The Neiman Marcus annual Christmas Book of fantasy gifts has always held a sense of extravagance (emphasis on the word, fantasy). However, this year is unlike any other. The pandemic has brought a unique set of circumstances that have challenged us all. On the one hand, 2020 doesn’t seem like the year to be letting our imaginations run wild with over-the-top gifts. On the other hand, couldn’t we all use a dose of dreamy escapism and a reminder of “what brings us joy, what touches our hearts or what makes us smile”?
The luxury Dallas-based retailer’s 2020 curated list of holiday gifts dares us to think differently about this holiday season, and offers up the suggestion that maybe — just maybe — we don’t need to give up our fantasies completely. As the retailer noted: “In times like these, it’s important to take comfort in those yearly traditions that remind us that our ability to dream and aspire to great things remains undaunted.” While a $345,000 Alaskan getaway, a $295,000 library or a $255,000 camper still carry the aura of luxury and fantasy, these marquee purchases come with a $10,000 donation to the charitable Heart of Neiman Marcus Foundation, which is supporting the Boys and Girls Clubs of America. The list also offers accessible luxury alternatives and a greater focus on gifts for the home — the one constant in our 2020 lives.
Assouline Custom Travel Library
What could be better than escaping to exotic locales and cultures without ever leaving home? World-renowned publishing family, Assouline, is making it a reality with its custom travel library. How it works: you travel by private jet to meet with the publisher to determine the aesthetic of your custom library. The publisher will then curate a collection of books, furniture, and one-of- a-kind objets d’art just for you. Cost: $295,000
Accessible Luxury Alternatives
If a custom travel library is just a wee bit out of your budget, gift the bibliophiles on your list a sleek bookstand or an artfully crafted tome on their favorite topic: Allure Bookstand ($3,200), “The Impossible Collection of Whiskey” Book ($995) and “Roy Lichtenstein: The Impossible Collection” Book ($895).
A Year of Wellness with Canyon Ranch
The challenges of 2020 have taught us all an important lesson about prioritizing our health and well-being. That’s why the Year of Wellness with Canyon Ranch is such an amazing gift for someone you love. From fitness to relaxation, Canyon Ranch will help you and a companion design yearlong regimens to guide you along your wellness journey. Included in this gift, you’ll receive a seven-night stay at the Las Vegas area resort, where you and your plus one will be guided by a personalized team of physicians, nutritionists, life coaches and other experts that will tailor your individualized programs. Three more weeklong checkups follow to affirm your new paths, plus monthly virtual consultations. You’ll also enjoy unlimited services during your stays. Cost: $345,000
Accessible Luxury Alternatives
Maybe you simply want to give the gift of feeling your best to your bestie. Help her start the new year off right with stylish athleisure like these colorblock Geox sneakers or this comfy Supersoft Fleece Circular Tie-Dye Pullover by Monrow ($191). Soothing beauty treatment cream from Augustinus Bader ($265) is another great option.
Jonathan Adler Artful Additions
Since we’re all spending more time at home, a high fashion game room has become an affluent must-have. Fans of Jonathan Adler’s bright, cheery and playful take on modern American glam will really fall in love with this ultimate Game Room gift. You’ll work together (safely via video chat) to develop a plan to transform the room of your choice into a one-of-a-kind game parlor. It all starts with an eye-popping custom-made piece of hand-beaded artwork, designed by Jonathan and created by a master beader. From there, Jonathan will fill out the details with a collection of decor and games chosen to complement your personal aesthetic. Cost: $145,000
Accessible Luxury Alternatives
For the young (and young at heart) on your list, here are a few game-changers (literally) that deliver major style points and a twist on the classics: Checkerboard Backgammon Set ($395), Tiger Lacquer Card Set ($85) and Brass Tic Tac Toe Set ($195).
Bowlus Luxury RV
For the adventurer in the family, the bespoke Bowlus Luxury RV just might be the perfect answer. This gift treats you to an exclusive design consultation to customize the interior of your own Bowlus with an array of yacht-grade finishes. The RV also includes a state-of-the-art electrical system that allows you to remain off-grid from L.A. to NYC and back on a single charge. Cost: $255,000
Accessible Luxury Alternatives
With travel limited, luxury RVing and glamping have been the de facto way to “get out of dodge” in 2020. So, why not give the escape artists in your life something that they will get a lot of mileage out of when they hit the road? Some thoughtful items include coffee sets with a world view ($17 and $25) or an eye-catching bag that quite literally recharges your batteries ($700).
