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The Tampa Tribune

Published: November 7, 2009

Tampa Bay Rays Classic Tote by vineyard vines

$95, available at www.vineyardvines.com>

I'm a fairly new convert to tote bags. I discovered their utility beyond the beach when I needed to carry some paperwork around with me and I didn't want to cram it into my work computer bag. But I dreaded the look, fearing I was giving in to the middle-aged fashion gremlins that place convenience over all things aesthetic.

This bag accomplishes all of my goals: It's big enough to hold my binder and a few books, and it has a strong zipper. I love the 12-inch depth, which isn't as large as a beach tote, so I don't feel as if I'm schlepping around luggage. It stands well when placed on the ground, making it a great on-the-go office.

The silk Tampa Bay Rays trim also makes it far more stylish than the totes you get for subscribing to the local public radio station. But the look is definitely not why people would consider paying the $95 price tag - not when Land's End and others charge between $25 and $31 for their best-selling bags.

It's the quality of the tote's construction that makes it worth the investment, much like a Coach or Kate Spade purse. This is one bag that won't be filled with sandcastle toys and towels.

Mary Shedden

Axe sensitive skin shower gel

Around $3.99, available at discount and drug stores, including Target, Wal-Mart, Walgreens and CVS, and online at www.drugstore.com and www.amazon.com

The pitch: Designed for guys with a sensitive side, dermatologist-tested Axe is pH neutral and less drying than regular bar soap for irresistibly clean skin with a calming fragrance.

The skinny: Sensitive skin isn't just a women's issue. Axe sensitive shower gel has all of the cleaning power of Axe products but with a softer side. The pH balanced formula is enriched with cucumber, aloe, cacti and milk protein so it won't dry out even the most sensitive skin. The formula lathers up extremely well, leaving skin soft, hydrated and refreshed with no residue, tightness or dryness. It's ideal for those who like the feeling of soap and water but don't want their skin to feel like alligator hide. And the scent is subtle (also a plus for sensitive noses). For $3.99, soft skin has never been more economical for my fella.

Cloe Cabrera

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