Why I Love My Reebok Zigs

As a self-professed "girly girl", I usually prefer my heels, pumps, and ballet flats over a pair of sneakers. I always felt that they belong in a gym class, and not as part of my everyday wardrobe. However, when I was chosen to help Reebok backstage at their corporate fashion show last September, fate (and the Reebok company discount) connected me with a wonderful pair of sneakers with the Zig Tech design. Not only are they pleasing to the eye, but they are very comfortable! It is almost like I am walking on cushions. These sneakers come in a brilliant variety of colors, for Men, Women, and Children. The Zig Zag design allows for shock absorption so feet don't bear the brunt of walking on concrete, exercise, or standing for long periods of time. Not to mention I adore the girly pink-purple ones I scored from the corporate store, which makes me feel like I am wearing a pair of heels, without the painful scraping and toe-scrunching. But wait? Who said I would have to give up my heels anyway?

Price: $99.98

Happy Birthday to Me!! My First Photo Post

I decided to treat myself to a photoshoot for my birthday, which was 10/10/2010, and to finally showcase some of my own outfits to my readers. Sequins, which is one of my favorite trends, is the theme I chose to wear on my birthday. To me, they represent Sophistication, glamour and celebration.

Here, I am wearing a sequined top and liquid leggings from H&M, and shoes from StellaBlu.

These strappy leather sandals are in the Jessica Simpson Collection. Don't sleep on her shoes, they are not only affordable, wearable and stylish, but also they exude her own style.

This multi-colored sequined jacket is one of my favorite pieces. I got it from H&M last year and I am impressed with the quality of the stitch-work for the price I paid for the jacket ($49.95). I wore red lipstick and nails as a fun contrast against this wonderfully colored jacket and black pants.

Thanks to my wonderful photographer George, for the amazing pictures!

How To Transition Into Fall By Shopping Your Own Closet

As fall has "befallen" us, and summer bbq's and vacations seem to be a distant memory, some of you may have some trouble adjusting to the sudden and dramatic change in temperature. However, don't go rushing into a retailer nearest you to drop money on clothes you think you might need to help you transition into fall. You can save a whole lot of money if you simply just shop in your own closet, with some minor adjustments, you could still rock some of your summer frocks (put away the terry cloth clothing please, you can't get away with wearing that material in the fall). Here is a short list of items that you can start adding into your wardrobe, that I am sure you already have at home, so roll up your sleeves and start digging in your closets!

• Cardigans/Blazers: adding these classics to summer clothing, like shorts and dresses will give them fall appeal, as well as shield you from breezy fall days or chilly nights. For example, leggings are a necessity to me and are easy to assemble in an outfit. So I'd wear a nice pair with a cool blazer and heels or ballet flats.
• Boots/Booties: although some of you may choose to rock sandals until the first flurry of snow arrives or even after, boots with a summer frock, or shorts, could change the outfit into a fall look. I'd pair my fave Gap denim jacket with a flowy floral dress & cowboy boots for an evening out with friends.
• Scarves/Hats: another fun way to add fall flair to a summer wardrobe is by using accessories. They are also easier on the wallet, if you must buy some new fall additions to your closet. I've been wearing my favorite Sonia Rykiel Pour H&M scarf as a shawl to avoid wearing jackets right now! Have fun mixing fall accessories with summer clothes, so you don't have to wait until winter to start wearing scarves.
• Socks/Tights: as seen on the runways lately, pair some slouchy socks with your fave sandals or shoes, or just add tights to a pair of high-waisted shorts, and voile! You've got a trendy fall outfit! (make sure your socks/tights work well into your outfit; don't be a fashion victim!)

Fall & spring are my two favorite seasons because it isn't too hot or cold, so you interchange more clothing, like summer clothing, into your wardrobe. Also, a layered look is very polished, and comfortable.

What's your favorite fall accessory and why?



