The Style Phile

Naughty Necklaces for the Terminally Hip

Apologies in advance to the prim, prissy and prudish. But all the accessories junkies with a sense of humor will love (or at least get a chuckle out of) the naughty new Sketchbook necklace by D-Licious Metal, the same terminally hip folks who brought us beer can jewelry. The oversized pendant features a line drawing of a lap dance cropped so tight it almost looks abstract from a distance. A tad trashy? Probably. But it’s still fun. $70, d-liciousmetal.com

Healthy Drinking

Last we checked, daily nutritional guidelines don’t include peanut M&Ms and Starbucks lattes. Remind yourself to get a reasonable serving of fresh fruits with these fun acrylic tumblers stamped with nutrition facts for grapes, oranges, apples, etc. The sherbet-colored cups are part of the new Feliciti collection, a stylish and witty home furnishings line sold exclusively at Gotham's Felissimo Design House (Halle Berry's already a fan). $12.50 for set of two; call (800) 565-8765 to order

Fresh Vegetables

Feeling like your polymer Nelson Bubble lamp and plastic Philippe Starck Prince Aha stool are clashing with your sustainable architecture? Throw your home back into eco-balance with these striking veggie parchment bowls. Artist Margaret Dorfman binds papaya, beet and zucchini slices to parchment, and then coats the material, to create her conversation pieces. They’re the perfect holders for your soy tea candles. $38, vivaterra.com

Burning Issue

The country is a house divided. No, we’re not talking politics. We’re talking candles. There’s the side that has one burning in every room, while the other thinks of them as a waste of space. But a new collection is sure to satisfy both camps, if not just for the gorgeous packaging. Seda France will soon launch its luxe Paisley line, featuring candles with exotic scents inspired by cities like Marrakesh and Malabar. Even if you trash the candle, the pagoda box is definitely a keeper. From $27, sedafrance.com

Striptees, Please

You like to say the tank top you live in has “character.” Your friends like to say it’s old and nasty. Perhaps it’s time to switch to one that truly boasts some character. Designer Amanda Lynn’s Striptees line of cotton tops showcase glamorous gals from vintage photos she’s collected over the years. The newest piece, a VIP tank with a small phrase on the back that reads, “There’s a little bit of VIP in all of us,” will be available in the next few days. $44, email stripteesal@yahoo.com to preorder

‘Splat’ Attack

If you had a nickel for every rhinestone brooch you’ve ever seen ... . Yes, it’s the trend that just won’t die. Those who are over the Bedazzler-gone-haywire look can find relief in DeDeMetal’s enamel pins. Up-and-coming New York designer DeDe Sullivan created these fresh, modern alternatives with a sense of humor, which particularly shows in the lime-green “Splat” brooch. Rhinestones were never this witty. $65-$80, dedemetal.com

Sight for Sore Eyes

Poor little fashionistas. Fashion week can take its toll, what with the shows going on all day and the parties all night. If you’re starting to get raccoon eyes, better reach for Christian Breton’s potent new Eye Priority stick, which diminishes dark circles and puffiness in a flash. The best part? It can be refrigerated to soothe tired, burning peepers. $50; available at blissworld.com

Have a Heart

Tired of cute teddy bears and cherubic cupids? Try Shaune Leane’s fierce heart locket -- crafted from enamel, diamonds and white gold. The unusually striking blood-red charm is a little dark, a little moody, but still clearly says, "Happy Valentine’s Day." $1,540; available at Kaviar & Kind, (310) 659-8857

‘Grace’ Period

Despite your Guccis and your Pradas, you always seem to go back to the swank no-name bag you found in Florence or the super-cheap basket-weave tote you picked up in Cabo. London-based indie designer Emma Gordon’s chic Grace bag has that same kind of appeal -- and an amazing price tag to match. The purse’s big draw is a dramatic black satin sash, which makes it perfect to take from day into night. $65, available at virginthreads.com

Armed to the Teeth

It’s not like you don’t make a decent living. So why are you still dealing with that prehistoric toothbrush? Ditch it (and get cleaner teeth and fresher breath while you’re at it) for the cool new IntelliClean System by Sonicare and Crest. The nifty high-speed toothbrush has a refillable “liquid toothpaste” package built right in -- just press the button and the toothpaste automatically gets pushed into the brush head. From $127.95, intellicleansystem.com

