California Apparel News

Can't figure out what to get your loved ones for the holidays?

Not to worry. Neiman Marcus has come to the rescue with its opulent list of fantasy gifts that only a millionaire could afford. The gifts are listed in the Texas retailer's annual Christmas Book released this week. It is a tradition that started in 1926 as a 16-page booklet and was intended as a Christmas card to the store's best customers.

"Our team has scoured and vetted hundreds of one-of-a-kind items resulting in this highly curated collection of 12 items and experiences," said Jim Gold, Neiman Marcus' president and chief merchandising officer. "It is our goal to bring dreams to life!"

The gifts are varied for every kind of personality. There is the training day in San Francisco with football quarterback Joe Montana for only $65,000. If the theater is your thing, there is a walk-on role in the Broadway musical "Waitress." Price: $30,000.

For the traveler who likes their hotel to be big and roomy, there is a week in three luxurious English estates. The itinerary kicks off in London where you are transported via helicopter to your first stop, the 900-year-old Alnwick Castle. Home to the 12th Duke of Northumerland, your day ends in a grand dining room with a feast prepared by a Michelin-starred chef.

Then it is on to Wilton House for polo lessons and an impressive collection of new and vintage motorcars at the home of the 18th Earl of Pembroke. The last stay of your week is at the home of former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, Blenheim palace. Built in the 1700s, you are greeted by its current resident, the 12th Duke of Marlborough. The tab is $700,000.

Don't forget that cobalt Valkyrie-X private plane in rose gold. The plane when it debuts next year will be one of the fastest piston planes in the world, going up to 230 miles per hours with a range up to 1,150 ground miles. This gift will set you back $1.5 million.

For the pessimist in your family, there is a mattress with a built-in lock to store things if the world goes bad after the elections. The mattress is going for $25,000. Or you might want to celebrate the optimist in your family with a bracelet made of paper, glass and hope. This one you can afford. It's only $25.

Then for the sporty type who spends a lot of time on the golf course, there are the his-and-her Neiman Marcus Island Cars featuring Lilly Pultizer fabrics, long-range batteries and a surrey top for $65,000 each.

But my favorite is the slumber party at the downtown Dallas Neiman Marcus flagship store for you and 11 of your best friends where you will get a private fashion presentation by Neiman Marcus fashion director Ken Downing. You also get to dine like a princess and get all sorts of beauty treatments and facials. You are out $120,000 for this but divided 12 ways it's only $10,000 per person.

A lot of choices here, but I'm sure you'll find something.