Moncler is an abbreviated name of the French town of Monesteir de Clermont where the company was founded in 1952. Moncler started out equipping Himalayan expeditions -- the stylish Badia jacket first worn by Everest climbers in '52 remains the undisputed bestseller today, insulated with feathers from aquatic birds raised in the South of Brittany.

From cool motorcycle jackets to iridescent safari jackets, to trendy trench coats, Moncler has collaborated with numerous designers over the years, like Balenciaga, Yohji Yamamoto, Fendi and most recently with Comme des Garcon's Junya Watanabe.

Madonna, Katie Holmes and Gwyneth Paltrow are hot for Gamme Rouge, Moncler's luxiest line, designed by Italian fashionista Giambattista Valli and featuring sculpted couture coats that seem better suited for the opera than the slopes. The ever-expanding brand has also added gorgeous down handbags and high-heeled après ski boots into the mix.

Snow bunnies take note -- Moncler's opening its first U.S. store in Aspen this November for a Rocky Mountain retail high. Moncler clothing is available at Barneys, Bloomingdales, Bergdorfs and Bluefly.com.

Luxe Tip: If you're not down with dropping a grand for a Moncler coat, check out the chic and affordably priced puffies from Patagonia or Northface for under $300. Now that won't rustle your feathers!