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Vogue
7 hours ago
- Health
- Vogue
Ritz Club & Spa
Welcome to the second iteration of Vogue's global spa guide, an index of the 100 best spas in the world, built from the expertise of our global editors and trusted contributors. There is a lot to choose from in the world of wellness, and no matter how far you're planning to travel—from a subway ride to a transatlantic flight—we want to make sure it's worth the journey. Whatever your path, let us be your guide. Why go here? The Ritz Paris needs little introduction: It's one of the most iconic hotels in the world, with everyone from Coco Chanel to Marcel Proust to Kim Kardashian having walked through the famous revolving doors on the Place Vendôme and spent the night in one of its silk-canopied beds. (Unsurprisingly, perhaps, the Ritz has also served as the backdrop for multiple Vogue shoots over the decades.) But the Ritz Club & Spa is its hidden secret: Tucked away on the rear side of the building, it's a subterranean wellness oasis that blends the hotel's, well, ritzy interior design with the latest in wellness and fitness. Photo: Jerome Galland / Courtesy of Sommerro Vestkantbadet What's the vibe? If you're arriving for the day, the Ritz Club & Spa has a dedicated entrance on Rue Cambon, where you'll descend a staircase to be greeted by a throng of staff standing in tweed jackets behind a glossy white spaceship of a reception desk. But if you're staying as a guest, you get the real luxury of padding down in the robes and slippers through a (somewhat labyrinthine) network of underground corridors. After a quick pit stop in the changing rooms, you'll step out into the spa's dramatic crown jewel: the expansive central pool area, with its sweeping double staircase, murals of Italianate gardens on the walls, and a ceiling frescoed with a heavenly blue sky gently streaked by clouds. The treatment rooms are things of beauty too: oversized watercolor-style flowers adorn the walls, while floral light fixtures on the ceilings fade to a soothing twinkle as your treatment begins. Once you're happily ensconced in your cabin, you'd never guess you were in the beating heart of one of the world's most hectic cities. Photo: Jerome Galland / Courtesy of Sommerro Vestkantbadet The history? There are few hotels with quite as illustrious a history as the Ritz Paris: Established in 1898 by the legendary hotelier César Ritz, it was the first hotel in the world to feature electricity on every floor and private bathrooms in every room. Things have come along since then, of course: The Ritz Club & Spa opened in the 1980s and was equally game-changing in the kinds of treatments it offered, bringing collagen-infused products and other cutting-edge techniques to Paris—and quickly becoming a favorite of the city's glitterati. (If my visit was anything to go by, the clientele here still has plenty of glitter.) What should you try? The Ritz is one of the very few Paris hotels to work with Biologique Recherche, the French beauty brand notorious for their strict requirements around collaborations—clearly, the team here is one they trust. (And now, the many fashion editors who make their seasonal pilgrimage to Biologique's palatial 'ambassade' on the Champs-Élysées for a facial need travel no further than the 1st arrondissement.) On my visit earlier this year, I went for the 90-minute 'ultimate hydration' facial—just the ticket after a long-haul flight—and was ushered into one of those gorgeously decorated cabins. Beginning with a classic cleanse and tone, I was then treated to a customized mask that had been adjusted to match my skin type with the specific goal of helping to drench and plump my parched visage. Emerging back into the relaxation area with a cup of freshly brewed herbal tea and catching a glimpse in one of the gilded mirrors, I was astonished to discover that my jet lag-induced eye bags had disappeared. Call it magic, or call it Biologique. Photo: Jerome Galland / Courtesy of Sommerro Vestkantbadet What else do we need to know? This being Paris—and the fact that many guests are likely in town for a red carpet event of some sort—the spa comes equipped with a truly opulent hairdressers and nail bar, the latter in collaboration with the Parisian polish brand Kure Bazaar, who created a unique shade of 'Ritzy' red especially for the hotel. And if you're a gym fanatic, the mirrored fitness studio is unusually expansive for a central Paris hotel, offering cutting-edge Matrix Fitness machines and over 40 classes a week. (Including dance sessions, should you be feeling particularly inspired by a visit to the ballet at the Opéra Garnier during your Parisian sojourn.) Who can go? Hotel guests can use the amenities free of charge without booking. Day access is also granted to those booking treatments over a certain price threshold, and locals can join the Ritz Club & Spa for the facilities and classes for a monthly fee. Photo: Jerome Galland / Courtesy of Sommerro Vestkantbadet Booking details for Ritz Club & Spa Address: 17 Pl. Vendôme, 75001 Paris, France Read more from Vogue's Global Spa Guide.
