Webwise; Christmas shopping needn't mean a high-street scrum. Get

Sunday Herald, The, Dec 7, 2003 by Words Rohese Taylor

IT'S the same every year; as Christmas approaches our tolerance of shopping fast approaches zero. Elbows fly, brows knot, gift-hungry rampagers invade and a distinct lack of Christmas cheer permeates the shops that only a month ago you delighted in. But there is hope. Thanks to the wonders of modern technology you can shop till your credit card drops without leaving the comfort of your own home. Stress-free shopping is achievable at Christmas, so sit back, log on and wait for those deliveries to roll in.

For those a little nervous about giving their bank details, it should be remembered that new initiatives, such as password protection for transactions, have helped dramatically reduce internet fraud in the last two years. Some surveys suggest that there is less fraud on the internet than on the high street. But for peace of mind, here's what to look out for:

1. Check that the site is secure - look for a closed padlock symbol on your screen.

2. Before ordering check that the site gives both a postal and email contact address and displays information on returning goods.

3. Keep a record of all your online transactions and check your bank statements.

For her www.netaporter.com Strictly for those with cash to splash. A fashionista's heaven, this exclusive online boutique boasts Jimmy Choo, Marc Jacobs and Temperley among many others.

www.paperbagprincess.com This American site sells vintage couture including Halston, Chanel and Vivienne Westwood. A favourite with the stars, Jennifer Aniston, Nicole Kidman and Madonna are fans.

For him www.manufactum.com A great online catalogue full of practical, well-designed gift ideas. Have a look in the From Head to Toe section, where you'll even find inspiration for the man who has everything.

www.orchard-digital.net Here you can buy unique digital camcorders, cameras, mp3 players, dvd players and computer peripherals. The only place to shop for your resident techno- enthusiast.

www.boysstuff.co.uk Boysstuff online gadget store sell loads of cool gadgets. Browse their massive range of categories, including spy gadgets, car stuff, office toys, party stuff and bachelor pad.

For kids www.wigwamkids.co.uk Offers stylish furniture, soft furnishings, accessories and toys. The personalised painted chairs ((pounds) 110 each) will go down a treat.

www.littlebadger.com Funky clothes in vibrant colours and bold prints for all the cool kids in your life. The skull-and-crossbones knits and sheep booties are extremely cute and make great stocking fillers.

www.insectlore.co.uk A brilliant site for kids fascinated by nature. Here you can buy butterfly gardens to cultivate, giant snails, hissing cockroaches and numerous bug-related games and puzzles.

For everyone www.blissworld.com Gift someone special a Blissertificate (from (pounds) 10), from Bliss spa, redeemable against products or any of their indulgent treatments.

www.lush.co.uk Treat someone to a goodie box stuffed to the brim with their natural products. Favourites include limited-edition Fairy Christmas ((pounds) 9.95) and Puddy Holly ((pounds) 11.95). The disadvantage is that you can't enjoy the Lush scents online.

www.cdwow.com Get chart CDs and DVDs from as little as (pounds) 8.99 at this discount music and video store.

www.iwantoneofthose.com Gadgets galore on this site that's jam- packed with great gift ideas. And you can browse by price to ensure you stay within budget.

www.hotelchocolat.com Mountains of treats to satisfy the chocoholics. Try the Classic Christmas Box, (pounds) 32.95.

www.persephonebooks.co.uk Specialising in 20th-century women's literature, including novels, short stories and cookery books, this site is a great find for avid readers.

www.futureforests.com Dedicate a tree in the Coldplay forest in India or Andy Warhol forest in Florida. It's the perfect eco- friendly gift for only (pounds) 17.50.

www.tate.org.uk Get your hands on prints, picture books, cards and Tate gifts. They also sell a funky Paint-It-Yourself Kit (from (pounds) 50).

www.plantstuff.com This site has a good mix of stylish and practical gifts for keen gardeners. Includes bulbs, gardenware and funky furniture.

For the home www.cabbagesandroses.com A charming collection of handmade fabrics, clothes and home accessories. It also sells beautiful antique linen.

www.joannabirdpottery.com A great site that specialises in collectable ceramics by Lucie Rie, Hans Coper and Bernard Leach. Also features contemporary works by Chris Keenan and Judith Rowe.

www.powderedwater.co.uk For unusual gifts, hip interiors and kitsch home accessories, this is the site to see. They'll even wrap your gifts before delivery too.

mail order Brora, 0207 736 9944, www.brora.co.uk Luxurious Scottish cashmere knits for everyone at excellent prices. Check out the gorgeous cashmere blankets (from (pounds) 95).

Boden, 0845 677 5000, www.boden.co.uk A great selection of trendy clothes for the whole family. And if you're spoilt for choice, they do gift vouchers too.