Desperately Seeking Skinny

Golden Globe Goddesses

2011-01-17T01:23:00.000-06:00

Claire Danes in Calvin Klein Collection

Eva Longoria in Zac Posen

Olivia Wilde in Marchesa

Emma Stone in Calvin Klein

Anne Hathaway in Armani

Lea Michelle in Oscar de la Renta

Kyra Sedgwick in bohemian chic

Photos via FabSugar

Pretty in Posen

2010-04-27T00:29:00.018-05:00

VF Daily has a side by side comparison of a Zac Posen runway original (pictured left below) and the Zac Posen for Target style steal I scored at a store in the burbs this weekend (bottom right). The high: the $75 price tag (Zac dresses retail at NM and Bergdorf for well over $1K) and pretty floral print that make it perfect for this weekend's derby. The low: I had to go up a dres size. Damn designer sizing... at least that's my story, and I'm sticking to it!

Now, if only I could find a store with these Cynthia Vincent for Target gladiator wedges in stock in a size 7 (aka the Holy Grail of Target finds). If you hear of a store getting a shipment, let a girl know. I reeeally need to own these shoes!

Skinny Swaps

2010-04-26T23:58:00.007-05:00

My favorite (and very pregnant) Housewife was on the Today Show this morning to talk about skinnygirl substitutions, like "Low Fat Mock a Mole," her take on a Tex-Mex favorite that increases fiber while decreasing fat. Also, pretty sure Bethenny tells KLG and Hodie around the 30 second mark that her due date is none other than my birthday, June 6th. Pretty cool – even if she did tell the crowd at her Dallas book signing she's due on the 10th of June.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Sassy Shapewear

2010-04-23T21:40:00.010-05:00

The Cut has a first look at the new lingerie-inspired styles from the SLIM by Cynthia Rowley shapewear collection, made from high tech fabrics that will slim your silhouette. The high: sweet skivvies in pretty palettes that are a departure from Spanx's signature nude hues. The low: the line, which doesn't hit stores until summer, will retail from $118 to $226. Ouch.

Moobs Be Gone

2010-02-10T11:55:00.022-06:00

I realize this will be my third Spanx post in as much as a month, but bear with me here. While partaking in a Pilates sesh with The Mrs. from Life as a Wife last night, I couldn't help but wonder: why doesn't Spanx have a workout line? Sara Blakely, if you're listening, women everywhere are in need of cute gym wear to suck us in while we're seeking skinny!

Until then, I guess the world will have to settle for Manx (copyright: Michael Kors), Sara's new line of Spanx for men that launched last week. I have to say, when I first heard about this, I was slightly skeptical. But upon further review, I may be getting on board with girdles for guys. I mean, if they're already going to wear an undershirt, why can't it be slimming, too?

The Cut reports three styles of cotton compression tops (think Under Armor) are now available via presale on Spanx.com for $55 to $58 each. Styles include a crew-cut tee, a V-neck and a tank top that all promise to firm chests, flatten stomachs, improve postures and support lower backs. The spanking new men's line hits Neiman Marcus stores on March 15. Because moobs (man boobs) are never a good look.

Herve Happens

2010-02-09T22:59:00.019-06:00

My BFF at Future B.O.L. tipped me off to the Herve sale happening on Gilt today, but unfortunately for me, most of the sizes were already picked over. But it you're an XXS or a large, run, don't walk, for $1,500 bandage dresses marked as low as $500. It sounds warped, but it's such a steal!

The Kristen Stewart stretch contrast banding dress (pictured below and one of my all-time favorites from the Leger line) could be yours for the not so low price of $798. For some perspective: the dress still retails in stores for around $2K. Sale ends tomorrow at 11 p.m. CST. Happy hunting!

We Can All Go Home Now

2010-02-09T22:10:00.036-06:00

In case you haven’t seen or heard by now, Sports Illustrated has named this year's cover girl for the mag's iconic swimsuit issue, and it’s none other than Mrs. Andy Roddick, Brooklyn Decker. Special thanks to SI for the friendly reminder that while I've been fearing the Hervé, what I really should've been fearing was, dare I say it, SWIMSUIT SEASON. I cannot, and will not, even go there right now.

Today's weight: 136.2 lbs. So if you run into me at Elevation's lunchtime Pilates class tomorrow or buying Brooklyn's Elle Make Better workout DVD, don't be alarmed, it's just the aftershock of the new SI cover. Hey, whatever gets you to the gym!

Spanx Swimwear

2010-01-26T10:27:00.019-06:00

Yep, you read that right: Spanx is making swimwear. This summer, slimming will meet swimming, but it'll cost you. Prices range from $78 for separates to $198 for one pieces. Below are a few of my favorite looks from the new line, which just so happen to all be one pieces.

What do you think about the new Spanx swimwear line? Will you pay a pretty penny for a swimsuit that sucks you in? If it made me look and feel good, I totally would!

Bandeau One Piece: $178

Structured One Piece: $198

One-Shoulder One Piece: $178

Jewel Love It

2010-01-25T21:20:00.029-06:00

You didn't think I'd actually forget to post my SAG Award selections, did you? This weekend, jewel tones ruled the red carpet, and I was lov-ing every minute of it. From pretty purple and gorgeous green to magnificent marigold, here are my top three picks for best dressed:

Jessalyn Gilsig in Nicole Miller

Lea Michelle in Malandrino

Diane Kruger in Jason Wu

No clue who Glee's Jessalyn Gilsig is wearing, so if you know, please do share. Photos of this dress were few and far between, which was shocking to me as this may be one of my all-time favorite dresses.

