Weekend Reads

What's going on in Gary, Indiana? How thousands are still without power nearly 2 weeks later. (NBC Chicago)

Forbes Fired Top Editor After Discovering He Received Secret $6 Million Payment. (New York Times – gift link)

Loving the Awe Inspired x Practical Magic 2 jewelry collection!

Where did all the XXL clothes go? Fashion brands are scrapping plus sizes in the GLP-1 era. (The Guardian)

The clothes you donated are ready to be recycled, but the system in between is not yet. (Futures, Worn on Substack)

This would be so pretty now and into fall… and code ALISON10 gets you 10% off!

Puerto Rico is rationing water, but many residents stopped trusting the tap long before the drought. (The Conversation)

I’m Not Going to Lie About My Neck. (New York Times – gift link)

For those who prefer cotton underpinnings, did you know Hanky Panky has a Supima cotton collection? I shared why Supima is supreme in this article about fast fashion and price.

Mail-Order Music Club Columbia House Is Ceasing Operations. (Consequence)

We Tracked a Shipment of Rare Books. It Ended at an Amazon AI Training Facility. (404)

Your Favorite Old T-Shirt Might Now Be Worth a Fortune. (Wall Street Journal – gift link)

Why does everything feel like a scam? (Your Brain on Money on Substack)

OMG, I think I need to get a pair for Em; her generation is SO into this show!

Power belongs to those who control access: Edith Wilson by Rebecca Boggs Roberts. (In Pursuit on Substack)

They Divorced. Years Later, They Married Each Other Again. (New York Times – gift link)

I Was a Writer Before I Became Content. (Anything But Subtle on Substack)

Brands Suddenly Care About Reddit. Redditors Don’t Return the Feeling. (Wall Street Journal – gift link)

Is the World Getting Uglier? (Time)

Stormy Morse lost two partners to gun suicide. Then the NRA came to collect. (The Trace)

Did you know that a law buried in a government spending bill is set to make 95% of existing hemp-derived THC products federally illegal on November 12th? (source) Industry groups estimate $28 billion in annual market value and 300,000+ jobs are at risk. Hemp-derived THC products are used for a multitude of reasons; I know folks who use them for appetite during chemotherapy, sleep during perimenopause, and for chronic pain as well as for social, spiritual, etc.

If you believe hemp-derived THC products should remain legal with proper regulation, let your congressional representatives know. Cann Social Tonics created Don't Ban Cann, a site that helps you with contacting your representative.

Style Inspo & Sale Alert

Style Inspo

The casual pant goes in and out of fashion. An alternative to jeans, it can be a welcome change. But with casual pants, the silhouette matters more than with denim; one false move and you look as though you just got off your shift at Blockbuster.

Top row, left to right: one | two | three (code ALISON15 for 15% off) | four
Bottom row, left to right: one | two | three | four (link to petites)

This year, the casual pant is back and it's a utility pant with volume. Barrel legs, full cropped legs, or just a slouchy 90s silhouette is key. Shades of olive, rust, and slate are the most popular and IMO the most versatile options.

On top, you can do a graphic or striped tee, a lighter-weight sweater tucked in or a chunkier one that is shorter and hits just around the waistband. These pants also look great with button-front shirts; half tuck, cuff the sleeves, unbutton one extra button at the neck. Pair with sneakers, loafers, structured flats, Birkenstock sandals, and come fall with a lug-sole lace-up or Chelsea boot.

Sale Alert

Through August 28, ELEMIS has 25% off sitewide with code FF25. You also get a free 5-piece gift ($119 value) with $145+ purchase. And if you spend $240+ you also receive The Lymphatic Brush, bringing the total gift value to $197! This continues to be one of my favorite SPF moisturizers.

We've talked in the Facebook group about Universal Standard giving us whiplash with the sale after sale, but I think this one is worth it if it's a category you like: The stretch linen is at least 50% off, if not more. Now, this is a final sale, but it's also end of the season and Universal Standard removes linen from its site until one weekend full-price preview in spring and then the full launch at the beginning of summer. So if you already know you like it, you know how it fits, you want to prepare for next year or live in a tropical locale… this is the sale for you. For reference, here is my Universal Standard stretch linen review.

I feel so bougie, but we got L'AVANT laundry detergent and all-purpose cleaner and the stuff is goooood. No fakey heavy fragrances, enzyme-based cleaning, even K the fragrance-adverse is now a fan. And purchases $100+ get a free multipurpose cleaner!

See/Hear/Read

See

We began watching The Shards (Hulu), a Ryan Murphy production based on Bret Easton Ellis' book of the same name. We've only seen one episode so far. We hate it, but we want to know what happens next.

No surprise, it's like Less Than Zero Lite. Homer Gere wishes he was James Spader; Kaia Gerber wishes she was Jami Gertz. I think Igby Rigney is more… correct than Andrew McCarthy, who always seemed confused and dazed in his roles.

The early 80s fashion/music/decor is pretty on point, but it so makes me realize this is for GenZ what shows like Happy Days or The Wonder Years were for me. Am I a cast hater because I grew up on the Brat Pack, or are they really the made-for-TV kind of actors they feel like in Episode 1? We shall see, because we will be watching more this weekend.

We finished the series, Lucky, on Apple TV. Starring Anya Taylor-Joy, Annette Bening, Timothy Olyphant, and a bunch of other famous faces, this just missed for me. It tied up in a nice bow at the end, but there were a lot of times I was rolling my eyes and just not completely understanding why the script was written in the way it was. It focused too much on the action and not enough on the story so you didn't leave really caring who lived or died.

And then because this is the kind of stuff I always focus on… Taylor-Joy cutting off her hair and bleaching it blonde… I get it because it looks cool, but honestly brown would have made far more sense (and some bangs). And Bening's character… I couldn't figure out what kind of person she was. Clearly wealthy, but she did things like really visible lip liner and her suit in the last scene just didn't seem like something she'd wear. The whole thing felt like a 70s-esque action movie, but made with Rivians and smartphones.

Finally, we watched Tow, a 2025 film starring Rose Byrne. This is based on a true story of Amanda Ogle, a Seattle woman living in her car who has her car stolen and towed and then charged with the tow bill. She couldn't afford the bill, she fought the towing company, and eventually won.

But this went for well over a year, and it really shone a light on problematic fines and predatory towing companies. Ogle was featured in this article in The Seattle Times, which inspired this film adaptation, and the real Amanda Ogle is seen at the end of the film.

This was a charming film, with an incredible cast. Octavia Spencer, Demi Lovato, Ariana DeBose, Corbin Bernsen… I could go on. You will see many familiar faces and unlike Lucky, there is great character development where you really get to understand and connect with them.

Hear/Read

I began listening to Nightbitch by Rachel Yoder… and it's not a book I want to listen to. It's a book I want to read, and maybe highlight and underline and dog-ear and write in the margins and then pass it on to my daughter well after she either decides to have kids and they're in school, or she decides otherwise.

If you've read this book, you likely understand why I feel this way. Wow, do they read this in Women's Studies college classes? Because I feel this should be in the same curriculum as The Yellow Wallpaper and The Awakening.

So I switched directions and began Strangers: A Memoir of Marriage by Belle Burden. I read the other “rage bait” book of 2026, and when Libby made this one available, I figured why not? It's much easier to listen to, and I can do it at 1.45x speed and not finding it frantic. So far I am not ragey but I feel I am getting close to the point where one may start questioning or getting ragey (I'm 40% through).

Katie is a 14/16, 5'1″ grown woman living in the southern part of the U.S., so I found her to be the perfect person to review some summer dresses from Pact apparel. Katie got to pick the dresses of her choice from a lookbook provided by Pact through ShopMy, and I also paid her a fair wage for her thoughts.

Pact Apparel Dress Review on a Petite Midsize Woman

As an ex-Virginian living in Texas, I know a thing or two about dressing for the summer heat.  Beginning each May, I gravitate toward natural fibers like cotton, linen, and blends. That’s why I was so excited to try dresses from Pact. Pact promises organic, sustainable cotton clothing at reasonable prices. Out of the three Pact dresses I tried, two of them are keepers for me.  

I’m a 40-year-old woman who, at 5’1” tall, sometimes has a hard time finding clothing that fits my height. Pact offers several lengths in their dresses, though I expected some would probably be a little long on me. I wear a 14-16 or XL in most brands.

Using Pact’s size chart, I ordered three different silhouettes in size XL. Aside from the dress lengths (more on this later), I found the size chart to be accurate. I also washed and dried all three dresses according to their laundry instruction before reviewing, because I bet we’ve all been burned by cotton garments that shrink in the wash!

Organic Fit & Flare Open Back Maxi Dress

I’m not one to buy a dress I can’t wear a bra with, and you won’t find me in a strapless bra or boob tape. But the Organic Fit & Flare Open Back Maxi Dress caught my eye because it has a built-in bra, one of several Pact dresses that offers this feature. My DD breasts don’t sit as high as a younger woman’s might, and because of this I found the built-in bra to give me a bit of a uni-boob. I wore it with silicon nipple covers and that helped the shape a bit. However, the bra situation was the only negative I could find with this dress. 

Soft, stretchy cotton fabric makes this maxi as comfortable as it is elegant. It’s long on me, given my short stature, but it doesn’t brush the ground, even in flats. The fit-and-flare cut is flattering, and the side pockets are at a great spot. They don’t interrupt the flow of the dress. The back offers some interesting detail while providing a little bit of coverage, so you’re not showing your entire back.

This was my favorite of the three Pact dresses I tried. The silhouette and the print made me feel feminine and pretty, and I see it getting a lot of use for evenings out.

One thing to note is that despite Pact’s cotton-forward messaging, this dress is not 100% cotton (unlike the other two dresses in this review). It’s a jersey blend with 95% organic cotton and 5% elastane.  

Organic Soft-Slub Essential Easy Muscle Tee Maxi Dress

I love a sleeveless top or dress. Part of the reason I chose the Organic Soft-Slub Essential Easy Muscle Tee Maxi Dress was because I wanted to be able to wear some of the Pact dresses to work, and I couldn’t do that with a strappy or backless dress. This sleeveless cut is acceptable for my workplace, but it wasn’t my favorite dress to wear.

There aren’t a lot of interesting features on the garment that caught my eye, which makes it a blank slate for styling. That might be a plus for some folks, but I don’t wear a lot of accessories so I expect my clothing to be a little more interesting. I belted the dress to fit my style a bit more as I prefer tops that define my waist a bit more.

The Organic Soft-Slub Essential Easy Muscle Tee Maxi Dress doesn’t have pockets, but it does have a side slit that makes that dress feel a bit more playful. The loose fit and cotton fabric makes this dress extremely comfortable and easy for a weekend wear. I’m just not sure if it will get much use in my closet. 

Organic Coastal Double Gauze Boho Midi Dress

Cotton gauze is a quintessential summer fabric for good reason. It breathes well and flows beautifully, and it usually doesn’t require much work with a steamer. Out of this order, I was most excited to try the Organic Coastal Double Gauze Boho Midi Dress because it feels very much my style.

The cotton gauze feels lovely and it washed up well. However, the length of this dress gave me Handmaid’s Tale vibes. Because I’m short, I don’t expect dresses to hit me exactly where they do on the model, but I couldn’t believe it was supposed to be a midi dress! On someone of my height, it was a full maxi dress length. 

