The luxury industry’s many contradictions
Exclusivity is not just a matter of selling some items that almost no one can afford
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High-end brands have ignored the aspirational shopper. No wonder they’re in trouble
The tragedy of specialisation
A lack of intrepid amateurs might explain stagnant societies
The luxuries I can’t give up (even as prices rise)
I know it’s ridiculous to pay £32 for shower gel, but not all luxuries are frivolous
The glory of low expectations
They are the key to happiness — and not a matter of choice
One Hyde Park repels as much as it attracts. It’s all part of the service
Behind the marble, privacy and distance from the outside world are sold as luxury amenities
Why the world fell out of love with luxury
High-end retail is caught in an identity crisis. Can slighted shoppers be persuaded to start spending again?