Fashion Blog » deborah dera

Last week a friend of mine mentioned on her blog that she was doing “C25K.”  I, being uninformed, asked what “C25k” stands for and was told it means “Couch to 5K.”  It’s an interval running program that teaches your body how built up the endurance to be able to run for 30 minutes straight (or approximately 5k) over the course of 9 weeks.

Now, considering I’m preparing to hit heavy training mode I thought that trying C25K would be a great way to get started. I am not in the worst shape ever but between having asthma and not knowing “how to run” I could never really work myself up to being a person who laced up her sneakers and hit the pavement for fun.

But there I was on Saturday afternoon, pacing the aisles at the local Walmart looking for a decent pair of running shoes that wouldn’t break the bank. (I found the Detra by Athletic Works for a mere $22, by the way).  When I got home I found a C25K companion podcast and downloaded it to my iPod. I was ready to hit the field on Sunday morning.

There was just one problem.  I do not currently own any cute exercise apparel like the Under Armour Action Racerback Tank ($14.95) or the Brooks Energy Short ($24.15).  I will remedy this situation when I feel like I’m not wasting my money “pre-weight-loss.”  My real concern, however, was a lack of- uhm - control in the chest region, if you catch my drift.

Why on earth is there no reasonably affordable high-impact sports bra for women with larger chests?  In Walmart there was a really cute Danskin high-impact bra - not in my size.  The same story repeated itself in both Dick’s Sporting Goods and Sports Authority.  The closest I came was a really great looking Under Armour bra but it was tagged at $44.95.  For a sports bra?

Further research proves that if I am going to pay big money for a bra I may as well stick with Under Armour. I already love their sports products and I have found that (despite it not being on store shelves) there is a great Under Armour Heat Gear Endure D Zip Front Sports Bra available online.  What a mouthful, right?

Check it out, though.  It’s specifically made for women with D cups who participate in high-impact activities AND it zippers up the front so you don’t have to worry about stretching out the bra you just paid all that money for.  Looks like a win to me!

After that first run it’s safe to say I’ll be looking for something a bit more controlling to wear under my soon-to-be-cuter exterior gear.  My feet were aching for their UGG slippers by the end of that first workout but rest assured I’ll be back on the track tomorrow!

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop through all sports bras.

The first time I heard about Spanx I was sitting in the living room with my fiance lamenting about being unable to find clothing that seemed to fit me properly - especially during the season of post holiday bulge. I was particularly disgruntled about having to shop for pantyhose - an item that NEVER seems to fit correctly no matter what size I’m wearing.

Because of my animosity towards these items of clothing, I am pretty sure I do not own a single pair of pantyhose right now. Good thing I’m not going out.

Anyway - he suggested that perhaps I should buy a pair of Spanx.

My response was a mixture of curiosity and, I admit, despair. Was he making up some absurd product to make fun of me? Why had I never heard of Spanx before?

I, obviously, went to look up Spanx and there it was - the must-have item of the century - the Spanx Hide & Seek half slip. Excuse me for being a bit over excited about an underwear style product, but anyone who’s had tummy bulge popping over her skirt or pantyhose knows exactly why I would be ecstatic over a slip that clings to the body and smooths everything from the stomach down. Hooray!

I continued my search and found my next favorite wardrobe must-have: the Spanx Hide & Sleek Cami! It comes in both regular and plus sizes, black and nude, and will fit perfectly under your favorite blouse or t-shirt to aid in adding that “slimming” effect to every outfit you wear.

So, there you have it. I’m hooked. Why no one told me about Spanx earlier, I will never know. Why this luxury item isn’t in every woman’s closet, I’ll never understand. What I do know is that my first is here and my next is on order!

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop for more Spanx.
Discounts on women’s slips and camisoles.

I was watching the news this morning and saw a teaser about spring fashions. Apparently gladiator sandals are making a comeback again this spring.

But I have to admit one thing. I just don’t get it.

I mean, there are a few really cute strappy styles with intricate designs and colorful leather work, but these atrocities that crawl up your leg towards your shorts or skirt as if they’re a vine growing out of the ground? Are they really h-o-t?

I admit to being at a loss for words. I mean - are you looking at these pictures?

So today I will refrain from insulting those who do love the shoes I apparently don’t understand and instead I will pose a question to all of my fabulous Smarter Fashion Blog readers. What do you think of gladiator sandals? Are they hot or not? If you love them, tell us why and please do tell me how you choose to wear them (casual, formal, etc). I’m dying to know.

Check out some more gladiator sandals here.

