Store cardholders in two Dublin stores can enlist the classy stamp of John Rocha on some very special presents this Christmas when the designer makes a number of personal appearances in department stores in early December. Rocha will be meeting customers and individually signing products, for invitees, from his Waterford Crystal collection at Brown Thomas, Dublin on 4 December 2006, 6pm to 8pm and in Arnotts, Dublin, 7 December 2006 . . . 6pm to 8pm. Rocha's most recent designs for the famous crystal company were launched earlier this year. Voya and Lume are similar to his black crystal designs, but of a lighter glass.

Prices are from 85 for a pair of tumblers and go up to approximately 250 for a 16" vase.

COMPARE AND CONTRAST

Design has gone all eclectic this season with high street retailer Habitat championing the trend with a winter collection that pays homage to creative combinations and the mixing of some distinctive styles and influences. Their designers have drawn heavily on the use of classic references and introduced ornate embellishes. We're loving their 'Can' drinking glasses emblazoned with pretty lace designs and graphic 'Drum' lampshades decorated in flock patterns. Visit Habitat Dublin, Galway and Belfast.

CALLING COLLECTORS

If you haven't started collecting contemporary Irish craft, now's the time. The Crafts Council of Ireland is holding two exhibitions for the discerning collector, featuring contemporary, high-end work from some of Ireland's most distinguished designers . . . glass, metal, wood, textiles and ceramics. Pick up an original handcrafted work of art at The Hunt Museum, Limerick from 16 November to 6 December and at The National Craft Gallery, Castle Yard, Kilkenny from 24 November to 6 January.

FROM TOTS TO TEENS

Mums and dads rejoice! If you're looking for funky but de"nitely not twee furniture for your children's bedrooms, the search is over. Amelia Aran has just added a new range of wardrobes and chest of drawers (from 880) to its already impressive collection of trundle beds, desks and moses baskets for kids of all ages, from baby to teenager. And that's not all, the company is also offering an interior design call out service, making the task of designing your little ones rooms that much easier. For more information visit Amelia Aran, 71 York Road, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin, 01280 5877.

BLACK AND WHITE MAGIC

What's black and white and walked all over? Jasper Conran's new damask rug for Debenhams. This so now, toe-friendly flooring combines this year's two hottest trends: black and white and damask prints for just Stg£160 Stocks are limited so if you want one you better hurry. Call 0044 8445 616161 for stockist details.

Three-door wardrobe from /1,270