 2017 at 9:36 am

    Chacos have the Vibram soles. They’re all I wear. Since I live in Central FL, I can get away with it 360 days a year. Super comfy and great in a summer mini monsoon. But if I needed winter boots, these would be my pick!

    Reply
  8. Linda B says

    January 18, 2017 at 9:18 am

    I have loved the Merrills I have had over time. I don’t need snow boots down here in AZ, but those look awesome!

    Down here, we’ll have a parallel march and it is suppose to be chilly and rainy. I have had a super busy time at work the past week and am grateful to have your thoughts to work off of for what to wear and bring!

    Reply

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Since 2005, Wardrobe Oxygen has offered real-life style advice for grown-ass women. With years of experience as an apparel visual merchandiser and personal shopper, Alison Gary provides advice on how to achieve personal style no matter your age, size, or budget.

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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

wardrobe_oxygen

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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

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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!

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Aug 28

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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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