The Best Bet
It’s hard enough to remember which gym locker, in that maze of identical ones, contains your worldly goods. A colorful lock helps, but you still have to remember the combination—which means adding yet another number series to the plethora of security codes and speed dials already stored in your overburdened brain. These word-powered locks are visible from a distance, and they’re also a welcome relief from integer jam. You can set them to any four- or five-letter combination; SWEAT, for example. (In six colors, $5.99 at Staples, 699 Sixth Ave., nr. 22nd St.; 212-675-5698 or staples.com.)
A Modular Beauty Line
Rescue Beauty’s new line of lightly scented lotions, creams, and washes comes in two sizes: a generous 15-ounce dispenser for the home bathroom, and a more portable 5.1-ounce one for the gym and traveling. (Priced from $42 to $68 at Barneys New York, 660 Madison Ave., at 61st St.; 212-826-8900.)
Knits With Long-Term Potential
Mark Eisen’s new knitwear label, Karoo, goes beyond boring basic but never into overly trendy. This roomy wrap works as well over this season’s skinniest leggings as it does with eternals like jeans ($242 at Saks Fifth Avenue, 611 Fifth Ave., at 49th St.; 212-753-4000).
A Simpler High-Tech Phone
The new Vtech i5871 will take 100 phone numbers directly from a Palm or Outlook program, and it accommodates up to eight handsets without adding jacks ($199.95 at Circuit City, 232 E. 86th St., nr. Third Ave.; 212-734-1786).
Keeping the Points Sharp
Slingbacks have become year-round footwear. Nico Halter Cushions support the toebox (as it’s called) all the way to the end of the pointiest tip ($15 a pair at Artie’s Shoe Service, 243 Eighth Ave., nr. 22nd St.; 212-255-1451).
The Hottest Rods of Yesteryear
Rare luxury cars and motorcycles (like the Indian Larry Love Zombie here) will be available for ogling at the Rand/Workman Fine Motor Auction and Luxury Expo, September 9 to 11 at Piers 92 and 94 (54th St. and the Hudson River; $100 for a three-day pass; 212-655-4505).