THE WORD ON WHAT’S HIP AND WHAT’S HYPE : Oh Joy!

“Ren & Stimpy” cartoon fans can sing the “Happy, Happy, Joy, Joy” ditty all the way to the local novelty shop, where they’ll find R & S on T-shirts and boxer shorts. The cablecast insanity appeals “to the rebellious side in all of us, no matter our age,” says a spokeswoman. No surprise that both adults and children are snapping up garb. The animated Chihuahua and cat appear on five different white Tees and on bright blue boxers, all selling for about $15. The series, on MTV and Nickleodeon each weekend, continues to gain popularity, and its producer foresees new items of Ren & Stimpywear.

Leg Bait

The lure of the season: small-gauge fishnets, those mini-mesh hose that give bare legs a polished look. But be careful. They could be all wrong in some offices, warns Dianna Pfaff-Martin, a professional wardrobe consultant. “Don’t let fads dictate, and watch out how others might interpret the look,” she says. DKNY and Hues’ renditions in white and pastels “could prove acceptable for some careers, especially if it becomes part of a bigger trend.”

Heavy Metal

Male finery can’t be froufrou. Along with goatees and tattoos and other trappings of manhood, oversized sterling silver rings are a must among stylish males, says Electric Chair buyer Tiffany Rawlings. “They like them because they want to look tough and manly,” she says. The Huntington Beach store sells two dozen chunky rings a day ($16-$30). Wide, ornate bands, thumb-sized skulls and iron crosses reign as the most popular emblems.

Can Buy Me Love

This year’s pop detail: a classic, the valentine heart. You’ll find it on earrings, chokers, belt buckles, suit pockets, shoes, even perfume bottles. Escada is building a reputation on the shape that connotes commitment. Saleswomen at its tony South Coast Plaza boutique wouldn’t be caught dead without their gold heart earrings. “They’re Escada’s gift to us when we start work here,” says one. Have a heart.