Attired in a Chanel, walking on a Cavalli with a suave demeanour, flashing a limited edition bag of Hermes in no longer a bizarre thought. Louis Vuitton, Prada or Jimmy Choo are not the luxury brands that find their way in to wardrobe of the bourgeoning rich of the West alone. Indian market has long opened its gate for many of these Luxury brands.
Economic meltdown, inflation are mere jargons which connoisseurs or hedonists of the luxury world do not pay heed to, “after all it is luxury at play”! Well, you could be the next Maria Felix to walk in to a Cartier with a live baby Crocodile in a jar and demand for a miniature jewelled version of it. A perfectly brewed concoction of well-discerned individuals who are ‘Brand aware’ along with the “younger population “ with growing disposable income – India seems to have more than just embraced this rage. Let’s surf through some of the most expensive luxury brands that have created a niche for themselves waltzing across geographical barriers!
Louis Vuitton, Brand Value: $22,552 Million
This label creates ripples in the world of Fashion Industry and is one of the prestigious most brand. For six consecutive years between 2006 and 2012 it was named the “Most valuable luxury Brand”. This Paris based fashion house specialises in Shoes, trunks, hand bags, golf bags, sunglasses and accessories. The Loius Vuitton coquille d’oeuf Minaudierre bag is priced at about 101,000 US dollars. Products bearing the ‘VL’ monogram are definitely for keeps, and worth every cent spent
Hermes, Brand Value: $18,938 Million
What started in 1837 as a small shop in Paris selling bridles, saddles and harnesses has now turned to be the second most valuable luxury brand in the world. A birkin bag named for the British actress ranges in price $10,000 to $15,000 and never in stock, which increases its glamour quotient. This label is now presided over by the sixth generation heir, Axel Dumas. The main mystique element of this brand lies in its reputation and Craftsmanship. Hermes specialises in perfumes, bags, ready-to-wear, accessories and perfumes.
Gucci, Brand Value: $13,800 Million
This 90 year old Italian Luxury Brand designs, manufactures and distributes products with top craftsmanship and authenticity. Its product includes bags, ready-to-wear, silk, time pieces, leather products, fragrances and eye wear. The final outcome stands as a testimony for the undaunted commitment. The Jackie Crocodile Shoulder bag priced at about 37,400 US $ is just enough to prove your style statement!
Chanel, Brand Value: $ 8,987 Million
Chanel is a French luxury fashion brand, owned by Alain and Gerard Wertheimer. Known for its Chanel No.5 Perfume and Chanel Suit, it has been personified by many famous actresses like Marilyn Monroe, Nicole Kidman and Cathheryn Deneuve. Its products ranges from Ready-to-wear, shoes, bags, cosmetics, jewellery, fragrances and watches. This brand has around 310 boutiques spread all over the world. The most expensive Chanel product is ‘The Chanel Diamond Forever” classic bag with the price tag of $261,000 US Dollars.
Fendi, Brand Value: $ 3,6 billion
Fendi was launched in the year 1925 by Edoardo and Adele Fendi in Rome. In the nascent stages it was famous for its fine creations made out of Fur. Today its merchandise ranges from ready-to-wear, accessories, fur, eye wear, perfumes to bags. In 2001 it became a multinational fashion brand and also became a member of the French multinational luxury goods conglomerate. Fendi is known for its signature bags like the baguette, Peekaboo and 2jours.
Cartier, Brand Value $7,612 Million
The Richemont owned brand has had a long association with royalties. It is known for its exquisitely handcrafted watches and fine jewellery. Cartier was referred to as “the jewellers of the Kings and King of the Jewellers” by Edward VII of England. The company has almost 200 stores all over the world with its headquarter in Paris.
Coach, Brand Value $ 3,2 Billion
Founded under the name of Manhattan Leather bags, this brand has been here for decades and dates back to 1941. Their products include bags, leather goods, outerwear, ready-to-wear, foot wear, watches, scarves and perfumes. This brand has a very unique and distinctive American style which makes it stand apart from the rest of its counterparts. Coach bags range between $500 and $1000, however you need to shell out $20,000 for a “crocodile Tote.
Prada, Brand Value $6,540 Million
This Italian brand, Prada was launched in the year 1913 by Mario Prada. It is now lead by her grand daughter Miuccia Prada. This multi billion dollar luxury brand specialises in ready-to-wear, fashion accessories, shoes, bags and fragrances. It is known for its presence all over the world and hence its products are highly accessible. Their merchandise includes Shoes, clothing, accessories and hand bags.
Burberry, Brand Value $5,722 Million
Launched by a 21 year old dress maker Thomas Burberry in the year 1956, this British brand specialises in clothing, accessories, perfumes, sunglasses, shoes, bags and cosmetics. The signature monogrammed heritage scarves, trench coats, bucket bags, patch work suede-over-the- knee boots, espadrilles are few of the many magnificent creations of Burberry.