Golden Arches

Keeping up your eyebrows is such a chore, but it’s the only way to avoid those cruel unibrow jokes. (Yes, we know, you’re still scarred from the teasing in prep school.) Fortunately brow demigod Eliza -- for you L.A.-centric types, she’s the East Coast version of Anastasia -- has introduced her Essentials Kit, with seven requisite tools for perfect arches including two types of tweezers and brow gel. The handy case even has a mirror built right in. $68, avon.com

Delicious Docking Station

Don’t become the crazy old lady who can’t remember where her glasses are when they’re sitting right on top of her head. Pick up one of l.a. Eyeworks’ new fashionably functional “frame docks.” Available in candy-colored prints or solids, the desktop cases organize up to six frames, sunglasses, watches or whatever else fits into the little cubbies. Any style hound worth her Oliver Peoples will appreciate the bright, striped fur lining that protects the contents. $165, laeyeworks.com

Un-PC Girl Power!

Forget Paul Frank. The freshest cartoon tees these days are from the Angry Little Girls. Artist Lela Lee has put the cynical sweeties of her weekly comic strip onto hilarious shirts that read “All the good ones are gay,” “The Most Bored Girl in the World” and “Boys make me mad.” Not to mention the adorable tykes are decidedly un-PC: Among them are Kim, the pissed-off Asian girl; “soul sistah” Wanda; and Maria, the crazy Latina. $17.95, angrylittlegirls.com; limited styles available at Fred Segal Fun, (310) 394-9814

Right on the Marka

Don’t resent your ex-boyfriends. Be smart and cash in on them, like Stanford MBA grads Molly Nelson and Katherine Walker Buxton. The two were inspired by the personalities of their exes when creating their Marka line of handbags. Take for instance, Hudson, who's an organization freak -- his tote features several pockets for cell phone, iPod, etc. But industryites should take note of the chic Sinclair Slouch (pictured), which is extra-roomy for a laptop, numerous scripts and production binders. $465, markaonline.com

Prickly Proposition

Office life sucks. You need some at-work cheer. And it’ll come in the form of the witty Dozi paperclip holder from Italo design company Alessi. The sleek little porcupine critter collects all the paper clips littering your desk, while breaking up your monotonous beige computer-and-file folder decor with a splash of color. $19, momastore.org

Tumi Says ‘Om’

Still toting that ratty old yoga bag you’ve had since the mid-’90s? Do yourself (and your fellow yogis) a favor and upgrade to the first-ever yoga bag from Tumi. Arriving in stores soon, the carryall with convenient shoulder strap is part of a new collection featuring the luggage/handbag company’s signature print. It’s sturdy enough to retain shape through endless workouts, and comes in mellow spring colors like light green and beige with pale blue trim. $225, (212) 813-0545 or tumi.com

Sweet and Bubbly

Yes, yes, Valentine’s Day isn’t for another couple weeks. But it’s never too early to start the chocolate binge, even if you’re sans partner for the moment. Vosges Haut-Chocolat is already getting into the spirit with its decadent Gatsby + Daisy collection of champagne truffles. The dark chocolates are topped with red rose petals, while the white ones come embellished with pink petals. Chocolate, champagne and roses all in one box? It doesn’t get any easier than this, fellas. $25-$39, vosgeschocolate.com

Lust vs. Must

Welcome to the battle of the fisherman-inspired sandals, a style necessity for spring. In one corner, Chloe’s fierce strappy leather shoes with wooden soles, weighing in at a hefty $485. In the other corner, Aerosoles’ mustard-colored sandals with wooden heels, weighing in at a gotta-buy $58.95. Sure, Chloe’s version is the clear heavyweight, but with the $400 you save on the Aerosoles (which also come in black and fuschia), you can pick up a nice Miss Sixty outfit to go with your new kicks. Chloe: net-a-porter.com, Aerosoles: nordstrom.com

Coming Up 'Rose'