Time Magazine
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time Magazine
The Most Influential Fashion Designers in History According to AI
This article is published by a partner of TIME. Fashion has long served as a mirror to society, capturing cultural sentiments and inspiring self-expression. From the glamorous allure of haute couture to the utilitarian appeal of ready-to-wear clothing, designers around the world have shaped not only what we wear but how we view ourselves. Through careful craftsmanship, innovative silhouettes, and a deep understanding of material possibilities, these individuals have surpassed the boundaries of commerce to become cultural icons. The designers featured in this article each cultivated a distinctive aesthetic while addressing the evolving needs and desires of their times. Their work encompasses both artistry and pragmatism, revealing an intimate awareness of how clothing intersects with identity. These pioneers challenged established norms, advocated for new standards of beauty, and sometimes even used fashion as a medium for social commentary. Using research assistance from ChatGPT, we celebrate ten of the most illustrious figures in the fashion world (plus more because we couldn't stop at just 10). We take note of their unique visions that continue to influence modern wardrobes. By examining their signature approaches, we gain a richer appreciation for the creative sparks that keep fashion dynamic and alive. Famous Clothing Designers 1. Coco Chanel (August 1883 – January 1971) Born in Saumur, France, Coco Chanel redefined women's fashion by promoting simplicity, comfort, and understated elegance. In an era when corsets and rigid forms prevailed, Chanel introduced clothing that encouraged freedom of movement without compromising on style. Her fearless approach to transforming utilitarian materials into chic ensembles laid the foundation for many contemporary designs. It is also widely documented that Chanel had ties to Nazi intelligence through her relationship with a German officer, leading to allegations of collaboration during World War II. This remains a controversial chapter in her legacy, prompting debate over how her political affiliations should be weighed against her fashion innovations. Little Black Dress: Debuted the iconic 'little black dress,' repurposing a color traditionally reserved for mourning into a fixture of timeless refinement. Jersey Fabric: Elevated jersey from an undervalued textile to a go-to option for classy yet comfortable apparel. Menswear Influence: Adopted masculine cuts and details, enabling women to feel both liberated and fashion-forward. Chanel Suit: Created the famed Chanel suit, celebrated for its boxy jacket and sleek skirt, epitomizing modern sophistication. Empowerment: Fostered a new wave of female confidence by challenging outdated conventions in women's style. 2. Christian Dior (January 1905 – October 1957) Christian Dior, born in Granville, France, is best remembered for resurrecting extravagant fashion after the austerity of World War II. His designs, unveiled under the label 'New Look,' brought voluminous silhouettes and luxurious fabrics back into focus. By reintroducing femininity and opulence, Dior restored Paris's reputation as the global epicenter of haute couture. The New Look: Presented voluminous skirts and nipped-in waists, a radical shift from wartime restrictions to a more romantic, celebratory style. Luxurious Textiles: Emphasized craftsmanship and lavish materials, underscoring the refined air of Parisian couture. Mentorship: Guided budding talents, including Yves Saint Laurent, molding the future landscape of high fashion. Brand Expansion: Broadened his label to incorporate perfumes, accessories, and ready-to-wear, forging a modern luxury empire. Modern Classicism: Fused tradition with innovation, ensuring that Dior's garments retained appeal well beyond the designer's lifetime. 3. Yves Saint Laurent (August 1936 – June 2008) Yves Saint Laurent was born in Oran, Algeria, and quickly found his path in fashion under the tutelage of Christian Dior. Over time, Saint Laurent branched out to start his own label, championing ready-to-wear lines that democratized high-end style. His curious eye ventured beyond the confines of French couture, drawing on global cultures, art movements, and the energy of street fashion to forge enduring collections that resonate to this day. Le Smoking: Popularized women's tuxedos, proving that traditionally masculine attire could become a fierce, elegant option for eveningwear. Global Influences: Incorporated ideas from African, Asian, and other cultures, breathing fresh life into his Paris-based atelier. Street Style: Showcased looks inspired by youth culture, thereby connecting the worlds of haute couture and daily wear. Artistic Integration: Took cues from modern art movements such as pop art and abstract expressionism, reflecting a spirit of limitless creativity. Ready-to-Wear Innovations: Helped solidify the viability of designer prêt-à-porter, bridging high fashion and commercial accessibility. 