User blog comment:Tayzer/My own league story: supports/@comment-24226573-20131228174044/@comment-4484912-20131230021558

I find that supports who, contrary to their original design, suffer from lack of items often go well with an agressive lane partner who excels at trading. Kayle + Draven, for example, have such an enormous DPS combined that they could probably even out damage the opponent in a 3v2 situation. Maybe.

Itemisation is always a touchy subject. Personally, I find that not all champions should even have a 'Core Item', as situational items are usually the best possible items for the situation. As Lulu or Soraka, a lot of people like to mix AP into the usual utility setup. Personally, I've had times where I needed to get a Thornmail or Spirit Visage due to the immensely concentrated damage their team had, or times where I've been so ahead that an Abyssal Scepter or a Morellonomicon has seemed viable at the time.

Look at the state of the match you're in, and figure out what item will bring you closest to victory. Don't be afraid to itemise in a "Non-meta" way. Tank Lulu may not be the norm, but when there are 5 Physical Damage champions, 400+ armour hurts. Alot.