Another year, another fashion season with new trends and collections, but more than a century old, some luxurious brands exist in the business even today. Not only do they exist, but they also rule. Gucci, Prada, Chanel, LV, and many more brands have been the most popular all over the globe. They have witnessed a change in fashion, lifestyle, economies, and trends; rather, generations. To their goodwill, the brands have stayed relevant and top-notch with quality products.
In 2023, the sale of luxury goods hit a whopping $400bn. Here is a list of the world’s oldest luxury brands 'ever since’:
The world of luxury, where Hermes will forever be iconic as one of the most elegant businesses in the world
The luxury fashion house from Paris, the world's fashion capital, is known for its high-quality craftsmanship. The founder, Thierry Hermes, started with a harness and bridles shop that served the European noblemen. With time, Hermes specialized in leather and silk goods, accessories and clothing, home furnishings, perfumery, jewelry, and watches. The company was the first to use zippers in leather goods and clothing in France. The scarves and neckties of the brand are very popular apart from its Birkin and Kelly bags[1].
Despite the decline, the company could revamp and grow itself[1]. Since the 1950s, the logo of Hermes has been a ducal horse-drawn carriage, which has become a symbol of prestige and status with time[6].
Check out what serves to be iconic by Hermes even today:
The silk scarf became an instant hit among women, including celebrities. Even today, Hermes sells a silk scarf every 20 seconds[2].
The Birkin bag is an accessory for which people can wait for years[3]!
Other most famous bags include: Hermes in-the-loop bag, Constance bag, Kelly bag, Lindy bag, Roulis bag, Evelyn bag, Steeple bag, and a lot more[3].
The other notable products by Hermes are the Hermes Apple watch, Hermes belt, Hermes bracelet, Hermes perfumes (the Classic Caleche and the latest Terre d’Hermes), and other leather goods[4] [5].
After 25 years, Patek Philippe launched the ‘Cubitus’ collection in 2024
The Swiss luxury watch brand and clock manufacturer from Geneva, Switzerland, is considered to be one of the premier in the world[7]. The company started by manufacturing pocket watches. It designs and manufactures movements, timepieces, as well as complex mechanical watches and their components[8]. The intricate craftsmanship and the exclusive collection of the watchmaker are simply unmatched. By July 2023, nine Patek Philippe watches were among the world’s ten most expensive watches ever sold at auctions[9].
Patek Philippe stands true to its 1996 campaign slogan, “You never actually own a Patek Philippe. You merely look after it for the next generation[10].”
A list of the most famous and desirable watches by Patek Philippe[11] [12]:
Patek Philippe Nautilus (5811/1G)
Patek Philippe Nautilus Travel time (5900/1A-001)
Patek Philippe Nautilus Self-winding Rose Gold (5712R-001)
Patek Philippe Aquanaut collection
Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Collection
Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon 6002G-001
The iconic collections by Cartier include Tank, Santos de Cartier, and Pasha de Cartier among all the luxury items.
The luxury brand from France, Cartier, designs, manufactures, sells, and distributes goods ranging from jewelry, watches, leather products, and eyeglasses to sunglasses[13] [14]. The vast operations of Cartier are spread over more than 200 stores in 125 countries. Paris, London, and New York have historical maisons (temples)[15]. Cartier is one of the most valuable and prestigious luxury brands in the world. It has issued warrants to craft designs for the highest royalty in the world. King Edward VII even referred to it as “the jeweler of kings and the king of jewelers.[16]”
The iconic jewelry designs of Cartier[17] [18] [19]:
The famous Trinity ring, which is a century old, debuted back in 1924 and leads the front in the fine jewelry collection (also the Maximalist Trinity bracelet)
The Cartier Panther (the great cat motif that appeared in 1914)
Nature Sauvage (2024 collection by Cartier)
The Cartier Tutti Frutti necklace
The Love and Juste un Clou bracelets
Santos de Cartier, the world’s first wristwatch collection
Followed by Tank collection, Ballon Bleu series, Pasha de Cartier, Baignoire (inspired by French bathtubs), Panthere de Cartier, and more.
LVMH has officially launched the global partnership with Formula 1 as the latter celebrates its 75th anniversary in 2025
The Louis Vuitton fashion house is a luxury brand started in France with the LV monogram showcased on the label’s products. LV sells its products via standalone boutiques, lease departments in high-end department stores, and its website’s e-commerce section[20]. It has an image of being a status symbol. LV has manufactured some of the most iconic bags in the world. The trunks of Louis Vuitton are handmade. For six years (2006-2012), LV was named the world’s most valuable luxury brand[21].