4. Giorgio Armani (July 1934 – Present) Giorgio Armani was born in Piacenza, Italy, and entered the fashion scene in the 1970s, bringing a distinctly understated approach to tailoring. By favoring unstructured designs and high-quality fabrics, he offered both men and women the chance to appear polished yet relaxed. This subdued yet refined style quickly caught on in Hollywood, the corporate realm, and beyond. Unstructured Tailoring: Softened the rigid forms of traditional suiting, offering a fit that improved comfort without sacrificing poise. Film Influence: Gained global acclaim by dressing film stars, including designing the sleek wardrobe for Richard Gere in 'American Gigolo.' The Power Suit: Made bold statements in boardrooms worldwide with suits that exuded subtle confidence. Global Brand: Grew into a multifaceted label encompassing high-end couture, more casual lines, fragrances, and home furnishings. Timeless Aesthetic: Focused on classic silhouettes and neutral palettes, ensuring his collections remain relevant and classic over time. 5. Ralph Lauren (October 1939 – Present) Ralph Lauren, nee Ralph Lifshitz, was born in The Bronx, New York, and initially rose to prominence through designing distinctive wide ties. Over the decades, he built an aspirational vision of American style, weaving together sportswear, collegiate motifs, and the romance of the Western frontier. His brand embodies a lifestyle that resonates with a global audience captivated by images of polo fields, leafy college quads, and rugged landscapes. Polo Brand: Launched the Polo Ralph Lauren line, which expanded to define an entire lifestyle concept. Lifestyle Vision: Integrated home décor, accessories, and fragrances, linking everyday living with quintessentially American chic. Preppy Tradition: Celebrated the crisp lines of collegiate wear, typified by polo shirts, chinos, and the iconic pony logo. Western and Sporty Notes: Merged equestrian and outdoor influences, appealing to diverse tastes within American culture. Iconic Imagery: Utilized evocative marketing that taps into the allure of classic Americana and rugged refinement. 6. Calvin Klein (November 1942 – Present) Another native of The Bronx, New York, Calvin Klein embraced minimalism and sleek tailoring as the cornerstones of his brand. Emerging in the 1960s, he gained rapid attention for his clean lines and pared-down aesthetic. The brand's provocative advertising—especially for jeans and underwear—captured public imagination, making 'Calvins' a must-have for those seeking both subtlety and a touch of sensuality. Minimalist Designs: Prioritized slender silhouettes and understated elegance, signaling a break from lavish trends. Controversial Campaigns: Used striking imagery and notable celebrities to establish a bold, recognizable brand identity. Designer Denim: Propelled jeans into the realm of luxury, setting off a worldwide 'designer denim' revolution. Fragrance Success: Extended into perfumery with hits like 'Obsession' and 'CK One,' further solidifying global brand recognition. Enduring Influence: Set the stage for contemporary minimalistic designers, who continue to cite Klein's approach as a key influence. 7. Donatella Versace (May 1955 – Present) Born in Reggio Calabria, Italy, Donatella Versace took the reins of the Versace brand after the tragic passing of her brother Gianni Versace in 1997. She deftly maintained the vibrant, bold essence the house is known for, while introducing new collaborations and modern twists. Versace's signature blend of bright prints, fearless cuts, and unapologetic opulence endures in Donatella's hands, ensuring the house remains synonymous with high fashion excitement. Rock 'n' Roll Influence: Preserved Gianni Versace's love for rock-inspired elements, forging couture with a rebellious edge. Celebrity Partnerships: Continues to dress major names across music, film, and sports, keeping the brand a red-carpet staple. Bold Silhouettes: Highlights the female form with dramatic outlines and embellishments, reflecting confidence and attitude. Runway Extravagance: Presents shows that spark discussions worldwide, fusing glitz with an avant-garde flourish. Brand Evolution: Balances Versace's trademark style with current trends, ensuring the house remains at the forefront of fashion. 8. Alexander McQueen (March 1969 – 11 February 2010) Alexander McQueen was born in Lewisham, London, and emerged from the prestigious world of Savile Row tailoring to shake up the industry with theatrical, boundary-pushing creations. Often referred to as the 'enfant terrible' of British fashion, McQueen blended meticulous craftsmanship with gothic romance and raw emotion. He spent time working at Givenchy (1996-2001). Despite his untimely passing, the brand he founded remains a pillar of high-concept design. Savile Row Tailoring: Learned the art of precision fitting and immaculate cuts, which served as the backbone for his dramatic visions. Theatrical Runways: Staged immersive shows that melded performance art with fashion, establishing him as a provocateur. Dramatic Themes: Embraced stark, sometimes macabre motifs—think skull prints and Victorian-inspired shapes—to challenge aesthetic norms. Craftsmanship and Innovation: Married traditional techniques with modern experimentation in fabrics and construction. Legacy: Left behind a label that continues to incorporate daring elements while honoring McQueen's meticulous skill. 