As Americans scrutinize every purchase, merchants are making sure to stock up on holiday gifts that are either practical or offer an affordable way to splurge. Here are some of the hot trends for Christmas 2010:

FASHION: Fur vests — real or fake — and sweaters with Nordic patterns around the neckline should be hot sellers, according to Catherine Moellering, executive vice president of Tobe, a fashion trend consultancy. Military-inspired clothing like cadet-style jackets and cargo pants should remain hot.