Ever put an outfit together, take a look at yourself in the mirror, and wonder what’s missing? Sometimes “bring your outfit full circle” simply means accessorizing or properly using cosmetics.

So, let’s start with the handbag. Sometimes I dress myself up for a weekend out and grab the handbag all of my “stuff” is in and realize I just lost 10 points on the “hot scale.” You can’t spend hours in front of the mirror trying to obtain a sexy look and then pick up your ratty, everyday bag.

Go for something smaller and cuter, like the Swarovski Buckle Leather Barrel Bag. It’s sleek, sexy, and is adorned with it’s own Swarovski crystal. The bag comes in red or black, though I really think black is a bit more universal.

For a lighter spring look, check out the Coach Striped Handbag in beige. It’s a great evening bag for the spring and summer and can easily be used everyday if you’re a woman who doesn’t need to carry a lot of extra stuff with her.

Of course, the accessories you wear can make a huge difference as well.  I was once told that the difference between a woman who could walk into a room with “presence” and one who did not was in the accessories she was wearing. Both women could have on the exact same outfit, but the necklaces, rings, bracelets, or lack thereof would make a huge difference when it came to being noticed and remembered.

I’m really into bracelets these days, especially since my arms will show more in my spring attire. One of my spring favorites is the Juicy Couture replica Bracelet. It’s sleek, sophisticated, and can complement any look.

Those who like gold better than silver might like the Juicy Couture Heart Padlock Leather Bangle Bracelet instead. It’s a stunning blend of leather and gold that will certainly add an air of mystery to your wardrobe.

Last, but not least, is your makeup. I know this blog is all about fashion, but it’s important that you are able to combine your wardrobe choices with the proper cosmetic colors. Otherwise, you’ll end up looking like a clown.

My absolute favorite cosmetics come from Smashbox. They have an incredible variety of natural color options and usually run some really great sales.

Every woman should have the Smashbox Eye Liner Cream Palate. It’s easier to carry than a handful of different color tubs and gives you options and variety, no matter where you go.

The double ended lip glosses and lip pencils are a hit as well. You can change your color as needed with a dark and light option. These items are convenient enough to carry with you, even in your smaller evening bag!

Remember, being fashionable is about more than your dress, pants, and blouse. Combine your outfit with your accessories and makeup and you’ll make a much more memorable appearance!

Check out some other great barrel purses, bracelets, and Smashbox cosmetics here.

Yes. You read the heading correctly.

Yes. I’m going to go there.

Yes. It’s important.

The perfect brassiere (that’s formal for bra, silly).

If there’s one thing I hate more than anything else it’s shopping for the perfect bra. As a matter of fact, I’m thoroughly convinced that the “perfect” bra does not exist.

I’m not going to get into all of the nitty gritty details about how to determine your bra size, but I will say this. Once upon a time I was in a to-remain-nameless-high-quality-bra-store when the salesgirl asked me if she could help. I told her I wanted a bra without an underwire, which seemed to be nonexistant at the moment. When she asked why I told her they were uncomfortable.

She promptly offered me a formal bra fitting, explaining that most women were uncomfortable only because they were wearing the wrong bra size. What do you know - she was right (though I do still prefer those w/o the aforementioned wire).

So here’s a piece of advice. Let the woman at the bra store you choose give you a formal fitting. It’s really not as embarrassing as you think and, in the end, you may be surprised at what knowing the correct bra size will do for your sense of self-esteem!

A word of warning, though - the girl in Victoria Secret is probably more skilled at measuring bra sizes than the girl in Fashion Bug - but that’s just my experience speaking.

Ok. Have you determined the correct size? Time to start trying them on. Make sure you pay attention to the following:

• Make sure the underband is firm but doesn’t cause you pain. Can you comfortably run you finger underneath? If not, you need a larger size.
• Does the underwire extend past your rib cage and under your armpit? If so, the wire isn’t right for you. The wire itself should only encompass your breast and should never dig into your skin.
• The bra you choose should be able to support the weight of your breasts between the cups, underband, and broadband. A bra that pulls on your shoulders does not fit correctly.
• Bulge is bad. Let me say that again - bulge is bad. You need a different cup size if you are bulging out the top of sides!

Bra shopping may be a pain in the tush but it’s a necessary evil. I have no idea why finding something to comfortably hold  our treasured chest pillows can’t be as easy as finding a pair of comfortable UGG boots, but I digress.  Get yourself a formal bra sizing and you’ll be well on your way to a more comfortable (and hopefully painless) bra shopping experience.

