What's 'hot' for the holidays

Sales last weekend at The Oaks mall were particularly strong in jewelry, children's apparel, women's specialty apparel, health and beauty, and electronics.

Popular items included: •Children's clothing: Anything leopard, pink or purple is hot for good little girls, while boys enjoy camouflage or sports-related attire. •Electronics: TVs are hot, as are iPods, MP3 players and the PlayStation 3. Cellphones and digital cameras are also popular. •Health and beauty items: Gift cards, gift sets, body butters, new fragrances and cosmetics in general are popular. •Home furnishings: Holiday trim, including Thanksgiving sale items and homefragrance products are going fast. Other popular items are shadow box frames, scented candles, dinnerware and flatware. •Jewelry: Diamond circle pendants, diamond tennis bracelets, and diamond earrings are consistent favorites. •Men's apparel: Sweaters, coats and corduroy pants are top sellers for men. The boys, old and young, always enjoy gadgets (iPods, massage chairs, electric razors, etc.).