9. Tommy Hilfiger (March 1951 – Present) Tommy Hilfiger was born in Elmira, New York, and set out to deliver an all-American style with youthful appeal. In making his mark in the 1990s, he blended classic preppy themes with a contemporary edge, earning fans from suburban teens to hip-hop artists. By featuring oversized logos and signature color blocks, Hilfiger turned his name into an instantly recognizable emblem of casual cool. All-American Vibe: Infused varsity and collegiate themes, pairing them with bright, color-blocked basics. Music Collaborations: Partnered with influential musicians from the hip-hop scene, aligning the brand with pop culture milestones. Inclusive Approach: Embraced multiple lines for men, women, and children, promoting a wide-reaching vision of aspirational style. Signature Color Palette: Stayed loyal to red, white, and blue, amplifying the brand's distinctly American identity. Retail Innovation: Adopted inventive strategies, including real-time runway shopping, to keep up with ever-evolving consumer demands. 10. Stella McCartney (September 1971 – Present) Stella McCartney, born in London, England, has been a steadfast advocate for ethical and sustainable fashion. Raised in a famously creative family, she harnessed her own design talents to highlight the possibilities of cruelty-free materials. McCartney's collections reinforce the notion that luxury apparel can be both forward-thinking and responsible toward animals and the environment. Cruelty-Free Ethos: Eliminated the use of leather, fur, and other animal-based materials, forging a new standard for high-end design. Innovative Fabrics: Invests in the development of vegetarian leather and other eco-conscious fabrics, reducing environmental harm. Balanced Aesthetic: Combines streamlined tailoring with feminine details, resulting in garments that are contemporary yet timeless. Collaborations and Activism: Teams up with global brands to champion eco-friendly practices, using her platform as a force for change. Industry Recognition: Garnered numerous accolades for promoting sustainable methods, influencing the industry's evolving priorities. More Great Designers: Miuccia Prada: Renowned for elevating her family's leather goods business into a global empire, she pioneered the idea of intellectual yet effortlessly chic fashion. Oscar de la Renta: A Dominican-American couturier celebrated for his elegant, refined gowns, dressing numerous First Ladies and international celebrities throughout his career. Marc Jacobs: Known for blending high fashion with a touch of grunge or whimsy, he ushered in a new, rule-breaking spirit as the creative force behind both Louis Vuitton and his own lines. Jean Paul Gaultier: Consistently explored cultural and social boundaries through provocative designs, including the iconic cone bra. Vera Wang: Revered for her modern, luxurious bridal gowns, she merged traditional craftsmanship with contemporary flair to redefine wedding attire. The Top Clothing Designers of the World The designers showcased here come from diverse backgrounds and eras, but all share a profound dedication to craftsmanship, originality, and the art of storytelling through garments. Their achievements mirror shifting cultural values—from the early embrace of comfort by Coco Chanel to Stella McCartney's commitment to responsible production. By melding innovative visions with technical skill, each designer has left an indelible mark on how we understand and engage with fashion. Their combined influence underscores that clothing can move far beyond practicality to become a powerful reflection of society's hopes, narratives, and transformations. Whether exploring fresh tailoring methods, energizing the runway with avant-garde theatrics, or challenging ethical norms in manufacturing, these legendary figures compel us to think differently about the clothes we wear. Their stories continue to shape fashion's present and future, ensuring that creativity and purpose remain guiding lights in an ever-changing industry. More Great Articles: About the Authors: Richard D. Harroch is a Senior Advisor to CEOs, management teams, and Boards of Directors. He is an expert on M&A, venture capital, startups, and business contracts. He was the Managing Director and Global Head of M&A at VantagePoint Capital Partners, a venture capital fund in the San Francisco area. His focus is on internet, digital media, AI and technology companies. He was the founder of several Internet companies. His articles have