filofaxes

   On sale in the UK since the 1920s, Filofax is a trade name for a personal organizer, which is a loose-leaf ring binder for carrying diaries, notes, address books, maps and anything else considered essential for day-to-day working and socializing. A style accessory of the 1980s, the Filofax became de rigueur among aspiring professionals or yuppies but became outmoded in the 1990s. Stealing Filofaxes (variously known as fax-napping or filo-napping) for ransom purposes in the 1980s became common, as more and more well-off people came to rely upon these ever-growing, leather-clad life organizers. Electronic or palmtop organizers became more fashionable as the 1990s marched on and Filofax tried to broaden its market base away from simply the fashion-conscious.

   See also: accessories; acronym groups; crazes; fashion, 1980s

   PETER CHILDS