Also, today's weight: 137.8. I gained 0.6 lbs. Yikes. Off to the elliptical now. Wish me luck this week. I need it.

Skinnygirl Signing

2010-01-20T00:48:00.026-06:00

I almost didn't make it to Bethenny's book signing in Dallas tonight, but boy am I glad that I did. So precious in person (tonight's outfit: pink dress and NUDE PUMPS), she was just as funny as you'd expect and even sweeter and more gracious than she is funny. Just for you, here's the scoop from the hour-long Q&A and signing:

On the other Houswives
... SPOILER ALERT: She's no longer friends with Jill Zarin, which gives me the sads in a major way. We'll find out why on the new season of Real Housewives. (Methinks Jill may be jealous of Bethenny's budding success.)
... Ramona wants to be in the delivery room for her baby's birth. Bethenny's not so sure she wants Ramona's "crazy eyes" (copyright: Discountess de Lesseps) welcoming her baby into the world.
... She won't be taking parenting tips from Simon and Alex anytime soon, but cuts them some slack as the parents of two rambunctious little boys. "They're like Jack Russells," she says.

On her baby bump
... She met fiancé Jason Hoppy at NYC club Tenjune. Her due date is the 10th of June.
... She doesn't have a baby name picked out yet, but says her book tour is giving her lots of ideas. Today she likes Perry and Kelsey. (She's hoping for a girl.)
... She calls pregnancy cravings a "non-negotiable hunger" and recalled how she once ate an entire jar of pickles and proceeded to pickle her entire fridge.
... She says she's doing OK without her beloved tequila, but isn't obsessing about it. She even allowed herself a sip of champagne on New Year's Eve.

On her new book
... She used to be a crazy person about food (and 15-20 pounds heavier) until she stopped obsessing and became Naturally Thin.
... She likens her cooking style to "MacGyver" and says all of the recipes in her new book are born from ingredients everyone already has at home.
... Skinnygirl Dish hit the New York Times bestseller list in just it's first two weeks out the gate—her second bestseller!

On building an empire
... Her ready-to-serve SkinnyGirl Margaritas (available at Sigel's in Dallas) are selling out in stores and doing 10 percent of Cuervo's business.
... She has three new books in the works, including: Naturally Thin Pregnancy, Place of Yes (about being the best at whatever it is you do) and a yet-to-be-titled children's cooking book inspired by her dog Cookie.
... She has a workout video due in stores on May 5th.

And just for fun
... She's a die-hard fan of Friday Night Lights, the TV show inspired by the movie and book about my West Texas hometown. How do I know? We talked about it as she signed my books, of course.
... Tweeted Bethenny: "Where's the big hair, pink Chanel, hairspray and big diamonds with big accents in Texas? Everyone was so not 'Texas.' Dallas has the nicest people."

Now, who says I don't break hard hitting news?

Bummed about missing Bethenny? Follow @Bethenny on Twitter or visit bethenny.com for deets on future appearances and signings.

Red Carpet Roundup

2010-01-18T12:38:00.017-06:00

If you know me, then you know I love me a good awards show red carpet. Just for fun, here are my favorite looks from last night's Golden Globes.

Julia Roberts in vintage YSL and Van Cleef & Arpels necklace

Jennifer Morrison in her own dress

Lea Michelle in Oscar de la Renta

Jennifer Aniston in Valentino Couture

Kate Winslet in Atelier Yves Saint Laurent

Emily Blunt in Dolce & Gabbana

Shop Yourself Skinny

2010-01-16T11:37:00.013-06:00

It's Saturday, and I'm off to finally meet Sara Says for some much-needed shopping fun around le NorthPark—which according to a new study (courtesy of London's Daily Mail), could whittle down more than just my wallet.

The study, comissioned by Skinny Cow low calorie sweet treats (YUM), says the average woman burns around five calories for every five minutes spent shopping. That's 48,000 calories a year or the equivalent of 25 days of a woman's daily recommended caloric intake.

So it's no wonder more than half of the 2,000 women polled said they felt more exhausted after a day's worth of shopping than a workout at the gym. I don't know about you, but this could possibly be my favorite new workout plan yet—and the inspiration for my new fad diet book (ha)!

Carrie Bradshaw says: "Shopping is my cardio."

UPDATE: Shopping is totally my new workout. I earned six WeightWatchers activity POINTS for our three hour shopping spree on Saturday. Amazing!

Blake in Boots

2010-01-16T02:01:00.016-06:00

I have been looking for an excuse to blog about Blake Lively and the Stella McCartney perforated thigh-high boots she wore to Gossip Girl costume designer Eric Daman's book launch ALL WEEK so here it is. Daman is spilling his so-called "secret" for helping S and B instantly shed five pounds on set to UsMagazine.com, and it's really no secret at all: SPANX. Alert the media.

So back to Blake and her boots. How hard did she rock those babies (sans bottoms, natch!) on the red carpet at Henri Bendel? She may have gone pantless, but I would totally wear them as my boots slash leggings (bleggings?) under a dress. Love this look!

A Day in the Diet of...

2010-01-14T00:06:00.038-06:00

Lo Bosworth from The Hills
... Breakfast... Scrambled egg whites with whole grain toast
... Lunch... Salad with chicken
... Dinner.. Fish with veggies
... Workouts.. Training sessions 2X a week and hikes in L.A.'s Runyon Canyon
... Results... Lost eight pounds

Absolutely love this fun and flirty Alice + Olivia frock Lo wore for her 23rd birthday in Miami. She's also working one of my favorite look skinny secrets: nude pumps. Love it!

