Guide to quirky, creative gifts

By Alina Soler | Special to amNewYork

December 3, 2007

Condom compact. $24.95, www.justincaseinc.com. This girly mirror compact has a dirty little secret; underneath the mirror is a hidden compartment that can store two condoms. This chic compact comes with two free condoms and is the perfect gift for any sexy and smart female on your list. (Handout Photo / December 2, 2007)

Stuck in a gift-giving rut? On your next holiday shopping excursion, put down the humdrum vanilla candles, flannel-lined pajamas or -- even worse -- mugs filled with reindeer-shaped chocolates, and check out these unconventional goodies.

Sandcastle Bundt Pan
$32, Williams-Sonoma, 110 Seventh Ave., 212-633-2203
Don't let the winter blues get your favorite baker down. Made of durable aluminum, this summery cake mold's non-stick interior guarantees a perfect castle of confections any time of year.

Hug Salt and Pepper Shakers
$25, MoMA Design Store, 81 Spring St., 646-613-1367
When tensions arise, sometimes it's best to just hug it out. These adorable, embracing shakers serve as a reminder of this -- a perfect sentiment for the holiday season. Created by New York designer Alberto Mantilla, these shakers are made of porcelain and can bring joy to any meal. We dare you not to say "awww."

Ping Pong Paddle Set
$25, www.fredflare.com
Pat Benatar meant business when she sang "Hit me with your best shot," and so will anyone with this uber-competitive ping-pong gear. This set comes with a canvas case, two cheeky paddles and three ping-pong balls -- ideal for any retro fan or fierce table-tennis player. Let the battle begin.

Electric Guitar Lamp
$50, www.uncommongoods.com
When Guitar Hero 1, 2 and 3 aren't enough, channel that inner rock star with this soft-white light lamp. Not your little brother's night-light, this out-there piece is made of frosted glass with a metal pedestal and gentle light to rock any music fan to sleep.

Drink ice luge
$24, Urban Outfitters, 526 Sixth Ave., 646-638-1646
Whether they're fresh out of the frat house or just stuck in their college glory days, professional party animals will love this ice luge. Simply freeze water in the mold, pour in the drink of choice and enjoy the slippery slopes of inebriation again and again.

Fish shoulder bag
$35.95, www.reefandreed.com
If you know a child (or adult) who has watched "Finding Nemo" more than any human should, this is the gift to give. Available in a variety of fish, these bags are built to last with a water-resistant exterior to protect belongings. Best of all, 10 percent of profits go toward environmental causes that help keep our finned friends safe.

Dart Wall Hooks