Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1957), Friday 21 December 1928, page 13


WOMAN'S REALM.

SHOPS AND) SHOPPING. On the Eve of Christmas.

There is probably no other celebration for which we make such preparations, commencing so long beforehand. From our earliest youth we make plans to be cheerful and happy at this time, and so, with a zeal and energy that almost surpass com-prehension, practically everyone commences at least a couple of months before the festive season to prepare not only for the enjoyment of other people, but to assure their own pleasure for the short period of a day

or two.

Even at this late date there is a surpris-ing variety of attractive small gifts at prices ranging from about 2/11 upwards. Pocket manicure sets, to fit in the handbag, can be obtained in small coloured gelatine and com-position cases for a, very small cost. More expensive, but intriguing, are the small wheels made like miniature sets of golf clubs in minute golf bags. The combination nail clipper, tile, and cleaner is a useful, inexpensive present. Among the articles of fine leather and hand-tooled leather there are to be obtained some attractive presents. The small coloured stamp cases, made like miniature note cases with straps, of fine morocco leather, are sold at 3/3 each in different colours. At moderate prices there is a good range of pocket notebooks, with leather cases, and shopping lists and golf scorers, while there is also an excellent

range in leather purses. At 0/11 each me -smart Yankee called "Waricul and Jlenitem,'' which hold on one side is set of tiny legs and a little line, and on the other Therecent colonial darning silks and needles. At 2/0 each, are small leather case, with a plait of intending- silk and needles. There are two different varieties of folding coathangers -suitable for travellers or holidayiiiiikciK. while at small cost can be obtained sets of coathangers enamelled in gay

colours. Picnickers will find the sets of drinking cups in leather cases useful, and among these rather more expensive presents are sets of folding knives and forks in leather cases. very attractive are the small brushes for hats, with soft bristles at one end and stiff at the other, joined by a tiny band of coloured silk, edged with ribbon flower trimming, which are sold at 3/6 each. In powder puffs and powder com-pacts and puffeases there is again a wide

GIFTS FOR CHRISTMAS.

choice. Some delightful compact boxes are covered with a line felt, and tiny designs of flowers in coloured seats are apappliqued. The prices of these range from 3/0 each. Very pretty, too, are puffs of swansdown decorated with a _ spray of flowers in soft colours, in primrose yellow, buttercup gold, mauve, and other colours. These are sold at 5/ each. Bar-bale work adorns a number of other small articles, such as the miniature matchboxes for smokers, ? book ends, mirrors, powder compacts, ' ends for bookmakers.

Sweets for Children.

To help fill the children's stockings there are some delightful chocolates and sweets made up. in novel ways. Bunches of grapes, pink radishes, onions fried brown skins, and red carrots are 2d a bunch in large size and 6d. in the small size. Crates of oranges and lemons are 1/ each. There are four sets for small boys at 2/0 each, smokers' outfits ranging from 1/ to 4/0 in price, and boxes of cigarettes at 2/. Chocolate telephones are 0/0, and for small (-arms there are kitchen sets at 1/, and vanity

sets.

Christmas Fare.

Most attractive in appearance are the willow pattern bowls containing Christmas puddings, covered with blue and white cloths, which are sold at 4/3, 5/0, and 7/6 each. Among the Christmas fare are big 2lb. jars of mincemeat sold at 3/3 each. These are made by "old" recipes, and are supposed to be very good. At 10/0 each are obtainable cabinets consisting of three drawers, with almonds, raisins, French prunes, figs, and ginger. Boxes of almonds and raisins cost 5/0. - Stem ginger can be obtained in cartons at 3/ each. Crystallised cherries are 5s a box of about 50. Pre-served ginger ranges from 1/0 a lb. in price, Riches nuts are 3/6 a lb. Mixed nuts. unshelled, are 1/0 a lb. Boxes of mixed preserved fruit range from 3/ in price.