The year 2003 was all about catch phrases, rooting for the underdog and celebrities on trial; getting arrested, being mauled by a tiger and running for governor. While no single moment seems to have defined the year, many of the season’s most popular gifts represents the various trends of 2003.
Anything “Ugg” – While Ugg boots have been around since the late 1970s, their popularity has sky-rocketed over the past 12 months. The cozy sheepskin boots, slippers and outerwear have spawned an assortment of imitations. But if wearing a pair of Ugg boots with a mini-skirt is not your thing, there are still plenty of other sheepskin gifts perfect for anyone on your list.
* Classic short Ugg boot for women and men, $110
Where to buy: www.uggaustralia.com (free shipping)
and select Nordstrom stores
* Nine West faux shearling mittens, $35
Where to buy: www.ninewest.com
* Land’s End Shearling Loungers (men and women), $39.50 to $59.50
Where to buy: www.landsend.com and select Sears stores
Anything “i” – When Apple introduced iTunes software and iPod players for PCs earlier this year, “i” became the biggest lowercase letter. No longer indie gadgets for the Mac-obsessed, the iPod revolution is now among the masses.
* Apple iPod – 10GB (2,500 songs), $299; 20GB (5,000 songs), $399; and 40GB (10,000 songs), $499
Where to buy: www.store.apple.com
and Apple retailers
* iTunes gift certificate, $20 to $100
Where to buy: personalize this electronic gift certificate at www.store.apple.com
* iPod cases
The original – $39 at www.store.apple.com
The sophisticated – Coach leather MP3 carry case, $68 at www.coach.com and select Coach stores
The practical – $12.95 to $29.95 at www.xtrememac.com
The rugged – $40 at www.sfbags.com
The chic – $95 to $195 at www.anetagenova.com