Because I'm Still Not Getting Any Skinner

2010-01-12T23:56:00.028-06:00

When I first started this blog last September, I wanted to do two things: 1) shed 20 pounds by New Year's and rock a Hervé Léger dress and 2) entertain my friends and family along the way. I did okay for, oh, about a month, and then with no Hervé worthy NYE plans in sight, my blogging and short-lived Wednesday Weigh-Ins fell off the radar. So allow me to recap the last four months for you:

... Worked out. Lost six pounds.
... Stopped working out. Gained four back.
... Started working out again. Dropped three pounds.
... Joined WeightWatchers. Again.

Which brings me to where I am today: 137.6 pounds with 17.6 more pounds to go. And while I may not have reached my 120 goal in time for New Year's 2010, I haven't given up on 2011.

So blog friends, this is me going public. Again. I WILL lose 20 pounds this year and wear that dress—even if I have the Rent the Runway. Who's coming with me????

Taco the Town

2010-01-11T12:36:00.024-06:00

Unless you've been living under a rock for the past two weeks (I kid, I kid), by now you've surely heard about Taco Bell's controversial new ad campaign, inappropriately dubbed the Drive-Thru Diet. Taking a cue from Subway, the ads introduce us to "Christine," a real-life Taco Bell customer, who lost 54 pounds over a two-year period by replacing her usual fast-food meals with items from Taco Bell's Fresco menu.

The problem with the ads: the fine print says the menu is not a weight loss program—despite "diet" being in the name. So why did Taco Bell do it? Company reps say they've heard stories from customers over the years who have lost weight by incorporating Fresco into their meal choices, Christine being one of them.

Taco Bell's Fresco menu is nothing new. In fact, it's long been endorsed by WeightWatchers and Hungry Girl, and I've even been known to eat two Fresco Crunchy Tacos in a pinch—300 calories and a POINTS value of six.

So I leave you with this: if eaten in moderation, what's the big deal with a Fresco Taco or two every now and then? Savvy consumers have to be smart enough to know the so-called "Drive-Thru Diet" is little more than a marketing and publicity ploy—and not an actual diet. Right?

Just Beat It

2010-01-11T10:53:00.009-06:00

My favorite new breakfast at my desk: Hungry Girl's Egg Mugg Classic. At 95 calories and just two POINTS per serving, this egg-cellent and oh-so-easy recipe is perfect for the busy girl on the go. Happy Monday!

Hungry Girl Egg Mug Classic
... Servings: One
... Difficulty: Easy
... Prep time: Five minutes

Ingredients

... Nonstick cooking spray
... 1/2 cup Egg Beaters Original
... One wedge of Laughing Cow Light cheese

Directions
... Spray a large microwave-safe mug lightly with nonstick spray.

... Add egg substitute and cheese (chopped into small pieces) and stir.

... Microwave for about a minute.

... Stir gently, and then microwave for another 30-45 seconds, until scramble is set.

... Stir and enjoy!

Thanks for the pretty monogram mug, Faith!

The Last Emperor

2010-01-10T16:30:00.010-06:00

It was way too cold to leave the house this weekend, so I finally cozied up in my warm apartment to watch Valentino: The Last Emperor. Filmed over the course of two years, the documentary offers a fascinating behind-the-runway look into the life of the legendary designer and his longtime partner Giancarlo Giammetti. If you have any interest in fashion or history, it's a must-see. Truly amazing!

Save Rachel

2010-01-10T00:07:00.016-06:00

I am a huge Rachel Zoe fan (love her show, own her book, subscribe to the Zoe Report), which is why this recent photo of her on the beaches of St. Bart's breaks my heart. A doctor estimates to UsMagazine.com that Rachel is a dangerously thin 80 pounds and sufering from an eating disorder, which she has long denied.

"Truthfully, I've never seen myself as being too thin," Zoe has said. "Sometimes I'll look at photos and be like, 'Oh, that's not a good look.' But generally speaking, I'm not too thin."

I do feel bad for Rachel when the media gives her a hard time, but she is clearly in denial about her current condition, which is serious stuff. She's such a gifted stylist with so much going for her (including, and I'm sure not limited to, a successful business and devoted husband), I truly hope she'll get the help that she so obviously needs.

She is far too skinny, and it makes me sad.

Sack a Free Donut

2010-01-09T22:36:00.013-06:00

I'm a firm believer in everything in moderation, so if you live in Dallas, and donuts are your guilty pleasure, this post is for you. To celebrate the Cowboys' triumphant 34-14 win over the Philadelphia Eagles tonight, fans can score a FREE donut at all participating Dallas-Fort Worth area Dunkin' Donuts shops on Sunday, Jan. 10.

No purchase is required, but I love me a Latte Lite (80 calories for a small and fat free) from the Boston-born chain's DDSMART menu of better for you options. Also, the limit is one sweet treat per person—not that you were planning to indulge in more than one though, right? Even better, split one with a friend and rest easy knowing all Dunkin' goods are trans fat free.

Full disclosure: Dunkin' Donuts is a Weber Shandy (where I work) client, but I truly do enjoy a Munchkin donut hole from time to time (I'm human), as well as their DDSMART menu items, of course. Hungry Girl is also a fan.

Tuesday Tips Redux

2010-01-06T23:30:00.008-06:00

Anne Hathaway, in Marc Jacobs, matches her tights to her patent pumps on the red carpet.

Blake Lively goes nude in Marchesa.

Tuesday Tips: Dress 10 Pounds Thinner

2010-01-05T19:56:00.040-06:00

I know I haven’t blogged in a few days, but I have a somewhat ~~not good at all~~ good excuse: I’ve been traveling, I’m back at work and even better, I’m back in the gym. Unfortunately for me, I’ve put on four pounds of holiday chunk since my last weigh-in, and as of this morning, I’m up from 136.4 to 140.8 pounds. That said, you can bet I’ll be faking it until I make it with these celeb secrets for dressing 10 pounds thinner (à la Reese Witherspoon). Enjoy!

