My Wardrobe Today

Happy St. Patrick's Day

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 19:12:00 +0000

I was in the elevator and a coworker from a different floor gets on.

“So, any great plans for going out tonight?”

I had to stop and think why she would think I would have plans on a Wednesday night. Oh yeah, it’s Saint Patrick’s Day.

I mumbled something about having to watch the baby, I couldn’t admit at that moment that my life no longer has room for green beer on weeknights.

But if I had the chance again, I would be more honest about it. For, I really am okay with not having a green beer on weekdays sort of life.

Today I took my lunch in the park across from my office building, wishing I had my sunglasses so I could People Watch without people realizing it. A few party buses drove by – those converted school buses that now have more neon lighting in them than an Isuzu Amigo in 1992. I remember riding in one of those busses for a bachelorette party – we had a bar crawl, matching tee shirts, boas and the bride-to-be wore a plastic tiara. I looked in the windows of the party bus and saw young girls in green metallic eyeshadow, flipping around green boas as they giggled and screamed to one another. They must have called out sick to their jobs… or maybe college classes? I can’t properly gauge age any more. I can’t tell if someone is 21 or 35 any more. And I have no clue if I look 30 or 40.

I think I may leave work early today – I came in early the past two days. I look forward to celebrating Saint Patrick’s Day by hanging out on the front walk with Emerson, letting her play with a piece of bright green non-toxic sidewalk chalk. We did that last night, taking advantage of Daylight Savings time and a rain-free evening. I drew circles and hearts and stars, she chomped off the tip of the orange chalk (that’s what we get for offering her carrots as teething sticks) and wouldn’t let go of the aqua one, making delicate squiggles all over the step.

A year ago, I was sad that I no longer had the lifestyle that allowed for green beer, Kegs and Eggs, skipping work to spend it in an Irish pub. But now… I wouldn’t want it even if I could.

And nope, no green today. Black crewneck sweater from Banana Republic, black trousers from Semantiks, black patent Mary Janes, chunky silver necklace from Ann Taylor with my silver cuff and hoops. An outfit that is me, not someone I am trying to be.

Help Me Go to Hawaii!

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 20:28:00 +0000

As you all know, I am a HUGE fan of Ebates. Ebates is a site where you can shop through it to your favorite online retailers and get cash back. Retailers like Gap, Barnes & Noble, Nordstrom, Target, Apple, SmartBargains, Overstock, Diapers.com, and even eBay will offer anything from 1% to 20% cash back for your online purchase. Four times a year, Ebates will send you a real, bona fide check based upon your purchases.

You don’t need to download a taskbar. You don’t need to search the Web for codes. You don’t need to collect points to purchase merchandise. Go to Ebates, search for your favorite retailer, and then click the button to go to that retailer’s site. That’s all you do and a couple months later you get a check.

Last year I made over $600 from Ebates. The year I was pregnant, I bought all my baby and pregnancy stuff online and ended up getting over $1,000 from Ebates.

Well now Ebates is having a contest – the person who refers the most people to use Ebates (signs up and uses Ebates to make an online purchase with one of their partnered sites) wins a trip for two to Hawaii.

Oh yeah, Hawaii. Gosh, I would love to go to Hawaii. We don’t have money to for a trip to Rehoboth, let alone a trip to Hawaii. And anyway… Who wins those silly contests anyway?

Hi Alison,

Just wanted to let you know that with just a few weeks to go in our “Win a Trip to Hawaii” referral contest that you are doing great and are in fact in the top 10. Thanks for your efforts and best of luck in trying to bring it home in the final leg of the contest.

Regards,
Rob

*************************
Robert Smahl
CMO, Ebates.com

*************************

Oh.

My.

Goodness!

So folks, I don’t believe in spam. I don’t believe in pyramid schemes. I would only suggest this because I really believe in it and use it and have seen the benefits. And I would only want someone to sign up who really could benefit from it.

So if you are going to be making an online purchase in the next few weeks and aren’t a member of Ebates, I encourage you to sign up. It takes just a couple of minutes and they won’t attack you with emails and crap. Then find your retailer from their list, and go shopping as usual. You will win by getting cash back on the purchase you were going to make anyway. And possibly… I will win as well.

I thank you in advance, and wish you happy shopping!

(BTW I have a bunch of posts halfway finished for my blogs and will be posting them very soon!!)

Wednesday through Sunday

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Sun, 28 Feb 2010 22:59:00 +0000

Not a lot of pictures. A week of long days and early mornings.

Wednesday I wore... I think I again wore my teal merino shawl collar sweater from Banana Republic with my black pants from Semantiks. Thursday I didn't feel well at all, coming down with a cold. I wore my gray flannel trousers from Ann Taylor, black ribbed tank from Gap and my raspberry colored cardigan from Gap. I went home early that day because I felt so sick. Friday I worked a bit from home, but most of the day I tried to hydrate myself and sleep. Unfortunately Emerson was also sick.

Saturday I was feeling MUCH better and by the evening I was well enough to go to our friends' party. We didn't stay late, but it was nice to get out of the house.

I had not done any laundry in a few days and all my jeans were dirty. So I decided to get jazzed up. I wore my old trusty black matte jersey wrap dress from Old Navy, black Tight End Tights from Spanx, and my black tall boots. My husband and I made it a date night, going out to dinner beforehand (and we had my mom as an overnight babysitter!). I tried making my hair curly but it hasn't wanted to do that lately and ended up looking a bit scraggly. Silver hoops and cuff and a silver chain with my wedding band hanging from it. Makeup pretty standard for me - black liquid liner as the focal point of the face.

Today we went to my mom's to pick up Emerson and she made us breakfast. Then Emerson fell asleep in the carseat so we took a nice Sunday drive around town, listening to music and talking. We came home and have been doing chores and playing with Emerson. I am wearing my dark Long and Lean jeans from Gap, a white ribbed tank and my purple cardigan from Gap.

Back to work tomorrow, and I am well prepared with clean laundry (though my delicates may still be wet from hanging to dry...).

Product Reviews - Night Time Skin Care

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 18:59:00 +0000

Philosophy's The Microdelivery Pads.
I bought these on a whim after hearing a couple online reviews and overhearing a conversation on the Metro where a woman, "Owed her skin and her renewed sex life" to these pads. I figured, what the heck. I read online that the pads were sort of big, so cut them in half to have the container last longer.

The directions say to use once a day or once a week depending on how sensitive your skin is. I usually have sensitive skin, but these pads do NOT cause any burning, irritation, or redness. I wash my face as usual at night, use half a pad on my face, then my neck/collarbone. I then add my nightcream (more on that).

I didn't really see much difference after a week. After two weeks, I still didn't see much of a difference, but I did realize that my skin wasn't breaking out pre-period. After a month, I realized I went an entire month without any breakouts, and need far less foundation to look healthy. I also see that my brown spot on my cheek is a bit more faint.

