Once luxury was available only to the rarefied and aristocratic world of old money and royalty. It offered a history of tradition, superior quality, and a pampered buying experience. Today, however, luxury is simply a product packaged and sold by multibillion-dollar global corporations focused on growth, visibility, brand awareness, advertising, and, above all, profits. Award-winning journalist Dana Thomas digs deep into the dark side of the luxury industry to uncover all the secrets that Prada, Gucci, and Burberry don't ...
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Once luxury was available only to the rarefied and aristocratic world of old money and royalty. It offered a history of tradition, superior quality, and a pampered buying experience. Today, however, luxury is simply a product packaged and sold by multibillion-dollar global corporations focused on growth, visibility, brand awareness, advertising, and, above all, profits. Award-winning journalist Dana Thomas digs deep into the dark side of the luxury industry to uncover all the secrets that Prada, Gucci, and Burberry don't want us to know. Deluxe is an uncompromising look behind the glossy facade that will enthrall anyone interested in fashion, finance, or culture.
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I found this book to be a very revealing look at the corporate workings of the world's top luxury brands. After wending my way through the "dry" material of the corporate wheeling and dealing, I was able to enjoy the stories of how shops such as Gucci and Hermes came to achieve premier status. An inside look at the manufacture of luxury clothing, leather goods and perfume is quite detailed--and surprising! I will never look the same way at a Gucci bag again!
The author visits various workshops and explains the procedure to create a high-end bag or pair of shoes, in a readable and engaging way. Similarly, when she visits a luxury store in Brazil that was originally located in the owner's home, the reader feels transported to the scene--without having to spend all that money. A must-read for any fashionista or shopper with champagne taste.