Photos: Fall Accessories; Sonia Rykiel Pour H&M Scarf

Favorite Fragrance Du Jour: Armani Diamonds Intense

This perfume smells sooo good, and is very enticing. I've gotten several compliments on this perfume by men and women alike (mostly men, though). Rose is an aphrodisiac, as well as my favorite scent. So, when I did a bit of research on Armani Diamonds Intense, I was not shocked to find that it has notes of rose in it. This fragrance is soft, subtle, feminine and sexy. I suggest that you buy the 3.4oz ($69.50, Sephora Stores, or www.sephora.com), because I bought the 1oz Eau de Parfum (here's a quick French lesson, ooh-DAY-PAR-foom) for $39.50 (at Sephora, of course), and the bottle was gone in less than two months. (Eau de Parfum is stronger than Eau de Toilette (TWA-lay), which is French for "toilet water". (Don't get too worried, "toilet water" isn't actually from the toilet, but is so weak it might as well be). As I've stated in my previous blog about fragrances, I love to layer, so what I did discover is that Macy's has a gift set (www.Macys.com, unsure if it is available in stores) for $60, which is $9.50 cheaper (taxes not included), than purchasing the 3.4oz bottle alone. Although it includes a 6.7oz bottle of scented lotion, it only includes a 1.7oz bottle of Eau de Parfum. I must admit that I am quite vain and will covet things just because they look attractive, but I actually enjoyed the contents of this oval diamond-shaped bottle. If "diamonds are a girl's best friend", Armani Diamond Intense should be her "BFF" or "Best Friend Forever".



Photo: Armani Diamonds Intense

Hottest New Women's Summer Fashions by William Rast

(Guest Blog, by Pammy Rosen, who works for Luello, a North American clothing company; I am both honored and delighted to have been chosen to feature her post on my blog :-)

William Rast is a fashion company based in Los Angeles, California. It was founded in 2005 by Justin Timberlake and his longtime friend, Trace Ayala. The company name, William Rast, is a combination of Justin Timberlake's grandfather's first name and Trace Ayala's grandfather's last name. The brand initially made only denim clothing, but has since expanded into a lifestyle brand that includes shirts, knits, leather jackets and outerwear.
William Rast can be seen on many celebrities and in TV shows. There are William Rast retail stores in Los Angeles, and San Jose, California. William Rast is also available at specialty boutiques and high end department stores like Neiman Marcus and Bloomingdales.

The new summer line for women includes flowing, lightweight tanks and shirts, fitted, feminine jackets, and classic William Rast denim pieces with a twist. Pieces range in price from $100-$600. All of the pieces are of the highest quality and are well worth the price. The pieces fall back on the classics with a twist of biker couture, but modernized with small, unique touches.

The tanks are light and flowing with a beautiful touch of femininity. The standout of the collection is a goregous, silk tank in a lush, deep, peacock color. It drapes beautifully and has a comfortable racerback. This tank would look stunning with a pair of jeans. It also comes in a lovely, light pink or a pale yellow. Other tanks have the same flowing fit and come in subtle patterns or fun, graphics that would work on everybody.

There are a handful 0f shirts, but they are all unique and beautiful. The woven blouse is an almost paper-like texture in  a stunning, flowing, cut. It has short sleeves and comes in a blossom pink, cream, and seafoam teal. There is also a more fitted, long sleeved shirt in a tailored cut. These come in  a Chambray blue, seafoam plaid, and a brown and cream plaid.

"Tony" Stretch Jegging in Midnight Oil, $ Available Upon Request

 sea foam cream & plaid shirt, $145

The roots of the collection are amazing denim, plus the collection expands into shirts, skirts, and capris on top of the classic jean. This collection also includes denim leggings called "jeggings". This is a fashion trend that is very in right now. William Rast offers 3 styles of leggings in 9 washes, ranging from white to black, and all the "blues" in between. The newest addition to the collection is the long, denim short, which falls just about the knee. It is built for comfort and versatility.

The new collection from William Rast is versatile and feminine. Built for comfort and durability, this collection will be a fashion investment worth the money.






