Designers might be pushing clogs and harem pants, but that doesn't mean you're buying them.

Plenty of other items, though, have sold big-time in 2010.

For handbags, sales of mini-bags were up almost 200 percent over 2009, and wristlets were up 25 percent for the past two years, according to Marshal Cohen, chief industry analyst of the research firm NPD Group and author of "Buy Me!"

When it came to footwear, shearling boot sales were up 29 percent this year with Uggs leading the way. Rain boots for men and women were up 120 percent, with children's styles up 70 percent. For clothing, sales of jeggings increased 103 percent, primarily with women between ages 12 and 29. Skirts were up more than 19 percent.

At Bay Street Shoes and Accessories in Calhoun Square in Minneapolis, owner Darrel Besikof reported that rain boots, especially Hunter Wellies, have been a big seller. "It has been very strong with all of the creepy weather," he said, adding that customers will buy socks to go with the rubber boots.

As for Uggs, the local market might be tapped out, he said. "We're still selling them, but the demand isn't there like it was three or four years ago." He has noticed that more people have been looking for unique boot styles this year, a drastic difference from last year's return-to-basics attitude. "The energy is toward specialty boots in an unusual color or with unusual styling," Besikof said. "It's pretty darn wonderful."

Walking into Primp is like entering a chi-chi local boutique, complete with dark-stained wood floors, industrial ceilings and elegant displays. Until you look at the price tags. At Primp, nothing is more than $100, and most items are less than $50.

Owners and shop girls Michele Henry and Wesley Uthus have pulled together the cute selection of T-shirts, flouncy tops, Fair Isle sweaters, party dresses, pants, handbags, belts and jewelry.

The friends and business partners had already worked together on Rapport, a line of leather handbags and accessories. You can still find some of their leather magnetic bows, which will attach and add flair to just about anything.

618 Selby Av., St. Paul, 651-414-0091, primpyourself.com.

Resolution for next year: Stop procrastinating. However, if you still need a dress for New Year's Eve, Drama carries TFNC. The London-based line of cocktail dresses makes runway looks more affordable. Most dresses are $125.

TFNC, available at Drama, 1203 Lagoon Av. S., Mpls., 612-338-9423, www.shopatdrama.com.

SALES AND EVENTS

FRIDAY

Crystal Ball: A Masked Affair: Sip champagne, dress incognito in a masquerade disguise and watch a fashion show and local designer competition.

8 p.m. Friday to 2 a.m. Saturday, Epic, 110 N. 5th St., Mpls, Tickets start at $35, www.nyempls.com.

CONTINUING

LEN's week of savings: Take an additional 25 percent off already reduced prices

Five locations: Rosedale, Bonaventure, City Center and Southdale (two locations), www.shoplen.com.

Hot Mama holiday sale: 15 percent off everything in stores and online.

Through Jan. 2, Hot Mama, see www.shopmama.com for locations, including 12217 Elm Creek Blvd., Maple Grove, 763-416-5100.

Zelaz year-end sale: Save 30 percent on clothing and accessories, except for jewelry.

Through Jan. 15, 287 Water St., Excelsior, 952-920-1044, zelaz.com.

N'ETC end-of-the-year sale: Save 30 to 50 percent off all fall apparel and accessories and 50 percent off all boots and shoes. Brands include Robert Clergerie, Dusica Dusica, Gravati, AGL, Cordani, LNA, Laurie B., 525 America and Babakul.

5005 France Av. S., Mpls, 612-922-9321.

Corset fashion finale sale: The shop will be closing, so snap up apparel for $5 to $30, including professional suiting (sizes 2 to 18), basics, leggings, sequined tops and more.

Through Dec. 31, 715 Mainstreet, Hopkins, 952-224-2495, www.corsetstyling.com.

Flirt's semiannual sale: Save 40 percent on select bras, underwear, chemises and pajamas by Mimi Holliday, Wendy Glex, Eberjey and Betsey Johnson.

177 N. Snelling Av., St. Paul, 651-698-3692.

Stephanie's progressive winter sale: Buy one item for 20 percent off, buy two items for 30 percent off, buy three or more items for 40 percent off. Check Facebook for additional savings.

Through Jan. 31, 758 S. Cleveland Av., St. Paul, 651-690-3802, www.stephaniesshop.com.

Spalon Montage makeover contest: One Facebook fan will receive a $440 spa package from the salon, $150 in merchandise at maha! and a week of workouts from Tiger Athletics.

Through Dec. 31, check the Spalon Montage Facebook page for additional details.

Sara Glassman • 612-673-7177 • sglassman@startribune.com