If the best things really do come in small packages, then opening up your Christmas stocking could be even more delightful than unwrapping that huge box with a festive red bow – which could very well contain a vacuum cleaner or taxidermy jackalope from cousin Ben.

Stocking stuffers don’t have to come from among the little trinkets that line the shelves in front of the cash register (as useful as the Ped Egg might be, it just doesn’t say “holiday magic”). They can include anything, whether limited-edition cosmetics, a girlie key ring or the accessory every man in a button-down shirt needs: magnetic collar stays.

Here are our favorite ideas for what to drop in that large knit sock to make the recipient swoon.

Nars Holiday Collection Makeup Sets

The king of color has a holiday collection filled with intense eye shadow hues and sparkly nail polish shades perfect for a New Year’s Eve party — lip gloss, $45; nail polish, $30; Day & Night palette, $50; at www.narscosmetics.com.

Miu Miu Key Fobs

Even keys needs accessories these days. Miu Miu is making jeweled key fobs that any girlie girl would love to hook onto the key of her BMW. $110 at Miu Miu, Beverly Hills.

Origins GinZing Eye Cream

For anyone who loves to ring in the new year with gusto, a little eye cream for the next morning (or week) won’t hurt. Origins GinZing eye cream, with its tingly little zip on the skin, really works to de-puff those unsightly eye bags. $29.50 at www.origins.com.

Tom Ford Perfume Rollers in Black Orchid and White Patchouli

Any fan of Ford’s sexy and mysterious scents will be enticed by these travel-friendly touch point rollers in Black Orchid and White Patchouli — $45 each at Neiman Marcus.

Tommy Hilfiger Passport Holders

Whether the recipient is an avid traveler or just venturing out of the country for the first time, she can do so in style. $28 at www.tommy.com.

Aquiesse Cinnamon Tabac Candle

This spicy and sweet candle says “holidays” without the cloying smell of synthetic peppermint or evergreen branches. $40 at Saks Fifth Avenue.

Dermalogica Daily Defense Block SPF15

A stocking stuffer that will increase face value, this multitasking SPF15 post-shave lotion is formulated to soothe the skin, help prevent ingrown hairs and afford protection from harmful UV rays — all without leaving the greasy feel that makes guys opt out of sunblock in the first place. 3.4 ounces for $34 at www.dermalogica.com or at the Dermalogica flagship store in Santa Monica, Calif.

The American Line Colognes

Supporting U.S. troops makes sense when you can choose from one of five new officially licensed colognes inspired by (and with a portion of proceeds going to) the different branches of the U.S. military: Patton (Army), Liberty (Navy), Stealth (Air Force), Devil Dog (Marines) and Riptide (Coast Guard). $45 each, available online only, at www.theamericanline.org.