... Match your separates. “Lose” five pounds by matching your stockings and shoes. Even better, you’ll seem 10 pounds lighter if they’re all black. (I love this look and already sport it often.)

... Wear a wrap dress. Universally flattering, these dresses are usually constructed with darts at the bust, curve-enhancing seams and cinch in at or just above the waist—all features that make you look svelte. (My favorite is DVF’s Julian Wrap Dress, which I own in leopard and a purple print, but still "need" in basic black.)

... Slip on a long cardigan. Waist-length cardigans tend to shorten your body, while long, hip-grazing versions make torsos seem long. And remember: anything that cuts you off at the waist adds pounds. You’ll look slimmer if your top and bottom meet just below the waist. (PS: I've worn my Gap boyfriend cardis to death and am on the hunt for more. If you have any tips, let me know.)

... Invest in a pair of nude pumps. Another slimming footwear idea: the nude-color pump—second only to Spanx in the celeb style secret handbook. Perfect for wearing with knee-length and mid-thigh skirts, they can add inches to legs. But be warned—the nude shoe trick only works with bare legs. (I’ve been pining for a pair of nude Louboutins pumps ever since I can remember.)

And last, but not least: wear red. Wearing something in a bold scarlet hue is a definite DO. The saturated color soaks up the light in all the right ways, and it also gives an I’m-too-sexy-for-my-pants confidence boost.

For more tips from Glamour on dressing 10 pounds thinner, click here.

Healthy Hollywood

2010-01-01T00:48:00.014-06:00

If you’re feeling guilty for overindulging during the holidays, take comfort in this: a recent survey, which polled 2,000 women, ages 18 and over, found that stars with curvier, healthier figures (think Kate Winslet and Halle Berry) were more desirable than their pin thin Hollywood peers, reports London’s Daily Mail via People.com.

Oscar winner Winslet (rocking Hervé Léger below) topped the list, followed by Berry, Beyonce and Megan Fox. Tied for last place were Victoria Beckham and Kate Moss, suggesting a positive shift from skinny to healthy as the Hollywood ideal. And that's good news!

Kate Winslet looking lovely in Léger

Hangover Helper

2009-12-31T03:39:00.035-06:00

I never knew this, but the reason people get hangovers is because booze is a diuretic (read: makes you pee). So when you drink too much, you lose the fluid that's holding your brain in tact (read: hangover) because there’s no fluid around the skull to keep it from rattling around. Thank you, Dr. Oz. So before you hit the town tonight, here are a few tips to help with tomorrow’s inevitable hangover.

... Before you go out... Hydrate throughout the day and eat before heading to your party. Avocados make a great snack since they’re full of healthy fats that will help delay the absorption of alcohol.

... While you’re out... Stick with light-colored liquor (clear tequila—no junky gold stuff!, vodka, white wine). Darker liquors have more impurities, which will only leave you hurting in the morning. Also, pace yourself. Limit yourself to one drink an hour, and don’t be afraid to have a “mocktail” like Diet Sprite and lime—or better yet, water—between drinks. I promise, your head will thank you in the morning.

... The morning after... Sure a Bloody Mary will sound heavenly, but forget “fighting fire with fire.” More booze will only make things worse. Instead, opt for water and hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Electrolyte-packed sports drinks are great too (lemon-lime Gatorade is my hangover elixir).

Next, eat something. But nix the heavy, hard-to-digest breakfast for a low-fat meal with lean protein (think turkey bacon, egg whites) and moderate carbs (hello, pancakes!).

And this may sound like crazy talk, but WeightWatchers says that light exercise—if only a short walk to get some fresh air—is also a must, followed by rest. One of the best hangover helpers is simply crawling under the covers and getting some Z's. Ultimately, only time will "cure" your hangover, but rest can help.

Happy New Year!

UPDATE: Have fun, but remember to always take a cab or use a designated driver

if you have too much to drink!

Recipe Renovations

2009-12-30T01:26:00.025-06:00

I wish I’d put this on my Christmas list: The Skinnygirl Dish, the follow-up to my obviously favorite housewife’s first New York Times bestselling book, Naturally Thin. Bethenny was on the Today Show to dish about her new cookbook, which offers skinny swaps for calorie rich favorites she calls “recipe renovations”—hello, chocolate cake! Watch her talk with Matt about her new book (and baby!) below.

UPDATE: According to Bethenny's Facebook and Twitter pages, Skinnygirl Dish is now a New York Times bestseller. Congrats, B!

Also, I somehow deleted the video with Matt updating this post and can't get it back, so this is actually a later appearance with Hoda now. Good thing she's always on the Today Show!

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Shaken, Not Stirred

2009-12-30T00:16:00.044-06:00

In honor of New Year’s Eve tomorrow, I’m bringing back an oldie but a goodie: Bethenny's Skinnygirl Margarita. Made with clear tequila (I like Patron Silver), fresh lime juice and just a splash of orange liqueur (Cointreau is great), this cocktail will only cost you 100 calories for a full 4 oz. serving. That’s a POINTS value of two—the same as a glass of wine or a bottle of light beer, but TONS more fun.

Skinnygirl Margarita
... Servings: One
... Difficulty: Easy
... Prep time: Five minutes

Ingredients
... Two oz (count one, two) of clear premium tequila

... Tiny splash of orange liqueur
... Juice of four fresh lime wedges

Directions
... Combine all ingredients, shake and pour over a glass of ice.