Aside from the length, I loved the other features of this dress. The elastic at the waist is defining without being too tight, and the sleeves are a perfect length for me. You can tie a bow in the neckline or leave it open for a more casual look. And of course–there are pockets! Once I hem this dress to hit just above my knees, it will be great for work or for low-key summer get-togethers. 

Overall, I loved the chance to try these three dresses from Pact and give the brand a try. All three fabrics feel nice to the touch, and the construction of the dresses looks high quality. Because they also washed up so well, I think they’ll last me through the long Texas summer, and then some!

FAQ

Woah, Nellie. Buying a fitness gift can feel like holding a ticking timebomb. But when you're in midlife, you know fitness isn't about looking a certain way, but feeling a certain way. Keeping up that bone density, keeping the ability to get up from the floor unassisted, keeping those blood tests in the green, and making the second half of our life as comfortable as possible.

In midlife, we may be just starting a wellness routine, trying something new to work on that neuroplasticity (or to protect our knees), or willing to try new gear to switch up a lifelong love and embrace current technology. In midlife, a fitness gift can be a really thoughtful, and really appreciated gift… if you give the right one. And that's why I'm glad you're here

My husband is over 50 and a lifelong fitness enthusiast. A certified personal trainer, yoga instructor, and nutritional coach, he loves to research fitness and wellness and recovery like I like to research fashion and shopping. He runs, he rucks, he bikes, he hikes, he lifts weights, does functional movement, yoga, and mixed martial arts.

I am a person who found the joy of movement in the second half of life. Short, soft, curvy, and GenX, I always saw exercise as something I couldn't do, or something I had to do to change my appearance. Not until my 40s did I realize I could find joy in it, and focus on how it changed me from within. I used to go to a gym but now workout at home: on-demand classes, a rowing machine, a few weights, and a pair of comfy sneakers help me achieve my regular goals though I do love a good hike, kayak, or group class.

Together, we made this gift guide. We believe that fitness in midlife is about finding comfort and joy in the here and now. It doesn't have to cost a lot of money or take a lot of time, and it can happen right where you are now with the body you have now. The strongest and most badass thing we can do is show up. If you're looking for a gift for that strong badass person in your life, or you're the strong badass person, I hope you find this gift guide helpful!

Fitness Gifts for Grown-ass Women and Men and Them

This gift guide has been completely updated for 2026 with the latest and greatest for all levels of athlete or joyful mover. With a focus on comfort, recovery, and protection, this gear and these gadgets can help you achieve your goals in midlife and beyond.

Recovery and Self-Care Gifts

A true athlete knows recovery is as important as the workout. These gifts will help heal, soothe, relax, and recover after workouts and help get you in the right mindset for your fitness journey.

Old Bones Therapy Compression Knee Sleeve

It's not fun getting older, but it's even worse if we ignore when our joints are talking/screaming at us. Old Bones Therapy makes compression garments and gear for us grown-ass folk but makes it badass enough to rock with pride. Available in sizes Y-XXL, this compression knee sleeve includes patella shaped gel pad for maximum joint and kneecap stabilization. Medical grade compression increases circulation, muscle endurance and promotes faster recovery times. Having a secure and protected knee leads to increased confidence and better performance.

Click to Shop

Healpark Hemp Cream

This isn't a glamorous gift, but once it's used, you will be thanked a thousand times over. Hemp applied topically can help with pain and muscle stiffness and strain, but not all hemp creams are created equal. This stuff from Healpark is the GOAT. It's creamy and moisturizing, but be careful where you apply it as it has menthol. This gets in deep thanks to the menthol, but the other ingredients will really help with reducing inflamation, pain and stiffness. I apply it to my knees before workouts, and our family use it for everything from sore feet after a hike to period cramps. We have tubs of this all over the house, and when one is half empty we reorder to never be without.

Click to Shop

Stainless Steel Muscle Scraper Tools Set

My husband got himself this set and I rolled my eyes. I've tried gua sha, and I saw this essentially as fancy gua sha for the body. Dude, just use the foam roller and the theragun you already have! But folks, this set is AH-MAY-ZING. First of all, these tools are heavy, and well formed without any rough edges. The curvy one is amazing for getting that spot on your neck and shoulders, and also works well on the face and scalp. The grip one is excellent for quads and calves. But the banana shaped one is my personal favorite as I use it on my FEET.

I carry tension in my feet and I can gently glide this on the top of my feet and feel my toes relax, and then use more pressure on the bottom of my feet. The edges I'll use to get into nooks and crannies and I can feel the fascia breaking up. My toes relax, my feet stop hurting, it's like my feet take a deep sigh of relief. We keep these on the end table in the living room and use them when watching TV at night.

Click to Shop

LARQ Bottle PureVis™

Have you read the studies about the mold and funk that lives in our water bottles? The LARQ Bottle PureVis™ is the world's first self-cleaning water bottle and water purification system. It uses PureVis technology to eliminate up to 99%* of bio-contaminants such as E. coli from your water and bottle. My husband has one of these and loves it and it has held up beautifully.

Click to Shop

Acupressure Recovery Toe Socks

We strengthen our arms, chest, back, and legs at the gym. But our hardworking feet? Well, they're easy to overlook. These toe socks feature exclusive design elements said to help reset feet at the end of a long day or grueling workout. Sizes S-XL fit women's size 5 to men's size 13.

Click to Shop

BlenderBottle Strada Sleek Stainless Shaker Bottle

Have you ever examined the inside of your plasstic shaker bottle used for protein shakes and preworkouts? Good chance it's all scraped up from the stainless shaker bottle rubbing against it over and over, and those little scrapes of plastic are going right into your drink and your mouth. On top of that, plastic holds smells and you soon will be having every single beverage smell like your preworkout. Stainless doesn't shed, it insulates, and it doesn't harbor smells but with the Strada from BlenderBottle you still get the design and reliability from a brand you trust. The Strada Sleek holds 25 oz. but fits comfortably in the snuggest car cup holders and it's easy to buy replacement caps.

Click to Shop

Ninja Blast™ Portable Blender

In perimenopause, I began looking for ways to add more protein into my diet. I found making a smoothie with some fruit, greens, ice, and protein powder was tasty, but it was such a mess with my big blender. My husband got me this one year as a birthday present and I am in love. It is so convenient, I even take it on travel. It's cordless, it crushes ice and frozen fruit like a boss, and it's easy to rinse clean. This is also a really great gift for high school grads and college students.

Click to Shop

OOFOS Recovery Slides

In mens and womens sizes, these slides are like a spa day for your feet. After a day running or hiking, or just wearing uncomfortable shoes, some time in OOFOS recovery slides will have your feet feeling like new. My husband and I both have pairs; I appreciate that my wide feet fit into them and he appreciates they are available up to size 14.

Click to Shop

Strength Training and Home Gym Gifts

There's no place like home... and in midlife you may not have the time, the funds, or the desire to leave it to get in your workout. This gear will help you create or improve a home gym that focuses on quality not quantity, success without requiring a new wing of your home.

Kettle Gryp®

Kettle Gryp® is a portable adapter that turns ordinary dumbbells into dynamic workouts. For those who have smaller home gyms, like to workout on travel, or want to try out kettlebell workouts before investing in a kettlebell, this gadget will turn any free weight of most any style into one.

Click to Shop

TRX YBELL®­ NEO SERIES

An alternative for the person trying to create a home gym with the least amount of gear is the TRX YBell. YBell NEO is the stackable, space-saving weight that can be used as a dumbbell, kettlebell, dual-grip med ball, and push-up stand. Whether you’re lifting, HIITing cardio drills, or perfecting yoga poses, YBell is your multi-tasking training partner. Change your grip to change your equipment, no matter what type of workout. Available im weights from 2.4 lbs to 26 lbs each.

Click to Shop

Hex Dumbbell Set

During the pandemic, I ordered this exact weight set. And it continues to be pretty much all I need for my Peloton app strength classes (I just recently stepped up to sometimes using my 25-lb kettlebells for specific moves). My husband only uses the 20-lb weights and has great looking arms. You don't need a lot to get started, and this set will cover you from beginner to upper-intermediate home weight training.

Click to Shop

Jayflex Hyperbell Bar

If your loved one's home gym needs an upgrade, and they are looking to do barbell squats or other barbell exercises, they may appreciate the Hyperbell from Jayflex. It's actually on my own wish list! It takes the dumbells you already own and turn them into a barbell with a snap and click method that is easy to set up and take down. Perfect for those low on space or wanting to get the most with the least amount of equipment!

Click to Shop

Bellabooty Belt

Maybe you're looking to up your home gym game, maybe you're looking to up the capabilities of the gym you have access to, maybe you wish to do hip thrusts without using the barbell. Whatever the reason, you may be interested in th Bellabooty Belt. The Bellabooty Belt is the most comfortable and efficient way to hip thrust. With soft, slip-resistant padding and the strength to hold up to 400lbs, the Bellabooty Belt will help you feel confident, comfortable and safe when building your booty.

Click to Shop

Cardio, Outdoor, and Active Lifestyle Gifts

Running, biking, hiking, kayaking, and enjoying an active lifestyle outside is more enjoyable when you have the right gear. And in midlife, your needs may be different than younger athletes. From helping you get on the trail to making your miles more comfortable, these are the items that will help you achieve your goals.

Closca Foldable Bike Helmet

The Closca helmet consists of 3 polycarbonate pieces and EPS foam that absorb impacts, joined together by 4 engineered pieces with 2 stable positions: folded and unfolded. Once the helmet has interior volume, it remains fixed to protect your head in case of impact, just like a conventional helmet. However, it folds down to fit into a bag, making it great for travel or commute. Loop Reflective enables light reflection from any angle, making it the only helmet that incorporates REFLECTIVE microprism technology. It assures your visibility to cars, pedestrians, and fellow bike lane users during low-light commutes.

Click to Shop

Wild Gym Everyday Ruck

Sure, weighted vests are hella trendy right now, but why not get functional with that weight on your back? Rucking is walking with weight and the Wild Gym is a well-designed backpack that can carry essentialls as well as weighted plates. Pick your bag size and color and level of weight, starting at 10 lbs (you can always add more). Designed to balance the weight and be comfortable for long distances, my husband is obsessed with his Wild Gym and talks about it so much, I am thinking of trading in my weighted vest for one of my own!

Click to Shop

Oiselle Firecracker Watch Window Gloves

Stay warm when running or walking, and still access your smartwatch and still have it track your metrics! Track your miles with ease with watch-accessible windows located at each wrist. Reflective print running gloves featuring a watch accessible window and touch screen-friendly fabric. Touchscreen friendly thumb and index finger for easy phone and watch navigation.

Click to Shop

Tracer2 LED Safety Vest

The Tracer2 performance visibility vest is the ultimate safety accessory for walking, running, and biking in differing light and weather conditions. For the late night and early morning outdoor enthusiast, this ultra lightweight bounce-free LED safety vest is waterproof, has a rechargeable 20-hr battery, 8 multi-color flashing modes and 8 single & new dual-blend color modes, and comes in three sizes.

Click to Shop

Salomon ADV Skin Running Vest

Whether you're new to running or have a few marathons under your belt, if you're in a smaller body or a larger body, male or female, large or small of bust... you're going to like the Salomon ADV Skin running vest. Repeatedly recommended especially for women with curvy and larger bodies, this is a comfortable and functional vest. I link to the search page for there are a variety: unisex, men's, women's, and different liter capacities. For those with a larger chest you may wish to go up one size from what the size chart recommends.