So... I am a fan. I love a product that makes me look like me, only better. I love how utterly gentle it is. I love that I have found a product that keeps me bump-free and doesn't have Salicytic Acid in it (allergic). And I love that though it IS $55, I have enough for 200 evenings of treatment - that's a major bargain! This product can be used anywhere on the body - I think it would probably be great for those weird bumps/clogged pores I and many other women get on their upper arms, I use it sometimes on my forearms and hands to counteract sun damage, and think it is doing great things for my décolleté!

Almond Oil for Night Cream
So I was reading a blog of a woman who obsesses over fabulous long, thick lashes. She did some reviews of the new prescription-only products and had many comments about OTC products that also guarantee fabulous lashes. Since having Emerson, I notice my lashes are a bit more brittle, and they have never been as lush and long as I would like (my sister has amazing lashes and Emerson has fab lashes and I would love to have even half of the lashes they do). Anyway, in the comments I read that someone uses almond oil on their lashes at night and it keeps them supple and strong.

So I got a bottle of pure almond oil. Hey it can't hurt, right? Put a little on my lashes and while I'm at it, rub some into my cuticles.

Well I ran out of my night cream (Olay Pro-X from the starter kit) and I thought hrm, why not almond oil all over my face? I guess I was feeling bold since the Philosophy Pads were keeping me zit-free. So I put a bit in my hand, rubbed it into my hands and cuticles and then rubbed it all over my lashes and whole face, neck and collarbone. The next morning I didn't wake up all greasy and zitty... in fact my skin looked fantastic. It was really soft and dewy looking, plump and healthy. My cuticles and hands looked healthier too.

The almond oil from Aura Cacia is organic and very pure - no almond smell... no smell at all. A little goes a very long way (been using for over a month and have only used maybe 1/6 of the bottle). My lashes don't look that drastically different, but I seem to have less breakage and lash loss.

I know this wouldn't work for all skin types, but for my sensitive, combination skin that is super dry and unhappy in winter... this is a total winner!

I am slowly cleaning out the linen closet and medicine cabinet of my half-finished bottles of not-yet-expired products and am going to need a face wash in about a month. Any suggestions? I would prefer something that isn't full of chemicals (figure I am getting my daily chemical allowance from the Philosophy pads), and no individual use/wipes stuff (want to keep it as eco-friendly as possible). I don't need a scrub, just a gentle face wash. Used Cetaphil in the past and for some reason it doesn't like me and I don't love it in return. Right now I am using Purpose and a travel sized bottle of Philosophy Purity Made Simple and neither is bad, but neither really makes me write home to mom. Your suggestions will be very welcome!

Friday through Tuesday

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 18:47:00 +0000

Friday was a casual day - I wore my yellow and gray striped cardigan from Gap with my white pima tank from Banana Republic, dark straight jeans from Not Your Daughter's Jeans and my black city boots from David Tate.

Saturday I went to a baby shower. I took Emerson so I knew I would be doing a lot of crawling on the floor after her so I wore my black pants from Semantiks, my teal shawl-collar sweater from Banana Republic, black city boots, and black demi cami from Second Base.

Sunday I went to a surprise birthday party, a casual affair where again I would spend a lot of time on the floor chasing after Emerson so I wore my black pima tan from Banana Republic, my taupe chunky cardigan from Ann Taylor, Seven jeans, and my multicolored scarf from Tolani.

Yesterday I worked from home the second half of the day and the first half I had to get my license renewed and go to the dentist (no cavities!). I wore my Seven jeans, a white ribbed tank and my navy shawl-collar sweater from Ann Taylor Loft and my Tolani scarf.

Back to work today:

Ivory wool pants from Talbots, blackberry dolman-sleeve sweater tunic from Ann Taylor Loft, ivory pashmina, silver chain from Ralph Lauren, silver cuff and hoops, gray shoes from Miz Mooz, and cute baby from mah belly!

Hair is second day. Yesterday I washed and conditioned it, added some heat protector (Tresseme), and then dried super fast because I was running late. Well yesterday it looked meh and today, even though the picture doesn't show it (hello messy bangs in first picture), my hair looks pretty nice. I am trying to grow it out and I have just gotten past the point of "weird shelf of hair at mid-ear because of bangs growing out" to "long layers." I still have bangs, but not as thick, and I really want LONG hair, as that I haven't had hair past my armpits since 2002.

Also, I forgot to mention, but I got my hair dyed last Monday. I have beent rying to hold out because I don't know exactly what I want to do with it, but I was getting roots and a TON of gray so I went to Kathleen at Bananas in College Park and asked for a single-process, "My color, except a hair darker, no red undertones." This is the result, which is pretty funny because now my sister and I have the same hair color. I don't know how long I can handle this hair, I wouldn't be surprised in a month or two that I go and ask for some highlights or lowlights for a big of interest, but for now it looks natural and healthy and shiny and NOT gray.

Makeup is pretty basic - Stila Illuminating Tinted Moisturizer, Laura Mercier Secret Camoflauge and Bronzer and lipstick in Pink Champagne, Revlon Colorstay shadow quad - the khaki and ivory blended on lids, Tarte Indelible Wink in Plum, DiorShow mascara, a touch of Nars blush in Orgasm.

Oh Ebates, How I Love Thee…

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 21:40:00 +0000

Think I mention Ebates enough on my blog? I don’t see how I can’t mention it enough for it is utterly fantastic.

The other day, Ebates sent me an iPod Shuffle in thanks for using them. Yeah, that means I use them a lot and am a bit addicted to their site.

For those who haven’t used Ebates, let me explain it so you can fully understand my obsession. You sign up, and you may get an email telling you that you are a member, but then you aren’t bombarded with emails, you don’t need to download a toolbar, you don’t need to harass the crap out of your friends, you don’t need to use a crappy search engine. All you do, it go to Ebates.com before you go shopping online. I use the search button on the top of the screen and type in the name of the store I want to visit. More often than not, Ebates is associated with my favorite online retailer. So then I click on the link they have on the screen to get to my online retailer, and I shop as normal.

The end.

This additional step of visiting Ebates before each online purchase takes maybe… 30 seconds? I can even keep a list of favorite retailers inside Ebates to make it even easier to find my stores.

Then a week or so later, I get an email telling me that because I visited Ebates for 30 seconds before visiting The Gap, Nordstrom, Drugstore.com, Diapers.com, Target online, Ann Taylor Loft, etc. I made money. Sometimes it’s 50 cents, sometimes it’s $5.00.

I delete the email, no need to track anything.

Then, four times a year a check comes in the mail. A legitimate check. No signing it, cashing it and being roped into some scam. Nope, a normal official check from Ebates for all that money I made from visiting their site for 30 seconds before going shopping online. This quarter, I received a check for $100.

