the buzz log

The Buzz has noticed a tremendous upsurge in holiday gift searches of a more sensible nature. And that's OK. Not every present under the tree should throb with firepower or ooze animal magnetism. Frankly, some of us prefer the wash-and-wear practicality of acrylic blend over the high maintenance allure of pashmina.

But say you're the sort who considers the "Victoria's Secret Fashion Show" a family Yuletide special. You may want a little assistance in finding an appropriate gift for maiden aunts, bachelor uncles, and co-workers who've read up on their anti-harassment rights. Here are some top searches for unsexy gifts—because when it comes to gift-giving, safety first.

• Uggs—more winsome than provocative, the sheepskin-lined boots register in the top 700 searches, thanks to ladies in their teens to early 50s.
• Crocs—firmly in the top 3,500 searches, the rubber clog counts women 45-54 among its core faithfuls.
• Hoovers—Roomba and Dyson have the come-hither tech appeal, but Hoover gets even more searches than "vacuum cleaners."
• Socks—up 10%, the foot cosy favorites include variations like slipper, toe, heated, thorlo, christmas, and electric (although that last one verges on sexy).
• Crockpot—a slow simmer that never gets too hot is just the ticket for anyone over 25.
• Christmas sweaters—a traditional favorite to which pre-teens especially cuddle up, the holiday wear has already headed to the top 40,000.
• Gag gifts—not only decidely unsexy, it's positively emasculating... which might explain why women lead the searches at 64%.
• Coffee mugs—as long as you stay away from politics or the risqué, the cup brews eternal for all ages.
• Thermos—up 303%, the food containers favored include Nissan and Aladdin.
• Trimmers—just a bump of interest for the grooming products, but those who suffer the luxury of too much nose hair will thank you.