HOLIDAY GIFTS
My brain relished the thought of reading about another out-of-this-world experience that six lucky people may find under their tree this holiday - for only $1,764,000 you, too, can take a Virgin Galactic Charter and be launched into space 63 miles above sea level. Experience weightlessness firsthand, then blast back down to Sir Richard Branson's private retreat in the British Virgin Islands to spend a few days and talk about it all.
Sounds like a good TV show to me.
But back down to earth - sort of - there are plenty of other ways to give a stylish gift this holiday season, compliments of Neiman Marcus. How about His and Hers Commuter Twike gasoline-free vehicles (only $40,000) or an extreme backyard water park ($100,000) or be the high bidder and purchase the "dream" package to six professional sports events where you'll have dinner with living legends like Wayne Gretzky, Magic Johnson, Troy Aikman, Chris Evert and Bob Gibson - all to benefit the Joe Torre Safe At Home Foundation. Bidding starts at $250,000 ( www.NeimanMarcus.com).
There are a few more affordable fantasies for this holiday season, and Neiman Marcus' Christmas Book is a great way to see the newest and not-so-newest fashion trends: If you're a die-hard fashion historian, then you'll be interested in reading about the museum-quality collection of sketches from French designer Jacques Fath whose sweeping skirts of 1947 reshaped a global industry.
You'll also love perusing the pages of the latest festive metallic knits from Yves St. Laurent, a lavender cashmere cardigan from Blumarine trimmed with fox fur, a golden embroidered velvet handbag and shoes from Dolce & Gabbana and a paisley burgundy velvet evening gown by Ralph Lauren's Black Label. Of course, there are a few little "gifts" from Manolo Blahnik - his black leather lace-up boots - and handbags from Prada, Gucci, Chanel and Fendi - all the big names Santa reels in every year from the big-time fashionistas.
My favorite fantasy gift just happens to be on the inside of the front cover: a gorgeous jeweled choker, earrings and bracelet from Jose and Maria Barrera. If I order that set right away, it might arrive by Halloween; that Marie Antoinette look is what I'm going for, of course. And black sequined Emporio Armani boots are pretty slick, too. Too bad Louis XVI isn't paying for it.
SIDEBAR: Top Trends for Holiday 2006
The Big Knits - Sweaters, cardigans and coats, especially trimmed in fur.
The Oversized Handbag - a great carry-all for work or weekend.
The Metallics - Accents in gold or silver on accessories and evening clothes.
Go with Green - A color that's perfect for special occasions and is rich as an emerald.
Animal Instincts - Cheetahs, leopards, zebras and more make luxury prints.
Whimsical Motifs - Hello Kitty anyone?
Velvet - The quintessential holiday favorite in blouses, dresses, pants and accessories.
Regal Red - Green, red? Is there a theme here?
Black and gold and lips of red - Pretty much says it all.
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