$100. For spending 30 seconds at a site before going shopping.

Yeah, it’s pretty fantastic.

Now, do understand I do the majority of my shopping online. Other than groceries and a few speciality items, I do buy most things online. I work a lot of hours, I have a baby I want to spend time with when I am not at work. Life is easier for me if I shop on my lunch hour. I am a huge fan of sites like Drugstore.com where I can get toilet paper, eco-friendly dish washing liquid, Infant Motrin, Dr. Bronner’s soap, diaper cream, eye shadow and night cream overnight for free shipping. Sites like Diapers.com lets me get my favorite brand of cloth diapers, replacement nipples for Emerson’s bottle and even a new pair of shoes for her again with almost immediate and free shipping. And then by reading my blog you KNOW how I love Nordstrom, Sephora, and Beauty.com…

Ebates also has other ways of making you money, from referrals, to double cash back days, tracks coupons currently available for online retailers and more. And no contracts, no drama, no downloads, no pyramid schemes.

So anyway, I love Ebates. And if you haven’t signed up, I think you should because you too may end up feeling the love.

Tuesday through Thursday

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 18:45:00 +0000

Tuesday I wore ivory wool flannel trousers from Talbots, my black tank from Banana Republic, and my block ruffled-trim cardigan from Caslon. I wore a chunky short pearl necklace I bought at Ross back in college. Black city boots.

Wednesday, I wore my black trousers from semantiks, my teal shawl-collar merino sweater from Banana Republic, a black demi-cami from Second Base and my black city boots.

And here is today:

Yet again Cindy wants to get into the photo action!

I am wearing my black merino crewneck from Banana Republic, black pencil skirt from Ann Taylor, gray print scarf from a boutique in Rehoboth Beach, DE; dark gray Tight End Tights from Spanx and black "Maryland" tall boots from Ros Homerson. Silver hoops and cuff for accent.

My makeup is pretty basic - Stila Illuminating tinted moisturizer, Laura Mercier Secret Camoflauge and Bronzer, Tarte shadow in Sweet Valley High, Body Shop shadow in Soft Black, DiorShow mascara and Sephora lip gloss in Bronzed Beauty.

It has been a VERY busy week at work, but I have been good at bringing my own lunch and eating breakfast - saves dollars AND calories!

Friday through Monday

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 14:12:00 +0000

Happy Presidents Day everyone! My company doesn't have the day off, but I took it off because I had a lot of errands I needed to accomplish before 6pm. So I will be busy today!

Friday I finally got back into the office.

I knew I would still be tackling snow and ice, so again I rocked my Bern boots from DUO. With it are my straight leg jeans from Not Your Daughter's Jeans, my black berry dolman sweater from Ann Taylor Loft, gold necklace from Ann Taylor, gold earrings from Filene's Basement.

Makeup is Stila Illuminating tinted moisturizer, Laura Mercier bronzer, Sephora lip gloss in Bronzed Beauty, Revlon ColorStay shadow quad in Neutral Khakis - the khaki on the lid, Tarte Indelible Wink liquid liner in Plum with some Soft Black shadow from Body Shop over it, DiorShow mascara.

It took us two hours to get to work, usually a 45 minute trip in rush hour/30 minutes on days when school is not in session or it is a Federal holiday. Feds had to go to work two hours late, schools were closed but it was still major insanity. Luckily it wasn't a busy day in the office!

Saturday was a pretty chill day - that night we had a few friends over for drinks and merriment. I wore my black cowl-neck sweater from Ann Taylor with my Long and Lean jeans from Gap and similar makeup to above. Sunday we looked forward to a day of nothing and being together as a family. We did go out to dinner and I wore my black merino crewneck from Banana Republic and my gray flannel trousers from Ann Taylor with my black city boots.

Today I haven't gotten dressed to go out yet so I am in a white ribbed tank, black yoga pants and my gray fuzzy cardigan from Kenzie.

Will be back to work on tomorrow!

Tuesday

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 19:51:00 +0000

I tried to get to work today...

My sister and my offices were open and we had a lot of work to do so we headed to DC. For those who don't know, the DC area received up to 30" of snow over the weekend. Yesterday (and today) the Federal government was closed as were most school systems in the area. Yesterday my office was closed; my sister attempted to go in but the roads were so bad she turned around.

We got almost to the DC border and gave up and turned around. The roads were horrible and the drivers even worse. We came back to my house and made a makeshift workstation at my dining table.

All the necessities - cell phone, external hard drive full of music, lip gloss and baby monitor!

Anyway, today I put on a black scoop tee from Old Navy that I have had for about two years, my gray Caslon ruffle-trim cardigan, a few different silver chain necklaces, my dark Gap Long & Lean jeans, and my DUO "Bern" boots in tan (my makeshift snow boots). Black quilted coat from Lands End and berry colored scarf from Ann Taylor LOFT.

Hair was washed and dried pretty quickly. Makeup is Stila Illuminated tinted moisturizer blended with Estee Lauder Doublewear Light foundation, Laura Mercier Secret Camoflauge and bronzer, Lorac shadow in Serenity, DiorShow mascara, Sephora lip gloss in Precious Pink, Tarte Indelible Wink liner. It's far easier to work from home when I feel slightly sassy!

They expect another 10 - 20" in the next day or so. I may be hanging out at home for quite a while. In fact this attempt at going to work today (and a quick stop at Starbucks) was a welcome change for I was getting quite the cabin fever!

Wear to Shop for Size 16?

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 17:33:00 +0000

Hey readers, I thought you may be able to assist with this reader question:

"Allie, I know this is a huge request, but what brands/stores would you reccomend for a plus size (missy 16) women that aren't too expensive? I have a definite waist but a large stomach.

I'm just a SAHM, with dogs, so I don't need anything too fancy but I don't want to look schlumpy either."

This is not a huge request, for this is what I love to do (for those who don't know I have another blog - Wardrobe Oxygen where all I do is talk about style for women)!

Since having Emerson I hover between a 14 and a 16. I have a petite frame, so many plus size brands are too large for me in the shoulders, rise, length. This makes it terribly hard to find decent clothing. Many brands stop at 10, many brands have their size 14 and 16 just be larger versions of 8 (which means lots of gaping, bunching, sagging and overall poor fitting clothes), and petites are often TOO petite for me.

Stores I Frequent Because They Have Good Size 14 and 16 Clothing:
- Ann Taylor. Yes, Ann Taylor is NOT cheap, but they have ridiculous sales. When I enter their store, I go straight to the sale section. I have found $150 trousers for $29.99, cashmere sweaters for $40, and some of the best made tee shirts for only $9. You can't head to an Ann Taylor sale rack expecting to have success, but every time I do visit a mall, I stop in their Ann Taylor. You never know what you may find!

