Boxer shorts seem to be the item of choice for Harvard Square shoppers seeking the perfect holiday gift, area retailers said yesterday.

As shop owners mark down prices and increase marketing for their frantic holiday clientele, buyers are sticking to the traditional clothing and accessories for gifts.

"Boxer shorts, socks and turtlenecks are going fast," said Don Dixon, a sales associate at the Banana Republic on Bennett Street.

Emily Rudd, a salesperson at Urban Outfitters, says she has also noted the boxer short phenomenon season. Velvet, she said, is also doing well.

"Velvet dresses and velvet accessories, like chokers with cameos, are becoming increasingly popular," said Mary Broderick of Urban Outfitters.

Emblematic ties, priced at about $45 each, have attracted a number of enthusiastic buyers including the prince of Japan and the Marquis of Tavistock, according to sales representatives at J. Press.

As for the Tannery, Coach handbags and leather jackets consist of 70 percent of their current sales, said Tannery manager Tarek Hassan.

For the environmentally conscious, the Body Shop offers the popular peppermint foot lotion and gift baskets, said Bill Stevenson, co-franchisee of the natural beauty care chain.

A few shoppers are opting for the more intellectually stimulating holiday gifts.

"We have only one marble chessset left," said Jennifer Tradd, manager of Mudo.