... Garnish with a lime wedge and salt—or sugar, if you’d like.

... Some people even do a salt and sugar rim mix.

... Cheers!

For a frozen version that serves four, check out this video.

Fit Club

2009-12-29T18:30:00.012-06:00

This January, our friends at The Movement Dallas (co-founder Bonnie Keaton is a fellow former Odessan) are offering new clients who want to get fit in the New Year a month of one-on-one training and unlimited group classes (including kettlebell, nutrition and their hit Recess group fitness classes) for just $52. Bananas!

Sadly, I don’t think I’m eligible for this awesome offer, but I am planning to finally try out their organic produce co-op. Membership is $25 a year plus $50 every two weeks for a beautiful bounty of organic fruits and veggies. Each bin easily feeds two for two weeks, so if you live alone, you may want to consider splitting with a neighbor or friend.

For more info, call 214-521-9200 or visit themovementdallas.com.

Girl on Top

2009-12-29T00:04:00.067-06:00

I just started reading one of my stocking stuffers, Girl on Top, a book by tell it-like-it-is career expert Nicole Williams about using tried-and-true dating rules (Play hard to get! Don’t give away the milk for free!) to achieve career success.

Right off the bat, one rule in particular caught my eye... watch your weight. Says the author, your weight, and even more than that, your level of physical fitness, has a much-bigger-than-you’d-think impact on your career. Not only because of how people perceive you (worst case: lazy) and how you feel about yourself (best case: powerful), but also because of its sheer influence on your level of performance.

I hate to say it, but I actually agree with her on this one to an extent. What do you think about this rule?

New Year, New You

2009-12-28T14:49:00.037-06:00

This month's Real Simple has some good tips for staying motivated to achieve your New Year's resoultions, and DSS even gets a sweet little shout out! Here are the highlights from writer Lesley Alderman's article:

... When you make a plan, anticipate bumps. Before trying to achieve a goal, target pitfalls and troubleshoot them. Meaning stop using rainy weather as an excuse to skip your workout (hello, Recess). Instead, make contingency plans ahead of time. ("If it rains, then I'll go to the gym and get on the elliptical instead.")

... Channel the little engine that could—really. A person's drive is based on what she believes about her abilities, not on how talented she is, says one Stanford University professor. His work has shown that people wh have perceived self-efficacy (the belief they can accomplish what they set out to do) perform better than those who don't.

... Don't let your goals run wild—but work on them everyday. When your sights are too ambitious, they can backfire, burn you out and actually become demotivating. Instead of aiming unrealistically high, set goals that are a stretch, but not an overreach, and work on them everyday. Taking tiny steps will not only help hold your interest in what you're trying to achieve, but will also ensure that you move slowly, but surely, toward your goal.

... Go public with it. Instead of keeping your intentions to yourself, make them known to many. Other people can help reinforce your behavior, and it's harder to abandon a dream when you know that people are tracking your progress (ahem, this little blog).

For more of Lesley's tips, pick up this month's Real Simple, on newstands now, or click here.

It's a Christmas Miracle

2009-12-25T21:56:00.076-06:00

It's Christmas, and I'm still not at my goal weight. Not even close. But I am happy to report that I am wearing size six jeans again, something I haven't been able to do in quite a while. I recently found myself swimming in the only pair of jeans that fit me post-college (a roomy pair of 7 For All Mankind A pockets), so I finally broke down and went (dun, dun, dun) jeans shopping.

Shopping for jeans has never been a pleasant experience for me, so you can imagine my surprise when I was able to slip into a rockin' pair of True Religion Becky jeans... and Gap's Always Skinny jeans... and Forever 21 skinny jeans... all in a size 28, the equivalent of a size six.

This was shocking to say the least. I wasn't really sure how it happened. Since late October, my diet and workouts along with my Wednesday Weigh-Ins have pretty much fallen to the wayside. (You surely noticed that my last Weigh-In was in late September.) But whatever the reason, I am loving shopping for and wearing jeans again... something I wasn't able to do comfortably before. Merry Christmas, everyone!

Zero Calorie Mac and Cheese

2009-11-29T18:39:00.020-06:00

My Dad said this WeightWatchers recipe for Baked Mac and Cheese has “zero calories” because once you taste it, you’ll want to spit it right out. Another gem from my Dad: “I like it. And by like, I mean I’d like to throw it away immediately.” Oh, Dad.

I have to admit, it wasn’t my finest work, but I have to think that was due to the fat free ingredients used to make the dish—not my ability to follow a recipe. That said, if I had to do it over again, I would’ve made the real stuff for our Thanksgiving dinner—everything in moderation. And just in case you still want to try it after this glowing review, here is the recipe. It yields one cup per serving for a POINTS value of five, instead of the more sinful 11 POINTS for the good stuff.

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday with friends and family!

Team Jake

2009-11-24T22:39:00.035-06:00

I couldn't resist sharing a little inspiration to get you to the gym: Taylor Lautner (aka Twilight's Jacob Black) and his eight pack abs on the cover of Rolling Stone, on newstands tomorrow. You know I totally saw New Moon on opening night last Friday (along with my fellow werewolf lovers—you know who you are!) and loved every minute of it.

I'm also really loving the Twilight and New Moon soundtracks at the moment. Good Death Cab for Cutie, Muse and more. I love how every song takes you back to a specific scene from one of the movies. My only complaint would be that Radiohead's "15 Step" (the song that plays during the end credits of Twilight) isn't on the first soundtrack. Other than that, good stuff. New and much-needed elliptical music!