Silk Raceback Tank, Peacock $110






Photos: JT & Trace Ayala, Raceback tank & plaid shirt: http://www.williamrast.com/
                Jeggings: http://www.jeancouture.com/

The Garden Collection, By H&M

Let's cut to the chase: Either you love it or you hate it. "The Garden Collection", by H&M, a Swedish retail giant, is just as the title describes: An explosion of colorful flowers, printed or embroidered onto organic or recycled pallates in the forms of long, flowy gowns, billowy tops, form-fitting skirts and flouncy shorts. The prettiest garment, in my opinion, is the most desired in the collection: the multicolored kimono-style dress (pictured above). Thing is, I could imagine myself wearing it, while lounging around in the privacy of my own home.

The dress does nothing for the model wearing it. Matter of fact, her figure is obscured in it (and some customers thought that H&M on Newbury St not carrying it was an inconvenience). Another coveted item, the Red tube dress ( shown above, also in Beige) looks surprisingly good up close. The floral detail on the skirt is well assembled, and it doesn't look cheap, especially for the price ($34.95).

The multicolored smock dress, with "ethnic floral design" as H&M's press release describes it, looks like something I donned in an elementary school art class. The floral prints are too loud, and the color combinations are so grotesque, that the garment was rightfully named a "smock" because it belongs in an art class. Maybe paint splashing all over it doesn't seem like a bad idea, maybe it will improve!! The organic shorts look like they were made from a burlap sack that once held Idaho potatoes, and they wouldn't flatter any woman, if you ask me.

 However, my grief with this collection, lies in the fact that it fails to complement a curvy shape. Once again, I feel that H&M did not have a "womanly" shape in mind when creating the collection. Matter of fact, as a whole, I don't think they had anyone in mind when they decided that grandma's old house dresses should be revamped and would ever be considered vogue.

Link: www.hmthegardencollection.com/look-book

Dita's Addiction: "Mad As a Hatter" , By OPI

     This Blog is dedicated to, as well as inspired by a fellow fashion blogger, Fashion Court, who featured this nail color, "Mad as a Hatter" in her blog. This color is part of a collection, called Alice in Wonderland, by OPI. Here is the URL to her blog below: 

http://www.fashionxcourt.blogspot.com/2010/01/colors-of-alice-in-wonderland.html

The name of this nail color, "Mad as a Hatter" was inspired by actor Johnny Depp's character, "The Mad Hatter", in Lewis Carroll's classic, Alice in Wonderland. Just as the character is the first to encounter Alice, in the story, this nail polish is so noticeable, that it is probably the first thing you would notice about the wearer. This nail color, as is the character it was named after, is both showy, and eccentric. The faint of heart, or conservative need not apply. I describe this color as "as hyper as the Mad Hatter himself" because the color has bits of multi-colored glitter in it and seems to be "all over the place" since the colors are distributed evenly throughout the nail lacquer. 

 

 

     However, as fellow blogger FashionCourt warned, that this color doesn't have that much depth to it, so she suggests that you add a few more coats than you usually would. I also suggest that you find another nail color that would work underneath it. As my fabulous and wonderfully talented nail technician suggested for me, I chose the Russian Navy by OPI, to wear underneath the "Mad as a Hatter" to give it more depth. As you can see in the picture above, my nails almost look black, but with lots of shimmer! (Thanks to my dear friend Kawana, for the pictures.) It was difficult trying to show pics of how shimmery this nail color is.

BUY: If you would like to purchase this color, go to www.amazon.com, or www.amazingbeautynail.com. Visit your local nail salon, since most order the latest OPI nail color collections, to try "Mad as a Hatter" on for size.

Photos: (of "Mad as a Hatter", www.amazon.com) (of "Russian Navy", www.chemistdirect.co.uk)

    

Dita Digs Shoe Designer Nicholas Kirkwood

     British shoe designer, Nicholas Kirkwood launched his fabulous shoe collection in 2005. His shoes exude futurism, are truly innovative, and resemble architectural design. As a shoe designer Kirkwood has proven himself as a trendsetter who is a leader of the pack rather than a follower. His designs are a prelude to what footwear would evolve into, in the future. Kirkwood represents designer footwear of the new decade, as well as years to come.

     I think he is to shoe fashion right now, what designer Andre Courreges was to the 1960s with his "Moon Girl Collection": ahead of his time. If I had to describe the type of women who would wear his shoes, I'd say "she is daring, sets her own trends rather than follows them; She's flashy, and prefers standing out from the crowd rather than blending in with it; She's sexy, powerful, and stands tall with confidence, just as a beautiful and natural piece of architectural design, just like the footwear of genius Nicholas Kirkwood". 