Today, it is the world’s leading valuable fashion brand offering a range of products like luxury bags, ready-to-wear clothing, sunglasses, shoes, perfumes, watches, jewelry, and other accessories[22]. Here’s the best of LV[23] [24]:
The classic exquisite trunks that reflect upon the brand’s heritage
The Epi leather collection of the 1980s, a sign of persistent fashion
A blend of shapes, fabrics, as well as a futuristic approach in designs, as visible in its Spring/ Summer 2021 collection
The Lockit collection of the 1950s with a padlock design
Louis Vuitton’s cruise collections
Les Parfumes Louis Vuitton
LV Archlight sneakers
Bags collection: Alma, Neverfull, Dauphine, and Pochette accessories
Italian luxury brand Bulgari celebrated 140 years of the brand in 2024, now a part of the giant LVMH
Bulgari is an Italian luxury house headquartered in Rome. It was started by a silversmith, Sotirios Voulgaris, as a jewelry vendor. Over time, it became a top luxury brand with stores all over the world[25]. In 2011, Bulgari was acquired by LVMH for $5.2 billion, so basically, it is now owned by Louis Vuitton[26].
It is known for its watches, jewelry, perfumes, leather goods, and other accessories[25].
It has also entered the hospitality chain with Bulgari hotels and resorts[27].
Sometimes, Bulgari partners with other entities to design and manufacture its products (Tata CLiQ, Thelios, Ducati, among others).
Bvlgari’s Serpenti collection, for its jewelry designs and watches, is embodied with a snake in various separate elements.
The Bvlgari tubogas (Flexible band inspired by gas carrier pipes in use since the 1920s, which became a trademark of the brand in the 1970s).
Bvlgari Limited edition watches: BULGARI ROMA model (1975), Bvlgari cities special edition (2020), Bvlgari Diagono Special Edition, Ethos watches, among others.
FIORE- The flower sign brooch is intricate with sparkling diamonds, still serving as a timeless collection.
Monete- Antique premier coin collection in Bvlgari jewels.
Parentesi- Modular jewelry designed for modern women.
The Lanvin fall collection 2025-26 in Paris (Image source: AP news)
It was founded by Jeanne Lanvin in France. Currently, it is a subsidiary of the Shanghai-based Lanvin group (2018). Lanvin was started as a millinery shop, then as a children's clothing line, and finally switched over to women’s clothing. Today, it is the oldest continually operating couture house in the world[29]. Since 2021, Lanvin has been managed by an Indian CEO, Siddhartha Shukla.
The logo of Lanvin is inspired by a picture of Jeanne and her daughter wearing matching outfits at a costume ball in 1927[29].
It manufactures perfumes, men’s, women’s, and children’s clothing, footwear, bags, and lingerie too.
The designs by Lanvin emphasize femininity, elegance, detailing, intricate craftsmanship, along with a bold and innovative use of color. In Jeanne Lanvin’s own words, “I don’t create dresses, I create dreams.[30] [31]"
Iconic elements[32]: Lanivin Blue (inspired by Fra Angelico, a Renaissance painter’s works) and Grosgrain ribbon Lanvin fragrance: My sin (USA), Arpege, Eau mixte, L’eau de Lanvin Robe de style
The platinum and diamond collaret designed by Van Cleef & Arpels for the Queen of Egypt celebrates the rich history of the luxury jewelry brand (Image source: From the collection posted by The New York Times)
The luxury jewelry company was founded by a Dutch diamond cutter, Alfred Van Cleef, and his father-in-law, Salomon Arpels, in Paris. The company designs and manufactures jewelry, watches, and perfumes. The designs often feature flowers, fairies, and animals[33]. It was even tasked to make the crowns of the queen of Egypt and the Empress of Iran[34]. By 2022, Van Cleef & Arpels had 155 stores across multiple locations of the world where it sells products through standalone boutiques, boutiques in department stores, and even as independent stores.
The most popular & inspiring collection by Van Cleef & Arpels[33][35]:
Alhambra collection (four-leaf clover design, also including malachite, onyx, lapis, and tiger’s eye versions)
Frivole (Jewelry collection with floral designs and motifs)
Perlee (All designs having pearled edge or beaded borders, be it necklaces, rings, bracelets, or watches)
Lucky Spring (Dedicated to the spring season)
La Boutique animal clip collection (1950s)
Zip necklace (that was worn both as a bracelet and necklace)
Rose de Noel collection
Les Voyages Extraordinaires High Jewelry collection (inspired by the famous works of Jules Verne)
Bals de Legende and Palais de la chance
British Indian executive Leena Nair is the current CEO of Chanel, holding the position since 2022
It was founded by Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel in Paris[37]. The holding company Chanel Limited was established in 2018 and is currently headquartered in London. Chanel is privately owned by French brothers Alan and Gerard Wertheimer[38]. For eyewear, Chanel has licensed its name and branding to Luxottica[36]. It has the logo of two interlocking Cs.
The luxury fashion house specializes in women’s ready-to-wear fashion, jewelry, beauty, accessories, and other luxury goods[39].
Chanel’s unforgettable pieces for the fashion world[40]:
It is widely known for the No. 5 perfume (the best-selling perfume of all time, blended with both natural and synthetic ingredients) and the Chanel suit (with the use of tweed fabrics).
Chanel brought back functional garments for women in trend.