To shop for low priced lingerie- BRAS - Click here.

So, the zipper on my winter coat completely fell apart this weekend.  First the zipper was jamming and then the teeth started falling out.  It’s February in New Jersey and it’s cold. Really cold. I need to be able to actually zip up my jacket.

Out we went to search for a replacement. Again. I reiterate. It’s now February. It’s winter. Spring won’t “officially” occur until late March and the temps won’t start to warm up until April. We are still mid-winter here, folks.

Of course, a walk through most major department stores would paint a different picture. Winter coat racks had been shoved to the corners of most stores with slim pickings - if there was anything at all. What did I find in their place? Bathing suit racks. Forget spring wardrobe - let’s just skip to summer.

Needless to say, I was a slightly disgruntled shopper. Therefore, I offer these suggestions to anyone who might find herself in need of a winter coat before the weather is warm enough for your lighter jackets (or a bathing suit…grrr…).

The Maxam Mountain Men or Women’s Winter Coat is a hot find. It’s got plenty of insulation to keep you warm and is water resistant - perfect for your next ski trip or the next snowstorm (if we have another)! The jacket can be found in eBay stores for as low as $33.00.

The Mountain Hardwear Downtown Coat is a spectacular choice as well.While this is a more expensive option than the previous, you simply can’t go wrong with a down coat. This one sells for $189.99 at TravelCountry.com.

Last (for now) is the Women’s Early Winters Waterproof Jacket. I love this one because it’s specially designed in both regular and petite sizes, so those of us with shorter statures don’t have to worry about looking like we’re swimming in a coat that is supposed to end hear our hips but actually comes down to our knees. Oh - and the Action Fleece interior will keep you warmer than you ever dared dream! This coat can be found at Sahalie.com on sale for prices ranging form $70 - $100.

Not thrilled about any of these choices? That’s okay. You can search for other women’s winter coats right here on Smarter.com. At least THEY haven’t disabled their winter collections with bikini displays!

Hello, fellow fashion friends! Last night we saw some of our favorite artists strut the red carpet during their arrivals to the Grammy Awards. While there were a few stunning ensembles, there were also a few that I’m not sure I’d want to be caught dead in.

Take, for example, Jennifer Hudson. Her outfit is far from the worst I’ve ever seen, but she’s SO pretty and she looks SO awkward here. I have no idea why her stylists can’t find something a bit more flattering - or at least a more appropriate pair of shoes. Truth be told, Jennifer could have shown up in a plastic bag dress with a rope belt and we’d still love her. Her performance during the awards ceremony was stellar!

Now on to the atrocities. M.IA. may be pregnant, but there’s simply no excuse for dressing like Mimi from the Drew Carey Show. All she needs here is a bit of makeup and she’d be a shoe-in for the part. What was she thinking?

Bia Ling’s dress made me cringe the moment I saw her. This freakish pink dress gave me 80’s flashbacks and I might’ve overlooked it completely (partially out of disgust, partially because it might’ve been cute) had it not been for the gigantic pink bow at the bottom. Who thinks of these things?

Oh dear - poor Paris Hilton is single again. Sort of makes me wonder how desperate she is. Her dress is cute, but looks like it belongs in her lingerie drawer - not on the red carpet.

Last, but certainly not least, is the usually stunning Sara Bareilles. That’s a feather skirt, folks. Need I say more?

Call me harsh - agree with me - whatever floats your boat. These fashion statements simply don’t work for me. As a matter of fact, I’m inclined to believe that British television personality Fearne Cotton had a decent idea when she told a local paper that she was going to wear thermals, a long dress, and UGG boots to the Bafta awards. It may be a bit colder in the UK than it is in Hollywood, but she’ll be comfortable!

And, by the way - after my last red carpet post someone asked why I didn’t post links to places where they could find the dresses I showed. In today’s case I ask - would you really want to buy one of these?

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop for women’s dresses.

Image Source: ABC.com

Last night’s SAG awards were nothing short of amazing - well, the earlier events were, anyway. I didn’t actually watch the awards. I was more interested in seeing what some of today’s hottest celebrities we wearing (or not) when they stepped onto the red carpet.

They did not disappoint, of course.

My absolute favorite dress of the evening was donned by Kate Winslet. The form-fitting number was flattering,and the color was brilliant. She, of course, was poised and pulled the ensemble off without a hitch.

Anne Hathaway, on the other hand, really could have done better. The dress is stunning and she looks gorgeous, but I think she could have picked something that accented her physical features a bit more and - to be honest - really should have done something a bit more elegant with her hair.

