Since 2005, Wardrobe Oxygen has been providing fashion advice. Focusing on real-life style for grown-ass women, Alison Gary shares her personal style, reviews of brands and garments, denim hauls, and resources on where to shop for petite fashion over size 10, plus size fashion, bras for large busts, wide width shoes as well as how to style footwear trends, and sustainable style.
Known for its real-life capsule wardrobes that offer inclusive sizing, Wardrobe Oxygen helps you feel stylish, as well as yourself. Work (or work from home), weekend, vacation, and special events, Wardrobe Oxygen is a style destination for women over 40 living on their own terms.
In 1997, I left my job as assistant manager of a local boutique to work for the apparel company Express. This was back when Express stores had a French theme and carried sweatshirts with big floral EXP letters sewn on the front, reminiscent of sorority billboard letters. I worked at a large store connected to… Continue Reading The Ever-changing Landscape of Retail
Years ago, there was a big difference between drugstore beauty products and that of department and specialty stores. Consistency, longevity, ingredient list… you got what you paid for. No more, when many drugstore brands have better ingredients, better manufacturing practices, and make their products often in the same factories as their more expensive sisters. I… Continue Reading Friday Favorite: Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray
I would love to add a more boho vibe to my closet but I’m feeling so stumped where to shop- especially given that I’m carrying some additional weight & am big busted naturally. I admire Free People but I’m at serious risk of dislocating joints trying to get in and out of their sizes and… Continue Reading Ask Allie: Boho Chic with a Bust
“I’m not bound by time” I used to say in my 20s when asked why I didn’t wear a watch. Now in my 40s, I still don’t wear a timepiece, but to say I’m not connected to the unavoidable ticking of the clock is far from the truth. I time nearly everything I do. Obviously,… Continue Reading A Life, Replotted: Finding the Edge
Fashion magazines always show trends before they hit the stores. I can recall freezing in my house; the heat was on but the cold was so intense outside I was still shivering though in a ski cap, wool socks in wool slippers, and swathed in fleece. I flipped through a magazine, can’t recall which glossy… Continue Reading Digging on Denim: My Favorite Summer Fashion Trend and How to Wear It
A few things I have recently purchased or tried, and whether they are winners or losers for my closet: 1. Vince Camuto One-button Blazer in Taffy Pink I owned this same blazer in neon yellow when the neon trend was hot (I wish I never sold it, I’d likely still rock the heck out of… Continue Reading Recent Fashion Purchases: Hits and Misses
Many of you have emailed me asking for advice on summer flats; Nordstrom recently reached out to me asking if I could write about their extensive collection of flats for summer right as I was writing a post on the very subject. As you know, I’m a huge Nordstrom fan; free shipping, free returns, a… Continue Reading The Best Summer Flat Shoes From Nordstrom
You’re always saying how flattering and versatile stretchy wrap dresses are. But as a plus sized woman I can’t find any. Well I have found a couple but they’re cheap and the neck is so big my bra shows. Can you help me find one? Oh pish posh, there’s plenty of retailers who offer plus… Continue Reading Ask Allie: Plus Size Wrap Dresses
Hi Alison – I love your blog and visit daily! Your capsule wardrobes are what really drew me in. The ability to mix-and-match separates to create versatile outfits is such a plus, and something I’d like to ask about. You see, I’m considering starting my own business, and will need professional attire. But, I hate… Continue Reading Ask Allie: Starch-Free Corporate Capsule Wardrobe