Skinny Sweets

2009-11-23T09:31:00.024-06:00

DSS has just discovered Gayle’s Miracles lo-cal Perfect Chocolate Truffles (thanks, Melanie) and just can’t get enough of them. These trim truffles—available in milk, dark and raspberry dark chocolate—taste like a decadent mini-chocolate cake but only have 30 calories and one gram of fat.

The secret to these skinny sweets? The center of the truffle is made with a fat-free filling, so the only real chocolate is the thin coating on the outside. Two truffles equals one WeightWatchers POINT—so you can indulge in these goodies without the guilt.

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

2009-10-06T22:13:00.033-05:00

The Neiman Marcus Christmas Book is out, and I am DYING for the Valentino boots and hobo below. And before you start to tell me that my unrequited love of high fashion has nothing to do with seeking skinny, think again, because those Manolos might just save my life.

According to a study via Women's Health, shopping isn't just about materialism; it's actually good for your mental and physical well-being. Says the study, shopping releases mood-lifting endorphins, boosts immunity and keeps the brain nimble while fulfilling basic social needs. So the next time you splurge on the "essentials" from Neiman's, Barney's or now Bendel's, just remember: those Loubs might be your lifeline!

UPDATE: Check out these fabulous Valentino inspired boots à la the NM Christmas Book I found at Charlotte Russe—for just $40 bucks! And since they were buy one, get one for $15, I even got my sister a pair for Christmas. Now, I just need a fabulous bag to go with them!

Family Frittata

2009-10-06T00:17:00.035-05:00

Don't get me wrong, uptown Dallas high-rise living is all well and good, but I absolutely LOVE being home in West Texas with the fam. In a real house. With a real kitchen. With well more than my 650 square feet of living space to experiment with all of the recipes I'd never dream of making in my closet of a kitchen. Which is exactly why I had to try out this little Frittata number from Bethenny's book, Naturally Thin, while home in Odessa this past weekend.

Says my favorite New York housewife, "This fancy-looking but super-easy recipe makes a beautiful and healthful breakfast." So simple and skinny—if I can make it, you can make it. Ka-dooz!

Bethenny's Easy, Impressive Frittata
... Servings: One (double, triple or quadruple the recipe to serve two to four)
... Difficulty: Moderate
... Cook Time: About 30 mins

Ingredients:
... Cooking spray
... One cup of veggies, sautéed
... One egg yolk and three to four egg whites

... One tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
... Salt and pepper to taste

Directions
... Preheat the oven to 350°F.

... Spray a small nonstick pan with an oven-proof handle with cooking spray.

... Sauté the veggies over medium heat.

... In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and egg whites with a little salt and pepper.

... Pour the egg mixture into the pan and move it around with a spatula until slightly solidified.
... Transfer the pan to the oven. If you don't have an ovenproof skillet, you can transfer to a glass baking dish like I did below.

... Sprinkle with cheese and bake until the frittata is almost firm to the touch (approximately 15 to 20 minutes).
... Serve immediately.

My version. Might not be as pretty as Bethenny's frittata, but it was just as tasty!

Lite Bites: Avocado Toast

2009-10-01T16:42:00.017-05:00

It's 4 o'clock. You're ravenous. Try this tasty little treat from Test with Skewer: avocado toast. Just add a few slices of fresh avocodo sprinkled with lemon juice, freshly ground black pepper and sea salt on a slice of toast. (I like Heartland Bread Co. oat bran bread from Whole Foods.) Slice in half and serve. Total POINTS value: three. Yum!

Free Food at Villa-O

2009-10-01T16:09:00.022-05:00

If you're local, Knox-Henderson area organic and oceanic Italian eatery Villa O will be serving up free, yes FREE, two course meals for Monday Night Football fans. Just call 214-780-1880 to save your spot.

Wrap It Up

2009-09-29T20:55:00.022-05:00

If you know me, then you know I'm not known for my skills in the kitchen... place and bake anyone? But I just made the most delicious (and easy) wrap for dinner and felt the need to blog it.

Stef Sam's Confetti Wrap

... Servings: One
... Difficulty: Easy
... Prep time: Five minutes

Ingredients
... One sun-dried tomato basil tortilla
... Finely shaved peppered turkey breast
... Salad confetti (chopped veggies of your choice)
... One dill pickle
... Fresh strawberries

Directions
... Microwave tortilla on high between two paper towels for 45 seconds.

... Add all of the fixings (turkey, salad confetti) in the center of the wrap.

... Fold sides in and roll from the bottom up.

... Slice in half and garnish with fresh strawberries and a mini dill pickle, if you'd like.

... Serve with a glass of vino and enjoy.

Total POINTS value: five (wrap only). My food mentor Bonnie would be so proud... I think!

Ooh La Léger

2009-09-29T20:34:00.019-05:00

Guess who's coming to NorthPark? Oh yes, that would be my little friend Hervé. Word is the luxe label, a celeb favorite, will open its doors in October. Who wants to go dress shopping? I'm not sure I do just yet, but hopefully I'll get there soon.

Halle Berry looking haute in Hervé

Wednesday Weigh-In (Part III)

2009-09-23T09:34:00.011-05:00

It's that time again. Today's weight: 136.4. That's right, I'm down 6.2 lbs. since my first Wednesday Weigh-In three weeks ago. Only 16.4 more lbs. to go. I can do this, right?

Fall Frenzy

2009-09-22T21:11:00.026-05:00

Today was the first day of fall, which can only mean one thing: time to commit to getting fit. If I'm ever going to wear a Hervé (the thought of which frightens me at the moment), then there can't be any more slipping up on the weekends. I'm not even going to blog about last weekend's Texas vs. Tech game football frenzy. You can fill in the blanks: same story, different weekend.