A shrinking violet you are not. Which is why you, like Angelina Jolie, will appreciate Lola Rose’s whimsi-cally oversized mother-of-pearl flower bracelets. The U.K. designer recently launched a few fun pieces at Bloomingdale’s, and will roll out more of her line next month at Henri Bendel. Jolie picked up her look-at-me bracelet at Harvey Nichols in London. $130; available at Bloomingdale's, (212) 705-2000

Silver Lining

You’ll be saying “Ciao, Manolo!” after you get your hands on these scorching hot heels by Alexandra Neel. A relative newbie to the stiletto scene (she launched her line in 2001), Neel has achieved the perfect combination of sex kitten and lady who lunches in the gleaming silver Betty shoe. Not surprising for a gorgeous designer who was once a dancer for the Paris Opera. $520, available at Barneys, (310) 276-4400 or (212) 826-8900

Meet the Avon ... Man?

Yeah, so, the metrosexual movement is totally last year. Doesn’t mean guys still don’t want silky-smooth skin. And Avon -- yes, Avon -- is here to help. The fabled women’s company recently launched Avon M, a catalog for guys, which includes an invigorating daily cream. Packaged in a decidedly sporty blue tube, the “active face moisturizer” is meant to wear through workout sessions, and doesn’t smell at all floral or girly. $5.99, avon.com/menscatalog

Be a Handbag Hussy

Admit it. You’re a handbag hussy. You’d go to extraordinary lengths to score that new must-have bag. Well, here’s your next assignment: the Lizzy bag from Hogan’s spring ’05 collection. Expect to see it on the arms of fashion-forward types soon, as tons of celebs and tastemakers have already pre-ordered one. The Lizzy comes in raffia and canvas, but the white all-leather version is particularly chic. $820, hogan.it/catalog

Scarlett Fever

What were you doing when you were 17? Hanging out at the mall, drinking Slurpees? O.C. teen Diane Abapo has founded Boppo Clothing, a tees and accessories company she runs out of her parent’s garage. And she’s paying homage to some of her favorite actors and films with hipster wares that Abapo designs and screenprints by hand herself. Among them are a "Do It Like Donnie Darko" tee and this It-girl shirt featuring Scarlett Johansson. Copyrights? What copyrights? $11, boppoclothing.com

An Aspirin a Day

Headaches happen. Over and over and over. Don’t exacerbate your throbbin’ noggin by not having an aspirin at the ready. Keep a couple Advil (or prescription Tylenol with codeine, if you’re lucky) handy with this smart key ring from luxury stationers Smythson of Bond Street. Available in red, tan or black, the little leather pocket is also plenty more chic than the plastic keychains you get in gift bags. $65, (877) 769-8476 or smythson.com

Thin as a Twig

Complain all you want about the rain and snow, but you know you love winter -- when else can you wear those smokin’ hot boots? Show them off with the Twiggy jeans by FRx. The jeans are cut to hug the body, which means no more unsightly bunching around the top of the boots. Plus Twiggies are made from lightweight denim to streamline those gams. $140; available at Madison, 113 S. Robertson Blvd., (310) 275-1930

Animal Magnetism

Style fiends, the call of the wild beckons. Jewelry designer Danielle Stevens -- whose work is sold at Neiman Marcus and Scoop -- has created playful animal earrings, featuring tiny elephants, monkeys, zebras and turtles hanging out with a few semiprecious stones. The whimsical jewels from her spring/summer collection will arrive in stores shortly. Wear them to tide you over until your next safari. $40, daniellestevens.com

Flower Power

Vases, frankly, are pretty dull. Once you’ve seen a couple pretty ones, you’ve seen them all. Unless of course you’re talking about the porcelain Vase Maker from NYC design group Designfenzider. It’s a bud vase built into a square platform, which you then place over any water receptacle (a few ideas: cognac snifter, coffee cup, plastic Fiji water bottle). Your flowers have never looked this modern. $48, available at Show, 1722 N. Vermont Ave., (323) 644-1960

Sharps’ ‘Triple’ Threat

It’s like an explosion of cool: Two companies that pride themselves on being nonchalantly hip have teamed up to make the, well, coolest grooming kit we’ve seen in a long time. Sharps, the cheeky line of men’s products, enlisted NYC clothing line Triple 5 Soul to design a travel bag for preening accessories. The result is a decidedly manly canvas buckle bag filled with mini Sharps essentials like Kid Glove shave gel. Guys, it’s time to toss the boring dop kit. $79, sharpsusa.com

