My daughter emailed me the link for these rattan storage boxes, knowing how much I love boxes that don't need to hide in a closet. Closets hadn't been invented yet in the middle ages when my condo building was built!

I NEVER have enough storage space. I'm a big fan of decorative storage, hopefully I can eventually get to that elusive stage where I have 'a place for everything, and everything in its place.'

The three wooden boxes were $89 at retail, marked down to $69, and with an additional 15% off were $59. Still not cheap, but if they help me get even a fraction my life in order, it'll be worth it.

I ordered two sets. I plan on storing my grandkids little toys and books in the two big ones. If they are as nice as they look in the picture, I can stack them and use them as a small side table. You'll just have to hold your drink if the kids are visiting. Any suggestions for a good use for the two smaller ones?

Ballard Designs is having an Anniversary Sale, 15% off everything until September 15th. Have a look at the 'Estate Sale' section for the boxes. In this case, the extra 15% covered the dreaded shipping charges.

Ballard Designs Website

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I'm a fan of InStyle magazine http://www.instyle.com/instyle/
I'm a much bigger fan of any help that gets me to that state of fabulosity (Kimora, thank's for coining that word). So when I heard that the magazine's editors created Instant Style, I had to buy.

Although I know what looks good I don't always do justice while shopping or getting dressed (there have been a few fashion faux paux). If your fashion impairment has to do with putting an outfit together, then start turning these pages.

The book's useful layout is full of pictures and explainations on what works for different body types. There are tips on wardrobe pieces that are a must.

These suggestions won't be soon outdated because as every fashionista knows, classic pieces of clothing, shoes and accessories are timeless. Not that your wardrobe doesn't need the occasional update, but if you invest wisely, purchases go a long way.

The book retails for $29.95 at major book stores like Barnes & Nobles http://www.barnesandnoble.com/index.asp but there is currently an online offer for $23.96 and members pay $21.56. Check Amazon.com http://www.amazon.com/ for prices ranging from $19.77 or less for used copies.

Wishing you a stylish life,
Heather.

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The latest issue of Blueprint magazine has inspired me to get my closet sweater shelves in order. They suggest using these $13 plastic clothing dividers from stacksandstacks.com.

My colleague Angie suggested these would also be great to organize magazines. You could also do towels and sheets in the linen closet.

-K.V.W.

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No more wire hangers!

Tired of listening to all those organizational gurus who tell you that your closet would be perfect if only you spent a fortune on matching wooden hangers? Me, too. I spent a big bucks on a few quality wooden hangers at the organizational stores and never quite could afford enough of them to finish the job.

Then Costco came to the rescue. I found a box of 50 wooden hangers in solid wood with a cherry finish. They're notched and have a non-slip rail for slacks that really works. Even those slippery travel pants stay on. My closet looked great in just 20 minutes. The price? $22.99.

C.V.S.

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