(Photos: www.geekshoes.com; www.4.bp.blogspot.com; www.butterboom.com)

What a Man Should Have in His Closet

     I think a man's wardrobe should look quite different than it did when he was a boy growing up, because being a man requires more. His status in life has changed (or should have); He has more of an established career and should have an idea by now what he wants out of life. Therefore, he should have the means to make better choices in attire, and have acquired more sophisticated tastes in fashion than he had when he was in high school. (This is not true for some, to much disappointment, because I've noticed some men who still dress like they are sophomores in high school). Anyhow, here is a list of staples I believe should be in an adult male's closet.

1. A Suit. Oooooh, I love a man in a suit. There is nothing sexier than a man in a suit. He exudes power, confidence, prestige, and sophistication. Aside from that, there are certain events that men will attend that will require that he wears a suit (not to mention that it is very professional for a man to wear one to a job interview). Also, formal occasions may arise, such as a Christmas dinner party held at the Westin Hotel by the company he works for, a black-tie charity event  a wedding, funeral, church, etc.

2. Blazer. These are essential because they are staples to a man's wardrobe, as it is for a woman's wardrobe. It can be worn at work, or paired with denim for a casual yet sophisticated look when a man is on a date, out with friends, or at a function where suits aren't required, but looking "classy" is. (It sickens me to see men dressing like teenage boys (sagging or torn jeans, over-sized clothing, tight clothing, etc). Is it because he trying to hang on to his childhood, or "keep it real"? If a man wants to be taken seriously ( as a man) he needs to look the part.

3. Crisp button-up shirts. I think men should have these on-hand, not only for work, but also for the same reasons he would have a suit or blazers. There are some events that a man would be required to attend, that would call for a nice shirt and tie. A button-up shirt is simple, classic, and can be interchanged with a suit, or dressed casually with pants/denim, and a blazer. Sophistication is the key!!!

4. A great pair of Denim.  ( A great pair that fits, please!! Baggy and saggy is unattractive, unkempt, and shows lack of self-confidence; I also think "skinny" is not a good look on men, either! Oh no she didn't, OH YES I DID).

I think great denim serves the same purpose for men as it does women. Seven For All Mankind, Rock & Republic, and Rockawear make some very flattering denim for men. As I've stated to the women, "if you look good you will feel good".

5. Dress shoes.Just as there are certain types of clothing a man should wear for a given occasion, the same goes for footwear. Wing-tipped, square-toed, oxfords, loafers, gators (oh my!), or whatever style men prefer. It is important that a man's look is appropriate from head-to-toe.

6. Polo shirts. They are very simple, and casual, but more sophisticated than wearing a t-shirt.

7. Tie. I cannot say this enough; There are some events in a man's life that will demand he dress a certain way.

8. T-Shirts. These are excellent for layering and are a basis to just about any wardrobe (can be worn under a button-up shirt worn with a suit, or under a blazer and some trousers).

9. Trousers. Most jobs don't allow employees to wear pants, and trousers are casual and not as fancy as dress pants, or pants that are part of a suit. Even if a job allows a man to wear denim at work, at least try not to look like your 15-year-old nephew when you are wearing them.

10. Trench Coat. Simple, yet sophisticated. It can be worn to work, or to a formal function. The good thing about a trench coat, as well as the many other items on this list, is that it serves many functions and can be worn more than once. Most importantly, it can be cost-effective to have pieces that can be incorporated in more than one type of wardrobe.

Stores:  Brooks Brothers, Macys, H&M, Marshalls, Filene's Basement, Men's Wearhouse, Banana Republic

Photos: (Hugo Boss suit) www.italiancart.com ;(shirts) www.m80im.com ; (Rock & Republic denim) www.bombayharbor.com ;(Burberry trench coat) www.ecx.images-amazon.com

 

 

Dita's Addiction: Lash Blast Length Mascara By Covergirl

When it comes to cosmetics, I will try just about anything once. But when I find a certain brand that is proven effective, I will stick to it like glue. Lash Blast Length is affordable (CVS, $9.49), and actually does as advertised, and works as well as a luxury mascara does. As the name states, it does add length that makes a noticeable difference.I also think that this mascara is easy to apply, because the bristles on the applicator are spread far enough to avoid clumping, adding volume and length to one's natural eye lash, length.