appeared online in Forbes, Fortune, MSN, Yahoo, Fox Business and Richard is the author of several books on startups and entrepreneurship as well as the co-author of Poker for Dummies and a Wall Street Journal-bestselling book on small business. He is the co-author of a 1,500-page book published by Bloomberg on mergers and acquisitions of privately held companies. He was also a corporate and M&A partner at the international law firm of Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe. He has been involved in over 200 M&A transactions and 250 startup financings. He can be reached through LinkedIn. Dominique Harroch is the Chief of Staff at She has acted as a Chief of Staff or Operations Leader for multiple companies where she leveraged her extensive experience in operations management, strategic planning, and team leadership to drive organizational success. With a background that spans over two decades in operations leadership, event planning at her own start-up and marketing at various financial and retail companies. Dominique is known for her ability to optimize processes, manage complex projects and lead high-performing teams. She holds a BA in English and Psychology from U.C. Berkeley and an MBA from the University of San Francisco. She can be reached via LinkedIn.
Indian Express
25-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Indian Express
Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge review: It's time up for a change
Over the weekend, I watched a documentary on Coco Chanel, and one of the most interesting aspects of her life was her return to the runway in the mid-1950s. At the age of 71—when most people either retire or give up—Chanel made a remarkable comeback. Despite initial skepticism, her return collection reintroduced the now-iconic tweed suit and restored her to the top ranks of haute couture. I felt something similar when I used Samsung's Galaxy S25 Edge—a familiar phone that feels progressive, bold, and trailblazing at the same time. The Galaxy S25 Edge is more than just a thin and lightweight phone; it reflects how smartphones may evolve in the future, becoming its own brand ambassador—just as Coco Chanel was to her creations. Here's my review of the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge. What: Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge | Price: Rs 1,09,999 onwards At just 5.8mm thick, the Galaxy S25 Edge is hyped as the thinnest Samsung smartphone ever I have tried to set the marketing hype aside and focus on my actual experience. Beyond its ultra-thin design, what really caught my attention about the Galaxy S25 Edge is how it feels almost weightless in my pocket—especially during my brisk morning walks. I am someone who keeps their phone in their pocket and spends a good hour and a half in the park, listening to my favourite music. I also have a habit of holding my phone in my hand. Everyone's hands are different, of course, but the Galaxy S25 Edge is designed in such a way that it's surprisingly comfortable and easy to hold. Frankly, after a week of using the Galaxy S25 Edge, its thinness faded into the background—but what stayed with me was its lightweight feel. Whether I am reading eBooks at night, holding the phone while watching videos on the Delhi Metro, writing a copy on the go before a deadline, or taking pictures, that lightness really makes a difference. It has a noticeable impact on everyday use—and as a heavy phone user, I feel the benefits of that lightness even more than the average user. Of course, this is a personal experience, and how I use my phone may differ from others. For me, though, the Galaxy S25 Edge represents a dramatic design shift. It's not just the slim design that stands out, but the overall form factor—something that slowly grows on you over time. The Galaxy S25 Edge has a great look and is reminiscent of the recently released Galaxy S smartphones, featuring slimmer bezels. The phone has a nice matte finish that makes it feel secure in my hand—although, admittedly, it has accidentally slipped off the sofa a few times. But the phone's titanium frame adds durability, and the Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 back, combined with the Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2 display, gives the Galaxy S25 Edge a rugged feel. Like most people, I usually carry the phone in the front pocket of my jeans—and sometimes in the back pocket—since I often have one or two phones on me at all times (tech reviewers, please raise your hands). I didn't notice any bending, even when applying pressure, nor did I see any flexing while it was in my pocket. I was initially worried that a phone this slim might bend, but thankfully, it's holding up just fine so far. The 6.7-inch screen is bright, sharp, smooth, and vibrant—putting it on par with some of the best displays out there. However, it lacks the anti-reflective coating found on Samsung's highest-end smartphones, which would help minimise glare. The Galaxy S25 Edge is well-built, featuring