Another great thing about Ann Taylor is that their sizing is pretty consistent. If you try on a size 16 dress in blue at the store but wish for it in green, you can pretty much guarantee that if you order it online it will fit. They have a couple specific cuts of trousers in their stores, so if you know you fit great in their Signature cut, you can order it season after season online in new fabrics and slightly different leg openings.

The Ann Taylor Web site has a more extensive size selection than the stores (online they go up to size 18 and XXL in petite, regular and tall). I have found that Ann Taylor stores in metropolitan areas or large malls will have more of these sizes in stock (people will return unwanted online purchases). Also Ann Taylor is a retailer that still (usually!) has good customer service - befriend a sales associate, show that you are a serious customer, and they will be known to put things on hold in your size and call you when they are available.

By the way, Ann Taylor isn't all suits and cocktail dresses - I have found great jeans, tees, sweaters and casual knits at this store. Nine times out of ten, what I buy at Ann Taylor is still in great shape a couple years later so I find the quality and style timeless and worth it!

- Ann Taylor LOFT. Ditto everything previously stated about Ann Taylor... EXCEPT that they aren't as consistent with sizing (a 16 in one pant may not fit as well in another), and I haven't found as personalized of customer service in their stores.

I used to buy a lot from LOFT but these days I find the color schemes to not quite be my personal tastes, and their styles to not be as classic/clean as I like. However if you have a more sporty or feminine style you may have a ton of luck at LOFT.

- Gap. Gap is really wacky with their sizing, most things seem to run large. I have size 14 Long & Leans and they end up too big by the end of the day. Their petites are too short for me, their regulars too long, but I often find some true gems there, and they have a very extensive size range.

I like Gap because I can find basic pieces there and the quality is usually pretty decent. Recdently I have found some nice cashmere-blend cardigans in rich colors that did well in the washing machine on the gentle cycle and then hung overnight to dry. They always have cute knits that are more interesting than the boring tee shirt (right now they have two henley styles in stock that are cute, come in some fun colors and stripes, and look great with jeans or casual pants and a cami or tank underneath), and they are usually well made. And like Ann Taylor, Gap often has a goldmine of a sale department. Sometimes all you find are shell-pink colored XS tee shirts, but sometimes you will find an online return of a woman just your size and shape and end up grabbing five pieces for under $100.

Gap's Web site has even more sizes and styles, and they are always having some promotion for X percentage off or free shipping. Sign up for their emails and you will always be in the know when they are having a reat promotion - that is always when I stock up.

- Old Navy. I have a love/hate relationship with Old Navy. I have some things from there that I adore (yoga pants, a couple dresses, a pair of shorts) and some things I despise (pretty much anything I have ordered from their Web site over the past six months). That being said, Old Navy has a great range of sizes (especially online), they often take popular trends and make them budget-friendly, and they use simple fabrics which means they are kid-friendly, dog-friendly, and washing machine-friendly.

Old Navy has no consistency with sizing though. You could order 6 pairs of jeans in the same wash and size and they would all fit differently. You could order two of the same tee shirt in the same color, size and fabric and not only would they fit differently, one may be see-through and one may feel almost spongey because the knit is so thick. No rhyme or reason. It is truly hit or miss. That being said, they too often have great promotions and free shipping online so it's a great place to find cheap summer dresses, tank tops and loungewear that is fun looking and fits your size. And once in a while, you may find quite a gem.

- Caslon for Nordstrom. Nordstrom? That is NOT budget-friendly! However the Caslon brand at Nordstrom is quite reasonably priced and usually from very good quality materials. Caslon clothing comes in petites and plus sizes, and their sizing is pretty generous (I usually purchase a Large instead of an XL). Caslon makes simple pieces in rich colors that always have some little detail that keeps them from being boring. They also do a great job at taking current trends and making them wearable and budget-friendly.

The Caslon line is usually found on the second floor of your local Nordstrom store, and mixed in with other brands. I have had the best luck online because there is a more organized and extensive selection and more sizes available. Nordstrom is now offering reviews of their products so you can often find out from other customers how an item fits or feels.

I personally keep my shopping choices as simple as my wardrobe - searching high and low in various stores in the mall only makes me exhausted and feeling fat and awkward. I do a lot of online shopping so I can try items on with the wardrobe I already own, the proper shoes, the proper undergarments, flattering lighting. I am less likely to buy something out of desperation or frustration, and less likely to get home with buyer's remorse.

I do a lot of Virtual Window Shopping where I will look at an item, place it in the Web site's shopping cart and then leave it there for a couple hours or even a day or two. I will look at my current wardrobe and stop and think - will this work with what I have? Is this something I need? What are the washing instructions - will it sit in my trunk for three weeks until I get to the dry cleaners?

Once I have determined that I like it and think it will be a good purchase, I often look for the same item on other sites so I can see how it fits on differnt models. That which looks adorable and work-appropriate on one model may look tight and club-like on another. I also google the item because you can often find reviews on style blogs of a popular item from a store like Gap or J. Crew.

So readers, if you are a size 16, what are your favorite places to shop? Where do you have luck?

Friday

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 15:21:00 +0000

Today will probbaly be a short one, as that there is to be a major snowstorm in the DC area that will start around lunchtime. The Federal government (AKA most of my clients) is shutting down four hours early, so my afternoon assignments may be postponed. My boss said that once the snow starts to fall I can head home and work off my laptop if necessary. Anyway, I am rocking the red for National Wear Red Day!

For those who have been reading for a long time, you will recognize my red crepe jersey dress from Maggy London. This baby fit me in my first trimester (and a bit of the second) of pregnancy, the postpartum period, before Emerson was even a twinkle in my eye, and now. I love the fun pockets and how utterly comfortable it is. I am wearing it with my black tights (Spanx Tight End) and black patent Mary Janes from Mee Too. I am wearing a black elastic headband and decided to keep the red going with DuWop lipstick in Private Red (I paired with black liquid liner for a clean look).

So ladies, let me see your red! Let me see how you are showing your support and standing up against heart disease. Send me a comment or an email with a link to your blog post, a URL to your picture online, or whatever you have where you are supporting National Wear Red Day! I will update this blog post all day with the new links that I receive. Happy Friday everyone!

Fellow Fabulous Bloggers in Red:

- Becky at Gilding the Frilly

- Chelsea at Bright Side Dweller

- Evandine at Stumble into Style

- Fashionaddict at Fashion for the Economically Challenged

- Andie at What Andie Wears

- Laniza in Getting Fine in '09

Thursday

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 17:13:00 +0000

Gosh, I was running late this morning. I just wasn't feeling myself and had a hard time cracking down and staying on schedule. This is the "I didn't do my hair today" look - I let it air dry with a bit of Frederik Fekkai Luscious Curls and it ended a bit crunchy/product-y so I turned my head upside-down, blasted it with the dryer once dry, and scrunched a bit to break apart the crunchy curls. Two barettes/clips hold back the bangs. Not the best look for me, but better than crunchy bedhead!

