'Tis The Holiday Wish List Season

The Grand Mademoiselle loves a good list; groceries, work schedules, appointments, social events, and fashion must-haves to name a few. However, the queen of all lists is the Wish List, and the winter holidays present a rare and singular chance to craft the perfect one. The Holiday Wish List trumps the Birthday Wish List in virtue of the unique feeling that accompanies the Christmas season. Witness Neiman Marcus’ infamous gift book, a fanciful and extravagant list of impossible to afford items. The gift book represents the essence of the Holiday Wish List in all its festive glory. Drooling over that $10,000 diamond cuff? List it! Dreaming of a Lanvin gown? On the list it goes! The best Holiday Wish List combines extravagance and necessity with gusto, and the Grand M’s motto is: Anything Goes.

With the days of 2007 dwindling to a close, the Grand M has begun her List. This year’s theme is cozy and Christmas-y, marked by subtle touches of luxury instead of brash overkill. Here are a few choice items from the Grand M’s Holiday Wish List:


J. Crew's Cashmere Belle-Of-The-Ball gown is a sweet, surprising twist on the usual floor-duster. The Italian cashmere gown has a tulle underskirt for extra swirly-twirl, and the chic crewneck and sleeveless bodice makes it seem effortless.





Love From Australia's Nomad boots are the perfect blend of style and comfort, with a shearling lining and ribbons that lace up the front. Plus, the slightly asymmetrical cuff makes these boots great for wearing over skinny pants.


Nina Ricci's Ostrich Feather Oversized Sweater has been on the Grand M's radar since appearing on the cover of WWD a few months ago. The light gray alpaca and mohair blend sweater is swingy and loose, with elasticized bell sleeves, a scalloped hem, and glorious ostrich feather details peeking through the knit.



Juicy Couture's Princess Ball Floral Torsade necklace is a romantic, slightly hard-edged mixture of chain and crystal strands that intertwine to form just the right blend of girly-girl with hard ass. The cluster of leaves and crystal flowers adds the perfect amount of whimsy and carelessness.



Be sure that your own Holiday Wish List is prominently displayed in a high-traffic area to increase the likelihood of being able to check items off, just in case Santa doesn't come through...