Froggy Style

Did you know the frog is a symbol of fortune and fertility in many cultures around the world? Now guys can display their prowess in the boardroom and, er, bedroom on their sleeve with these frog cufflinks by Jan Leslie. Pick up a pair of the stylish little buggers, made of sterling silver and enamel, for the alpha male in your life. $250, bergdorfgoodman.com

Better Late Than Timely

It's high time we celebrated procrastination. The whole I-work-best-under-pressure thing can produce some mighty fine results. Take for instance these "tardy cards" by stationery design company Knock Knock. Rather than mailing out holiday tidings on time with cheesy Christmas images, procrastinators can send smart January cards that "surprise and refresh with their utter unexpectedness." New for this year: February cards for those super-cool few who live beyond the confines of time. $16.95 for box of 12, knockknock.biz

Maximus Style

You are a fierce competitor in the workplace, a white-collar gladiator, if you will — and have we got the perfect shoes for you. These off-white heels with gladiator-style trim from Sigerson Morrison’s spring/summer '05 collection are hotter than Russell Crowe’s moves in you-know-what movie. It’s the chic-est way to start wearing white kicks again to ring in the new fashion season. $430, sigersonmorrison.com

Juicy Fruit

Your doctor always said to get at least five servings of fruits and vegetables every day, so no need to feel guilty about splurging on this downright delicious pear-shaped bag from Missoni’s spring collection. The whimsical hard-case clutch comes in solid colors or covered with printed Missoni fabric. A removable beaded or woven strap also allows you to carry fruit in hand. Don’t care for pears? Apple and strawberry versions are available, as well. Price upon request, (212) 517-9339

Bohemian Rhapsody for Toddlers

Did your kid learn how to say “Prada” before “Papa”? Does she loathe overalls because they’re so main-stream? Then she’ll definitely want one of Sophie & Lili’s adorably fashion-savvy Esther tunic dresses. The fancy-free frock reflects a hot spring trend — bohemian — and is sure get some compliments around the nursery school. (Tip: For a limited time, size 2T tunics will be available at an online sample sale for $45.) $58, sophieandlili.com

Coral Springs Forward

Coral-inspired designs are abundant for spring, but if florid prints featuring the spiny organism (as seen at the Versace show) are upsetting your Calvin Klein-minimal aesthetic, Michael Kors has the perfect solution. Kors’ viscose halter dress from his newest collection features an intricate brooch with coral detail — just enough to wear the hot spring trend without looking like the barrier reef exploded on your shirt. $900, bergdorfgoodman.com

Espadrilles That Fit the Bill

This week’s weather forecasts might have style hounds on both coasts thinking rain, rain, go away. But don’t fret. Sunnier days must be ahead because these espadrilles from Yves Saint Laurent’s spring ’05 collection have just hit stores. The fanciful sandals are topped with floral appliques and feature grommets around the ankle strap. If they don’t scream party in the Bahamas, we don’t know what does. $545, neimanmarcus.com

Knit Happens

Ladies, it’s a fine line between sexy and hoochie, and let’s face it — you’ve ended up on the wrong side more times than you’d like to admit. Which is why you need to get your hands on Kate O’Connor’s gorgeous drop stitch top. The luxuriously soft knit shows just the right amount of skin with an asymmetrical neckline and semi-sheer stripes, but it doesn’t cling like a cheap tube top. You’ll never worry about crossing the line again. By special order, (310) 358-9037

Caviar Dreams

Creme fraiche with caviar isn’t going help trim those thighs, but Kerstin Florian’s decadent new firming body complex made with sevruga caviar certainly will. The serum, which also includes a Chinese firming botanical, tightens skin and improves clarity. Long favored by spa pros at luxury resorts like the St. Regis Monarch Beach, the beauty line is just beginning to catch on with style influencers like Brillstein-Grey’s Cynthia Pett-Dante and producer Jennifer Klein. $115 for 4.5 ounces, kerstinflorian.com

Seven’s Got Your Back

Frantically searching for a hot outfit to ring in 2005? Seven’s got your back, literally. The company’s holiday collection includes a sexy pair of jeans bejeweled with Swarovski crystals on the back pockets. Available in blue and black (and white beginning in February), the embellished denim has just the right amount of sparkle to complement New Year’s fireworks. $198, nordstrom.com

