Gifts for women abound in Palmer Square venues

Armed with the sad knowledge that Santa doesn't really exist, most Princeton females are planning to buy gifts for their friends, families and — of course — themselves.

Although holiday shopping can be a stressful and monetarily draining experience, there are treasures amidst the pricey store racks at Palmer Square.

For the classic and costly Princeton look, both Ralph Lauren and J. Crew are selling cable sweater blends in a plethora of colors. The main difference between the two stores' merchandise is the price. J. Crew sells its sweater blends for $68, compared to Ralph Lauren's $145 version.

Bluemercury, a cosmetic store, also offers expensive but high quality makeup and lotions. Thursday, sales representatives were giving out free glasses of champagne and lotion samples to celebrate their holiday blowout sale.

The store boasts friendly and knowledgeable employees available to assist shoppers with their makeup selections and give customers makeovers. However, the makeup is relatively pricey and gift packages sell for an average of $48.

For those looking to exercise their creativity, The Place to Bead on Witherspoon St. gives students the opportunity to make their own gifts. Students can string necklaces at costs ranging from seven to 2,500 dollars, depending on the beads used. Employees stand ready to assist shoppers with earring and necklace styles.

Honey West is one of Palmer Square's most fashionable and trendy stores. Opened two months ago, the store carries many smaller, West Coast fashion lines. The store's hottest holiday items are the sparkly, plastic Tarina Tarantino bracelets, ranging from $10 to $200.

For a relatively inexpensive price, "you can wear the same bracelet that Paris Hilton and Hilary Duff are wearing," store owner Marisa Perini said.

Buying for a boyfriend can be problematic, especially if one wants to be fun and creative. However, A Little Taste of Cuba offers an array of cigars from $20 to $40.

"My favorite is the Paul Garmirian cigar for its great flavor and burn," salesperson Jason Knott said.

For a more personal gift, Banana Republic sells a selection of patterned boxers for $16.50 each.

Though often taken for granted, the U-Store can be the perfect way to fulfill students' family shopping needs. Parents love to sport the Princeton logo, especially if they are alumni. A new item for the holidays is the tiger print santa hat for $15.

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The U-Store is holding a three-day members' sale beginning today for up to 25 percent off select merchandise.

For females not quite ready to empty their wallets and want to window shop, Palmer Square can also be the place to go. The Ralph Lauren store wins the holiday decoration award with its red Christmas lights and pine boughs hanging from the ceilings.

Lili, a store manager's Burmese mountain dog known to Ralph Lauren patrons as "Santa's Helper," sits in the doorway with a red ribbon collar, waiting for friendly pats on the head. Many shoppers have brought their children to the store to take pictures, one manager said.

There are also options for the taste tester. Thomas Sweet Chocolates offers a plate of free chocolate samples, including their Viennese truffles. A half pound bag of chocolate and candies sells for $3.50.

Even if this holiday season doesn't bring all students good cheer, at least they may find some good sales.