Happy to report I started my first day of fall on the right foot by forcing (yes, forcing) myself to make it to Recess. I suffered through every minute of it, but felt a million times better once it was over than I did going into it. Next steps: finally making a Saturday morning class this weekend (they started a new 11 a.m. class for the late sleepers like me!) and meeting with the fit and fab Bonnie Keaton from The Movement to talk food and nutrition.

So ready for Dunkin' Donuts to bring back their Fall Flavors. Pumpkin Latte?
Yes, please.
Just make mine a skinny.

W is For: What Was I Thinking

2009-09-18T15:06:00.038-05:00

So I was running late this morning (story of my life) and didn't have a chance to eat breakfast. I usually do the whole coffee and oatmeal thing when I get to the office, but today I had to run out the door at 6 a.m. to head straight to the new Cowboys stadium, where Matt, Al and Jenna Hager (née Bush) were shooting the Today Show, to meet a client.

Sure, it was cool to get an inside look at the NBC compound at the stadium, but I have to admit I was disappointed I didn't get a chance to become BFF with Matt and Jenna. The best up close sighting I got was Al Michaels from Sunday Night Football.

By the time I headed back to Dallas, I was completely ravenous, and against my better judgment, decided to drive through Whataburger (or as I will now forever call it: What Was I Thinking) for a sausage, egg and cheese taquito combo. The damage:

... Taquito: 450 cals and 11 POINTS
... Small Fries: 260 cals and six POINTS
... Diet Dr. Pepper: 0 cals and 0 POINTS
... Total damage: 710 calories and 17 POINTS

What what I thinking? I can tell you this much, I will most definitely think twice before driving through a Whataburger again. Like all of the other fast food chains now, I'm sure they have healthier options, but let's be real: who wants to go to Whataburger for a garden salad. Umm, yeah, didn't think so.

PS: How presh was Jenna for her Today Show debut? Watch her first interview here, and check out behind the scenes pics here.

Skinny-Spiration

2009-09-16T23:25:00.025-05:00

The fit and fab Marissa Miller via my old LAF buddy Meredith's inspiring (and hilar) blog, Out of Control Fatroll. Four girls unite because their jeans are too tight. It's a must read!

To quote my friend Mere, "Can I just paste my head onto Marissa Miller's body?"

Suddenly Skinny

2009-09-16T22:53:00.012-05:00

Okay, not really, but I am down two El Bs (lbs.) this week to an even 140. Like my friend Liz said tonight, a feat in and of itself considering our recent wedding weekend. Must be the weekday WeightWatcher-ing. Now, I just need to figure out how to keep it up through the weekend. Saturday morning Recess anyone?

Eat, Drink and Be Married

2009-09-15T02:59:00.038-05:00

I was back in Austin last weekend with my best friend Liz and her hubby Drew to celebratethe nuptials of our dear friends Jackie and John, and what a diet fail weekend it was!

Friday: After braving a tsunami on the drive from Dallas and almost checking-in to the wrong hotel (oops), we made a beeline to Trudy’s to toast the weekend with a Mexican Martini. I don’t care if it was five POINTS per cocktail glass—it was beyond worth it.

Saturday: To help counteract the damage to come, I squeezed in a 7 a.m. workout (Liz and Drew can vouch) before heading to Lakeway Resort & Spa for Jackie and John’s 11 a.m. nuptials where Jackie wowed as one of the most stunning brides I’ve ever seen!

A cocktail hour followed with Bloody Marys (180 cals) and bruschetta (who knew one little piece would cost you 130 cals?) followed by a lunch of braised Texas Kobe short ribs and creamed spinach artichoke (so yum but over 600 cals combined—yikes!) Luckily, I managed to taste only a tiny bite of the bride’s cake (we won’t count that) before sending her and her groom off in their vintage burnt orange Mustang getaway car.

Later that day, after a Texas victory over Wyoming, we headed to dinner at one of my new Austin faves, Moonshine Patio Bar & Grill on 3rd and Red River, (a converted 19th century saloon and landmark) for comfort food fixings of pecan crusted catfish and baked macaroni (yet another 600 plus calorie meal—eek!)

And last but not least: our final stop of the night was Brown Bar, a chic Martini bar named for it's location in the historic Brown Building on 8th and Colorado, for the wedding afterparty with the Lanvin and Louboutin loving bride and her groom. More to come on the Brown Bar festivities soon!

Mr. and Mrs. Usher

The Tory Burch Flats Fund

2009-09-14T18:41:00.044-05:00

While perusing the Loubs, Manolos and other fab finds I can't afford on my skinny wallet salary (sigh) at NM, my fellow PR gal Sara and I decided it’s time we started a TBFF: Tory Burch Flats Fund. So every time we make it to the gym or do something skinny minded (like pack a light lunch from home), we're allowed to donate to the TBFF. The idea is to have enough saved up in the TBFF by Nov. 1 to purchase our first pair of the fun flats together. I'm already eyeing the Reva Ballet Flats below—perfect to pair with dresses and tights come fall. Wish us luck!

Posh Nosh

2009-09-10T13:01:00.026-05:00

I popped into the NM Fashion Café at the flagship Neiman Marcus in downtown Dallas for lunch today with Sara Says (we missed you Liza). Usually, I can’t resist the signature Queso Tortilla Soup, but at a million and a half calories, I decided to mix it up and instead try a cup of the Low Fat Turkey Chili. I am happy to report that it’s not only delish, but at less than 300 calories and $6.50, it’s light on the waistline and wallet, too. Loves it!