Click to Shop

Brooks Cascadia

My husband has narrow feet and one foot is flat. I have wide and high volume feet and need arch support for my plantar fasciitis. Yet both of us positively love our Brooks Cascadia trail running and hiking shoe. For walks and runs that go from the sidewalk to the woods to the lake path, hikes in the nearby national park, or wanting a shoe that can keep us feeling stable and supported everyday, the Brooks Cascadia is a good do it all shoe that comes in mens and womens, regular and wide, and loos pretty cool, too.

Click to Shop

Stohlquist /Flo PFD

If you are plus size or have a large bust, you may struggle to find a PDF that fits and doesn't feel as though it was designed for a 10-foot-tall man. The Stoklquist Flo is designed not only for a woman's body, but comes in sizes XS/S (28-34") to Plus (40-46"). This life vest features a 400x200 denier ripstop outer shell and soft 200D inner liner. The high back flotation fits comfortably above the seat backs found in today’s sit-on-top kayaks.

Click to Shop

Fitness Tech and Trackers

From fitness trackers to journal your progress to the right kind of headphones to have you enjoy your activity safely, this is the best fitness tech and smartest fitness trackers perfect for the midlife athlete (newbie or veteran).

SHOKZ Bone-conducting Headphones

Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 are the ultimate open ear bone conduction headphones with enhanced bass, all-day comfort, and IP55 water resistance. Designed for runners and athletes to have great sound while still being aware of your surroundings. This is the link to the most popular version, but the SHOKZ site offers specific styles for swimming, as these are also waterproof!

Click to Shop

Velvet Caviar MagSafe Battery Packs

No one wants to be stuck on a trail, track, or at the gym with a dead phone or pair of AirPods. But what athlete wants to carry around a heavy battery pack and cords? The Velvet Caviar MagSafe battery packs are streamlined, lightweight, and don't need any cords. I also appreciate that they hold a charge; I'll throw one in my bag and even months later I can snap it on the back of my phone and charge it back up. Use code ALISON20 for 20% off your order!

Click to Shop

Lap Counter Timer - Waterproof Tracker for Swimming and Running

Whether they're logging laps in the pool or around the track, this little waterproof ring will keep count. Track both your time and lap count with this waterproof lap counter. Includes pause feature, records and stores up to 200 laps and withstands water pressure up to 50 meters.

Click to Shop

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones

While I don't recommend these for outdoor walks, I do know that it's easy to get annoyed and distracted during a workout and these headphones are the GOAT for noise cancellation and comfort. I love them for working out at home so I can get into a zone even if my husband is vacuuming in the other room and my daughter is yapping away on the phone with a friend and the dogs are play fighting. When time and space are limited, tiny luxuries like these Bose headphones can make a major impact in offering focus and peace during a workout or a bit of Me Time.

Click to Shop

Garmin vívoactive® 6 Fitness Smartwatch with GPS

The Garmin vívoactive 6 is a health and fitness smartwatch with an AMOLED display, wrist-based heart rate, body battery energy monitoring, and battery life up to 11 days. This is an excellent smartwatch for those who aren't into Apple as it has allllll the bells and whistles (including TapPay, GPS, sleep coach, texting), a customized face to look more elegant, available in 6 colors, and is less than $250.

Click to Shop

Photo Credit: go.shopmy.us

Hume Health Band

Reclaim your health by unlocking & understanding your body's data using powerful in-home health devices & an intuitive app. Hume is the only wearable with longeity at its core; it continuously monitors the biomarkers that shape long-term health, giving you insights into how your habits affect your body. Chronic Illness Indicator, Lifespan Meter, Blood Pressure Insights, and more with a 14-day battery.

Learn More

Yoga, Pilates, Mobility, Stretching, and Mat Work Gifts

Mats, bands, cushions, blocks, and straps: if you're into mat-based activites you may realize you're lacking some important gear or wish for better products that fit your midlife needs. These are highly recommended (and a few are in my personal home gym!).

The Stakt Mat Pro

Maybe you wish you could double up your yoga mat for exercises when you're on your knees. Or you'd love a bit of a hip lift when meditating but don't want to invest in another block or cushion. Are you currently using a coffee table book for calf raises? Wish your yoga mat was a bit more study? If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, you need a Stakt mat. I have the Pro, and I adore it. It's easier to clean, more durable, and more customizable than a traditonal yoga mat, and doesn't weigh more. Fold it up for storage, fold individual parts for extra height or cushioning, you'll find it will replace many other fitness gadgets in your arsenal. Use code ALISONG15 for 15% off your order!

Click to Shop

Mobo Board

The ultimate training tool to develop stability + control in your feet for health and performance. Studies have shown that foot strength and mobility are key to staying healthy as we get older. MOBO is designed to teach you to control motion inside the foot in a challenging, safe range of motion. MOBO is designed with a hollow box under your little toes to prevent you from using a gripping strategy, and teaches you, and your feet, to drive your big toe down to find stability through your arch.

Click to Shop

Manduka PRO Yoga Mat

Not all yoga mats are created equal, and when we get older we appreciate a bit better quality, and a bit more cushioning. The Manduka PRO Yoga Mat offers ultra-dense, non-slip 6mm cushioning (most mats are more like 3-4mm). Each mat is meticulously handmade in an emissions-free German facility with 100% latex-free PVC that has been certified STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX. With a lifetime guarantee, this mat is available in a range of colors and sizes.

Click to Shop

Stocking Stuffers and Gifts Under $50

Nice price but no junk; these are great fitness-related stocking stuffers and gifts under $50 that will be well appreciated by novice and veteran athletes alike.

ETHOS Pull Up Bar with 4 Grips

Grip strength is a major determinant of health and longevity. Whether you're trying to do your first pull-up, your 10th, or just hang for a while, this highly-rated pull-up bar is under $50 and can slip on and off your doorframe.

Click to Shop

Nathan SpeedDraw 2.0 Handheld Insulated Flask

Shaped for an easy hold and squeeze, the 12 fl. oz. Nathan SpeedDraw 2.0 Insulated flask makes quick work of on-the-go hydration. Its double-wall construction ensures each sip is cool and an additional pocket can also hold your smartphone during your run or walk.

Click to Shop

CALIA Fabric Bands – 3 Pack

Upgrade from the fitness bands that stretch out, snag leg hair, roll up and just plain are a pain in the butt. Interior silicone ridges keep bands securely in place, the fabric is more comfortable, and this wallet-friendly set has three levels of resistance.

Click to Shop

Buffr Original Silicone Ring Guard Protector

The Buffr silicone ring guards protect your rings during workouts & daily activities, keeping engagement, wedding, & smart rings safe & secure. Available in a range of colors in sizes 4-10; the Buffr site also has protectors for Oura and other fitness tracking rings.

Click to Shop

Gaiam Yoga Knee Pads

I own these, and both my husband and I love them. When you're in frog position, or doing a lunge, it's nice to have a non-slip bit of extra padding under your knees. We've had the same set for years and they haven't lost their firmness or cushioning and don't slip on yoga mats.

Click to Shop

Balega Socks

One of the most dedadent things an athlete can get is a really good pair of socks. It's something one doesn't like to spend on, but always appreciates. Balega running, walking, hiking, gold and athletic socks are expertly designed and crafted from heel to toe for superior performance that keeps the pace. No athlete is going to scoff at a pair of Balega socks.

Click to Shop

Splurge-Worthy Fitness Gifts

A true "push present," these are gifts that incorporate innovation, technology, or the very best materials to help your athlete perform their best, especially if that athlete is over 40 and finding their old routines not as effective or comfortable. Many I personally own, or have friends who own and love.

Eight Sleep Pod Mattress Cover

This is definitely a splurge gift, but the best money my husband and I have spent for our health. Dual zone mattress cover heats and cools according to your body, the time of year, the stage of sleep, the warmth of the room. No fans, no noise, almost instant results. An app to manage but also a side button to turn up or down the temp without having to get out of bed. Even has a hot flash button for us grown women dealing with perimenopause. We've had one since 2022 and no issues and great customer service from the company. Check out my Eight Sleep review for perimenopause.

Click to Shop

Hydrow Wave Rower

I purposefully didn't focus on a specific type of workout in this gift guide as we grown-ass folk have often already tried all the things and have found our groove. But I personally have and love this rowing machine. I got a Peloton during the pandemic and was obsessed until I ended up hurting my knee, and then my back. It seemed like every workout I tried left me hobbling for days.

I've had the Hydrow for almost three years and it's the first workout that doesn't cause any pain anywhere. It's not a small device so it's always on display in my living room, but it comes in colors and looks like a piece of modern art.

A subscription comes with hundreds of guided rows with a range of instructors at varying levels of intensity, plus rows without instructors, and pretty phenomenal classes for mobility, stretching, weight training, and bootcamps. Rowing gives a whole body workout and the resistance is your own body, so you can't overdo it.

There are other more professional rowers on the market, but I love how the Hydrow is silent (you can row while your partner is sleeping in the next room), beautiful, and incredibly user friendly.

Learn More

You May Also Like:

Unique Gifts for Men that Don’t Suck: Fresh Ideas at Every Price

The Best Self-Care Gifts for Women Over 40

Do know, when it comes to one's fitness journey, a gift card can be incredibly thoughtful. From a deep tissue massage to a stretch therapy session, a plus one to a running shoe fitting or funds for an epic hike, it's not a sterile gift when you're in midlife. And sometimes the best gift is companionship; a partner on a post-dinner walk, a gym buddy, or a partner to brave the pilates studio. I hope you found this midlife fitness gift guide helpful, and if I missed a fantastic item let me know in the comments!

FAQ

If you've found that your reliable go-to fashion clothing retailers seem to be too matronly or too juvenile, you're not alone. And you're likely over 40.  There's something about turning 40 where you change so much, and your wardrobe doesn't seem to keep up.  You have different priorities, your body changes regardless of diet and exercise, and your lifestyle changes require different needs and different styles from your clothing. 

This post may look familiar, and that's because I republished it for 2026 as a few brands have left us, and there are some really great new brands on the scene that needed to be added!

The Most Popular Clothing Retailers for Women in Midlife

Below is a quick comparison of the most popular clothing retailers for women over 40, based on recommendations from women in the Wardrobe Oxygen community.

The top retailers are discussed in more detail below, with notes on fit, quality, and why they are highly recommended for us grown women.

The Best Clothing Retailers for Women Over 40

When compiling this list of the best clothing retailers for women over 40, I thought of the ones that offer chic and stylish fashion clothing that works for a grown woman's body and life.  I don't believe there are rules for what women over 40 should and should not wear; we're grown women who can wear whatever makes us happy. 

Alembika

If you like saturated colors, unique prints, and creative silhouettes, you should check out Alembika. Founded by two women, this label believes style has no expiration date and creates clothing that understands the needs of women at every stage of life.

Due to the fabric choices and silhouettes, Alembika sizing isn't typical and varies from garment to garment. However, in general, clothing is available in sizes 4/6 to 18/20 with petite-friendly silhouettes and a dedicated plus size collection.

Alex Mill

Alex Mill focuses on sustainability with style. Producing small batches, selling vintage fashion in its SoHo store, and using deadstock, scraps, and having upcycling programs like ReWork; Alex Mill walks the talk of being eco-friendly while also offering color, fashion, and interesting looks.

Alex Mill offers wardrobe basics like coats, sweaters, trousers, jeans, shirts, and bags as well as the occasional statement piece. In the same vein as Madewell, you will find stylish separates, but classic enough to remain in your closet for years. Alex Mill offers women's fashion in sizes 0-16, though I personally find the line to run narrow.

