Latest news with #luxuryshopping
News.com.au
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- News.com.au
‘Confused about the price': Sydney mum's $13,000 act divides online
A Sydney woman has caused a divide by sharing how she accidentally spent $13,000 on shoes during a cost-of-living crisis. Elle Salagaras, 29, lives in Sydney and runs the popular TikTok account Eastern Suburbs Mum, which has racked up over 2 million likes. While many influencers, particularly mums, build their audience on being relatable, Ms Salagaras instead shares her affluent life with followers. Instead of going with the warts and all social media overshare approach, the 29-year-old is likelier to share content about her Birkin bag. Naturally, she took to social media to share the moment she spent far more than she bargained for at the luxury store Hermes. Ms Salagaras explained that she decided to purchase a pair of the brand's iconic Chypre Sandals. The starting price for this design is just over $1700, but the cost goes up depending on the material used. The young mum picked up a particularly expensive pair, worth $13,155, made from crocodile and sheep skin. The slides look casual and cosy, not unlike Birkenstocks, but the pair Ms Salagaras purchased cost more than what some people spend on their cars. Ms Salagaras then made a TikTok showing off her new shoes and calling them 'gorg,' but she admitted that she didn't expect to spend that much. After waving the shoes around in front of the camera, she explained that she'd never intended to outlay so much. 'I definitely got very confused about the price, which is my fault. I had heard one number … so embarrassing,' she said. Ms Salagaras said she already had them on her feet when she went to the checkout because she planned to wear them out of the store. When she heard the price, she was thrown, but she just said, 'It's fine,' and bought them anyway. 'We are committing to the shoe. I should have known Hermes,' she said. Ms Salagaras didn't mention how much they cost, but people looked them up and quickly expressed their shock. 'The price. I'm dead,' one wrote. 'The price! Oh my god,' another said. It wasn't just people freaking out over the price, people were also sharing how much they loved the shoes. One praised them as 'so pretty,' and another called them 'stunning,' but others just couldn't get over how much she spent on the sandals. Someone called it 'ridiculous' to spend that much, another called her sharing her expensive shoes 'embarrassing,' and others just claimed the shoes were 'ugly' and certainly not worth the price tag. 'What utter nonsense,' one complained. 'No footwear is worth that amount of money,' someone else argued. 'So many people starving in Australia and she goes and buys these (because) she makes heaps of money from her 52,000 followers. Disgusting,' another complained. Someone else said it was 'tone-deaf' for her to post about spending that much on shoes, and another claimed she was 'showing off,' which they found offensive. Meanwhile, Ms Salagaras wasn't letting the negative feedback get her down. She posted a TikTok of herself dancing with her $13,000 sandals to the tune of Britney Spears.
CNN
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- CNN
She spent $2,600 on a designer bag from a trusted store. Was it a fake?
Many people will have experienced the excitement of receiving an online order, or that hit of dopamine that follows a new purchase. But what happens when you unbox the goods, only to find that it wasn't what you were expecting? Worse yet, when it turns out that you spent a significant sum on a product that could potentially be counterfeit? That was the dilemma Joan Kim had to contend with. In a TikTok video uploaded in December 2024 that has since amassed over 1 million views, the Los Angeles-based content creator shared her frustration at 'being scammed' by US luxury department store-chain Saks Fifth Avenue. 'It's the holidays and I wanted to buy a gift,' Kim said, gesturing to an ivory-colored leather bag on her shoulder. Priced at $2,600, it was a tote by The Row, the discreet, logo-free luxury label founded by actresses-turned-designers Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen. 'I've been needing a bag and I wanted one that wasn't so 'loud,'' Kim told CNN over email. (As) I already had The Row bag in medium, I wanted to buy the bigger size in black.' And while she was initially delighted to receive her order, made online through Saks Fifth Avenue (a receipt of the purchase was viewed by CNN), that joy quickly faded as she noticed discrepancies between her new purchase and the same style she already owned. Kim said that the dust bag it arrived in was a different color and fabric, its drawstring visibly thicker. The stitched-on rectangular logo, bearing the brand's name, also looked dissimilar. 'I had a feeling it was off,' said Kim, adding that when she opened the dust bag, what she found inside 'was even weirder.' Looking at her cream bag, which she had purchased directly from The Row's Melrose Place store, and the black version that had arrived from Saks, she observed multiple differences — from the material used in the lining to its shape when worn. Convinced that the new bag was a fake, Kim was deeply disappointed. After all, Saks Global, which owns Saks Fifth Avenue as well as luxury stores Bergdorf Goodman and Neiman Marcus, is a respected entity, known for selling high-end brands including Prada, Gucci and Dolce & Gabbana. She contacted Saks' customer service department, which asked her to return the product via post. But Kim wasn't satisfied with the response. Her concern, she explained, was that she would have no physical evidence to prove her claim — and that she consequently wouldn't receive a refund — if she wasn't believed. Ultimately, Kim took the bag to a Saks Fifth Avenue store in Beverly Hills and received a refund in gift card form, but the experience had left a sour taste in her mouth. 