Here I am at work just now. I am wearing my black ruffle-trim wrap cardigan from Caslon, an olive ribbed tank from J. Crew, two green beaded necklaces from New York & Company, my silver cuff, black trousers from Semantiks and my black city boots from David Tate. Again I am thankful for a small wardrobe so I can get dressed in such a jiffy. This outfit was literally chosen and put on in less than five minutes.

Wednesday

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 20:39:00 +0000

Last night it snowed. The world freaked out and most school systems were shut down. However it was maybe an inch or two, didn't get icy and was easy to brush off cars and drive over. I decided to wear my boots to work to protect against the slush.

I am wearing my newish black cowl-neck sweater from Ann Taylor, my black cami from Second Base, dark straight-leg jeans from Not Your Daughter's Jeans, my tan "Bern" boots from DUO. Brushed gold necklace from Ann Taylor and bracelet from Twisted Silver. And that is Cindy, one of our inherited/adopted dogs.

Here I am in the car on the way to work. My hair is second day, I used a round brush and dryer on parts to get rid of the bedhead. Stila Illuminating tinted moisturizer, Laura Mercier Secret Camoflauge and bronzing powder, Revlon ColorStay shadow quad in Neutral Khakis, DiorShow mascara, Nars lipstick in Dolve Vita with a bit of clear lip gloss from Smashbox over it.

Monday I wore my blue cowl neck merino sweater from Ann Taylor with my black pants from Semantiks. Yesterday I wore my black tank from Banana Republic, berry colored cardigan from Gap, gray flannel trousers from Ann Taylor, my gray funky shoes from Miz Mooz, and my black statement necklace from Ann Taylor.

Friday - Go Red for Women

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 23:15:00 +0000

This Friday, February 5 is National Wear Red Day. Stand up and speak against heart disease by wearing red this Friday.

I know I will be rocking the red this Friday - will you? Post a link in the comments to your blog or JPG of you rocking your stylish red and I will put it in my post this Friday. Lets band together as women and show our support.

Let's not stop with the Internet - Consider organizing a Wear Red Day at your workplace, with your faith-based organization, at your community center or even in your own home. Speak up. Inspire your friends, neighbors, coworkers and family members to show their support for the fight against heart disease!

For more information:
Go Red for Women - Official Facebook Page
National Wear Red Website
Go Red for Women Online Store
Donate to Go Red For Women

Oh Yes I Have Caught the Fever...

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 22:27:00 +0000

... and I am not ashamed to share it with my daughter.

And I KNOW many of you know what book this is. Hopefully some of you also know what CD cover she is holding as well.

I held off on reading this book for a very long time. My sister finally passed her well-worn and well-passed around copy to me. I started reading it and found it poorly written, juvenile, boring.

Then around page 120 I caught myself cheesing like a fool on the Metro. I was giddy, I was excited, and I secretly wished for a train delay so I could read for a little bit longer.

This weekend was full of soft knits and cozy sweaters - we hunkered down, stayed inside all weekend except for a few minutes where we took bundled Emerson outside to experience big fat fluffy snowflakes falling on her face.

Ebates - Save 20% at Old Navy

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 14:45:00 +0000

If you have been reading my blogs for a while, you know how much I love Ebates. Ebates is a site where you sign up for free, and if you shop through their site to popular retailers, you will get cash back, like a rebate. You can receive anything from 1% to 20% back on your purchases, which comes to you in an actual check four times a year. I have made over a thousand dollars with Ebates over the past two years - all my online shopping, be it with Gap, Drugstore.com, Diapers.com, Target, Ann Taylor, FTD, Nordstrom, even eBay I do first through Ebates.

Ebates also tracks many coupon deals on their site, so when you visit a shop's page on Ebates, you will also be notified of many promotions for discounts and free shipping that are taking place (I also visit retailmenot.com before checking out of any online shop to ensure I have the best coupons).

Well February 1-4, Ebates is offering 20% cash back on any purchases at Old Navy! This is after any coupons and deals you have for the store. You can't beat this deal!

Visit Ebates, sign up (if you haven't already) and save 20% on your purchases at Old Navy!

Thursday

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 15:03:00 +0000

Thursday was Bring Your Emerson to Work Day...

My husband and Emerson showed up right after the Webinar finished so I could give them a tour of my office (and show off my baby). I locked my computer and let her go crazy on the keyboard and she LOVED it. My husband brought me a gorgeous floral arrangement of roses and snapdragons (my favorite). We left work and went to our local sushi spot for Happy Hour:

Emerson loved the sushi rice and we also gave her some miso soup, and some avocado and cucumber rolls.

We came home, my sister came by a little later with carrot cake (another favorite) and we hung out for a bit until I was glamorous enough to fall asleep on the couch prior to 10pm.

It was a good birthday!

Happy Birthday to Me!

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 15:37:00 +0000

Today I am 35 years old, and I feel okay about it. This morning when I was struggling to find something fun and "birthday-like" in my wardrobe I did feel a bit matronly. I didn't like any of my clothes, my hair isn't acting nice, I feel as though I look... well like a 35 year old mom. But then I got dressed and my sister took me to Starbucks and we had a fun commute to work and now I am on a Webinar and being inundated with happy birthday messages on Facebook and in email and I feel so much better.

By the way, I am wearing my new black tank with ruffles on it from Ann Taylor with a black drapey cardigan from Ann Taylor from like a decade ago that I found on a shelf in my closet, my NYDJ jeans and a pair of pewter snakeskin pointy-toed pumps I bought on clearance from Nordstrom like a year ago but haven't had the situation or foot strength (I lost all my high-heel tolerance when pregnant) to rock. Well I am rocking them today and they make me feel less like a dumpy 35-year old mom and more like me.

So I indulged in a venti light java chip frappucinno which is helping me get through a very dry Web conference, and I look forward to seeing my husband and baby at 3:15 and an early release from work today. Thinking sushi for dinner...

Life is pretty darn great!

This Week...

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 11:27:00 +0000

Monday:
- Black cowl neck sweater from Ann Taylor
- Black pencil skirt, also from Ann Taylor
- Black cami from Second Base
- Black tall boots from Ros Homerson
- Gold "twig" bangles and a hammered gold knot necklace (both from... shocker... Ann Taylor). Wore the necklace under the cowl so it just peeked out a bit on the side
- Hair wavy/curly, slightly smoky eye

Tuesday:
- Teal shawl collar sweater from Banana Republic
- Black cami from Second Base
- Black trousers from Talbots (completely forgot I had these - put away my husband's dry cleaning and found them)
- Black city boots from David Tate
- Silver and green/blue cuff bracelet and earrings from Anne Koplik

Today:
Well I am right now with wet hair and in my husband's bathrobe but think I will be wearing my purple cowl neck sweater dress from Banana Republic and my black tall boots! Better hop to it, I need to leave in less than 30 minutes to be at work on time.