Photo: www.amazon.com

Dita's Addiction: Fruits and Passion Rollerballs Pink & Mango Evasion

(Picture: http://www.stvitalcentre.com/)

     In my opinion, the Fruits and Passion retailer is Canada's answer to the US's Bath and Body Works, or maybe even better. I scored some of their products on a visit to Toronto for Caribana last August, and I fell deeply in love with two fragrances: Pink, and Mango Evasion. They both have a sweet smell and I find that they are still strong enough to last you throughout the day without being overwhelming. I purchased the rollerballs, which are portable and easy to reapply while on the run, at $16.00 each (Canadian currency). I did hear recently that Fruits and Passions are launching some US stores, which I am excited about. In the meantime, I suggest you log on to www.fruits-passion.com to view and order some of their products.

Dita's Addiction: Small Marc by Marc Jacobs Tote

Based upon my "Fabulous Fragrance Flavor of the Month" blog, Louis Vuitton's creative Director, Marc Jacobs is one of my favorite luxury designers. I scored one of these fabulous totes in neon blue, and have been "toting" it around town ever since. This bag comes in several colors-Gray, neon Blue, neon Pink, neon Yellow, neon Orange and neon Green. They are not only fun, but they are also durable-I tend to over stuff my handbags with "everything but the kitchen sink", and this tote shows no signs of budging anytime soon. Most importantly, these totes are also affordable. (Price upon request,) Marc by Marc Jacobs Store, Newbury Street Boston.

photo: http://www.myippoinc.com/

Dita's Addiction: Billy Stretch Denim, in Medium Vintage, by True Religion

I am proud to say that I have been on the True Religion bandwagon since Fergie mentioned them in the Black Eyed Peas "Humps" song. I am so addicted to these jeans and had them for more than three years, and they still look like new-especially compared to other jeans I own at lower price points. They are currently priced at $172.00 (Saks.com, Saks5th Ave; True Religion Store, or check out the Outlet in Wrentham Village) but I feel as if a great pair of denim is worth the splurge. They even feel better than the average pair of denim (99% cotton, 1% spandex) and I find that they retain their original shape. Also, they make my rear end look so much more flattering.

Photo: http://www.media.djpremium.com/

Dita's Addiction: Mac Paint Pots

                                                                                  

(This blog is dedicated to Raynah. Thank you for making me a Paint "pot head").


I love, love, LOVE Mac Paint Pots. They come in a variety of shades and can be worn alone, or blended together. They also work well as a base underneath other eye shadows because they never crease, and they last all day. These pigments vary from flesh tones to intense, and bright colors. In the containers they appear creamy but once you apply them they have a powdery finish. You only have to use a dab of color, so they will last you. I purchased my first paint pot (Rubenesque) In Toronto in August, and I have used it daily ever since (until I purchased some more recently). However, the pot is still filled to the brim! Although each paint pot cost $16.50, it is a worthy investment. I am also a fool for packaging, as you can tell from the photo they come in neat, glass pots that are easy to carry. I suggest using a clean finger to blend these colors onto the eye lid and/or brow. I've tried a makeup brush but it doesn't blend as well.

You can find MAC Paint Pots at a local MAC retailer or go to http://www.maccosmetics.com/


Photo: http://www.viewpoint.com/

Dita Dishes: on Kate Moss

(photo, http://www.peoplestylewatch.com/)

Kate Moss, model, bad-birl, but more importantly, style icon. She sets trends rather than following them and defies any fashion rules. One rule she does abide by: "Rules are made to be broken."


While the rest of us were wearing booties, Kate opted for over-the-knee boots; while we coordinate our textures, Kate mixes hers. She love body hugging pieces from head-to-toe, while we alternate looser tops and bottoms with fitted ones.