'After the incident, I haven't purchased anything online,' she told CNN, adding that in the future she would only shop for luxury goods in-person. Saks confirmed to CNN that the incident had been resolved, but did not comment on whether the returned bag was counterfeit and what had happened to it. 'Return fraud has become a pervasive issue for retailers, and, as a result, we consistently evaluate our returns approach,' a global spokesperson for Saks said in an emailed statement. 'As part of this, we've identified the need to take additional steps in our processes, including more time for careful product quality inspection and authentication, to ensure that customers receive high quality authentic merchandise in future orders.' The spokesperson added: 'Our fulfillment centers manage millions of shipments every year, but it is unacceptable for any customer to have this experience. Our top priority is ensuring our customers enjoy the luxury shopping experience for which Saks Fifth Avenue is known, and we continuously work to improve our processes.' Kim's experience isn't as unusual as you might think, with shoppers across the world reporting similar incidents. Tiffany Kim (no relation), a California-based dental hygienist, was also shocked to discover that a recent purchase — a top-handle bag, also by The Row — could potentially be counterfeit. She had bought it from Ssense, a Canadian online luxury retailer that stocks Bottega Veneta, Loewe and Auralee, among other fashionable labels. When Kim received the bag in January, she had her suspicions, because the quality didn't match her expectations. She ended up purchasing the same style directly from The Row. On placing the two bags side-by-side, they appeared distinctively different in size, shape and material. The product that had arrived from Ssense was also missing a warranty card. Kim was astonished. 'This bag is not cheap; it's about $1,000,' she said in a video shared with her 39,900 followers on Instagram. Kim did not respond to requests for comment from CNN. On her video alleging that she received a fake product, Ssense commented that it had gotten in touch directly in hopes of resolving the issue. In a statement provided to CNN, Ssense did not comment on whether the bag that Kim received was counterfeit but said: 'We are committed to ensuring the authenticity of all products sold. We have measures in place to prevent the sale of counterfeit items.' Ssense added that all returns undergo 'thorough examination.' British retailer Flannels, which sells high-end brands including Versace, Burberry and Moncler, has also been subject to complaints from multiple shoppers, who claim that their purchases, ranging from a Saint Laurent belt to pair of Gucci monogrammed sandals, are counterfeit. (The shoppers did not respond to requests for comment from CNN seeking to verify their purchases.) Similar complaints have plagued Flannels for years: In 2018, the retailer was accused of selling fake products by disgruntled shoppers who had purchased Moncler items, after the Italian label said that their purchases were not genuine products. When approached by CNN, Flannels declined to comment on the allegations that the products they sold online were fake, and what it was doing to prevent potential fraudulent returns. In a sector where trust and credibility are paramount to success, it's unlikely that an established department store or multi-brand boutique — which tends to have longstanding relationships with luxury brands — would knowingly sell a counterfeit product. Yet, as global supply chains increasingly diverge from traditional models, in response to inflationary pressures and geopolitical and economic changes, they're getting more complex — and more challenging to police. It's through these avenues that counterfeits may be slipping through, warned Simon Geale, executive vice president of procurement at Proxima, a supply chain firm owned by Bain & Company. One method that fake products enter the retail system may be through fraudulent returns, in which a customer returns a completely different item while claiming they're the original product, Geale told CNN over the phone. Processing returns is a complicated and costly process, and it is possible that some stores may not have the infrastructure in place to thoroughly inspect the returned items, he warned. 'It's rare, but the impact is substantial,' Geale said, noting financial loss and reputational damage. As a customer you might go onto a website — let's say Saks. You might buy a Prada bag thinking it's coming from the Saks warehouse, but that might not be true. Luxury supply chain consultant and Uncovered Agency co-founder Ona Simpson Ona Simpson, a luxury supply chain consultant and the co-founder of Uncovered Agency, whose clients have included Burberry and Vivienne Westwood, asserts that big retailers are well equipped to handle returns, but the issue may be with the suppliers. While the luxury industry has traditionally operated a wholesale model (high-end stores typically purchase and hold inventory from brands), a growing number of retailers, including Net-a-Porter and Nordstrom, have turned to e-concessions or drop-shipping, because it enables them to source high-end products while avoiding less upfront investment. The danger is that stores have less oversight over where the product has come from, said Simpson. 