Gift companies surveyed offer a slightly different picture for their themes this year. Christmas and Santa Claus take over the top spot from flowers and gardens, a theme which moves to number two. Animals and wild life round out the best-selling themes, according to manufacturers. Angels, while still popular, have dropped from the number three position to number five. There is more focus on design as an important aspect of buying gifts.
Modern design is an integral component of some of the most popular presents.
Many items for the home can be gifts. An important accessory this year is the table fountain, which is available in an array of media from stone to metal to ceramic and in combination with figurines, permanent florals and with or without candles. Colour, especially multi-colour, is in favour. This is an extension of designer and consumer interest in the exotic East, the ornate patterns of India and the sunbrights of the Mediter-ranean. Textiles glow with baroque patterns of paisley and over-sized, stylised florals that translate strongly to ceramics.