Home Sweet Home

Don’t bother with those diet resolutions. Chef Kai’s irresistible baked goods delivered in tiered stainless steel containers are worth every single guilt-ridden calorie. Just ask cookie connoisseurs Brad Pitt and Kevin Costner. Get a batch of signature chocolate chip pistachio cookies, along with a tier of fudge brownies, sent to your house. You deserve it after a weekend with the family. Cookies alone: $49.95-$69.95, with brownies: $59.95-$79.95; eurocaters.com

All That Slithers

Snakeskin is in for spring, but L.A. fashion fiends may have to rely on the kindness of out-of-state family to score one of Prada’s fierce python bags. It’s been illegal to sell python skin in the Golden State for decades, so the deep-purple purse with enamel clasp detail won’t be arriving at Saks BevHills anytime soon (nor will the department store ship it to Cali). Better pick one up on your trip home over the holidays if you want it in hand at New Year’s parties. $1,590, saksfifthavenue.com

Alice + Olivia Come Clean

Going to the dry cleaners ranks about as high as getting your teeth cleaned on your to-do list. They’re never open. They don’t turn stuff around fast enough. And let’s not even talk about the escalating sweater bills. Save yourself the stress and pick up a bottle of Alice + Olivia’s wool and cashmere shampoo. Just add a quarter cup to the gentle cycle and rest assured that your knits will come out fresh as new. $8, shopbop.com

A Shoe-In for Winter

Neither rain, nor sleet nor snow can stop you from wearing your tried-and-true stiletto slides, especially when there are must-attend kudofests on the calendar. But you might want to give them a little breather if your toes are starting to tingle from early signs of frostbite. Opt for Lana Jewelry’s sexy sandal necklace instead. Available in white or yellow gold, the chic high heel with floral embellishment is the smart way to wear open-toes when it’s 30 degrees out. $280, lanaunlimited.com

Fresh Powder

Chuck those goopy sunscreens that smell like an old pina colada — Colorescience has introduced a brush-on powder called Sunforgettable. Thanks to the wonders of nanotechnology, UVA/UVB-combatting ingredients like titanium dioxide and zinc can now be formulated into an SPF 30, water-resistant, clear powder. Because dusting your face is a lot more attractive than slathering on goo before hitting the slopes in Aspen. $45, colorescience.com

A Notable Notebook

Nora Ephron is using one on the set of “Bewitched.” Maggie Gyllenhaal and Cameron Diaz are also fans. So ditch that cheap black portfolio you picked up at Office Depot, and give your papers an appropriate home with Thickskin’s Italian leather notebook. It’s functional (features a standard three-ring binder for scripts) and chic (check out the silver ostrich version). $250, thickskin.net

Edible Barware

If you’re a bit too domestic for body shots these days, you can still keep wowing guests with edible gummy shot glasses by CB2, Crate & Barrel’s hipper secondary line. Fill ’em with Grey Goose, chill ’em, drink the booze, and then eat the glass. It’s drinking fun without the worries of bellybutton lint. $9.95 for two lime or raspberry glasses, cb2.com

Hot Chocolate

Your label whore designation is well-deserved. Not only does your closet overflow with Gucci and LV, but even your kitchen is filled with Subzeroes and Thermadors. Which is why you’ll want to make room for the Chocolate Bar’s new fondue pot created by celebutante designer Jonathan Adler. The whimsically stylish ceramic pot comes with two bittersweet bars, proving your theory that everything, even chocolate, looks better when presented in a designer package. $85, chocolatebarnyc.com

Poncho-Happy

You, fashion-forward mom, aren’t about to dress your tot in a pastel jumper. That’s about as original as the Gap. Go Baby’s adorable mini ponchos are more your aesthetic. The cover-ups, made of colorful fleece, are toddler-chic and convenient (no sleeves to futz with). Plus they come in cool prints like camouflage and zebra. $29.95, gobabyponchos.com

