Courtesy of Charlotte Ronson

In just a few short years, Charlotte Ronson has become a fashion megastar. In October, The New York Times, sang her praises, labeling the designer as “the girl with the golden touch,” and “one of the most successful retail entrepreneurs of her generation.” In the spirit of the holiday season, we’ve asked Ronson about her famous family, elephants in New York, the sensation of falling in your dreams, and why above all, family trumps everything (and maybe her little dog Oliver too).

ELLE: What is your favorite smell?

CR: Fruits Sauvages by Comptoir Sud Pacifique

ELLE: When are you happiest?

CR: I am always happiest surrounded by my family. The more the merrier.

ELLE:  What’s your favorite childhood memory?

CR: Around the time my family just moved to New York from London—we were going out for the afternoon and when we left our apartment building, we found ourselves in the midst of a street fair. As we were walking, we came across elephants and we all went for a ride.

ELLE: What’s the last book you read and loved?

CR: To Kill A Mockingbird.

ELLE: What is the last dream you remember?

CR: I don’t really remember my dreams. The only dream I ever remember is falling, but I always wake up right before I land anywhere.

ELLE: What are your vices?

CR: Coffee, cheese, and sleeping in.

ELLE: Describe yourself in 5 words or less.

CR: Casual, feminine, creative, kind, innovative

ELLE: What possession will you never throw away?

CR: My dog, Oliver.