University of Cincinnati graduate and designer John Truex will be at a trunk show of Lambertson Truex handbags and shoes 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday at 2700 Erie on Hyde Park Square.

        Mr. Truex and Richard Lambertson partnered in 1998 to design and manufacture handbags and shoes. Together, they had worked with Calvin Klein, Carlos Falchi, Geoffrey Beene and Gucci. The ergonomic-but-elegant bags have built-in wallets and key holders and are lined with suede and leather.

        “I want each bag to be carried for a long time,” says Mr. Truex. “They soften and develop more personality as they age.”

        Fans of TV's Will & Grace may recognize Lambertson Truex bags carried by the show's character Karen, who has mentioned the designers on the show. Information: 533-0042.

        Thong test drive: In Style magazine enlisted 10 women to wear 20 thongs for one day each then rate them on the basis of comfort and looks. The results put a polyester-Spandex hip-hugger by Natori in top place ($18 at Saks Fifth Avenue). The No. 2 spot was taken by an Eberjay nylon design ($18 at www.eberjay.com). And third place went to a mesh g-string by Hipster G. from Trousseu in Chicago ($18; 312-751-1450) Check out the February issue for the rest of the results and buying tips.

        All that glitters: It's all about glitter and shine as girls load on the glam to emulate Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera. American International Industries trots out eyelashes with a high twinkle ratio in a line called Girlfriend's Night Out MyLash by Andrea. The fake lash kits come with glitter and metallic and rhinestone styles with names like MyLash Jennifer and MyLash Roxy or MyLash Tiffany (that's the one with rhinestones). $2.99 each. If those aren't enough, teens can crank up the sparkle with Girlfriend Shakers, clear glass bottles filled with blue, fuchsia, purple, orange and teal sparkle that can be sprinkled on hair, body and face. At CVS, Sally's Beauty, Walgreen's, Wal-Mart.

        Patriotic pins: The storm of patriotism has died down since Sept. 11 as pins fall off coats and jackets. If you need to replenish your stars and stripes supply, stop at A Show of Hands in Kenwood Towne Centre. There's a bowl at the counter in back with several original-design patriotic pins, earrings, peace stones and tiny carved “peace” boxes.

        Vera Wang scent: It was only a matter of time before Vera Wang spread her wings to the perfume industry. The fashion designer, a bright spot in bridal gowns, came out with a self-named scent described as “a modern floral bouquet” with hints of Bulgarian rose, calla lily and mandarin flower. Prices range from bath soap for $20 to 1 fluid ounce of parfum for $300 at Saks. A Vera Wang china and crystal collection and accessories including footwear, handbags and eyewear will follow.

        Whiff of Aveda: A wave of cosmetics flows across this desk leaving a trail of scents behind. But nothing smells as earthy — in a good way, like a fresh forest — as Aveda cosmetics and hair care products from the company whose mission statement embraces preserving natural resources. The new Color Conserve line, due in May and aimed at protecting and preserving color-treated hair, has an organic aroma with a hint of peppermint, grapefruit, lavender and a maybe a little cinnamon. And the spring make-up, out this month, includes a pearlized lemon-yellow/green eye shadow and Mosscara, a mascara with moisturizers and a mossy scent. Other companies could take a hint. Give a sniff at Aveda Concept Salons, Spas and Environmental Lifestyle stores. (800) 328-0849.

        Salon honor: Pure Concept EcoSalon & Spa, an Aveda Lifestyle Spa in Montgomery stocked with the eco-friendly Aveda beauty products, has been named one of the Top 200 salons for the third consecutive year by Salon Today. The magazine featured the salon in its January issue. The salon is at 8740 Montgomery Road.

       Contact Joy Kraft by phone: 768-8467; fax: 768-8330; e-mail: jkraft@enquirer.com.
       

Terry Anderson talks tough
Trendy clothes student's signature look
Writer's success steeped in mystery
All sorts of people were out there partying
Joshua Redman gives trio mates freedom to jazz
UC alum Truex returns to town with trunk show
Best sellers
Page turners
Get to it