Ann Taylor

I personally have a lot of success with Ann Taylor. Offering up to size 18, with petite options up to size 16P, and tall options up to size 18T, Ann Taylor is a go-to for career wear, daytime special occasions, and surprisingly great-fitting jeans and quality footwear. Ann Taylor also does a great job incorporating the season's current trends for silhouettes and colors without making pieces feel passé after a season.

Argent

If you're looking for cool, modern, yet still office-appropriate workwear, Argent is a great place to shop. Argent offers modern sophistication perfect for professional grown women and is often that fab suit you've seen on your favorite CEO, newscaster, or public speaker. Argent is also a great place if you're looking for suiting beyond the basic colors, but still looking professional. Argent offers its core collection up to size 24, with seasonal and statement pieces usually only to size 14.

Athleta

Athleta is known for activewear, but it's actually a great place for casual everyday fashion, too. A personal favorite for pants (and IMO some of the best travel pants on the market), Athleta carries excellent linen separates in summer, casual pants with matching jackets in spring and fall, and cozy yet chic sweat sets in winter cool enough to wear beyond the couch or gym. Athleta also has a nice size range, offering sizes up to a 3x, a petite 12-14P, and tall sizes up to 16T.

AYR (All Year Round)

AYR stands for All Year Round. The company, which was created as an alternative to fast fashion believes everything they make should feel incredible, look fantastic, and last, season after season, all year round.

Best known for their jeans which are made in California, AYR offers quality wardrobe staples like elevated t-shirts, silk blouses, sweaters made from cashmere and organic cotton, trousers, skirts, and outerwear in sizes 00/XS-22/3X.

Banana Republic

Banana Republic in the past year has returned to its roots of elevated style with a travel vibe. You will find a lot of “archive” pieces in natural fibers with unique details, as well as a fantastic selection of dresses from casual to occasion, stellar suiting, sweaters, and pieces that are both statement-making and closet staples. If you haven't shopped Banana in a while, the retailer is worth a visit. Banana Republic offers women's fashion in sizes 000-20 with petites to 14P and tall options to 20T.

Banana Republic Factory

IMO, Banana Republic Factory is a sleeper hit for great shopping as a grown woman. While many factory stores just carry cheaper versions of the parent brand's apparel, Banana Republic Factory offers consistent quality, fit, and style for work, weekend, and beyond and often in natural fibers. Like its parent company, Banana Republic Factory carries sizes 000-20 with petite and tall options in a large percentage of the collection.

Boden

Boden is one of the best clothing retailers for women and one of my favorite destinations for that special something that completes my wardrobe. While I’ll purchase basics at places like Lands’ End and J. Crew Factory, Boden is where I find a statement top or dress that ends up being a favorite for years.

Quirky prints, interesting details, and great quality but with a sophisticated edge that looks best on us grown women. Boden often has lengths and tall options up to size 20/22.

Chico's

If you think of Chico's and envision polyester palazzo pants and quirky embroidered tunics, you haven't visited this retailer in a while. Chico's is one of the best clothing retailers for women, offering comfortable and creative fashion in a range of sizes up to 20/22 with many available in petites, tall, and lengths. I think Chico's excels with denim, pants (check out the Brigitte), t-shirts, and I swear by Chico's microfiber tanks.

Eileen Fisher

Eileen Fisher has been a midlife fashion mainstay for years, but in recent seasons has gained a following with younger generations as it's a sustainable and more affordable alternative to minimalistic designer labels like The Row. High quality, natural fibers, mix-and-match classics with an architectural lean, travel-friendly styles, and a great size range (2-18 petite and regular 0-28), Eileen Fisher is sold at many higher-end department stores but the best selection is at the Eileen Fisher website.

Eleanor Leftwich

I learned of Eleanor Leftwich from my friend Elizabeth, who shared this Quince shoes review. Eleanor Leftwich is classic, feminine, and quality pieces that are designed to stand the test of time. Trend resistant, elevated textiles, pieces you can wear for stylish year after year in sizes XXS-3XL.

Frances Valentine

Frances Valentine is feminine dopamine dressing. Beautiful colors, fun prints, luxe fabrics, and looks for work, weekend, and special occasions in sizes XS-3X. Frances Valentine is known for its elevated caftans; I think the Diplomat Dress is a great dress for grown women to wear to cocktail parties, weddings, and special occasions 3-4 seasons of the year (I myself own one!).

Hobbs London

A UK-based fashion brand that started in 1981, Hobbs offers modern cuts, feminine tailoring and heritage craftsmanship up to a US size 16 with petite offerings.  A great destination for suiting and dresses for work and social occasions, Hobbs is clothing that will stand the test of time in your wardrobe, making getting dressed easy and chic for many seasons.

J. Crew

J. Crew has been around for decades, and while their classic/preppy/with a twist aesthetic has remained, they have moved with the times offering a wide range of modern silhouettes, on-trend colors, quirky prints, and current accessories to update your wardrobe.  J. Crew is available up to a size 3XL which is equal to a 24, and many pieces available in tall and petite. 

J.Jill

J.Jill is a sleeper hit for comfortable yet stylish attire in one of the most inclusive size ranges out there. Offering its entire collection in sizes 2-28 with petites 00P-18P and talls 4T-18T, J.Jill does great jeans, boho-inspired pieces in natural fibers, and its Wearever collection is great for work, weekend, and travel.

Johnny Was

Johnny Was offers luxe boho fashion that makes a statement without looking like the garment is wearing you. Gorgeous prints, romantic chiffon overlays, patchwork velvet dusters that glam up your favorite jeans, Johnny Was is a favorite place to find a beautiful dress for work, a day wedding, or a statement piece that will elevate any closet up to size 3X or 26.

Karen Kane

A family-owned and run company (yes, Karen Kane is a real person), Karen Kane is an O.G. sustainable fashion brand that is a favorite for its travel-friendly fabrics and boho-inspired California chic style. For not-so-little black dresses that aren't boring but transcend trends, linen, and wardrobe staples with that little extra something. Karen Kane carries Misses sizes XS/2-XL/16, as well as Petite sizes PXS-XLP, and Plus sizes 0X-22W.

Lands' End

While many think of Lands’ End for parkas and fleece, they are also a great destination for women’s fashion. The quality is usually stellar, the price point is reasonable for the construction and fabric, and they have amazing sales. Lands' End offers sizes up to 24/26 and many pieces, including swimwear, and comes in petite and tall offerings. I have dresses from Lands' End that are a decade old and still look stylish and like new. Here is a link to all my posts where I wear and review Lands' End fashion.

Ministry of Supply

For the road warrior and business traveler, the one and done clothing shopper and those who expect their closets to work as hard as they do, check out Ministry of Supply. Using innovative materials and human-centered design, Ministry of Supply offers sweat-proof, flexible, and machine-washable workleisure apparel. Ministry of Supply carries women's fashion in sizes 0-20.

M.M.LaFleur

M.M.LaFleur was started by a woman in finance who dreamed of a more practical, inspired wardrobe for herself and all professional women, and she made it a reality. This is a line of clothing geared for the workplace but has many separates perfect for weekends and social occasions. 

M.M.LaFleur offers fashion up to size XXL which is close to a US size 18/20; I recommend checking out their detailed size chart before ordering. Also, use code ALISON15 for 15% off your order on M.M.LaFleur!

Modern Citizen

Modern Citizen is a woman-founded and led sustainable and responsible company that offers versatile, accessible, and modern fashion for women in sizes 0-20 with many pieces offering inseams or petite options. The clothes are unique but wearable, cool, designed to be easy to wear, wash, and keep in your wardrobe long-term.

Poetry

If you are on the hunt for clothing made from natural fibers that is timeless, stylish, and well-made, check out Poetry. A UK brand that ships and does returns with the U.S. via FedEx, Poetry strives to work with small owner-managed fabric mills and garment makers, using high quality materials. Offering sizes XS (2-4) to L (14-18), Poetry offers a range of fashion and each garment shares where it was made and where the textiles came from.

Quince

Quince is an excellent place to go for closet basics for less. While I have had a mixed experience with Quince, I have found a few true winners. The linen separates, the cotton boyfriend sweater, the Bella jeans collection, and many of the leather goods are truly stellar. Most of Quince's collection is sizes XS-XL, but it has an ever-growing Plus Size collection offered in 1X-3X. Check out my guide to what's actually worth it from Quince.

Ruti

I learned about the label Ruti from my fellow over-40 friend and blogger Susan Blakey. She too is petite, and she had the cutest jeans. I decided to get myself a pair and so began my love affair with this line of clothing perfect for us grown women in misses and petite sizes 0-18.

After years as a tech exec, Ruti Zisser decided to create the clothes she wished to see in the world: style and sophistication without sacrificing comfort. Closet classics with edge, these are “cool girl” architectural pieces that transcend trends and become favorites. I consider Ruti's On the Loose work pants one of the best travel pants for women. I'm such a fan I asked for a discount code for us: code ALISON15 will get you 15% off sitewide!

Seasalt Cornwall

Seasalt Cornwall’s design ethos is to create beautiful and useful clothing that customers can enjoy wearing season after season. A UK brand from Cornwall, Seasalt is a BCorp business who strives for quality and sustainability. Seasalt offers comfortable quality fashion in U.S. sizes 2-24 with an aesthetic that is if Boden and Lands' End had a baby together.

Sézane

Sézane carries feminine French fashion that is accessible for the American everyday. Offering apparel for women in sizes 2-16, Sézane is a great destination for sweaters, Breton striped tops, feminine blouses, and fantastic bags, shoes, and other accessories.

Talbots

If you remember Talbots as the place for chinos with pineapples embroidered on them, they are worth a revisit. From quality knits to beautiful wool coats, Talbots is a sleeper hit for classic yet modern closet staples and wintertime occasionwear. Talbots also has a denim line I find high quality and well designed. Talbots is also one of the most size-inclusive brands, offering Misses to 18, Petites to 16P, Plus to 22W, and Petite Plus Size, too!

Theory

If you're looking for elegant yet professional workwear you have to check out Theory. A label sold at department stores like Bloomingdale's and Nordstrom, Theory has its best selection on its brand site and in stores. Theory carries suiting, dresses, and separates in sizes 00-18.

The Shirt by Rochelle Behrens

Offering timeless style with patented No Gape® technology, The Shirt by Rochelle Behrens began as a line of high-quality button-front shirts designed to accommodate a woman's bustline but now carries a range of separates and dresses. The aesthetic is feminine but professional with most pieces appropriate for the workplace or business social occasions. The Shirt comes in sizes XXS-XXL in three different fits.

Tuckernuck

If you love preppy East Coast vibes with a touch of quirk and color, you should check out Tuckernuck, a family-owned retailer that offers apparel for men and women, as well as homegoods, gifts, and accessories. Tuckernuck offers its own brand and a few other retailers with the same aesthetic with sizes up to 4XL or 20/22.

Ulla Popken

It's hard to find plus size fashion that isn't cheap, boring, and/or cheesy, and it's even harder to find plus size in a great range of sizes. Ulla Popken is a German company that strives to be sustainable and offers fashion in sizes 12-38. Ulla Popken's silhouettes are very simple, but the company stands out for its use of color and pattern.

