THE WORD ON WHATS’ HIP AND WHAT’S HYPE : Ghoulish Glitter

Whether you see these earrings ($183) as gaudy or glamorous, they’re definitely a treat for this weekend. Bats and skeletons are also available. In fact, the Lunch at the Ritz jewelry line has a pin or earring for every occasion. Don’t believe it? Visit Dynasty Gallery in Laguna Beach, which carries nearly all the 800 styles, from $18 to $320. The theme jewelry uses 24 karat gold electroplating, Austrian crystals and Czech glass beads.

Wild Kingdom vs. Wall Street

With animal prints and menswear competing to be the season’s hottest trend for women, hosiery maker Hue followed with tights in cheetah and masculine prints ($14.50). Which one sells best? The microcheck tights, says Hue spokeswoman Lisa Ferrero. The tiny check pattern comes in chocolat (yes, Mr. Vice President, there’s no “e” on the end), charcoal, rust, French blue and other fall shades. She suggests adding the tights and a tie to bring your suits up to date.

Fad Hatter

The ‘70s-inspired hip-hop hat has caught on among the likes of Chanel this year, but it was street fashion companies such as Venetian Paradise of Venice that brought the style to ultra-hip club-goers two years ago. “The average person has caught up with wearing hats, so it’s more acceptable now,” says co-designer Magnus Walker. Venetian’s Sgt. Peppers Pancake hat ($35) is still going strong, Walker says, because in a dull world, “people need something funky to wear, something a bit whimsical.”

(J)oop! It’s Pronounced Yope

Next to Chancellor Helmut Kohl, Joop is considered the second most famous man in Germany. He hopes to bring some of that star power to America with his Joop! por Femmes and Joop! Homme lines. With his charm and good looks, he’s already attracting attention. He kicked off his U.S. tour at Bullock’s South Coast Plaza Wednesday, and dozens queued up for autographs. Word is he plans on bringing his men’s and women’s modish fashions here next year.