New York - March 22, 2006

Another Convert

Genes Convertible Jacket

Nowadays, it’s all about the amenities.

Livery service with wi-fi, co-op buildings that double as private social clubs, laundromats that host singles mixers, hotels that deliver saucy underpinnings right to your room.

The latest bang for your buck? The convertible jacket by Genes. It’s one garment that can be refashioned into three looks: a bolero, a bustier, or three-quarter-sleeve jacket. How is this possible, you ask? Well, the cotton twill piece has a series of strategically placed (and hidden) zippers that make attaching and detaching sleeves, collars, and shoulders a cinch.

Available in army green and white, each incarnation works a number of possible spring styles (bohemian city slicker, militant fashion scenester, updated-shrug lover), and can help with the transition from cool and breezy to hot and steamy.

Which is almost as good as a shampoo that doubles as a smoothie.

But we’re still waiting for that.

Available at Paper Dolls, 361 Bleecker Street, between Charles and West 10th Streets (212-243-2454).