Page 4 - TL April Extra 2017

4TT • FRIDAY, APRIL 14, 2017 EXTRA ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO THE TRI-LAKES EDITION OF THE ARKANSAS DEMOCRAT-GAZETTE
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FASHION
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Shopping for handbags can take careful consideration
By Sarah DeClerk
SPECIAL SECTIONS WRITER
Handbags are the workhorses of the fashion world. Not only do they allow women to take their belongings on the road; handbags can also add style and class to outfits. Women
often carry a single handbag for years, despite changes in seasons and trends, so it is important to select an accessory that is durable and versatile, as well as fashionable.
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People who experience chronic pain can benefit from working with occupational therapists.
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How occupational therapy can help patients with chronic pain
Millions of people experience acute or chronic pain every year, and the effects of that pain extend far and wide. While people in pain understandably focus their attention on treating their
conditions, it’s important for all to recognize the nonphysical burdens pain places on people as well.
“Leather is the ultimate material for handbags,” said Robert Montalvo, owner of Montalvo Inte- riors and Apparel in Benton, who added that, with proper care, leather can retain its shape for years to come.
Another important consideration when choos- ing a handbag is whether the accessory has pockets. Inside and outside pockets can help keep handbags organized by providing places to neatly store items, and pockets can also make it easier to quickly find items such as cellphones and keys.
“Pockets are very important to a bag’s versatil- ity,” Montalvo said.
Straps and handles are other considerations when choosing handbags. Although wider straps tend to be more comfortable, most women have different preferences when it comes to the strap length, Montalvo said. Some women may prefer designs with long straps that drape across the body, while others may favor totes with short straps that can be slung over a shoulder. Women can experiment with various styles to determine what looks and feels comfortable.
“It’s a personal choice,” Montalvo added.
Handbags can be found in an array of colors, but women who are shopping with a budget in mind should select a medium-sized handbag in neutral colors that can complement any outfit,
It is important to select a handbag that is durable and versatile, as well as stylish.
he said. However, women hoping to splurge on a special-occasion handbag can take their pick from bright colors and fun patterns in sizes to meet any need.
Although women may have heard the fashion maxim that the shoes must match the bag, that advice is outdated, Montalvo said.
“Those days are long gone,” he added. “To- day, people want flexibility in choosing their accessories.”
Women can feel free to mix and match shoes and handbags to their heart’s content. The items should not clash, however. Like any accessory, a handbag should be a cohesive part of a unified ensemble.
Estimates vary regarding the overall financial burden of chronic pain on health care sys- tems, but numerous studies have suggested the overall costs are in the neighborhood of half a billion dollars every year. A recent report from the National Academy of Medicine estimated that pain costs American society as much as
$635 billion every year, a figure that includes both the costs associated with treating pain and the money forfeited to lost productivity.
Chronic pain can be uncomfortable and costly, but there are ways for people to manage the effects of chronic pain and lead active, pro- ductive lives. Occupational therapy is one way
In the BAG
By Sarah DeClerk
SPECIAL SECTIONS WRITER
Although men’s bags tend to be geared toward functionality rather than fashion, a dapper bag can help men look put together as they tote their gear from place to place.
“Choosing a man’s bag is really simple: Classic color and classic style go with everything, every time,” said Robert Montalvo, owner of Montalvo Interiors and Apparel in Benton.
Backpacks, messenger bags and briefcases are three of the most popular designs for men’s bags. Backpacks should have adequate space, comfort- able straps and plenty of pockets for organizing
items. It is best to choose a backpack made from durable materials that will stand the test of time. Messenger bags, which feature long straps and hang across the body, are dressier than back- packs but still comfortable and easy to carry. Choose a style with plenty of pockets and a wide
strap for comfort.
For a polished look, briefcases provide a chic
professional option. A quality briefcase can be costly, but the investment provides men with a bag that can impress others at business meetings.
“Men’s briefcases are expensive purchases. They need to last for years,” Montalvo said. “Classic style and genuine leather would be preferred.”