Holidays fanciful at McGinty Whitworth

In its 42 years on the Iola square, McGinty Whitworth has become known as the go-to place for unique Christmas gifts and women’s clothing — and of course, accessories, accessories, accessories.

“Jewelry and handbags always sell well,” said store clerk Melissa Lassman. Scarves and hats and gloves are popular as stocking stuffers as well as under the tree, she said.

McGinty’s famous Christmas sales book, included in today’s Register, boasts a 30 percent off coupon that can be used on almost any item in the store.

McGinty’s has extended business hours for the holiday season and will be open Mondays through Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with longer evening hours on Thursdays, until 8. In addition, “we’ll be open Sundays in December from 1 to 5 p.m.,” Lassman said.

Bargains are always available at McGinty Whitworth. Sales racks lure shoppers in every department. Jewelry, clothing, shoes, scarves and seasonal ware is often discounted for the price-conscious shopper. That’s important to consumers in the current economy, said Lassman, who anticipated an increase in sales of smaller items over years past.

Novel gifts on the shelves this year are stretch rhinestone rings and bracelets to add a little glitter to one’s holiday bling. Cuff bracelets, textured clutch purses and sparkly lanyards catch the eye. Butter-soft fleece lounge pants, cozy sweaters and lusciously textured woven scarves all beckon the casual shopper. Vibrantly colored plush slippers promise to cheer the cold from your winter floor. There are even stockings that would look great hung on the mantle, though designed to be worn on one’s feet.

Numerous special gift items are brought in just for the holidays, noted store clerk Sheryl Zajic. “They’re all cute and if I had enough money I’d probably buy them all,” she said.

Other seasonal specials include a “Christmas clock” that chimes carols on the hour and holiday ornaments and home decor. Unique photo frames are a McGinty staple.

Kids’ gifts can be found toward the back of the store, where looms a large variety of logo gear — K-state and KU fans both can find mugs, pennants, wall hangings and shirts that show off their team spirit. There are even fleece jackets sized for the youngest of fans.

Stocked near the shoes, a huge assortment of “Rubber Lover” bracelets will delight any stretch band fan. 

You can find something for almost anyone at this anchor store of the Iola square.

Reach McGinty Whitworth at 365-3271.

11.29.10