holiday looks: the updo

Running from work to holiday party with no time to spare? Forego the blow-dry and spend $3.99 on the Goody Ouchless Updo Barrette at your local drug store. Available in large or small sizes, this soft, flexible clip gently grips your hair for long-lasting style and comfort. The no-metal hinge and clasp design eliminates hair breakage and the soft plastic means you can lean back and relax. Just gather hair in back, twist it in your hand then wrap it into a loose bun at the back of your head. Clip into place and let front strands hang loose. Now you're ready to party. Go to www.goody.com and pick your favorite clip.

clip tip

Trying to find a way to cart your kid's sippy cups, playground toys, change of clothes and snacks while balancing your Starbuck's latte and talking on your cellphone can be challenging. Time to get Baggino's Duo Clip ($4.50) and give your hands a break. The two tiny straps hook onto your stroller bar, allowing you to keep gear, toys and other necessities neat and organized. You can clip toys and snack traps right onto the hooks or clip on a basket to store them all in. The best part is that they won't snap and break like some of the plastic versions (believe me--I've bought my share of those!) Duo Clip comes in pink or blue. Get one at http://www.baggino.com/ and be hands-free (well, except for your latte!)