IP68 water resistance for protection against immersion, comparable to most competitors. It also boasts excellent speakers, which enhance the overall experience when watching video content. The Galaxy S25 Edge (12GB RAM, 256GB/512GB storage) features the same Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chip found in most high-end Android smartphones. I have experienced similar performance on the Galaxy S25 Edge as on other devices with the same chipset. However, if you are coming from an older Galaxy S smartphone—say, one launched between 2020 and 2021—you'll notice a performance improvement, though not a dramatic one compared to the last two generations. That said, the Galaxy S25 Edge feels noticeably faster in day-to-day use. Games like Alto's Odyssey and The Bonfire run smoothly and responsively. Even the ultrasonic fingerprint scanner embedded in the screen is impressively quick at unlocking the phone. All of the Galaxy AI features are present on the Galaxy S25 Edge—tools like Audio Eraser, Circle to Search, and Generative Edit for photos. Gemini Live, the next generation of Google's Gemini assistant, also comes pre-installed. It's capable of performing multiple tasks at once using apps on your phone and data from the web. For example, it can pull times and dates from websites to set reminders for you or share that information with your friends. New to the Galaxy AI experience is the 'Now' bar at the bottom of the lock screen, which displays a stack of widgets such as live sports scores, currently playing music, timers, flight reminders, and more. It's very similar to Apple's Dynamic Island on the iPhone—and I find it quite useful. The user interface has been refreshed as part of the One UI 7 software experience, the latest version of Samsung's operating system. It's pretty slick, I must say. There are plenty of customisation options, and I always appreciate a UI that can be personalised. Samsung will support the S25 Edge with software and security updates for seven years from its release. Samsung ships the Galaxy S25 Edge with a smaller 3,900mAh battery—the smallest capacity across the S25 lineup. For comparison, the standard S25 has a 4,000mAh battery, the S25 Plus packs a 4,900mAh battery, and the S25 Ultra comes with a 5,000mAh battery. Pleasingly, the Galaxy S25 Edge's battery life lasts all day. On average, my day starts at 8 am. and winds down around 9 pm. And it's worth noting—I am a heavy phone user and have had the Always-On Display enabled since day one. That said, I must be clear: the Galaxy S25 Edge's battery life likely won't extend beyond a single day, meaning daily charging is necessary. If I compare the battery life of the Galaxy S25 Edge to the Galaxy S25 Ultra, the Ultra wins hands down. But then again, the Galaxy S25 Edge is also the slimmest mainstream smartphone on the market. Whenever I look at the Galaxy S25 Edge, I always wonder how Samsung managed to cram camera lenses into it—it's ridiculously thin. Although the Galaxy S25 Edge features the same 200-megapixel main camera as the Ultra, it's limited to just two rear lenses: a 200-megapixel main sensor and a 12-megapixel ultrawide camera. It lacks a dedicated telephoto lens. As someone who frequently uses telephoto cameras, I was disappointed to see its absence on a phone that costs around a lakh. That said, it's also true that not everyone wants or regularly uses a telephoto lens on a smartphone. At least, based on feedback from a few of my friends, it doesn't seem to be a major concern for most users. Even without the telephoto lens, the Galaxy S25 Edge's cameras are solid. The 200-megapixel main camera captures sharp, vibrant images that aren't overly saturated. Samsung has a tendency to overbrighten and over-sharpen photos, but this time, the images I took looked much more natural. The phone also does a great job with colour accuracy and handles low-light conditions impressively well. Portrait shots also came out well. Overall, average users will likely be impressed with the camera performance. The Galaxy S25 Edge is one of those smartphones that feels experimental while still aiming for mainstream appeal. It's rare for Samsung—at least in recent times—to release a device that could either be a commercial success or struggle to win over the masses. I don't know how the Galaxy S25 Edge will be received when it hits retail shelves, but I do know this: the device is trying to create a new smartphone tier—thin and lightweight—which is a bold move. Nobody was exactly asking for an ultra-slim smartphone (certainly not me), but everything now depends on whether consumers actually want a phone like this. It's hard to predict, but I do feel the Galaxy S25 Edge isn't a predictable smartphone—there's an X factor to it. You have to judge a product for what it is. The Galaxy S25 Edge is a spectacularly impressive piece of hardware and software, but its fate ultimately depends on how well the idea of a thin, ultra-lightweight smartphone resonates with consumers.