Mary Jane, Meet Stuart Weitzman

You probably wore them to Sunday school, but there’s something a trifle sexy about Mary Janes, especially when you add high heels to them. Manolo Blahnik’s done a pair, and now Stuart Weitzman introduces his new retro-style Mariolas. The round-toe MJs come in black or white patent leather. All you need is a pleated skirt to complete the good-girl look. $225, stuartweitzman.com

Show Me the Money

Subtlety is not your forte. Which is why you’ll love Dragon 88’s tell-’em-like-it-is Money throw pillow. The plush ultrasuede accessory, in a rich shade of green, serves as a not-so-gentle reminder that the bottom line is what really counts. Swarovski crystals are used to spell out the keyword and trim the edges. Dress up your office with it, or gift one to an agent, manager or favorite studio exec (who hopefully all have a sense of humor). $160, available at vivre.com

Out of Africa

Imagine lounging on the sundeck of an exotic resort, after a beautiful safari through a Kenyan wildlife conservatory. Now get over it. It ain’t happening during awards season. But you can keep your dreams of Africa alive with Nyakio’s new perfume oil, inspired by the natural elements of the continent. The scent, which is slightly reminiscent of Gucci’s Rush, features fresh coconut, sandalwood, apricot and a hint of musk. Find it at Fred Segal Apothia on Melrose, where it just launched last week. $48, nyakio.com

Ode to Joybee

You would never dream of cheating on your beloved iPod. But there are some days when you want something more exciting, something new. Enter BenQ’s Joybee 102R. Yeah, it’s not as smart as an iPod (it only has 128 MB of memory), but it sure is pretty. Wear the Oreo-sized disc around your neck while hiking and you’ve got a stylish accessory for the trails. Besides, your iPod will always be there for you around the house. About $125, benq.com

Mad for Madley

There was a time when you were a thrift-store queen, trawling second-hand shops for that perfect vintage piece no one else could possibly have. Now you’d rather just fork over an extra $300 for a one-of-a-kind gem. Coryn Madley’s stunning jewelry fits the bill. She handcrafts her multi-chain necklaces with modern colors and materials, but with a nod to old-fashioned originality. $350-$375; available at Satine, 8117 W. Third St., (323) 655-2142

Check Your List Twice

No need to separate the good girls and bad girls on your holiday list. Makeup maven Sue Devitt’s limited-edition Naughty and Nice palettes make the perfect holiday gift for all your office mates. Let them know their high jinks at the after-party didn’t go unnoticed by giving them the Naughty set of silver shadows and glittery pink glosses. The Nice palette features more neutral golds and browns, but you probably don’t know as many girls who deserve that one. $32 each, suedevittstudio.com

Filling the 'Void'

It might sound like something you'd find in a proctologist's office, but the Void Stool is really just a very cool piece of furniture. Available at Los Feliz design store Show, the end table/stool is a clever way to display your favorite art and photo books. It's one of the latest creations from Designfenzider, a Gotham-based company known for its conversation-starting pieces. $175, showlifestyle.com

Germ Terminator

Here’s a lovely thought: A University of Arizona study once found that the average workstation has 400 times more bacteria than a toilet seat. Well if that’s the case, it’s about time Fellowes introduced the cordless keyboard and mouse with Microban protection. The treated gadgets curb the growth of microbes like bacteria and mold, and because the Microban is built right in, it won’t wash off or wear away. Seems those little bottles of Purell hand sanitizer just don’t cut it anymore. $84.99, staples.com

The Beatles Meet Ben

There are just some untouchables in the world of celebrity (think Sidney Poitier), so while it may feel like Beatlemania just won’t go away, you know these limited-edition Beatles shirts by Ben Sherman will fly off shelves. Plus with Capitol Records’ new box set of the band’s first four albums, and a musical based on John Lennon’s songs in the works, it seems the Beatles are bigger than ever. Again. $39, benshermanusa.com

Trouble With Truffles

Face it — you’ve been looking forward to falling off the Atkins wagon in the days to come. So why not start early with Spectrum Truffles from Dylan’s Candy Bar (owned by RL’s daughter, Dylan Lauren)? The rainbow-hued box includes unusual flavors like dulce de leche and marshmallow. Because if you’re gonna cheat, you might as well do it fabulously. $19.99, dylanscandybar.com