Universal Standard

Universal Standard offers clothing in sizes 00-40 with some in lengths; it is one of the most inclusive clothing brands out there. I highly recommend checking Universal Standard out if you are looking for sophisticated yet comfortable suiting in all sizes, summer dresses and separates (I am a fan of Universal Standard stretch linen), and really great-fitting jeans. Also check out Fit Liberty, a collection of closet staples that can be exchanged within a year if your size changes!

Vince

Offering sizes 00-16, Vince offers modern, elevated fashion for work and play. Using lasting materials like wool, Pima cotton, silk, leather, and Mongolian cashmere from quality sources across the globe, many of these sources Vince has been using since the label started in 2002. Vince clothes give off “Cool Woman” vibes and California-inspired ease and simplicity without being trendy. Vince is the kind of brand that a purchase will remain a favorite in your closet for years or even decades to come. Check out my Vince capsule wardrobe.

You May Also Like:

Colorful Clothing for Grown-Ass Women

Where to Shop for Petite and Midsize Clothing: The Best for Sizes 12-16 & 0X-12W

Frequently Asked Questions When Shopping for Fashion Over 40

And now, I would like to hear from you… where are your favorite places to shop as a grown woman? I’d love to hear your thoughts on the best clothing retailers for women over 40! For more Wardrobe Oxygen-related conversations, come join the community!

When I received the opportunity to receive a gift pair of the KIZIK Women's Freedom Run, I decided to have them tested out by someone who could give a quality review for fellow runners. Natalie is my neighbor, my friend, a fellow grown-ass woman, with wide feet, and a longtime runner and certified running coach.

Below is her real experience running and walking more than 30 miles in the Freedom Run. If you too have wide feet, if you hate tying your shoes, or just want to know whether a step-in shoe is a good option, this KIZIK Freedom Run review is for you!

30+ Miles in the KIZIK Women's Freedom Run Sneaker: Honest Thoughts

I love running but I hate shoelaces. For everything but running, I avoid shoelaces at all costs. Birkenstocks, Danskos, and my slip-on everyday sneakers are my favorites. I have wide feet and a narrow heel, so I tie my running shoes with a heel-lock lace to keep my heels from slipping.

The KIZIK website promises a hands-free experience to putting the shoes on, while “locking you in for less heel slip.” When Alison shared the opportunity to test out a pair of step-in running shoes, I jumped at the chance.

For a few weeks, I tried out KIZIK’s Women’s Freedom Run running shoes. I’ve covered more than 30 miles in them, including both running and walking. 

My credentials

I’ve been a runner for a long time. I trained for my first 10K in 2000 and since then have run nearly 150 races from 5Ks to marathons to triathlons. I love helping other people run, too. In 2009, I got certified by the Road Runners Club of America as a distance running coach, and I served as a volunteer coach for multiple programs organized by the Montgomery County Road Runners Club. I also have had my share of injuries that have required orthotics, physical therapy, and ultimately, surgery to repair a torn labrum in my hip.

The good

Stepping into KIZIK Freedom Run sneakers is great. I love that I can slip them on and go. People that find it harder to bend over to tie shoelaces would really like this feature!I found the shoes to be pretty comfortable. They’re nice and cushy with a heel drop of 9mm. People who like a cushy ride will really like these. 

The unfortunate

Because of the way the lacings with the Freedom Run work, there is less customization that the wearer can do to make them fit just right. Yes, the heel is secure. However, the opening for the foot is larger than in my regular running shoes, and I found my foot sliding around a bit.

With my typical shoes, I could have laced them tighter closer to the toe box and I could have used the heel-lock lacing but that wasn’t an option here. It turns out that shoelaces are important when you need a custom fit for running.

This photo really illustrates the difference between the KIZIKs (top) and my New Balance 880s. Both are size 10 wide, but there are differences in the placement of the laces. Because the KIZIK laces don’t reach as far towards the toes as the NBs do, I couldn’t adjust them to keep my forefoot from moving around as much.

Also, it’s easy to see the wider foot opening for the KIZIKs in these photos. The heel does lock in, but the laces don’t go as far up towards the ankle, which also means that they are less customizable for the wearer. 

I think ultimately I will end up using these shoes less for running and more for walking.

The recommendation

When I was a volunteer distance running coach, I fielded questions from my runners about why they were getting blisters or why their knees hurt. My advice was frequently to try a different pair of shoes. And I would send them to a local running specialty store where the staff could provide expert advice on which shoes would be best suited to their feet and needs. And that’s my recommendation here.

In Prince George’s County, Maryland, we have a specialty running store called Haraka Run and Walk. (“Haraka” means “speed” in Swahili.) The owners and staff are terrific and have deep expertise in the needs of runners. And seemingly small differences in the construction of shoes can make a big difference on the run.

I would have liked to be able to try on a few different sizes of the KIZIKs to find out which size worked best. I suspect that these run big, and that a smaller size would have worked a bit better for me. 

Natalie Bailey

Natalie Bailey is conservation biologist and founder of Good Nature Strategies, LLC. She is a long-time runner who has logged miles in Tanzania, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Cambodia, using precious carry-on space for her running shoes. Natalie is a grown-ass GenX woman with a family of runners, including her ultra-marathoner husband and cross-country running son, now in college.

Frequently Asked Questions About KIZIK Running Shoes for Women

Weekend Reads

The Year I Stopped Fixing Myself. (Allure)

Answers to Your Questions About Europe’s New Entry System. (Wall Street Journal – gift link)

Three cheers for Cann offering their latest flavor with THC or without! Bergamot lemonade with yerba mate sounds so good. These are always a hit when I take them to cookouts and parties.

The Tragic Double Life of Kate Spade's $124 Million Fashion Downfall. (Old Money Luxury via Substack)

The U.S. Relies on Family Caregivers. Millions of Them Are Kids. (New York Times – gift link)

In an aging America, thousands of people have adopted a new vocation: supporting others as they confront the end of life. (The New Yorker)

This ring is so good; my wallet is glad it only goes up to size 8.

Think It’s Cool to Wear Fancy Sneakers to Work? You Might Be Old. (New York Times – gift link)

Forget About Fetching Coffee. This Summer, the Interns Are Running the Show. (The Wall Street Journal – gift link)

Hey teachers (and students), did you know you get an extra 20% off at J. Crew Factory through August 25th? This is on top of whatever promo is happening (and right now it's 40%-60% off everything and an extra 60% off clearance).

Draw Me Like One of Your French Girls. (Oldster via Substack)

A Completely Smooth Forehead Is Out. ‘Strategic Wrinkles’ Are In. (The Wall Street Journal – gift link)

I want to tell you what it was like to watch my Mom die… (allfolks via Substack)

These were comfy (and roomy) right out of the box. No blisters, I'd totally take these on my next trip!

Billie Eilish Will Star in a Film Adaptation of Sylvia Plath’s The Bell Jar. (Elle)

The Misogyny Tax. (More to Hate via Substack)

Last weekend, I wore this in the pool, the ocean, and more than one hot shower and it still looks like new.

How much 10 families spend on child care across the U.S. (The Purse)

If you've seen my doodles and my one lone tattoo, you know I am soooo into Jenny Bird's latest collection. I don't know which piece to get!

“Slop Face” Is Taking Over Hollywood — and Making Beauty Boring. (The Hollywood Reporter)

These are a perfect back-to-school gift for tweens to college kids… I kinda want one for myself!

The difference between curing and healing. (The Examined Family via Substack)

Has anyone tried this yet? I think I need to get one.

Do Your Emojis Make You Look Old? (New York Times – gift link)

Not your imagination: from backpacks to food, consumer goods are getting worse. (The Guardian)

Not just for my local yokels… if it's happening here it's happening everywhere… Prince William Forest Park land swap considered for data centers. (Prince William Times)

Style Inspo & Sale Alert

Style Inspo: The Shoe to Update Your Closet

If there is one shoe that is seriously trending right now and into fall, it is the brown woven ballet flat. Primarily leather, it is also seen in suede. Most have a ballet-shoe inspired bow, but some have a higher v-shaped vamp instead, and some have an elasticised Mary Jane strap. A classic milk chocolate brown is most popular, but you will see shades of dark chocolate to cognac (and yes, if you are one who only wears black, it is also available). This is a more structured shoe than the classic ballet flat; some even have a low heel.

Wear it with ankle pants, with midi skirts and dresses, and barrel jeans. If it has an elongated or squared-off toe, they also work with wider-leg pants and jeans. IMO, I find these the best no-show socks for ballet flats. I share some of the best ones I have found in a range of prices and a few with widths!

Margaux (N, M, W) | Vince | ROAN | Dune London | Freda Salvador | Quince (check out our Quince shoes review featuring this flat) | Sam Edelman | Loeffler Randall | Trotters (N, M, W)

Sale Alert

Only through August 17, Bare Necessities is having its Top Drawer Sale. This is when you can get some of the best brands at the best prices. Go to the sale and use the filter at top to only see your cup and band size. Heads up, you know my favorite everyday bra? It's on sale! I also own and love this bra, and this is a good medium-impact sports bra for larger busts.

Levi's has 30% off sitewide through August 21st. The best size selection is at the Levi's site and this is a pretty great discount. For those who don't love the barrel silhouette but desire something looser that looks good with flats and low-profile sneakers (and Birkenstocks), check out the 90s ankle.

The Colleen Rothschild Bestsellers Sale is here through August 23rd. Get 25% off customer favorites, including the Illuminating Tinted Eye Cream, Quench & Shine Restorative Hair Mask, Glycolic Acid Peel Pads, Ethereal Glow Serum, Moisture Veil Silk Emulsion, and more!

Been curious about Left on Friday since Kim's Left on Friday swimwear review? Now is the time to shop because through August 17th, get 30% of all swim, plus an additional 30% off sale styles!

Through August 16th, Flamingo Estate has 21% off all candles and candle sets (excludes XL candles + personalization). Remember how Diptyque was the candle? And then Hotel Lobby? Those brands are still chic, but Flamingo Estate is the new candle darling. I have the Tomato and it's divine. This is a fabulous gift.

I know y'all love Material Kitchen for its MK cutting boards, but the brand also has great knives, flatware, dinnerware, and more. Well, right now Material has 20% off sitewide AND use code ALISON20 for 20% off!

The Brooklinen Big Bed Sale is on this weekend with 20% off Luxe Sateen sheets, duvets, comforters, quilts, and bed blankets plus up to 40% off bath bundles all at this link.

The GAP Friends & Family sale is here through August 20th with 40% off sitewide, plus an extra 10% off your purchase with code GREAT. If you're looking for a new silhouette that will still work with all your shoes and tops for fall, I suggest these. And if you're looking for a comfy chill sweater to wear from now with jorts into winter with turtlenecks, this one looks awesome.

And this one is big… I know y'all love Lo & Sons, and if you follow me on Instagram you know I've been carrying the Aoyama 2 all month. Well the Lo & Sons Aoyama 2 is officially back in stock in all colorways and it is 20% off this weekend. Sale ends Sunday!