Kate Moss is known for mixing cheaper items with more expensive ones. For example, she may wear a Top Shop tee with Members Only liquid leggings, Christian Louboutin pumps and Balmain leather jacket. As kate Moss states "the advice I now give-never wear a designer look from head-to-toe."  So you will never see Kate rocking an entire Louis Vuitton ensemble.

Tips on how to achieve a Kate Moss-esque look:

1. Don't be afraid of prints.
2. Add plenty of flats to your wardrobe.
3. Wear body-hugging leathers and other textures.
4. Mix investment staples with cheaper items (Jimmy Choo shoes with Zara outfit and Burberry jacket).
5. Follow your own trends. Don't be afraid to stand out.

Liquid Leggings, Members Only $88

Cap-Sleeve Silk T-Shirt, Gap $50

Divided Exclusive Leather Jacket, H&M $160

                                     

Men: How to Coordinate and Accessorize Winter Wear

     I sure hope that men don't think they are exempt from fashion. Although I notice there are some who do take care into what they wear, I have also noticed some who don't, which to me indicates that there is a lack of interest=lazy, or self confidence. But then again, there are some men out there who are virtually clueless. I'll try my best to not come down so hard on you blokes, but this is an issue that must be addressed (this blog is for you, Bossy; Thanks for being the leading man who follows my blog). Although we have finally come face-to-face with Old Man Winter (he's a bitter old geezer, isn't he?), it is just as important for men, as it is for women, to wear warm, yet fashionable clothing this season to counteract with this harsh winter.
     There are two important features of a man's winter wardrobe I would like to address: layering and textures of clothing that are appropriate, as well as key to a warm, stylish, yet simple wardrobe. Layering does not mean that you should look like the Good Year blimp wobbling down Commonwealth Ave. Layering not only allows for warmth, but once you get to your destination you can remove those layers accordingly (and appropriately, no stripteasing, leave that for the Chippendales). Anyway, let's begin with the bottom most layer, the undershirt or t-shirt (H&M,starting at $5.95). It is important, as well as sensible, to have an under layer of clothing against the torso in the winter time. Bottom line: unless you intend on getting cold in your bones and suffering from rheumatoid arthritic pain when you get older, then I say, don't wear an undershirt, be my guest.

     Also, the undershirt brings the entire look together, making it look polished and neat. Albeit a simple,  daytime look, a man will look like he put some thought into what he looked like before he left the house. Atop the innerwear could be either a long sleeved shirt or button-down. This layer should be appropriate enough to be exposed to the public. In other words, keep the thermal tops, or as my mother calls them "LCDs" or "long cotton drawers", underneath your clothing! No one should see your underwear, please, and thank you! Some men may even prefer to wear the thermals underneath a t-shirt, and then layer the shirt on top. Whatever works for you, as long as it is neat.
     Let's talk about what bottoms, or pants (cheap finds: H&M, starting at $19.90) that could be worn with this look. This also will tie into textures as well. Corduroys, denim (weekend or days off from work) or whatever casual pants you may choose. Just please, wear a belt, and please, please, please make sure the pants fit well! Other good textures of clothing that are suitable for winter: wool, cotton, cashmere and flannel. You can wear these textures in the form of sweaters, vests, sweat shirts or basic shirts. Textures are important because certain ones are appropriate for particular seasons. For example, wool is more suitable for the winter than it is for the summer.
     Winter accessories include hats, scarves, gloves/mittens, and outerwear, of course (cheap finds: Marshall's, H&M starting at $5.90). Although these items do not have to necessarily match in color, do make sure they complement each other. In other words, if you have a red scarf, make sure your other accessories complement the red scarf. If your scarf has designs, pull out a color in the scarf and have your hat or gloves match that. There is no excuse for having one green glove and one yellow glove. And don't give me that shit about  "I don't care, I just want to be warm" because you know you didn't buy the gloves as a pair that way, and you are too grown to be looking like a Nickelodeon reject.
     Outerwear: my friend recently scored a pea coat for $100 from Macys (I am so proud of him, I think a "movie" tear fell..that's one tear from one eye, work with me here! ). I personally think that men look distinguished, classy, and handsome in pea coats, but there are other forms of outerwear on the market. As long as you are warm and your coat isn't falling apart, you are golden. I work at H&M so you will see I have posted some pricing on here from that mass merchandiser. The cost of men's outerwear at H&M varies from $69.95-99.95. Because these coats are made of wool, and winter garments cost more to make, the pricing will be a bit higher. These prices are actually low for winter coats because at other retailers who specialize in menswear will be priced higher.

