Before you tackle holiday shopping, treat yourself. These products, most of which just hit the shelves, are worth splurging for.
Aroma of the moment
Guys, want to smell like Jack Black? Nope, we’re not talking about the spastic “School of Rock” star (if he ever gets in the grooming biz, you’ll be the first to know). This Jack Black is an upscale line of men’s hair and shaving products that also features a collection of crisp fragrances, the most recent called Liquid Magnetism. Choose from the peppery Signature Silver Mark, the minty Signature Blue Mark and the woodsy Signature Black Mark. $65 for a 3.4-ounce bottle at Nordstrom.
Insta-purse
Looks like zippers are tired of playing second fiddle to buckles and snaps. Overbreak’s new Zip-It bag is made of a single, long zipper that, when closed up, creates a bag that’s complete with a shoulder strap. The machine-washable bags come in punchy colors, like hot pink and turquoise, and in styles ranging from oversized gym totes to beach-ready, cabana-style carriers. $19.99-$44.95 at justzipitbags.com.
Feeling loopy
Fruit, anyone? Guests won’t pass up the offer when you present the goods in this stainless-steel, polished-mirror container. Nicknamed the “Fruit Loop,” it was designed for Alessi by Lisa Vincitorio and holds about 12 pieces of fruit. Sleek and artful, it’s enticed us into eating apples. (Would it do the same for chopped liver?) Available for $199 at whotelsthestore.com and at W Chicago-Lakeshore, 644 N. Lake Shore Drive and W Chicago-City Center, 172 W. Adams St.
New wave
Ah, the microwave. Without it, we’d spend a lot of time slaving over the stove (and would probably eat a lot less Ramen). Now, we can zap dessert, thanks to Betty Crocker’s Warm Delights, single-serve microwaveable treats (think hot fudge brownies and cinnamon swirl cakes) that can be eaten right from the bowl. Just add water, stir and zap away. The best part? No dirty dishes. $1.99 at Jewel-Osco.