See/Hear/Read

What I Saw

We've finished up a couple of series on streaming platforms. I think I have mentioned all of them before, so a quick recap:

• Ride or Die (Prime): So good. Loved it, and so did my husband. Starring Hannah Waddingham and Octavia Spencer as best friends it is far more believable than that sounds. Both women are badasses, there were really good details thrown in to make the story believable, and it just was a fun series from beginning to end.
• Sugar (Apple TV): We finished up the second season of this series, and are big fans. Starring Colin Farrell as John Sugar, a private investigator who is obsessed with old black and white films, wears fabulous suits, and drives a fabulous car, this is an unexpected premise that really works. Season 2 started and I wasn't feeling it, but by the end I was wondering if it may have been even better than Season 1. I hate to call this series charming, but that's what you feel at the end of each season.
• Cape Fear (Apple TV): This was a series based on the movie which was based on the novel, but not like either. It was horrible. Like so bad it almost felt humorous. Cast full of famous stars, many I have loved in other works, but in this they all sucked. The script sucked, the direction sucked, the production sucked, the everything sucked including the ending. I am floored that Martin Scorsese and Steven Spielberg were executive producers.
• Widow's Bay (Apple TV): We actually finished this a while ago, but I cannot recommend this series enough. Smart, funny, creepy, quirky… this is the kind of show that will become iconic and quoted for decades to come.

What I Heard

It's surprising I haven't read every single Elin Hildebrand novel already (read why I read so many) but after finishing the book mentioned below, I was looking for an audiobook that would be fun and… reliable. And Hilderbrand's books are just that.

The Academy is a novel Hilderbrand wrote with her daughter, Shelby Cunningham. Unlike the majority of Hilderbrand's other books that take place in Nantucket, this one takes place at Tiffin Academy, a fictional boarding school in New England. It was a very easy listen, though I found the steamy parts and one of the teachers a bit try-hard. But in general, especially as a parent to a child around the same age as these students, I enjoyed it. And I am on the waitlist for The Thoroughbreds, the second in this Tiffin Academy series.

What I Read

Each time I go to Rehoboth Beach, I buy at least one book from Browseabout Books to enjoy over the weekend. This year, after seeing it was going to be months before I got it on Libby, I bought Yesteryear, the bestselling and much-discussed novel by Caro Claire Burke that is already in production to be a film starring Anne Hathaway.

All I knew was it was a book about a “tradwife” influencer who glamorizes her rural ranch life on social media. One day she wakes up and is in the 1800s on a truly rural ranch. I also heard many compare it to Jo Piazza's novel, Everyone is Lying to You, which also featured tradwife influencers and I had read.

Yesteryear is nothing like Everyone is Lying to You, and this is a compliment to Jo Piazza. I liked Yesteryear until I positively hated it. The end felt rushed and more unbelievable than the protagonist hopping in a time machine. That being said, the way that online life and real life become blurred was well described and the topic timely (discussion about the manosphere, influencers selling their own products, politics, etc.). I found this a quick read that I didn't want to put down until the “twist” was revealed and I was annoyed and disappointed and disconnected.

I think the movie will be better. I am happy to support an independent book store, but wish I spent my money on a different novel. I'd recommend waiting until the movie comes out on streaming.

For Your Entertainment

It's like a modern-day Lou Reed, an anthem to girls of every kind who are the best being just who they are. Love me some Troye Sivan, and love the cameos in this music video for “She's the Best,” and that 59-year-old Nicole Kidman is the star.

I originally wrote this list in 2021 but update it yearly as new brands come on the market and some brands drop their petite collections. This post was last updated in 2026.

Below lists what I gathered; names are linked to go to their petite offerings and what size they go up to. I was pleased to find so many retailers offering plus-size petites, and at a range of price points and styles as well.

Petite Midsize Clothes Over Size 10 and Plus Size Petites: The Best Places to Shop

This list is focused on stores that offer midsize petite and plus size petite fashion. No “short” options with just a shorter inseam but otherwise a Misses fit. We're talking sizes 12 and up specifically designed for a woman 5'3″ or shorter.

Abercrombie & Fitch

You may think of A&F as the cologne-soaked shop of your past, or maybe it's where your kids now like to shop. But don't discount Abercrombie for us grown women as it offers a nice selection of petite day dresses in sizes XXS petite – XXL petite.

Ann Taylor

Ann Taylor is a personal favorite because the brand carries petites up to size 16 and they are true petites (meaning I can wear the pants with flats and without tailoring). A great place for petite suiting, jeans, dresses, and occasionwear.

Athleta

Athleta is known for activewear, but the label also carries a lot of pants, jackets, and even dresses great for travel or everyday. I find Athleta pants to fit really well and are cut for a petite frame. Athleta carries petites in sizes 00P-14P.

Banana Republic Factory

While Banana Republic does carry petites, I have on regular occasion sent purchases back because they were just too long. But Banana Republic Factory offers true petites in sizes 00P-18P. This is a great place for cotton and wool sweaters, suiting, and linen separates.

Chico's

Chico's is worth checking out if you wear petite clothing. Fantastic fitting jeans and pants, great travel-friendly separates, and quality knitwear is available in petite sizes 2P-18P.

Dillard's

If you're looking for a single destination with a range of brands of petite dresses, head to Dillard's. From casual sundresses to black tie galas, Dillard's carries it in petite up to 16P.

Eileen Fisher

Sustainable and chic, Eileen Fisher is known for natural fibers, cool silhouettes, and comfort with style. From casual separates to elegant dresses and suiting, Eileen Fisher offers a collection of petite fashion in sizes PP-PL, which fits up to a 16 petite.

Gap Factory

While Gap has shrunk its petite offerings to just pants and jeans, Gap Factory continues to offer a broad range of petite fashion. From dresses to tank tops to pants, Gap Factory offers it in sizes 0P-14P.

Hobbs London

If you are looking for quality and classic style for work, special occasions, and elevated weekends, check out Hobbs London. This is where you can find a high-quality investment coat or dress in petite sizes 6P-22P.

I.N.C. International Concepts

An in-house brand at the department store Macy's, I.N.C. International Concepts is a good place for petite casual and work pants and blouses in sizes 0P-16P.

JCPenney

Offering a surprisingly large selection of petite fashion for women at low prices, JCPenney is a great place to look for work-friendly separates and casual attire in sizes 2P-18P.

J. Crew

Known for a classic Americana aesthetic, J. Crew is also on the pulse of current trends, collaborations with hot indie labels, and great for suiting and occasion dresses. J. Crew petites come in sizes 00P-14P.

J. Crew Factory

The same crisp, classic, Americana vibe as J. Crew, but simpler styles that equal lower prices. A personal favorite for closet basics and the label's Schoolboy Blazer. Petite sizes 00P-14P.

J.Jill

J.Jill is a great destination for petite jeans, casual tops and sweaters, summer dresses, and knit pants in sizes 00P-20P. I am a big fan of J.Jill jeans which are stretchy and soft but look crisp and modern.

Karen Kane

One of the original sustainable woman-designed fashion brands, Karen Kane is known for a feminine beachy aesthetic that translates well from work to weekend with a great collection of dresses that can dress up for weddings and special occasions. Karen Kane's petite collection is available in sizes 2P-16P.

Lands' End

Known for coats and swimsuits, Lands' End is a personal favorite for high-quality sweaters, great-fitting jeans, and on-trend but very wearable summer dresses. All this and more is available at Lands' End in petite sizes 00P-18P.

Lane Bryant

Lane Bryant is a sleeper hit for plus size petites, offering a nice range of pants, jeans, dresses, and blazers in sizes 10WP-28WP. If you are petite and midsized and find pants to often run too straight for your curves, check out Lane Bryant petites. A 12P is around a 10WP but with more shape.

Lauren Ralph Lauren

Classic, chic, and quality: Lauren Ralph Lauren is a great destination for trousers, sweaters, blazers, day dresses, and occasionwear in petite sizes 0P-14P. It's a personal favorite for shirtdresses.

L.L.Bean

Casual separates, outerwear, and outdoor gear, L.L.Bean is a sleeper hit for a great sweater or pair of jeans. L.L.Bean has an entire petite department offered in sizes 2P-20P.

LOFT

LOFT is a favorite place for casual dresses and separates, but also some pretty great suiting and workwear. Check out the VERSA collection for mix-and-match pieces that go from the office to the cocktail party with ease. LOFT carries petites up to 16P.

Madewell

While Madewell has reduced its petite offerings, it's still a great destination for petite jeans in waist sizes 23P-33P.

Marcella New York

Architectural styles and modern silhouettes make Marcella NY a great place for dresses and going out tops; this link directs you to the styles available in petite sizing. Marcella NY is a woman-designed sustainable brand, so you get style and ethics all in one!
Use code WARDROBEOXYGEN10 to save 10% off sitewide

Never Fully Dressed

If you love prints and color and are looking for unique fashion for vacation or with a boho lean… you need Never Fully Dressed. Very fun, colorful fashion with a dedicated petite collection in UK sizes 4P-18P.

NIC+ZOE

NIC+ZOE has been a favorite for over a decade for petite-friendly and work-friendly separates. Cardigans, soft jackets, blouses, pants, and more, NIC+ZOE offers it in petite sizes 2P-16P.

Old Navy

Old Navy is a reliable destination for casual petite fashion at budget-friendly prices. I especially like Old Navy for petite activewear and casual pants. Old Navy also has a broad range of petite sizes, offering its petite collection in sizes 0P-20P.

Reformation

If you're looking for stylish, sultry, and feminine dresses and tops to add to your petite wardrobe, you should check out Reformation. Reformation's petite collection is available in sizes 0P-12P.

Ruti

Ruti is a personal favorite for “cool girl” fashion that is surprisingly versatile and wearable everyday. High quality jeans, stylish silhouettes, and some great washable silk separates are offered in petite sizes 0P-16P.
Use code ALISON15 for 15% off sitewide

Sanctuary

Casual cool style that is versatile but never boring, Sanctuary offers petites pants, jeans, blouses, and sweaters in sizes 0P-14P and waists 24P-34P.
Use code ALISON15 for 15% off sitewide

Seasalt Cornwall

Natural fabrics, cheery colors, closet staples, and petite sizing… Seasalt Cornwall is a fabulous destination for day dresses, sweaters, and casual coats in UK petite sizes 8P-26/8P.

SPANX

SPANX carries a broad selection of casual pants, work pants, leggings and jeans in petite sizes XS petite – 3XL petite.

Style & Co

When looking for wallet-friendly style in petite sizes, check out Style & Co, one of Macy's in-house brands. Offering casual pants, tops, skirts, shorts, and athleisure, Style & Co is a great place for closet basics for less in petite sizes 0P-18P.

Talbots

Talbots is one of the few women's fashion retailers that not only has petite fashion in sizes 0-16, but also plus petite in sizes 14WP-22WP. Talbots excels when it comes to cashmere and cotton sweaters, pima cotton tees in candy colors, jeans, blazers, and holiday season occasionwear.

White House | Black Market

If you're looking for fashion for work or a night out with a feminine edge, check out WHBM. I think the denim is really great, and can often find a great going out top or a wedding guest dress. White House | Black Market has a whole department of petite fashion in sizes 0P-12P.

It is amazing that in this day and age, with the average height and clothing size of the American woman, this list isn't longer! Let's hope I can update this list next year with even more retailers that offer midsize petite and plus size petite fashion for women.

You May Also Like:

A Review of Short Story Subscription Box for Petite Fashion

Where to Shop for Petite Suits over a Size 12

I'd love to hear from you – are there any retailers I didn't mention who offer petite clothes over size 10?  Leave their names in the comments.  And if you have had positive or negative experiences with the petite offerings at the above retailers help another Wardrobe Oxygen reader out by sharing your rave or warning as well! 

Speaking of which, the Soma $30 Bra Sale includes the bras at this link. The sale ends August 19, 2026 so don't dilly-dally and shop while this amazing promotion is taking place!