I hope this article/blog helps those men who need a bit of help when accessorizing winter wear. Feel free to comment or leave questions.

The "Kitchen Sink" (A Unisex Blog)

I was once told by a friend, "you have everything in there (my bag, which equates to a weekend bag nowadays) but the kitchen sink!" Damn skippy. I may carry around a figurative kitchen sink, but one thing is for sure, I am almost never in the streets and far away from home without the things I may need. I mean, everyone should carry around their own "kitchen sink" of things they may need "just in case". Things do happen that are beyond our control but I still think that there are some preventative measures we can take to ensure some damage control.

     I know someone who carries around extra pairs of shoes, because she has a tendency to break her heels, so, these things do happen to some people. But that is what works for her. There are a few basic items that I think all people should carry with them, just in case. (Please note that most of the following items I am suggesting are travel-sized containers because they are light and easier to carry, so no excuses!)

     Travel-sized toothbrush/toothpaste. And I mean BOTH of them, not one or the other. You never know who you are going to meet, or where you may end up throughout the day, or towards the end of the night! I am sorry, but there are some issues that go beyond the scope (pun intended for your sake!) of popping a mint or chewing gum. Ever notice that some of the most talkative people have the yuckiest breath? Bring a toothbrush/toothpaste to remove the film off your tongue so it won't smell like you ate shit on toast for lunch. Another thing: floss! Food gets trapped in your gums and can cause infection, and infection has a pungent smell that can affect your breath. If you don't believe me because you think I am too fashionable to be intelligent, ask your dentist or go Google it.

     Also, what if you end up crashing at a friend's house? You know it has happened or can happen. You do have to go back out in public on your way home, right? Right. Another must-have item: lip balm. I am tired of seeing adults with dry ass, flaking and crusty lips. It is unsightful and unfashionable. Don't be caught dead in a dapper Hugo Boss suit and have crusty lips, I will judge you for spending hundreds on a suit, and not $1.65 for Carmex. Yes, I will judge you and so will the rest of the world. Imagine someone belting out a Nelson-from-the-Simpsons-like, "Ha-Ha" as you walk by with your crusty lips. Cruel? No, you are too grown for that horrible sense of irony.

     Also remember, the skin on your lips need care too! Even if you don't care how you look, I do, because 9 times out of 10 you choose to sit next to me on the D-Line. Another must-have is hand lotion.  It can be a travel-sized bottle you can throw in your Coach messenger bags (gentlemen), or in your Dior Saddle Bag (ladies). Even if you do work in the salt mines I don't need to see the evidence on your hands, so lotion up, especially after you wash them, which removes some of your skin's natural oils that need to be replenished. Where ever there is skin, moisturize! Deodorant/antiperspirant. For some, this may be optional. A travel-sized container would not hurt, but would is if you knock everyone out around you with your musty arm pits, and then there is no one to talk to, because they are all spread eagle on the floor. Deodorant does wear off, use as needed.

     Brush/comb: For those fly-away hairs that need to be tamed in a cinch, a brush or comb will do the trick. There is nothing fashionable about Alfafa, from The Little Rascals, and no one is looking for his replacement, either. Cash: I am sorry to break the bad news, but there are some establishments who still have "cash only" policies. For example, I went to a banquet last Saturday, and a friend went to the bar to buy me a drink with his credit card, only to find that it was a cash bar. Another example, cabs. I have been in cabs in NYC that allow for credit card acceptance, but those services are rare. You never know when you are going to need cab fare. These are a few items that I think that people should carry in their "kitchen sinks" because one may never know what may befall them throughout the day, or even at night. Travel sized toiletries are not just for vacation travel, but also for everyday convenient use. If you have any suggestions or ideas as to what men and women should carry on their person daily, please feel free to comment below.