Tip Sheet.(Christmas gifts)(Directory)

Dashing Through the Mall

It's the eternal holiday question: what are you going to get your spouse, your kids--that prized business associate? Each year, catalogs pile up on doorsteps like snowdrifts. Glad offerings from e-tailers arrive in your in box. It seems as if there have never been so many gifts to choose from or so many ways to shop.

That's where tip sheet comes in. We've searched malls, cyberspace and a few secret sources for this year's hottest gifts--from mopeds to antique maps, spike heels to sports cars. Know a gearhead? In technology, it's a season of extremes: TVs are getting bigger and wider while gadgets like MP3 players are getting smaller. We've found goods at both ends to please even the technology challenged. Has your wife or husband been very, very good this year? Then earrings from Verdura or a Saab convertible are the kinds of jaw-dropping luxuries she or he deserves. How about a tween or older kid who doesn't want video or computer stuff? Well, fear not: there's a range of imaginative gifts that don't involve electronics--like an old-fashioned foosball table. On the following pages you'll find suggestions in every price range for everyone on your list.

1. Vespa ET4 Vespa Easy to ride and the ultimate in urban chic. $3,999; vespa.com for dealers.

2. Muji CD Player Muji From Japan's purveyor of sleekly designed household goods comes this CD player that hangs on the wall like a painting. The speakers are built into its body; to play a disc, just pull the cord gently. Available only in European Union countries. $130 at mujionline.com.

3. Sirius Satellite Radio Audiovox Satellite radio isn't just for your car anymore. This plug-and-play system can be used at home, in the car or on the go. Tuner, $99.95; vehicle and home docking station, $69.95 each; at sirius.com.

4. Byzantine Pendant Ear Clips Verdura Blue topaz, peridot and gold earrings from socialites' favorite jeweler say "I love you" loud and clear. $7,500 at Verdura stores; 212-758-3388.