My Personal Favorite Bras from Soma

First, let me share my personal favorite bras from Soma as a long-time customer, and someone with a large bust that has been blessed by gravity and a full life over several decades. To help with this guide, I will have photos of me in many of these bras throughout the article. It's always helpful to see non-models in items to get a better gauge of how they may work on different bodies.

Best Everyday Bra: Soma Vanishing Back Full Coverage Bra

Smooth finish that hides under fitted knits, comfortable, straps that disappear under most tanks and sundresses, front strap adjusters (why don't all bras have this?) and you can usually find a couple of styles of undies in the same color as this bra for a pretty matched set.

Best Bra for Summer Tops: Soma Vanishing 360 Perfect Coverage Bra

This is the kind of bra that completely disappears. You don't see it under the arms when you raise your hands in a sundress, you don't see the straps peeking out of the back of a tank top, and you don't have that dent of the top of cups in a fitted top. Available in a bunch of different skintones, this is the kind of bra I love under beach sweaters and lightweight linen and voile tops.

Best Wireless Bra: Soma Embraceable Wireless Unlined Full Coverage Bra

I have been raving about this bra for years. I became a convert during Lockdown, but continue to wear this bra to this day (I may or may not be wearing just it and a pair of shorts in my bedroom as I type this on a surprisingly warm spring day). Shape, support, and comfort… who could ask for anything more?

Best Bra for Great Shape and Lift: Soma Stunning Full Coverage Bra

When I put this bra on, my bustline looks like it got a facelift. It's not a delicate bra, but it's surprisingly comfortable, and under a sweater dress i the winter or a knit dress (like this one) in the summer… wowza! It's also pretty and also comes in colors that often have matching and/or coordinating undies.

Best Bra for Shape, Lift and a Lower Neckline: Soma Stunning Balconette Bra

Same bra, but a balconette style which is great for scoopnecks and also those of us with shorter torsos who find bra cups sometimes a little too tall for comfort or our wardrobes. This is a great one under sundresses.

Best Minimizer Bra: Soma Sensuous Sides 3 Inch Minimizer Bra

Some outfits just work better with a bit less boob. And this minimizer bra from Soma gets the job done while being pretty comfortable, pretty good looking, and virtually invisible under clothes.

Best Strapless Bra: Soma Stunning Strapless Bra

If you want a bra that will not budge all night, will give you great shape and lift, and will disappear under that cocktail or bridesmaid dress… this is it. It has inside grip to help it stay in place and comes with optional straps and a bunch of different hooks so this is also a really useful convertible bra.

Other Great Bras from Soma

I know not all of you need or want the same kind of bras I do. Writing about Soma, visiting the stores for events, now having another bra-wearing person in my household, and hearing from you readers has taught me which other bras at Soma are great:

• Vanishing Lightly Lined Balconette Bra: A new bra from Soma, and I am a fan. If you hate how bras can segment your back and cause lumps, this is the bra for you. It's also comfortable!
• Bodify Strapless Bra: Doesn't slip and slide, cups mold to your shape, and with tons of different hidden hooks and optional straps this is a genius multiway bra.
• Stunning Push-up Plunge Bra: The name explains it all; this bra gives serious lift, serious cleavage, and the result is stunning. Oh, and it also disappears under fitted knits!
• Romantic Lace Lightly Lined Perfect Coverage Bra: It's so pretty, and it's so functional too. Great shape, comfortable, and did I mention how pretty it is?

You May Also Like:

The Best Bras for Large Busts: My Honest Picks by Category

Evelyn & Bobbie Bra Review for a Large Over 40 Bustline

Did I miss your favorite Soma bra? Do share in the comments, it may be exactly what another reader has been looking for!

The Cost of Everything Went Up. Except Your Jeans.

In 2000, you could go to the mall and buy a pair of jeans at Gap for around $45. If you went to buy a car, on average it would cost $21,000 and gas for it would be about $1.50 a gallon. If you bought a home in 2000, on average, it would cost $200,000.

In 2020, gas was about $2.17 a gallon. The average price for a car was around $40,000 and the average cost of a home in the United States was $329,000. Life in general cost almost twice as much, but a pair of jeans at Gap only increased to $50.

In 2026, gas averages $4.06 a gallon. (source) The average price for a car is around $49,200 (source) and the average cost of a home in the United States is $502,700 (source). The average price of a pair of jeans at Gap is now up to $80, but it's still not trending at the same rate as the rest of the costs of living in this country.

This isn't an article about Gap jeans, but how the cost of living has increased exponentially over the past 25 years, yet we consumers are still expecting retail prices to remain the same. And the reason we expect that is because of fast fashion. Whether or not you are shopping Shein, mega retailers like it have warped our concept of price and value and it has affected the quality and price across all apparel brands.

How Companies Keep Prices Down

The price of an item drops (or stays the same as the cost of living increases) when there is a way to make it cheaper. And there are a lot of ways to make things cheaper:

1. Cheaper materials (wood laminate versus hardwood plank floors)
2. Buying in bulk (McDonald's fries versus fries made by your local independent cafe)
3. Cheaper manufacturing (overseas factories where cost of living is lower and regulations are not as strict versus made in the U.S.)
4. Technology innovation (replacing paid laborers with machines and AI)

The reason jeans (and sweaters, and dresses, and all of apparel) are still on average the same price two decades years later is a mix of these four methods, but primarily numbers one and three.

With Amazon, Shein, Temu, and these other mammoth companies with questionable practices and ridiculously low prices, how can other retailers compete? How can they make their clothes match inflation in this decade and still keep customers? They can't because customers can't fathom a pair of jeans costing $100 when they can find them elsewhere for $25.

We have lost all concept on value and cost because of these fast fashion megacompanies. We accept that houses, cars, and gas cost almost three times as much but not that a t-shirt, pair of jeans, or a retailer we have worn for decades would double the price of their apparel. And because we're not being realistic with the cost to make clothing with halfway decent materials, manufacturing, and practices, we're destroying our style and the future of fashion.

A $329 Shirt Started a Debate in the Wardrobe Oxygen Community

This article has been updated for 2026 thanks to a discussion in the Wardrobe Oxygen community about an eyelet button-front top from M.M.LaFleur. While currently on sale because it is the end of the season, at the time of the discussion the shirt retailed for $329. The online description states this top is 44% cotton and 56% polyester, has bra strap holders, and includes a matching cami. The question was why a shirt that isn't even 100% cotton selling for such a high price.

Comparing Three Eyelet Tops: $329, $180, and $98

Eyelet tops are a big 2026 fashion trend, and found everywhere from random-name brands on Amazon to high-end fashion labels. And because of that, you can truly find an eyelet top for anything from $5 to $500. The Winnie Aperitivo Eyelet Top from M.M.LaFleur is on the higher-end pricewise, even for a fashion label that isn't known for being budget-friendly.

I wanted to try some well-known mall brands with a similar size range to M.M.LaFleur and see how their version of a button-front short-sleeved eyelet top would compare. I also wanted to see what differences there were between a $329 shirt and one that retailed for a third of the price.

I chose not to go with a fast-fashion brand like Amazon because I do not abide by the business practices that go into such prices and do not wish to pad the pockets of Jeff Bezos even further. I chose Banana Republic and Ann Taylor, two labels I have been shopping for decades and I know are popular with those of you who read Wardrobe Oxygen. First, let's delve into the M.M.LaFleur eyelet top.

M.M.LaFleur Eyelet Top: $329

The Winnie Aperitivo Eyelet Top from M.M.LaFleur retailed for $329 and came in two colors; I ordered it in black. Pulling out the shirt, I could feel the weight of the embroidery and noticed the scalloped sleeves that didn't cut the pattern of the eyelet. Investigating the shirt and the product labels I learned:

• The shirt itself is 100% cotton; the thread embroidery is 70% cotton, 30% polyester
• The camisole that comes with it is 100% cotton. It’s a refined cotton, very smooth and silky and lightweight, almost the weight of voile.
• The camisole has adjustable straps and the shirt has those little threads with snaps to hold the camisole and your bra straps in place. This also means the camisole is removable.

The shirt has a covered placket, which is additional fabric to hide the buttons. The yoke (upper back) of the shirt and the collar was lined in the same lightweight black cotton as the camisole. The buttons were solid and thick, a pearlized black that blended with the top. There was a box pleat below the yoke which gave a swing to the back of the shirt, balancing the front which had swing due to the shape to accommodate a bust.

However, the most impressive detail of this eyelet shirt is that the design (which is a circle pattern eyelet) matched up at the seams. Anyone who sews knows how difficult this is, and how this requires one to cut each piece individually and end up using more fabric. Side seams, where the back matched the yoke, where the sleeves connected… the eyelet pattern was almost perfectly consistent.

I have worn this shirt several different times over the summer, with and without the camisole. I have paired it with white linen pants, black trousers, a white poplin skirt, and wore it like a jacket over a black tank dress.

Banana Republic Eyelet Top: $180

Looking for a 100% cotton eyelet top that I also found to be stylish and a similar level of formality as the M.M.LaFleur shirt, I went with the Banana Republic Boxy Crop Shirt in Embroidered Cotton. Not exactly eyelet, but still an open-worn design with embroidery, this shirt is only available in white. Made from 100% cotton lawn, it is also a short-sleeve button-front shirt with a traditional point collar and originally retailed for $180.

This shirt is a silky lightweight semi-sheer cotton and the embroidery is 100% polyester. The design is the appearance of squares of cotton sewn together, and the occasional square embroidered with a flower or sprig of greenery. The collar, button placket, and yoke are lined in the same fabric. There are two pleats in back, spaced out more than a typical box pleat but offer shape and drape. There is no camisole.

I feel comfortable wearing this shirt with a skin-colored t-shirt bra with no adornment, but others, especially if wearing to the workplace, may prefer a camisole. The embroidered semi-eyelet fabric was treated as regular fabric and there was no focus on matching up the pattern, cutting at a specific place on the design, or having it line up at the hems or cuffs.

This is a very straight and boxy style with looser sleeves and body. I felt the style was more gender-neutral, and would work untucked or tucked in and slightly bloused out. It's a nice top, but far less attention to detail than the M.M. top, no camisole, and I think is appropriately $150 less.

Ann Taylor Eyelet Top: $98

The Ann Taylor eyelet blouse is a closer match to the design of the M.M.LaFleur top in that it is a true eyelet and has scalloped cuffs and hem. Made from 100% cotton with 100% cotton embroidery thread, it is also a short-sleeved button-front style with point collar.

This shirt reminds me of the same eyelet I had dresses from as a child. Same crisp cotton with the cut-out flowers. While the hem and cuffs were scalloped, they weren't done considering the pattern, just the appropriate length of fabric.

No yoke in back, no box pleat, just one straight piece of fabric from collar to hem. The collar was lined in the same fabric, the placket lined with a thin white solid cotton. The pearlized buttons were an off-white color.

Beyond the scalloped hems, this was a very basic shirt. It would need a camisole, not just for the open work but the sheerness of the cotton. The original price of the shirt was $98 and it does feel like a shirt that costs $80 less than the Banana Republic shirt and a quarter of the M.M.LaFleur shirt.

Not All Cotton is Created Equal

With so many synthetic fabrics on the market, it is understandable to desire natural fibers like 100% cotton. But it is important that not all cotton is created equal; some cotton can be such a poor fabric you may be better with a blend.

As with wool and other yarns, the longer the fibers the more durable, but also the finer the yarn can be. This is known as long-staple fibers, or long-staple yarn.

