March 2010 Keep-It-Together Checklist

As the rainy season kicks into gear, bring along a GustBuster umbrella ($35, luggage.com), which has wind-release vents, so even gusts of 55 miles an hour can’t turn it inside out.

While genetics are the biggest culprit for the dreaded dark spots, allergies can also be the cause. If that’s what is plaguing you, consider taking an over-the-counter antihistamine to ward off shadows before allergies begin.

March is the best time to buy sandals at online shoe retailers like zappos.com and endless.com. Markdowns range from 10 to 25 percent off.

Check out fitsugar.com for free workout and stretching videos. Netflix customer? Instead of shelling out $15 for every new fitness DVD, you can stream yoga, cardio, and Pilates videos, for no additional charge, to your PC or TV.

Give your beauty routine—and your wallet—a boost with products preferred by Real Simple editors by getting discounts on styling tools, makeup, and creams.

Snack on cruciferous vegetables, like broccoli and cauliflower, to help keep estrogen and progesterone levels at the proper ratio. If PMS makes you cranky, take 1,200 milligrams of calcium a day, divided into three doses.

If you dread doing the dishes after you’ve finished eating, make Roasted Chicken with Tomatoes and Olives, and Asian Dumpling Soup with Shiitakes and Edamame. Both recipes are made in just one pot, which means only one pan to clean. Score!