Fashion Network
22-05-2025
- Business
- Fashion Network
Chanel spent €118 million on Paris building near flagship store
Chanel Ltd. splurged on a property near its main boutique in Paris last year as luxury brands seek to secure prime locations for their stores. See catwalk The building, located at 23 rue Cambon — close to Chanel's flagship boutique at No. 31 — was purchased for €118 million ($133 million) in September, according to a property database. The acquisition 'was part of the record level of investment made during the year, including in real estate,' a Chanel representative said. The luxury label known for its tweed suits and No. 5 fragrance has had a presence on the street since 1910, when founder Coco Chanel opened a hat shop. Rue Cambon is located near the Tuileries Garden and the Place de la Concorde, where the exclusive Crillon hotel sits, making it a top tourist destination. The Elysee Palace, the official residence of the French president, is also situated nearby. Owning a store can protect a retailer from ever-increasing rents and make it easier to justify the significant expense of turning boutiques into destinations where well-heeled customers want to spend hours shopping. Luxury players, notably LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE, have invested heavily to transform stores into art and food destinations. Chanel also announced last year that it bought a building on Paris's upscale avenue Montaigne, without disclosing the price. Earlier this week, Chief Financial Officer Philippe Blondiaux said the company spent around $600 million buying property last year.
Business of Fashion
22-05-2025
- Business
- Business of Fashion
Chanel Spent $133 Million on Paris Building Near Flagship Store
Chanel Ltd. splurged on a property near its main boutique in Paris last year as luxury brands seek to secure prime locations for their stores. The building, located at 23 rue Cambon — close to Chanel's flagship boutique at No. 31 — was purchased for €118 million ($133 million) in September, according to a property database. The acquisition 'was part of the record level of investment made during the year, including in real estate,' a Chanel representative said. The luxury label known for its tweed suits and No. 5 fragrance has had a presence on the street since 1910, when founder Coco Chanel opened a hat shop. Rue Cambon is located near the Tuileries Garden and the Place de la Concorde, where the exclusive Crillon hotel sits, making it a top tourist destination. The Elysee Palace, the official residence of the French president, is also situated nearby. Owning a store can protect a retailer from ever-increasing rents and make it easier to justify the significant expense of turning boutiques into destinations where well-heeled customers want to spend hours shopping. Luxury players, notably LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE, have invested heavily to transform stores into art and food destinations. Chanel also announced last year that it bought a building on Paris's upscale avenue Montaigne, without disclosing the price. Earlier this week, chief financial officer Philippe Blondiaux said the company spent around $600 million buying property last year. By Angelina Rascouet Learn more: Chanel Pulls Back on Price Hikes as Sales Fall 4% The French couture and beauty giant is easing off punchy price increases and investing in new markets including India, Mexico and Canada. CEO Leena Nair and CFO Philippe Blondiaux said the luxury market remains 'challenging' as Chanel prepares to revamp its fashion image under new artistic director Matthieu Blazy.
