How to hide those flabby arms
August 27, 2002 | 12:00am
Hi Rissa,
I need your help. I’m about to attend a debut in the next two weeks. My problem is that I have flabby arms. I already have a nice formal attire which will show my arms. What can I do? -- REM
Dear Rem,
I understand why you want to look your best. I remember when my friends were having their debuts, my batchmates and I were all excited. After all, it’s not everyday we get to glam up for a formal occasion.
Whether it’s a debut or a wedding you’re attending, or even just cocktails, there’s a fashion fix for flabby arms. Since you already have a formal attire that shows off those problem arms, the quickest and easiest solution is to accessorize.
The first accessory that comes to any girl’s mind would be a shawl. Shawls not only hide those arms but they keep you warm as well, especially in those cold hotel ballrooms! But if the debut you’re attending is outdoors, a shawl can hug your arms and keep you warm from the cool night breeze. If it does get warmer, shawls can be small enough to fold and light enough to set aside.
The fabulous fact about shawls is that they come in a spectrum of colors (from pastels to jewel tones), a variety of materials (from pashmina to silk), and even a range of styles (be it beaded, sequined, ruffled, or fringed).
Your first consideration when shopping for that shawl should be if the color complements your dress. The color doesn’t have to be a perfect match. A lighter or darker shade from the same color family would be safe. Yet if your dress is as neutral as black, you can also go for bolder colors like ruby red or even turquoise. Then complete your look with small, similarly colored accent pieces such as dangling earrings or a tiny clutch.
Another key consideration is the material. Although pricey, a pashmina is a definite investment because you can use it from a movie date to a debut. It’s also quite lightweight yet has the ability to keep even the onion-skinned people warm. Leave it at home if you want your date to keep you warm instead!
The shimmer of sequins and beads certainly adds a glamorous touch. Fringes and ruffles are very eye-catching details as well. It’s solely up to you if they suit your dress and your style. But if you want an accessory like a shawl to go a long way, think the simpler, the better. But after you’ve invested in quality basics, don’t hesitate to buy yourself a fun and decorative shawl.
When it comes to buying formal wear and accessories, Rustan’s Department Store undoubtedly has a lot to choose from. I suggest you also take a peek at Baghera by designer Carla Sibal. Aside from her wonderful line of formal wear, this female desinger knows just what a woman needs by providing shawls and clutch bags as well.
Another fashion accessory that would definitely solve your problem is the chiffon poncho. Since it graced the catwalk, it’s still very much a hit not only because it covers those flabby arms, it also shows off those sexy shoulders plus with its flowing fabric, it keeps you extremely feminine.
When it comes to chiffon ponchos, the first designer that comes to my mind is Rhett Eala and his store called Wink. He may have not invented it (ponchos were long being used by Indians as protective wear!), but he certainly popularized it. By creating them in different colors (from basic black, white and cream, to fresh picks like lime green and lemon yellow, and to girl power colors like pink and purple) and different lengths which provide a streamlined and feminine flow, Rhett has made the poncho a fashion essential. It’s an alternative to a shawl.
Aside from ponchos, Rhett has also modified the basic shawl by placing armholes and sleeves. This lends a woman more movement when wearing a shawl. She no longer has to constantly hold onto it, the sleeves allow her to freely use her hands to either hold her plate at the buffet line or simply hold her date’s hand!
In the meantime, you can start working out those arms while you haven’t bought that shawl or poncho. It may not reduce your arm size within two weeks but it’s definitely a start to a healthier and fit new you.
Hello Rissa!
I would like to ask your help regarding gym clothes. I enrolled in a gym to lose weight and I’m about to have my first ever sessions next week. I don’t have a clue as to what to wear that will not make me look obviously fat. I’m a 5’4" 68 kg. woman who gave birth last year. I would like to lose weight and I only enrolled in a gym now because I didn’t have the time before and I’m kinda shy! Thanks in advance for your help! – MARVS
Dear Marvs,
There’s so much to choose from when it comes to workout clothes. And shopping for them is much more exciting with new and better materials technology has to offer.
Working out at the gym and taking aerobic classes entails a lot of movement. It’s essential to choose clothing that allows you the freedom of movement and at the same time comfort. So when shopping for your workout clothes, check the clothing label for content such as spandex (a.k.a. Elastane or Lycra). These are the ingredients to gym clothes that fit well and move well.
During World War II, scientists worked hard to create a chemical substance that could act as a substitute for rubber. While critical to the war effort, rubber was a big pain to get a hold of, since it came from tropical trees just a hop, skip and dive from Japan’s Kamikaze pilots. The scientists persevered and spandex was the result!
An elastomeric (stretchy) fiber, it can be drawn out to 500 percent of its original length and snapped back exactly the same as before. Moreover, spandex can do this again and again. This is why it easily keeps the pace in exercise long after your thighs have given up. Spandex is never used on its own. It’s invariably a small percentage of the total fiber makeup of a fabric. Keep in mind that cotton blends allow your skin to breath. It’s also expensive to incorporate, so budget-minded manufacturers keep it to a minimum. The more spandex present (especially over 10 percent) the more the garment will hold its shape. But even as little as two percent goes a long way in preventing baggy knees and saggy bottoms in hard-wearing cotton pieces.
Next to content, consider the cut of your workout clothes. Ask yourself, what am I comfortable in? Do you prefer T-shirts? Sleeveless tops? Or can you dare to bare and wear just a midriff tank top? You mentioned that you’re shy so I suggest you go for a tee. You can also go for a hooded sweatshirt or jacket to keep you warm while running on the treadmill and while stretching after class. Wear your T-shirt in any color that energizes you or that complements your rubber shoes.
For your lower body, you can choose from jogging pants to shorts or even cycling shorts! They keep your legs warm in airconditioned gyms. Jogging pants no longer just come in those classic puffy shapes with a garter waistband and hem. There are more fashionable silhouettes such as flared jazz pants, straight-cut ones and also cropped pants. Find a length and style you’re comfortable in.
Workout clothes do not mean just outerwear but innerwear as well. It’s important to invest in the proper underwear. Buy yourself a sports bra that provides good support. A racer-cut style at the back allows your shoulder blades to move more freely while you work out. Make sure to wear cotton underwear so you can also breathe "down there." And please do change into fresh underwear after working out! You don’t want to encourage bacteria in a warm and sweaty environment. Enjoy your workout!
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