My fave lunch spot

This is Going to Get Old

2009-09-09T22:30:00.013-05:00

Let me preface this Wednesday Weigh-In by reminding you what I was up to last weekend. Luckily, this is what I was up to yesterday, so the scale wasn't really as scary as it COULD have been. Today's weight: 142.2. Not bad. Not good. We can do better... and will!

Follow the Leader

2009-09-09T21:39:00.032-05:00

I'll admit it. I don't love working out. Who does? But I am learning to like it with Recess, a new group fitness class that incorporates games kids play like Hopscotch, Red Light-Green Light and Simon Says. Created by The Movement Dallas co-founder Craig Keaton and his wife Bonnie (a fellow Odessan, stepsister to my friend Hali and ex-stepsister to my friend Sara—small world I know!), the class is designed to make you forget about working out while burning some serious cals.

What to Expect: Everything from football, soccer and "heavy tennis" (a new take on the sport played with a medicine ball) to dodgeball, hopscotch and jump rope. I'm still waiting for Craig to find a way to make us sweat during a good, old-fashioned game of Heads Up, Seven Up. (You know you played it.)

... When to Go: Tuesdays at 6 p.m. and Saturdays at 8 a.m.
... Where to Meet: Glencoe Park in Dallas (at 75 and McCommas on the east side of Central)
... What it Costs: $15 to drop in (free for first-timers)

L-R: Liza, Jackie, me and Sara hopscotching at Recess.

Spa Steals

2009-09-09T17:18:00.035-05:00

Dallas Spa Week is upon us, and the Spa at the Stoneleigh, the first confirmed spa via People mag, is already taking reservations. (Apparently Lauren Conrad is one of their celebrity clients.) The twice-yearly event, taking place Oct. 12-18, offers full-service spa treatments normally priced at $100-200 for just $50. Glorious!

Here’s a sneak peak at some of the other spas rumored to be participating:

... Bliss Spa at the W
... Fresh at Northpark
... The Spa at the Crescent
... The Spa at the Ritz-Carlton
... ZaSpa at Hotel ZaZa

The full list of participating spas and treatments will be up on spaweek.com this Friday. Sign me up!

UPDATE: The list is now live on the Spa Week site, and the Ritz is NOT participating.

Tip Sheet: Spa etiquette says standard gratuity is 15-20% of the original spa treatment cost.

Back on the Wagon

2009-09-08T22:47:00.096-05:00

I had a really good Labor Day Weekend, and I hope you did, too! But I’m not going to lie and tell you I had a diet friendly LDW because I sooo didn’t. Here’s a snapshot of my not so skinny girl weekend.

... Friday: Village Burger Bar half price margs and good company (Jackie and her fiancé John), complete with Spin-Art dip and a VBB trio of shoestring fries, sweet potato fries and onion rings. Yum!

... Saturday: Girls night out = wedding cake martinis at Four, Patron shots at Lotus and late night pizza at Rocco’s on McKinney. A super fun night on the town with my old college roomie was so worth it though (she's getting married away this weekend on Lake Trav). And we totally burned a million cals dancing the night away at Lotus. Mazel tov!

...Sunday: Shared a burger at Twisted Root with Jack, but kept the Quincy’s Fried Pickles and Vanilla Shake for myself. (She had the Twisted French Fries and an Iced Tea.) Not kidding when I say I gained three pounds after this meal. A moment on the lips, forever on the hips. Lesson learned.

... Monday: Managed to avoid burgers and beer by the pool and instead opted for my trusty Progresso Light 80 cal soup. (Don’t even give me the side eye, did you read what I ate and drank all weekend?)

Needless to say, I am back on the wagon. Re-started WeightWatchers and made it to Recess today (more to come on that soon). WeightWatchers day one: so far, so good. Wednesday Weigh-In tomorrow? Not so good. Eek!

Thirsty Thursday

2009-09-03T18:10:00.041-05:00

If you're like me, and love you some margs (but not all the cals), then you'll LOVE the Jorge's Splendita—a lo cal rita made with Splenda and a cool 150 calories (less than half the cals in a regular marg). I somehow managed to win a D Magazine giveaway for a free round, so I popped in with my work besties to sample the sweet treat. The verdict. We likey!

Says Sara, "You could definitely taste the Splenda, but I thought it was so good and would totally get it over a regular marg any day." Adds Liza, "I though it was delish!"

You can score your own Splendita at Jorge's Tex-Mex (one of my hometown faves) in Dallas' One Arts Plaza, on special for $6 through the end of the month. Cheers!

That's the Jorge's Splendita on the left. Yum!

Wednesday Weigh-In

2009-09-02T22:10:00.038-05:00

And now for what is sure to be my least favorite part of the week (dun dun dun): the Wednesday Weigh-In. Today's weight: 142.6. Yikes! Could be worse I guess, but I've still got lots of work to do to get to my goal weight of 120 and that designer dress.

Diet disclaimer: Office lunch from Breadwinner's and a co-worker's ice cream shower (cookies and cream with peanut butter chips for me) = a hard day on the diet. I'm only human. But tomorrow is another day and another chance to get on track. Will letcha know how that one goes.

UPDATE: It didn't. But I did make it to Recess the night before (more on that later), and that has to count for something, right?

Because I'm Not Getting Any Skinnier

2009-09-02T00:07:00.026-05:00

Welcome to DSS, my new blog where I’ll share my struggles with food and fitness as I set out to shed 20 pounds by New Year's and rock a Hervé Léger (say it with me: Air-vay Lay-jay) dress. Perhaps I'll even throw in some Louboutins (Loo-boo-tins) for good measure. I guess I better start sweating... and saving. Happy reading!

Say hello to my little friend, Hervé.