I love simple, low-tech solutions that are versatile and endure the test of time - post-its, double-stick tape, white-out, and of course, duct tape (my father's favorite household fix for just about everything). These things change and expand ever so slightly over the years to accommodate new uses but always retain those beautiful qualities of being recognizable and obvious as to function.

A paper clip always looks like a paper clip, even when it's an earbud clip. You see it, and right away, you know what to do with it. Designed by PKOH NYC, the earbud clip is extremely light-weight so can hang on your earbud cord until you're ready to use it to wrap the cord neatly around your iPod. No more tangling around your sunglasses, keys, and the sea of other other items in your purse. A pack of 4 sells for $9.95 on the earbud clip site.