Infant Chic

C’mon, fess up. You new moms are always sizing up who has the cutest baby in the family. And there’s gonna be lots of babies to see over the holiday season, so give your tot a leg up on the competition with Mad Sky’s’ kimono two-piece. The set, which comes in a red floral pattern designed specially for the holidays, has sold out time and again at retailers like Baby Style, Bloomingdale’s and ABC Carpet. $39.95, tuttibella.com

The Dish on Satellite

You read a dozen newspapers every day and have four TVs going in the office at once. Sound familiar? Then you media junkies will want to pick up XACT’s satellite radio receiver and just-released portable power pod. The receiver picks up more than 120 channels — including Bloomberg, CNN, Fox News and BBC World Service News — and the sleek power pod offers up to four hours of wireless listening anywhere. Plus commercial-free music channels provide relief from your tired iPod rotation. Receiver, $130; power pod, $120; getxact.com

Let Sassy Dogs Lie

You love your pooch. But that horrendous plaid-covered pillow he uses as a bed in the corner is really bringing down the value of your house. To match your Marmol Radziner-designed abode, try the Elly bed by Bark Deco. It’s a modernist beauty featuring washable, faux-suede upholstery and a wood veneer frame. There’s even chic plexiglass detailing in the legs. At least one industry dog, Dude (he’s "Shrek 2" producer David Lipman’s pup), is already living it up on one. From $650, barkdeco.com

Spinning a Stylish Yarn

Let’s get real — your attempts at domesticity are futile. Baking usually sets off the smoke alarm, gardening involves too much dirt, and those knitting classes? Couldn’t even figure out which way to point the needle. Leave the purling to knitwear designer Suss Cousins and simply enjoy the results, like her fab new choker scarf made with sparkly rayon yarn. Plus the scarf has one of this season’s most popular accessories, a vintage-looking brooch, built right in. $90, 7350 Beverly Blvd., (323) 954-9637

The Chic Outdoors

If you’re the type to run the Malibu Triathlon in the morning and then put on your Manolos for the Emmys that night, Tumi’s new limited-edition mountain pack was made for you. Weighing in at less than 6.5 pounds, it includes all the climbing essentials (sleeping bag compartment, water bottle pockets, etc.) in one design-conscious package. Because overachievers can never sacrifice style, even at Kilimanjaro-like heights. $595, tumi.com

Sip in Style

Some big pet peeves: spam for Viagra, 7 p.m. screenings in the Valley, and those darn dried-up water rings left by damp bottles. Can’t help you with the first two, but Fiji water has a stylish solution for the latter. Its sterling silver "water slipper" looks great on your desk (initially it was only available to restaurants like Lucques and Jean-Georges), and prevents any condensation from dripping onto surfaces. Mark Burnett and Drew Barrymore are fans. $30, fijiwater.com

Pillow Talk

So it starts. Cross-Atlantic hops for premieres, coast-to-coast flights for Q&As — you’re gonna live on a jet for the next couple of months. Might as well get comfortable with the cashmere travel pillow by Greg Jordan, whose home accessories are favorites of the Bruckheimers and Davids. The pillow tucks easily into any weekender bag, plus its tartan pattern is masculine enough for men, but just chic enough for women. $125, gregjordan.com

Water Cooler

Think about what you’ve drank in the last 24 hours. Coffee, diet Coke, martini, shot of tequila. Maybe more tequila. The showbiz life ain’t easy. Perhaps that’s why Borba Skin Balance Water is flying off shelves since arriving at Fred Segal Beauty (3,400 bottles sold in 15 days). The fruity water treats complexion problems from the inside out, and its lychee formula for dry skin is especially refreshing. Also available are drinks to help with clogged pores and aging skin. $60 per case (16 bottles), shop.fredsegalbeauty.com

Big Cat, Small Prices

Leopard prints? You’re probably thinking, "Been there, done that with D&G." But in-the-know fashion types are going down market with big-cat prints these days. Want proof? Countless women at Bryant Park’s spring shows sported J. Crew’s $88 leopard cardigan. Now the pacesetter of "affordable luxury," Banana Republic, has a smart new leopard cloche in its holiday collection that’ll definitely generate some double-takes on the street. $128, bananarepublic.com

