The state of the union suit
The union suit — basically a men’s onesie — has been a classic garment since the 19th century, but it acquires a sexy updating in this version from 2(x)ist with Tartan print trim. The full-sized, step-in singlet provides all-over warmth.
Uh-huh. We just think it’s hot. Available in grey/heather and cranberry. Varied sizes. $59.
At Skivvies, 4001 Cedar Springs Road. SkivviesMensUnderwear.com.
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The write stuff
Whether you’re gifting a recent grad or an office professional of long-standing, you can’t go wrong with an elegant pen, especially one from prolific designer Karim Rashid. Throw in a business card carrier, and you’ve helped make an office drone look — and feel — like a mover and shaker. Pen $75, case $39 (set $114).
At Nuvo, 3311 Oak Lawn Ave. 214-522-6886. NuvoDallas.com.
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If you like it put a ring (and tie, and cufflinks) on it
The men’s fashion set — pocket square, bowtie, ring and cufflinks — completes a gentleman’s wardrobe like few matching pieces can, as this quartet of designer duds from Dubal Bros. and INOX illustrate. Rings $28, Silks $24–$36.
At Outlines, 3906 Cedar Springs Road. 214-528-1955.
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Put some Spunk in your step
People love hybrid cars, but where’s the love for hybrid lubes? Well, look no further than here, as we sing the praises of Spunk, which sells a glycerin-free version of their popular product, making for a non-staining, Latex-safe lube in a fun pink color. Pink lube? How slick is that? $13.
At Condom Sense, 4038 Cedar Springs Road. DallasCondomSense.com.
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Almonds, joyously
Christmas is the season of liqueurs, and nothing feels more soothing than a refreshing amaretto sour from the granddaddy of them all, Disaronno. The only thing that could make it better maybe? Buying it in one of these limited edition bottles decked out in Versace fashion. Now that’s style.
At Sigel’s Elite, 3209 N. Fitzhugh St. and other locations. Sigels.com.
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Waist not, want not
We all have a favorite pair of jeans or slacks that, much as we like to think still fit us, have mysteriously shrunk (it can’t be all those Sprinkles cupcakes you’ve been eating). The Fly Tie and Perfect Fit by Kevel, though, allow you to surreptitiously extend that waist (and keep that defective fly up where it belongs) so you get more wear out of that pair. It’s a great stocking stuffer from Santa. Available in two sizes and colors. $10–$15.
Available online at Kevel.com.
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The 10-year journey (on paper)
Blogging is great, but old-fashioned pen-to-paper journaling still means something to us. That’s why we’re especially entranced by the Ten Year Journal, a leather bound volume organized so that you can start it at any date and keep a complete record of your life for a full decade … even during a power outage. $40.
Available online at Amazon.com.
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Shave your beard, don’t be one
We all admire great beards: ZZ Top. Abe Lincoln. Katie Holmes. But if you wanna help a friend get rid of his the way Tom Cruise did, don’t give him a divorce lawyer — buy him Boots No7 Hydrating Shave Kit for men. This all-in-one package includes anti-friction shave gel, post-shave recovery balm, energizing face wash and the exclusive Boots 3 razor to keep those whiskers under control. $20.
At Walgreen’s, multiple locations.
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Hey, no sweat
The Thompson Tee has long made sweat-proof undershirts to provide comfort and protection without staining, but it’s taken its protection a step further to help the environment. The new Slim Fit tee not only slims and keeps away perspiration stains, it’s eco-friendly, made of 95 percent micro bamboo fibers (and five percent Spandex) for a flattering look that’s also green … although it’s only available in black or white. Go figure. Available in crew, scoop or V-neck in a variety of sizes. $25.
Available online at ThompsonTee.com.
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Brush with greatness
If you like to tend to your choppers with an electric toothbrush, chances are Oral-B and Sonicare are the names you know. But we’re impressed by the product by ToiletTree. In addition to its sleek look and design, the ergonomic handle fits as comfortably in your hand as it does your mouth, while its two settings (up to 8,800 oscillations per minute) will remove plaque and buildup with ease. It’s a marriage of form and function. Available with bonus travel-sized version and extra bristle heads. $50.
At Brookstone @ NorthPark Center and online at ToiletTreeProducts.com and Amazon.com.
This article appeared in the Dallas Voice print edition November 21, 2014