THE WORD ON WHAT’S HIP AND WHAT’S HYPE

Cross Current

With theology wear the rage for fall, the cross will undoubtedly be the symbol of the times. Already it is showing up on chokers, hanging from velvet straps. For a more dramatic statement, try on the full metal neckpiece at Sacha’s of London in Costa Mesa. The medieval-like choker features three crosses and is malleable enough to be wrapped around the neck. Made in India, the $10 necklace “is no ordinary choker,” says manager Elisa Gonzalez.

Shock Socks

What will they think up next? Socks that glow in the dark? Novelty hosiery maker K. Bell introduces what it considers the first of its kind--the GlowSock, a white crew sock. Priced from $10 to $12 a pair, the sock is made of 85% cotton and 15% nylon with a “secret fiber” that radiates green for about 20 minutes. Light exposure recharges them. “People are buying them for their 40-year-old birthday parties and for their preteen sock hops,” says owner Karen Bell. “The best feature is that they look like regular crew socks, but when you turn off the light, they glow.”

Fake Highs

The crazy platform that made a name for shoe designer John Fluevog and that has been associated with Dee-Lite’s Lady Miss Kier can now be yours for a fraction of the cost. The Leeds shoe chain has knocked it off and turned it into a mule. A spokesman says it’s selling so well they just added creme and black suede styles to the white leather and crinkled black velour models already offered. At only $34--versus $160 for the original--it’s one good buy that puts the fun back in trendy togs.

A Burning Issue

The hottest prop for summer? Without a doubt it’s sunscreen. Sun protection factor--or SPF--should be at least 15, says Tustin dermatologist June Beamer-Patton. “Anything lower, don’t even bother.” SPF signifies the time you can stay safely in the sun; “15” means 15 times longer than it takes on average to burn (about 20 minutes). Next, find “a vehicle that fits your skin type, such as a gel, stick or moisturizer.” And she warns: “Use it every morning--even on your hands. I see more liver spots on the left hand; that comes from (the sun shining on your hand while) driving.”