Tomorrow is my birthday, and I have an INSANE day at work that starts at 7am and ends around 6 or 7. Le sigh. My husband is hoping he can stop by later in the day after my first meeting is finished so he can show off Emerson and maybe take me to a late lunch. Best present ever! After a year, we have yet to bring Emerson to the office and my coworkers are constantly on me to meet her. Anyway, I am going to treat myself on my birthday to wearing jeans - very likely the new ones from Not Your Daughter's Jeans (man, if they WERE my daughter's jeans they would hardly fit my hand!).

New Additions...

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 22:10:00 +0000

While waiting for my sister to drive home on Friday (we commute to work together and we ended up leaving work at the same time Friday night) I stopped into Ann Taylor.

Added to the wardrobe:
- Fuzzy black cowl neck sweater (longer than my merino one, deeper cowl)
- Gray flannel trousers
- Black tank with ruffles on it (cute alone for a night out or under a cardigan or jacket for work or weekend)

All these items were on sale and I had a coupon for 30% off my purchase so it was $100 for all three. Not too shabby for really nice pieces that are quite versatile.

I also received a pair of dark straight leg jeans from Not Your Daughter's Jeans that aren't too bad. Very high rise and a bit too long, but I think they are quite flattering and I like the straight leg. Review soon. I also will soon be reviewing a cami I got from Second Base that I adore - wearing today and wore yesterday as well!

Saturday

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 22:07:00 +0000

Saturday I attended a baby clothing and goods swap in town so I wore my Long & Lean jeans from the Gap and a new black cowl-neck sweater I got off the sale rack at Ann Taylor on Friday night. Paired with black city boots and hoops.

Saturday night I went out with friends. I received a pair of Not Your Daughter's Jeans in a straight cut and very dark wash, black cami, my black ruffle cardigan from Caslon and a pair of gray shoes from... not sure the brand offhand but got at Nordstrom. Couple silver necklaces and silver hoops.

I thought it would be nice to have a picture of me pigeon-toed... too bad I didn't have any leaves to throw over my head...

Here's a closeup of my shoes...

And here's how I felt at the last of the night... designated driver and a babysitter made Allie a very happy gal!

Thank You

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 11:18:00 +0000

I cannot believe the wonderful comments you all have written with my recent post. Each time one would show up in my Inbox I would be near tears.

I considered ending blogging all together at the end of 2009 and then I saw Julie and Julia. That movie inspired this household - it got my husband making poached eggs for Sunday brunch, and me knowing I had to keep blogging, even though I just don’t feel as though I currently have the time or spirit.

I may be pretty quiet now, but do know that I am not leaving forever. I love blogging, I love fashion, and I love the friendships I have made with you readers. You all mean so much to me – I may not know you in real life, but I feel as though I know many of you too – through your blogs, through seeing your same screen names pop up in comments, even through recognizing your “voice” through comments over the years. I am honored to be read by you through the years and thank you for sticking with me.

I will “see” you soon!

My Current Wardrobe

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 11:11:00 +0000

My current work schedule is unpredictable – I am at work when a client needs me which means I sometimes leave the house at 5am. Having a baby who still nurses and a husband I would like to see when not comatose by my side in bed, it doesn’t give me much time to think about creative outfits. My wardrobe has become more and more simple, and has become smaller to make a quick morning getaway all the more simple and with less room for style error.

This is the collection I am currently working with:

Skirts and Pants:

1. Black pencil skirt from Ann Taylor. It is a petite so it hits right at the top of the knee. The fabric looks like suiting but has a bit of Spandex to it so it keeps shape all day and works with my curvy body.

2. Black wide-leg trousers from Semantiks by Nordstrom. Unlined, nice fabric that looks good for work but can also be a weekend look. Crease down the front, wide waistband that lies flat. Reviews online said the petite ran long which was just what I desired – I am not petite but I am not regular so this made the trousers a perfect length for a 2” – 3” heel.

3. Dark Long and Lean jeans from Gap. I have them in petite to wear with my Bern boots and Chucks, and regular length to wear with my black city boots and heels. These are the dark color with a hint of spandex. They stretch out over the day but shrink back up in the dryer and look nicer than regular jeans for work.

4. Stonewash jeans from Seven (don’t know style, got on sale at Filene’s Basement). Slightly vintage details and a little hole in the thigh, bootcut, bit of Spandex. These are my casual jeans. They are a bit long with low boots or sneakers, but it’s not too bad since they are casual weekend jeans and it adds to a vintage/hippie vibe that I like.

5. Ivory tropical-weight wool wide-leg trousers from Talbots. These are petites, which makes them a hair too short with my taller heels, but work with my black city boots. Wide waistband so it lies flat, crease down the front.

6. Black bootcut trousers from New York & Company. I don’t like these. They haven’t worn well, they are a bit lumpy looking and look as cheap as their price tag. They are last resort trousers and are only worn with a cardigan or sweater that can cover the hip area. I plan to donate these once I find a worthy alternative.

7. Charcoal wool/cotton blend trousers from Ann Taylor. These have a fine pinstripe that looks blue when paired with blue, gray when paired with other colors. These stretch out funny if I have a long day where I am sitting a long time. Don’t love, don’t wear a lot. Like best with my black turtleneck or teal shawl collar sweater because those are more fitted and hit on the hips in a place that hides the stretching out.

Tops:

1. Gap crewneck cardigans in dark purple (Purple Martin) and raspberry (Rose). These are currently in the stores – some have contrast ribbon at the placket. The dark purple one has a black and white stripe placket, the raspberry one has a tonal one.

2. Various ribbed tanks. I have three white ones, one black, one gray, one dark purple (same color as the Gap cardigan), one olive.

3. Refined pima cotton tanks from Banana Republic. I have one in white, one in black. These are really nice and could even be paired with a suit as a proper shell. They wash great, and are far more work appropriate than a basic ribbed tank.

4. Navy waffle-knit shawl collar sweater from Ann Taylor LOFT. LOFT fans probably would recognize this sweater from the fall/winter collection. It’s comfy, cozy, but the navy color and flattering neckline make it a pretty choice for weekends. I usually pair it with a white ribbed tank.

5. Black merino crewneck from Banana Republic. I have had this for years. It has Spandex in it which gives it a nice shape.

6. Black merino turtleneck from Ann Taylor. It’s a floppy turtleneck – sort of a blend between a turtle and a cowl neck.

7. Taupe chunky cable-knit sweater jacket from Ann Taylor. Was in the stores this season, it doesn’t have a closure, sort of a dolman style. I usually wear it on weekends with an ivory pashmina around the neck, ribbed tank and jeans.