Anne’s dress wasn’t as bad as Angelina Jolie’s though. I have to say I’m pretty tired of seeing the same style over and over and over and over and… (get it?).  She’s phenomenal, don’t get me wrong, and could probably pull off any style. The dress itself is nice too (though I admit to loving the back far more than the frumpy look presented by the front). Angelina in the dress? Just..”eh.”

So maybe you disagree with my opinions, and that’s quite alright. They’re still gorgeous women in phenomenal dresses.  I only have my own two eyes to go by. Perhaps you know a bit more about Max Azria (Angie’s designer) and the spectacular beautician who did Anne Hathaway’s hair (sense my sarcasm?). I don’t. I simply know what I see and - well - that’s that.

Image credits: BBC, JustJared.com

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop for formal dresses.

Makeup, to me, is still an anomaly. While I’ve managed to pick two relatively decent shades of mineral foundation (no one has a single-tone skin color) and can reasonably apply eye shadow, there are still a few skills that evade me. Eyeliner must have been designed as a cruel trick. I can’t apply it with a pencil, liquid pen, or even the nice brush and pallet picked up a few months ago.

Of course, it wasn’t until recently that I realized that the average women didn’t even have the luxuries we have now until very recently. Makeup and fashion have certainly evolved over the years, and the industry has taken some incredibly odd twists and turns.

Did you know, for example, that fake eyelashes were invented for a Hollywood movie? A producer by the name of D.W. Griffith had false eyelashes made out of human hair to enhance the look of actress Seena Owen’s eyes.

Back in the day (meaning, a few hundred years ago), women used berries and natural colorings found in their environments to color their cheeks and face. Today we apply lipstick and very few of us realize that the gooey stuff we’re putting on our lips is full of fish scales.

Women from royal bloodlines changed their clothes several times per day. And while we would hang our clothes up for another day they would never see them again – instead giving them away to their slaves or those beneath them. One wear – my father would have killed me had I done that with a dress he paid good money for while I was growing up!

Oh yea, and slacks? Women never wore them before the 1930s. Actress Marlene Dietrich wore a pair during the filming of a movie called “Morocco.”

After that women who wanted slacks had to purchase them in the men’s department because women’s clothing manufacturers hadn’t yet figured out how to cater the design of pants for women!

We have, of course, been graced with dozens of other odd fashion trends over the years – from Madonna’s bullet bra to dying our hair a multitude of colors. No matter what happens, though, fashion will continue to grow and evolve. Some trends will be classy, some will be average, and some will be downright strange. It’ll be up to you to decide which you like best!

Image credits:  nutmeg/Flickr, ourchart.com

If you’re anything like me, you probably woke up this morning with a small problem. The holiday goodies from the past two weeks have quietly crept up on you and now, as you’re preparing to go back to work after a long holiday, your work pants are silently laughing, “Ha ha! Try to zip me up NOW!”

Oops. The average person reportedly gains 7 lbs over the course of the holiday season. Not a big deal, especially to those who have New Year’s resolutions to get back on the fitness bandwagon. But what can you do in the meantime to ensure you don’t look as frumpy as you might feel in clothes that are just a tiny bit too tight?

It’s really simple – just make some very conscious color choices as you dress each morning. Truth be told, black is a very slimming color. Dig through your wardrobe and pull out all of your cute black sweaters, tops, and pants. Alright, you don’t have to dress completely dark – but stick to darker colors that complement your black pieces well. They’ll help you to maintain that slim look while you’re working off those extra pounds.

Examples?

Try the Red/Black Sexy Kimono Satin Jersey top. You can dress it up for work or pair it with a pair of jeans for a more casual experience. The black body/waist is perfect for adding that slimming effect to your wardrobe. Plus, it’s a steal at only $19.95!

The Microfiber Triple-Cotton Tunic is another favorite. It’s simple, stylish, and easy to care for. At only $34 you’ll be hard pressed to find such versatile piece!

Last, but not least, a pick for the men. The Presidential Microfiber Shirt is perfect for the office or a casual day around town. It comes in a variety of colors and it’s so soft even the women love it. A bargain at $69, you won’t regret adding this silky shirt to your wardrobe!

Going back to work after the holidays isn’t the end of the world, but certainly feels like it! Go back in style and no one has to know how many extra slices of cake you ate at the last holiday party. Besides, you’ll be ready for swimsuit season in no time flat!

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop for more cotton tunics.
Discounts on women’s kimono tops.
Buy men’s microfiber shirts.