'Tis the Season … to Shop

With Christmas only weeks away many shoppers hit the stores on Seventh Street in Garden City looking for last-minute gifts and holiday attire.

At Coquette, a contemporary clothing boutique, Meredith Werner, 29, of Garden City had her eyes on a colorful floral dress with a v-neck back. "I like that it is different and that you can where it any time of year." Werner, who was looking at some accessories to give as gifts, as well, couldn't keep her hands off of a white leather studded purse. "I love it so much. I already have it in ivory, purple and blue," she said.

Danielle Wilson, 24, of West Hempstead could relate. Wilson, who stopped into Coquette with a few girlfriends, was excited to see all the new arrivals. "I am here almost everyday. Today I came in for a gift for my sister," she said.

At Joseph & Joseph, ties, boxer shorts and novelty bathing trunks from Vineyard Vines, Wellensteyn outerwear and Jonathan Ogilvy sport shirts are some of the must-have items this holiday season. Even cashmere sweaters are in demand with lilac being the most popular color choice, according to owner Joseph Tripodi.

For individuals still looking for that perfect (men's) gift, Tripodi makes a gift-giving suggestion: "We offer a great dress shirt package – three shirts for $295 –and they are all made from the top European fabrics and fit impeccably."

Over the last few weeks, needlepoint pillows with a Santa Claus, Christmas tree or pine cone design, ceramic candy dishes in the shape of a Christmas tree, monogrammed tote bags and a variety of trendy jewelry are some of the big-sellers at The Pear Tree Shoppe.

"All year round we are a gift and home accessory store and this time of year we turn into a holiday store," says co-owner J. McDonough.

Regular shopper Julie Germano of Garden City, who stopped at The Pear Tree for a gift, fell in love with a set of coasters. "They are beautiful … handmade and very special. This is the go-to-place for the unique gift for somebody."