• Long-staple fibers can be twisted tighter for a tighter weave, which actually makes a garment more breathable. Short fibers trap air and moisture, so you feel hotter, and your clothes take longer to dry.
• Longer fibers make for a smoother yarn, which makes the fabric softer, less likely to crease and wrinkle, and have a softer finish and subtle sheen.
• Shorter fibers are more likely to twist out of yarn creating a rough texture, pilling, and better chance of the fabric getting holes with use.

Some terms you may encounter when shopping for cotton apparel:

A good way to know if a cotton is good quality is give it a squeeze. If the fabric feels rough and instantly wrinkles, it's short-fiber cotton. Rub it against itself; if it fuzzes up or pills, that is also a sign of lower-quality or shorter fiber cotton.

None of the three shirts above share what kind of cotton they are from, nor the length of the fibers. However, when doing the squeeze test, the Ann Taylor shirt failed by instantly creasing.

What's Behind the Price Tag: The Companies

a quick look at the companies behind these three shirts

A company's size, business practices, and location can drastically determine the price of a garment. Let's dig into the businesses behind these three cotton shirts:

M.M.LaFleur

M.M.LaFleur launched in 2013, founded by Sarah LaFleur, Miyako Nakamura, and Narie Foster. It's stayed independently owned, has around 82 employees, and gives 10% of its yearly profits to organizations that support women. The company also runs Second Act, a resale program for pre-owned M.M.LaFleur pieces, plus a partnership with ThreadUp, and has built a sustainability roadmap tied to the UN's Sustainable Development Goals.

In 2024, when the company's lender ran into financial trouble, founder Sarah LaFleur didn't go the bankruptcy or private equity route. She reached out to 50 women and asked them to invest directly. About half said yes, becoming angel investors and keeping the company independent. That's part of why the brick and mortar stores matter to them: LaFleur has said in interviews that customers need to touch and try on the clothes before the price point clicks for them.

Banana Republic

Banana Republic started in 1978 as a safari-themed travel outfitter and mail-order catalog, founded by Mel and Patricia Ziegler. Gap Inc. bought it in 1983, and by 1988 the Zieglers had lost creative control entirely. What started as a quirky travel brand became a mall-friendly label managed under Gap's playbook, same factories, same supply chain, same corporate practices.

That size cuts both ways. Being part of Gap Inc., alongside brands like Old Navy, Athleta, and (at various points) Intermix and Piperlime, means Banana Republic gets the bulk-buying discounts smaller labels can't touch. It also means it's tied to Gap Inc.'s labor record, including its refusal to sign the Joint Memorandum on Fire and Building Safety after the 2013 Rana Plaza factory collapse and forced labor allegations reported in 2020.

Ann Taylor

Ann Taylor opened its first store in 1954 in New Haven, Connecticut, founded by Richard Liebeskind. The name wasn't a real person; it was the bestselling dress at his father's store. Over the following decades, the brand changed hands repeatedly: sold to Garfinckel's in 1977, absorbed into Allied Stores, hit by a hostile takeover from Campeau Corporation, and eventually bought back by a group of investors that included its own employees.

In 2015, Ascena Retail Group, which already owned Lane Bryant and Dressbarn, bought Ann Taylor and LOFT. Ascena filed for bankruptcy in 2020, and private equity firm Sycamore Partners picked up the pieces. Today Ann Taylor sits inside Sycamore's Knitwell Group alongside LOFT, Talbots, Chico's, WHBM, Haven Well Within, Lane Bryant, and Soma. That's a lot of women's apparel brands under one roof, which is exactly how a company keeps costs down: shared manufacturing, shared shipping, shared everything.

How Can We Afford the Fashion We Deserve?

So a decent cotton shirt in 2026 can cost anywhere from $98 to $329. Even the low end is serious money. For $98, you can feed a family, fill the gas tank, pay a utility bill, or buy a prescription. What matters here is need versus personal value.

Let's be honest: no one needs a $329 eyelet blouse, even if it matches up the pattern and comes with a camisole. It's beautiful, it's well-made, and I find it versatile. But honestly… this is a want purchase, not a need. But want holds merit, too.

I See It, I Like It, I Want It, I Got It

When it comes to wants, we've become a society that sees it, likes it, wants it, gets it. We feel pressure to wear something new to every occasion instead of repeating favorites and building a personal style. We get frustrated with the lack of selection, size, and fit, so we buy mediocrity and end up with a closet stuffed full of nothing to wear.

We scroll through social media and stream shows where temptation shows up every 30 seconds, phone in hand, ready to buy the look in minutes. Influencers tell us dupes are just as good, “looks for less” are smart shopping, and life gets better with one more purchase.

Is Your Closet Growing, Too?

In 2000, I worked for a company that sold jeans, and a few times a year I got 55% off. Even then, I only owned a handful of pairs. Each one served a different purpose: some for going out, some for weekends, some that worked with heels, some with flats. All of them got worn. All of them were purchased on purpose.

Years later, during a closet cleanout, I counted more than a dozen pairs of jeans and realized I only liked two of them. Most didn't fit well, but I kept them because I didn't have anything to replace them with. Some were duplicates bought out of fear my one good pair would blow out and leave me with nothing. Most were mediocrity, bought and kept because I told myself it was the best I could do.

These days I'm back to a handful of jeans, each with its own job. I don't care how good the price is: if they don't do right by my butt, they're not staying in my closet. If they slide down by noon, they're gone. Returns suck and stores rarely have my size, but that's not an excuse to own crap.

All that crap is what's keeping me from the money for quality. And for tailoring. And for the energy to launder and care for what I own so it actually lasts.

When Has Fashion Been Easy?

When has fashion ever been easy? We hold onto this Pretty Woman, Clueless, Valley Girl fantasy of spending a day at the mall and walking out with the perfect closet. I don't think any of us lived that fantasy, not once, in our grown-ass woman lives.

When I was an adorable 20-something, I'd go to the mall and come home empty-handed more often than not. Okay, I'd come home with an empty Nordstrom Ice Storm cup and a random pair of earrings, but no life-changing outfit. Jeans didn't fit my butt, shirts didn't fit my bust, blouses didn't fit my arms, necklaces didn't fit my neck, and sunglasses never fit my head. Back then, I left all of it at the mall.

You don't need half of what's in your closet, and you probably don't need more. You're rarely buying out of need. You're buying out of desperation and FOMO. Wardrobe Oxygen is part of that problem too, showing you a great pair of earrings or linking my outfit on ShopMy for easy shopping. But buying crap and complaining that clothing costs too much just wrecks our concept of price and value even further and takes us off course from finding actual style.

Does Cheap Quality Fashion Exist?

I love clothes and fashion, and if you're here reading Wardrobe Oxygen, you probably do too. Fashion is art, it's a hobby, it's self-expression, and I'd be miserable wearing the same five things on repeat, especially if I didn't love them in the first place.

I'm not asking you to wear your current closet into the ground, or to rip it off your body and run down the street screaming your newfound freedom. I'm asking you to look at the actual cost of things in 2026 and compare it honestly to what clothing costs now. The math doesn't add up, and every time we chase fast fashion prices, we make the problem worse.

Budget-Friendly Reliable Retailers

Some retailers do cheap fashion better than others. I often recommend Old Navy: its practices aren't perfect, but it offers size inclusivity, natural fibers, occasional sustainable practices, and a way to embrace trends without looking dated or falling apart within a season.

I'm also a fan of the factory stores for J. Crew, Gap, and Banana Republic, which often have style and fit that rival or beat their full-price counterparts. I still have a Gap Factory dress in my closet older than my teenager.

Secondhand Is So Chic

Current trends are perfect for thrifting, consignment shops, vintage fashion, and buying secondhand online. The return of '90s and Y2K style, runways embracing street style, and endless TikTok and YouTube tutorials on DIY tailoring and upcycling all give you ways to add newness to your closet without spending a fortune.

For brands like M.M.LaFleur, head to Poshmark or M.M's resale site, Second Act. Also check out Gem which lets you save specific searches and will email you as soon as something fitting that description pops up on any of the popular resale sites.

If secondhand shopping sounds time-consuming, remember how it was to shop in 2000. We didn't have stores at our fingertips. We took time, touched fabric, made lists, compared options. Finding the right piece could take weeks or months. Life moves faster now, but your closet doesn't have to keep up. We can't slow down time, but we can slow down our shopping.

You May Also Like:

Fashion Is a Form of Gardening

How To Create a Capsule Wardrobe

Fast Fashion FAQs

End of the Season Capsule Wardrobe

This is a summer to fall (and beyond) end of the season capsule wardrobe that is a mix of textures and silhouettes while still remaining mix-and-match and cohesive. Incorporating brands that offer extended sizing and easy-care fabrics, this is a collection of pieces that are not only easy to dress up and down, but also take on travel.

What Inspired This Capsule Wardrobe

The bold watercolor print works with black, with navy, with olive, with shades of brown and tan, and with brighter neutrals like white and ivory. I've worn the blouse with my favorite white jeans and black sandals, and with black ponte shorts and these same exact FitFlop shoes. The blouse looks good tucked in and left out. Those outfits inspired me to create this capsule wardrobe where accessories do heavy lifting and outfits are made to work now and a couple of months from now.

Shop the Capsule Wardrobe

skirt (XS-XXL; code ALISON15 for 15% off) | dress (XS-XXL; code WARDROBEOXYGEN10 for 10% off) | blazer (XS-3X) | tee (XXS-4XL) | pants (XS-3X in regular, petite, & tall) | jeans (2-26W with lengths, petite, & tall) | blouse (XS-XXL; ALISON15 for 15% off) | hoops | ring | necklace | lipstick | shoes | belt | bag

Explaining the Accessories

Speaking of accessories, I added many that I either own or a friend owns and I have personally experienced:

• I own the bag. It is convertible, where the strap can be shortened, removed, and lengthened to make a crossbody, shoulder bag, and even a crescent handbag.
• The necklace, I own the shorter version and wear it all the time, adjusting it from long to short. Longer necklaces are on trend this fall, and this one gives you the ability to have multiple looks with one piece.
• I don't own this exact ring, but I own another from this company and I love the style, the size range, the quality, and concept. Very cool.
• I bought a ring from the company that sells the earrings; the quality is excellent for the nice price.
• I don't own the belt, but I have a similar style from years ago and this look is versatile and back in fashion. I do own other leather goods from this quality and sustainable company.
• I own the lipstick in a different color; I haven't been disappointed by any makeup from this line (though I still don't fully “get” the Miracle Balm)
• As mentioned, I own these shoes and also these similar ones with a more structured buckle. I find both styles wide-foot and even high-volume foot friendly.

Over 15 Sample Outfits

From this collection of seven garments, I made 15 sample outfits. Tap any of the thumbnails to see larger; tap or swipe to go through the looks and tap outside the slideshow to return to this screen:

I did add a couple of extra items to this capsule, thinking you may own similar (or desire something so versatile and timeless).

• This travel wrap, which IMO is the best
• These sunglasses which can be prescription (or readers!)
• This bangle, which adds a bit of interest at a nice price

However, as always with my capsule wardrobes, I create them so that hopefully they can be extended with your existing closet. Adding a pair of white jeans, Bermuda shorts, a denim jacket, a graphic t-shirt, a short-sleeved sweater and adding shells and tops bringing in the colors of the watercolor print.

You May Also Like:

How to Style Mary Jane Flats

Best Packable Travel Jackets for Women