MISSONI RUG AT NEIMAN MARCUS ONLINE

This georgeous, op-art inspired black and white rug is designed by Missoni and available through Neiman Marcus — but only online. Neiman’s response to the arrival of New York retailer Barney’s is a curious one. They’ve picked up Armani Casa, Missoni and Fendi home, but you can’t see any of it at the store. It’s all virtual. Will customers spend thousands of dollars on something they can’t see or touch in person? Possibly. Collectors bid all the time on the Internet for priceless objects, trusting the dealer’s or the auction house’s reputation. I’d trust Missoni to produce a rug worthy of its $2,289 price tag, sight unseen. Still, I’d really like to see Neiman Marcus do something exciting with its in-store home decor shops. Make us get out and dream and admire and buy. Hometown loyalty has its limits.