8. Gray fuzzy Kenzie cardigan. Long-time readers would know this sweater as that I bought it last winter and rocked the heck out of it while pregnant. It is too big for work, but I do wear it on weekends with jeans, a ribbed tank and a bunch of chain necklaces for a boho vibe.

9. Heather gray ruffle-trim cardigan by Caslon for Nordstrom. This had a self-belt but it hit at a weird place so I snipped off the belt loops and wear it sans closure. It’s the same color gray as my gray ribbed tank so it makes a sort of twinset

10. Same cardigan, but petite and in black. The petite hits at the right place and looks sassy with the self belt tied in a bow, cinching the cardigan. This gives it a peplum look at the hips.

11. Ivory jersey tunic with print trim by Language Los Angeles. I have had this for several months and wore it on this blog before. I accidently had it go through the dryer and now it’s not as crisp as it was so it’s now a Casual Friday or weekend top.

12. Teal blue shawl collar merino sweater from Banana Republic. Pretty standard sweater, wear with a black camisole. Great color, was only $27 in the store on New Year's Day and I also had a 15% off coupon. Nice!

13. Indigo merino cowl neck from Ann Taylor. Has a slight teal/green tint so it contrasts enough to be paired with black.

14. Ivory Henley with taupe stripes from Gap. Not my normal color palette but I was drawn to it. A weekend top.

15. Pale yellow and gray striped v-neck cardigan from Gap. Gray is same color as my gray ribbed tank. Another item that is not my normal color palette but I like it.

16. Black cashmere puff sleeve sweater tee. I have had this for years, still rocking it from time to time.

Dresses:

1. Black matte jersey wrap dress from Old Navy. I have had this for years. Pretty standard.

2. Black jersey wrap dress from Talbots. I have had this for almost a year. A more flippy/feminine shape than the Old Navy dress.

3. Violet merino cowl neck sweater dress from Banana Republic.

4. Black ponte a-line dress from Muse. It has a print of peacock feathers on it. Too short for work, but fabulous for play. Wear to parties, to a rehearsal dinner, Date Night, etc.

5. Black matte jersey sleeveless surplice neck dress from Ann Taylor. Basic cocktail/wedding guest dress

6. Black matte jersey maxi dress from Calvin Klein. This was my Matron of Honor dress for my friend’s wedding in September. I then wore it in November for another wedding with gold sandals and big earrings. I wore the same look this very month for my company’s holiday party.

Footwear:

1. Black city boots from David Tate

2. Tan “Bern” boots from DUO

3. Black classic lowrise “Chucks” from Converse

4. Black patent round-toe Mary Jane pumps from Mee Too

5. Black leather tall “Maryland” boots from Ros Hommerson

6. Black leather delicate strappy kitten heel slingbacks from Banana Republic

As you see, it’s a pretty simple palette – not a lot of frou frou but nice pieces that work well together. I can wear the black ruffle-trim cardigan with my black skirt and tall boots and have a look that works for a casual client meeting; wear it with a white ribbed tank, dark jeans and black boots with necklaces for a trip to the mall; with a ribbed tank, casual jeans and chucks for hanging out at my friend’s house.

And you know me, tons of accessories. Scarves, necklaces, earrings, belts, tights, a funky printed clutch for evening. Totally transforms basics.

Note: I still have lots of other clothes that you have seen, but I have packed them up or put them at the back of the closet because right now they don't fit my body or don't fit my wardrobe. I just don't want them cluttering my space or mind when I am short on time.

What I would love to add to my wardrobe:

1. A pair of more rigid dark jeans with a straight cut

2. A new pair of black city boots with a sleeker heel and more sleek toebox

3. Another pima tank from Banana Republic in another neutral like dove gray

4. A dark denim pencil skirt

5. Another dress or two that has a more casual shape to it. Something to replace my short-sleeved merino dresses from Banana Republic (still have but are a bit tight right now). Optimum would be something of ponte in charcoal or a dark color like hunter or burgundy with an a-line silhouette and elbow-length sleeves.

6. Another sweater in a pretty color like candy pink or purple. Surplice neckline, deep cowl, some interesting neckline. A sweater I can wear with a skirt or trousers to work, or with jeans on weekends

7. Black sequined tank. Rock it alone with jeans, under my ruffled cardigan… something to jazz up what I already own

8. A black silky jersey blouson top – something maybe off the shoulder, drapey, slight shine to the fabric. A top I can wear with jeans and boots and some big silver hoops for a night out on the town, or even dress up with black trousers and pretty heels

9. Black leather platform peeptoe heels. Can wear now for a night out, can wear in spring to work as well as to play.

10. A silky jersey top with interest. Something with puffed sleeves, a wrap style, ruffle trim, pretty neckline or combo of these. In teal or berry or candy pink or jade. Something I could wear to work with a cami or out on the town.

Today is Friday, and I am wearing my black merino turtleneck, my Seven jeans, black city boots and a long necklace made of silver chain and an occasional big pearlized yellow bead (sort of looks like some type of stone but I think it’s just plastic), silver cuff bracelet, subtly smoky eyes, glossy pinky brown lips and hair wavy and casual. Can’t take a picture because all of the upstairs is dark – it is still dark outside and my husband and Emerson (and two of the dogs) are still asleep.

This weekend I have plans to go out with friends – it is my birthday next week, it was my sister’s birthday this week and our good friend’s birthday was on the 10th of this month. Not sure yet what I will wear, as that it’s not really peacock-print dress sort of locations… more like a jeans sort of evening. I may do the black ruffle-trim cardigan, the black pima tank and some fun silver jewelry and a smoky eye. If I get pictures from the night I will be sure to post!

Why I Don’t Write Here…

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 13:20:00 +0000

I still love fashion. I still find it terribly important to care about what you look like. I still feel that every woman can be stylish regardless of size, shape, age, budget or lifestyle. I still feel that more women who are my shape and are my income level should have style blogs.

But I am just busy… and I am uninspired.

When I started this blog, it was just for me – to make sure I didn’t wear the same suit when I saw a business client a second time, that I didn’t wear my pink J. Crew merino sweater two times in the same week. And then it caught on. And then MSNBC and other big sites found me and linked to me and for a while I had thousands of readers every single day.

Around that time was when I realized that I wasn’t all that special here at my blog. When I started in 2005 it was kind of a novel idea. I wasn’t famous, I wasn’t thin, I wasn’t a style icon. But now, well there are millions of us out there.

And I don’t have the time to keep up a cool looking blog template. I don’t have the time to set up my tripod and timer and take pictures of me twirling around on my back deck or throwing leaves over my head in the neighborhood park, or look forlornly at my vintage boots on a city street. I don’t have time to them Photoshop the hell out of said photos to make them look like wee little works of art, showing the detail in the lace of my thrift store frock, or the buttons on my designer coat.

