GIVE A HOLIDAY GIFT THAT ROCKS

Looking for gifts on the cutting edge? We've rounded up some items that the hipster of all ages might enjoy, from art to the street's hottest kicks.

— Lacy Matsumoto

CONVERSATION PIECE

Boys like their kicks, but girls also need a good pair of shoes. With little phrases and words, screen-printed Chuck Taylor Converse shoes ($75) can keep a girl comfortable in style. Available at Kicks Hawaii, 1200 Ala Moana Blvd.; 591-8018, www.kickshawaii.com.

FOR THE GIRLY

Born and raised on O'ahu, local girl Misa Hamamoto is now known worldwide for her gotta-have designer jewelry. The wax-molded pieces have a distinct look, but mesh with nearly every outfit. Costing $175 to $400, the investment is worth it. Find Misa Jewelry at Riches at Kahala Mall, 4211 Wai'alae Ave., 737-3303, or visit www.misajewelry.com to see the full collection.

KRUNK-A-CLAUS COMES TO TOWN

Got humor? Get into the yuletide spirit with a Krunk-A-Claus Dunny doll by Tado, equipped with his own bottle of eggnog and adorned with a removable skull Santa hat. Whether you're an anime toy collector or want to get a gift that gives a laugh, this doll is it. At $9.95, pick him up at Prototype, Pearlridge Mall; 484-8973, www.inspirecreativity.com.

HO, HO, KAHOLO!

Every guy needs a good pair of shoes, and these Kaholo shoes are the hottest thing on the street. The Fitted Hawaii and Element collaboration produced a shoe that represents urban culture in Hawai'i. Kaholo means to move fast or progress rapidly in Hawaiian — and that's the definition of the design, which is both stylish and practical. Available at Fitted Hawaii, 1438 Kona St., 942-3100; www.fittedhawaii.com.

ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY

Local designer Kawehi Kuhau uses recycled vintage material to create her line of Genuine Guava Bags. These bright bags are more than just cute — they're green. Choose from designs that are convenient for any occasion, from the beach to a dinner date. Scoop one of these at Cloth Boutique, 999 Kapi'olani Blvd.; 597-9006. E-mail orders to genuineguava@yahoo.com.

ON THE NOSE

Whether they're a neat freak or an officemate, the "Don't Blow It" tissue box from Shop Toast is a fun, yet practical gift. At $5 a pop, you can afford to get everyone on your list one of these. Visit www.toast-ed.com to order or to see more fun Shop Toast gift items.

SALES & BARGAINS

Seriously, my fellow fashion bargainistas, there are only five more shopping days until Christmas!
• On my quest to find the best bargains, Fashionista’s Market withstood the test. The shop has a chic L.A. feminine feel to it, and the co-owners (Alyssa Fung and Anita Clemente) exude a friendly vibe. Their Christmas promotion starts today. Buy any one item and receive a second item (of equal or lesser value) at 50 percent off. The cutest finds are Romeo & Juliet graphic tees for just $15. These tees are well-made and stylish, and definitely appeal as great girlfriend gifts. At the clearance rack, yet another find: soft, boho-chic blouses by Romeo & Juliet Couture for just $15 to $30. I checked out the Romeo & Juliet Couture Web site, and similar tops ranged from $55 to $100. Fashionista’s Market, 1183 Bethel St.; www.fashionistasmarket.com.
• While in the Chinatown district, be sure to visit e-town. They’re having a 20 percent off sale on Meesah jewelry and hand-made stationary. etown, 1164 Smith St.; www.etownstudios.com.
• This week, everything in both locations of The Clothes Chick is 50 percent off the lowest marked-down price. You can bring in your stylish also-rans to sell here, too — owner Susan Reaver is always looking for hidden gems. Call her to set up an appointment at 942-2442. The Clothes Chick, 2013 South King St. and 415-B Kapahulu Ave.
• Stylus Honolulu in the University Avenue neighborhood (across King Street from Puck’s Alley) buys and sells clothing, CDs, DJ records and collectible vinyl. They have a great promotion going on: For every $25 you spend, you’ll get a free CD of your choice. Also, ask them about their free Christmas gift-card special from now until Thursday. Stylus Honolulu, 2615 South King St.; 951-4500.
• Pzazz sells gently used high-fashion clothing, jewelry and designer bags. In addition to the store’s regular mark-downs, they’ve just slashed many of their bags, ranging up to 40 percent off. To find out more about their consignment policy, call 732-5900 or visit their Web site at www.pzazzhawaii.com. Pzazz, 3057 Waiçalae Ave., suite C.
• Catherine’s Closet Vintage Boutique is having a 20 percent off sale on all holiday dresses and accessories, with a free gift offered for every purchase of $75 or more. Catherine’s Closet, 2733 East Manoa Road, suite 204. Park in the back and walk upstairs; call for holiday hours or to make appointment at 386-2746.
New Sales & Bargains columnist Amanda Stevens has been a dedicated consignment and vintage shopper for years. Betsey Johnson and Marc Jacobs are two of her favorite designers. In her other life, Stevens is a professional grant writer. She welcomes sales and bargain tips from readers.