The Cult of Cashmere

Now fellas, do you really want to go through the agony of Shaq-less Lakers games this season? We’ve got a better way to spend a thousand bucks. Sample, the cult knitwear adored by shopping junkies on both coasts, has introduced its first men’s line featuring soft-as-butter Lora Piano cashmere from Italy. Among the collection is a two-ply polo that’s sure to get lots of wardrobe rotations. Trust us. The sweater will feel a lot better than seeing Kobe and gang "find their way." $895, samplestudio.com

Banishing Bad-Hair Days

There are enough frustrations in life. Valet lines at the Grill. The months-long wait for a new Birkin. Don’t let your beauty routine give you stress, too. From the hair gurus at BevHills’ Umberto salon comes Rolla-brush, an ingenious brush with detachable rollers that significantly cuts down preening time. Just leave the rollers in your hair and let the thermal action do its thing for lusciously full locks. $49, rolla-brush.net

Tactful Timepiece

So you can afford to drop 10 grand on a watch. How nice for you. What you don't hear is all the snickering from colleagues sick of you wearing your paycheck on your arm. Baume & Mercier has the solution. Its eye-catching new Vice Versa watch looks like an understated piece of jewelry, but costs a bit less than a Goyard bag. A round buckle set with one, four or 12 diamonds sits where a dial normally would, while the actual watch is hidden and worn wrist side down. It's called tact, people. $795-$1,695, baume-et-mercier.com

City Slickers

Can you feel the blisters already? Parties, junkets, premieres, more parties. Good thing Tod's has just introduced a new City Chic shoe for men, which features flexible rubber soles for all-day comfort with the styling of a traditional loafer. With all the tubthumping you're about to endure, better pick up a couple pairs. $395, todsonline.com

A Sweater for Your iPod

Label whores take note: Hewlett Packard has enlisted the most of-the-moment designers to create "tattoo" covers based on fabrics from their latest collections. Behnaz Sarafpour, Peter Som and Derek Lam are among the iPod dressers, but Proenza Schouler's nubby wool cover is perfect for winter. Because even your iPod should stay warm. $14.99, hp.com/music

Gold Standard

Would it be pompous to buy shoes now to match the Oscar hardware you'll probably pick up later? Maybe, but who cares. Ultra-glam footwear line Hollywould shoes will soon debut vibrant gold heels with yellow rose pendants by jeweler Kenneth Jay Lane. The strappy sandals are just one pair in an entire collection by the designer known for his dazzling costume baubles. Look for them this week at Saks in BevHills and Gotham. $495, ilovehollywould.com

The Smell of Money

If ever there was a signature scent for this bottom line-obsessed industry, it's the Bond No. 9 Wall Street fragrance. Launching Monday, the perfume is based on, well, money. Don't worry, you won't smell like paper or dirty hands; rather it's a mix of citrus, lavender and other "notes" (as they call it in the scent world) inspired by the financial district's adrenaline frenzy. And Wall Street is unisex, so even the millionaire boys club (Les Moonves, David Geffen, et al) can pick up a bottle at Saks. $190, bondno9fragrances.com

DVF Does it Again

What doesn’t Mrs. Diller have her hands in nowadays? Earlier this month, Diane von Furstenberg designs a limited-edition cell phone in conjunction with Samsung and Vogue, and now she’s collaborating with jewelry house H. Stern for a new line of rings, bracelets and more. A highlight from the DVF by H. Stern collection are the “harmony” earrings, right, made with diamonds, rubies and pink tourmalines. hstern.net

Sama’s Sizzling Frames

One sure way to make sure you never misplace your glasses again: Buy Sama. The eyewear line favored by Meryl Streep, Brett Ratner and Brad Pitt, among others, has introduced its first-ever diamond frames, the insanely luxe Pyramid of Diamonds. The glasses feature more than three carats of D-flawless diamonds on the sides, and retail for a mere $20,000. Not the kind of trinket that’s easily forgotten. (323) 822-3955

Escada's Got a Brand New Bag

The fashion house most known for dressing the ladies who lunch and the Peninsula crowd is updating its image with the just-launched Eluna, a chic hobo handbag available in an array of cool, sorbet colors. The best part? Removable straps that can be swapped with different colored handles to match any outfit. Bag, $575; additional handles, $135. escada.com