A bag for all reasons.

Once upon a time, when it came time to travel, the basic valise came out of the closet; everything was packed in the suitcase; and off you went. Nowadays, though, luggage has become more specialized, with a bag for practically all purposes. Far from being literally excess baggage, there is a clever rationale behind many of these items.

Traveling cases from ShowLine Chicago, III., prove ideal for transporting toiletries, with a hidden bonus. Once they are unpacked, a telescoping foldaway insert with a hook allows you to suspend the bag from a dresser drawer or the top of a bathroom door. Once unfurled, the insert provides a large makeup mirror and two zippered compartments for toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, washcloths, etc. At the base is the case itself, forming a receptacle for various things that might not fit on the bathroom shelf, especially larger items such as a hair dryer or electric razor. The cases are waterproof and come in various tapestry designs, such as Egyptian hieroglyphics and a license plate motif befitting the travel theme. The toilet case runs about $120-150 at department and luggage stores, while a matching hobo sack ideal for slinging over one's shoulder is $98.

Perhaps in rebellion over pressure from the anti-smoking lobby, cigars are making a comeback, even becoming a status symbol in so-called "smoke-easy" clubs. Many chic women also are taking up the cause. If you are going to indulge, especially with expensive cigars, you might as well have a stylish way to transport them...

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