The classic flap or open-lid bag is both trendy and hassle-free. It was upgraded to a Reissue 2.55 bag with a rectangular twisted lock and chain.
Slingback shoes that are two-toned, giving the feet a shortened and slimming look, are supported by a heel below.
The iconic Chanel ballet shoes with their logo on the lid. Chanel’s pearl necklace led to the trend of combining fine jewelry with clothing.
The pearl-studded ‘Double C’ earrings showcase the brand’s emblem.
The J12 watch, updated with a new dial, crown, as well as digits.
Strappy wallet and boy bag.
In a recent shift in events, it has been speculated that Prada might acquire Versace, further strengthening its position in luxury fashion.
The Italian luxury brand was founded by Mario Prada and his brother in Milan. Mario’s granddaughter, Miuccia, took over the company in 1978, taking it to new heights. It started by selling imported animal goods[42]. The originality in designs makes Prada a luxury fashion brand. Prada has a fully owned subsidiary, Miu Miu. It has partnered with LVMH to acquire a joint stake in Fendi[41]. The resurgence in the popularity of Prada came in the 2020s.
Started as a leather goods shop, today its products range from ready-to-wear, leather handbags, travel accessories, shoes, and other fashion items.
Prada has licensed its name and branding to L’Oréal for cosmetics and fragrances and to Luxottica for eyewear[43] [44].
A list of the most iconic and famous collections of Prada that will never go out of style[45] [46]:
Galleria bag (A staple in Prada’s collection and its true classic)
Re-edition 2000 Nylon bag (a mini nylon bag showcasing sustainability)
Others, including the Saffiano wallet, Cahier bag, Cleo bag, and triangle logo open tote bag. Even the bucket bags that will never go out of style.
Prada’s leather loafers, crystal embellished loafers, kitten heel, and crystal embellished mules (Comfortable, stylish, and versatile)
Bolo tie (traditional and modern, a unique piece designed with luxury materials)
Prada’s padded nylon jacket, Double-breasted herringbone coat, silk and wool belted pencil skirt, among others.
Spanish luxury brand Balenciaga is owned by French multinational holding Kering (Image source: ABC News)
The Spanish luxury fashion house was founded by Spanish Couturier Cristóbal Balenciaga and is headquartered in Paris. The first boutique was opened in San Sebastian and expanded to Madrid and Barcelona[47]. Balenciaga designs and manufactures ready-to-wear, footwear, handbags, and other accessories. It licenses its name and branding to Coty for the perfumery. Balenciaga is one of the luxury brands owned by the French multinational holding company Kering[48]. Kim Kardashian is the current brand ambassador of the brand[49].
Best pieces from the collections of Balenciaga[50] [51] :
The City Bag of 2001 (the most celebrated and recognized accessory by Balenciaga)
The satirical, notorious fashion pieces that are a lot ironic
Le Cagole bag (studded and slouchy, inspired by the brand’s motorcycle bags back in the 2000s)
Chunky sandals (oversized, comfy, chic, and eye-catching)
Hourglass handbag (A modern classic made from classic leather that’s elegant as well as edgy)
Other iconic dresses include: Green Mohair dress (1959), Woollen suit (1965), Lilac suit (1966), Evening gowns designed in 1955 and 1940, Ball gown of 1955, Balloon dress with pink ribbons (1958), and more.
The 10,000 pearl-embedded wedding dress of a Spanish aristocrat and socialite, which was the final design by Cristobal Balenciaga in 1972.
Balenciaga’s knife boots and track sneakers
Gucci is also operated under parent company Kering Limited, betting now on its new Artistic Director, Demna, is trying to revive the flagship all over again (Image source: GUCCI careers)
The luxury fashion house Gucci was founded by Guccio Gucci and is based in the merchant city of Florence, Italy[52]. Spread across 528 locations around the world, Gucci designs and manufactures ready-to-wear, handbags, footwear, accessories, and even home décor[53] [54]. It has licensed its name and branding to Coty for perfumes and cosmetics under the name of Gucci Beauty[55]. After the family crisis that followed in the 1980s, the brand was revived, and in 1999, Gucci became a subsidiary of Kering[56] [57].
Check out the iconic and timeless creations of Gucci here[58] [59] [60]:
The bags: GUCCI Canvas suitcase, GUCCI bamboo, The Jackie (Unisex hobo bag), The Dionysus, and the GG Marmont handbag (clutches, shoulder bags, belts), among many.
Gucci’s ready-to-wear line includes suits, dresses, and pants.
The GG wool Jacquard scarf
GUCCI horsebit loafers, which serve to be the most recognized and loved shoe design of the brand
Rhyton sneakers (the chunky oversized sneakers hopping onto the trend with their distinctive design and style) and the Ace sneakers (Luxury in casual footwear).
The ever-famous Gucci belt with a double G that sparks luxury
Most of the luxury brands have their origins in France and Italy. And why not? These have been the fashion spots for a long time. As we can witness changes in trends every year, with every season, these luxury brands have always been in vogue…leading from the front.
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