I don’t have the time to contact companies and encourage them to send me swag so I can review it. I don’t have the time to take the swag that I do already receive and properly review it, posting about it and making plenty of little hyperlinks to give that company their much-deserved SEO. And honestly, I am not interested in a bunch of new makeup or hair products – I don’t have the time to play with products I can’t use easily and quickly on a daily basis. It’s clutter that fills my dressing table and bathroom and eventually a landfill.

There are two types of personal style blogs – the good ones and the crappy ones. And really, even if the person has great and real style and a gorgeous real body, if they have dark crappy photos and a cluttered dated template, I don’t like to go visit. And it sucks, because those who usually have the time to make their blogs all so purty… well they aren’t usually the type who have real bodies, real budgets, real lives. And a lot of personal style bloggers have become far too self-important. None of us are perfect. And really, any outfit can look utterly charming or chic with the right poses and lighting and crap.

So I will keep writing at this blog, but I won’t have my daily looks very often because I need my time for sleep, for work, for snuggling with my baby. For cleaning my house, cuddling with my husband, spending time in the real world with real people doing real things.

And if you want some inspiration from real women who do style blogs well (and actual style), I encourage you to visit, subscribe and comment at:
Already Pretty
Fashion for Nerds
Academichic
Fashion Hayley
Fab Finds Under $50
Oranges and Apples
Clothed Much
Work With What You’ve Got
Cuffington
Budgetnista
Frocks & Frou Frou
Euro Chic
Fashion After 40
Things a Boutique Owner Sees

Tuesday Cheating

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 16:34:00 +0000

We are not supposed to wear denim to work except on Fridays. Lately I have been cheating because, A. I only own like two pairs of trousers that currently fit and one is Dry Clean Only, and B. I work on the 9th floor (execs and 90% of the company is on the 7th floor) and sit behind two computers all day so like a newscaster, no one sees me from the waist down.

Today is a cheating sort of day. I wore my black pants yesterday (blackj New York & Company trousers with blood orange scoop necked fine gauge scoopneck sweater from Lands End and olive and silver bead necklace also from NY&Co) and I am not in a dress mood (or living in dress weather right now - Brrrr!).

I didn't take a picture because I haven't figured out yet how to take a picture in my house while it is still dark out without waking a baby or a husband. When I figure it out, I will resume with regular full-length photos. But here I am just five minutes ago at my desk:

And yes, I did whip out my cosmetic bag to reapply my lipstick before shooting the picture! The evidence is sitting right on my desk!

Anyway, today I am wearing a navy waffle-knit shawl-collar sweater from Ann Taylor LOFT that I got on clearance AND with a store credit (more on that in a bit), my Seven jeans (no clue the style, they were on sale, they are stretchy, they have a fake scratch/tear in them at the right knee that is big enough for me to fiddle with during a boring meeting but small enough that I don't look like Lita Ford), my Bern boots from DUO (under the jeans - jeans not tight enough and boots not dark enough for the tuck-in look). Around my neck is a silver chain with my wedding band (nope, haven't gotten it resized yet), wearing silver hoops and my silver cuff.

Makeup is a blend of Stila Illuminating Tinted Moisturizer and Estee Lauder Nutritious foundation (the combo gives me a sheer look but isn't too pale or too dark - really trying to use what I have on hand), Laura Mercier Secret Camoflauge, Nars blush in Orgasm and a touch of Laura Mercier Bronzer over it. On eyes is my beloved Revlon Colorstay shadow quad in Neutral Khakis - khaki on the lid, brown in the crease and along lash lines. I splurged this holiday season and went back to DiorShow for my mascara. I had bought L'Oreal Voluminous but it dries out quickly, clumps the first week or two, dries out my lashes and just doesn't offer the same OOMPH of DiorShow. Anyhoo, that with a Shu Eumura lash curler is my fave combo by far. On lips is Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey.

As for the hair... well yesterday I decided to straighten it with my Croc wet-to-dry flat iron. I thought it looked flat but got lots of compliments, even from my shy male new colleague. Hrm... well today it is "second day hair" so I just took big sections and twirled them around my Vidal Sasson curling iron for fine hair and then held it with a couple blasts of Elnett. It looked fabulous, but then I decided to try on my new hat from LOFT and really jacked it up (while realizing I only should wear hats when it is super duper cold out - I am not a floppy beanie sort of gal).

So anyway... my frugal tip for the day:

TAKE IT BACK!

I worked a decade in retail, and I hated hated HATED returns. Man, you would get people who would pull the DREGS out of their closet, bring it to the store and we had to accept it (one reason why return policies in stores have gotten far more tough - that and shoplifting and returning...).

However, I do returns. If I buy something and it breaks or doesn't turn out well after following the laundry directions to the letter, I return it. If I get buyer's remorse, I return it. And if I decide to clean out my closet during my holiday staycation and I find a pair of chinos and two sweaters I ordered from LOFT this past Spring with the tags still on and also find the shipping receipt... I return it. And I did return it and ended up with enough store credit to get myself a lovely berry-colored cable knit scarf, a matching beanie, and the sweater I am wearing today.

I also went through my closet and found a bunch of stuff I could return to Nordstrom - shoes I haven't worn, dresses with tags still on them, makeup still in the packaging. Things I bought over the year in an attempt to feel better with retail therapy. Luckily with Nordstrom, there isn't a time limit so these returns go straight back into my bank account. I received two items as gifts that I did NOT like and didn't open so I returned to Sephora for a lovely store credit. I also found a top I got at Old Navy that I didn't like - it had been less than 45 days and I took it back to the store for a refund back on my card.

"But it was only ten bucks!"

"I feel like a jerk"

"It's my fault for buying it in the first place"

"What a PITA to go back to the store"

"Ugh, I don't want to pay $5.95 to send it back"

The thing is, ten bucks is ten bucks. If you saw a kickass cashmere sweater and it was $10 off, wouldn't you be happy? Then return that silly top you picked up at Old Navy/Forever 21/H&M/Wal-mart that doesn't fit right, looks a bit cheap but was only $10. And use that $10 toward something really of value.

Yes, salespeople at stores HATE returns because it affects their bonuses, their sales, their standing with the company, yadda yadda. But a good salesperson doesn't roll her eyes at you and get nasty when you come to the counter - a good salesperson will be sweet as pie and figure out a way to make that return an exchange (or at least convince you to return and shop another time). And yes, it may cost to return and online purchase, but it's better to lose $5.95 for shipping than lose $12.95 on a stupid top you will maybe wear once.

FYI: USPS will do free pickups right to your front door. You can register carrier pickups online. This makes many returns much easier to swallow - no need to stand in line at the post office or drag that box to your place of employment!