'As a customer you might go onto a website — let's say Saks. You might buy a Prada bag thinking it's coming from the Saks warehouse, but that might not be true.' As to why a store might resort to such means, Simpson pointed to the exclusive nature of luxury goods, where scarcity is typically associated with desirability and value. Increasingly, to control their image and brand integrity, luxury brands have been limiting which distributors or stores can sell their products, as they instead prioritize direct retail channels (such as their own stores or e-commerce site). For example, Chanel notoriously does not sell its fashion and handbag collections online (those items can only be purchased in the brand's physical boutiques). That can make it difficult for retailers to keep up and cater to trendy customers who want the latest launch or the buzziest brand of the moment. 'A lot of high-end retailers now (stock) products from independent boutiques and suppliers because they have found this to be a way to (sell) brands they want,' said Simpson. However, that puts the retailers at risk of receiving counterfeit products without realizing, she noted. '(Stores) are trying to keep customers happy, but (fraudsters) are taking advantage of that.' Simpson's hope is that the recent incidents will give stores a wakeup call to take greater preventative measures that protect their integrity, as well as seek greater differentiation at a time when retail has become increasingly homogenous. It's a decision that would also benefit shoppers, who are now seemingly faced with the same choices everywhere they go, as stores stock the same fashion labels and products. 'There are increased counterfeits floating around, so every step of the way, there's a greater chance of mistakes or fraud happening,' Simpson warned.
Zawya
16-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
LussoCitta and KrisShop Announce Retail Partnership Focused on Accessible Luxury
SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 16 May 2025 - LussoCitta, a Singapore-based online platform selling branded and designer products, has entered a partnership with KrisShop, flagship omnichannel retailer. The collaboration, which commenced in October 2024, forms part of Lusso Città's broader retail expansion strategy aimed at making luxury products more accessible to a wider audience. Elevating the Shopping Experience for KrisFlyer Members Through this partnership, LussoCitta's selection of branded and designer bags is now available on KrisShop's omnichannel e-commerce site KrisFlyer members are eligible for special discount rates during selected promotional campaigns and may also redeem products using KrisFlyer miles, providing alternative methods of purchase. Additional product collections and designer labels are expected to be introduced progressively on in alignment with future promotional periods. A Win-Win Collaboration for Growth The collaboration is aligned with both brands' objectives of expanding customer engagement and increasing market reach. By integrating its product offerings into KrisShop's retail ecosystem, LussoCitta aims to increase exposure among a broader demographic, including frequent travellers and KrisFlyer partnership allows LussoCitta to offer accessible luxury while providing KrisFlyer members with a convenient way to redeem their miles For KrisShop, the inclusion of LussoCitta's range introduces a new product category focused on luxury products and accessories to its existing catalogue. This aligns with its strategy of offering merchandise across different price points and categories. The initiative is also consistent with LussoCitta's business approach of building partnerships with established local platforms to support market expansion. By working with recognised entities like KrisShop, the retailer seeks to continue developing its operations in Singapore while maintaining a focus on accessible luxury. Looking Ahead LussoCitta plans to develop the partnership in phases over the coming months. Initial efforts will focus on integrating new product lines and seasonal collections into KrisShop's platform. Promotional activities, including targeted campaigns and member-exclusive offers, are expected to be introduced at regular intervals to maintain customer engagement and drive sales. Further updates regarding new campaigns, brand partnerships, and expanded product offerings will be announced through official communication channels as they are confirmed. Hashtag: #LussoCitta #KrisShop The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Lussocitta Established in 2009, LussoCittà is a Singapore-based company offering a selection of branded and designer handbags through a single online platform. The company emphasises product authenticity and customer service, providing customers with access to luxury bags through a streamlined and secure shopping experience. Lussocitta
Vogue Arabia
15-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Vogue Arabia
The Ultimate Vogue Guide to Dubai Mall
For those who think a mall is simply a food court, a Zara, and perhaps an escalator that doesn't work, consider Dubai Mall: a sprawling, air-conditioned metropolis of aspiration that welcomed over 100 million visitors last year—more than Times Square, the Eiffel Tower, and the Vatican combined. It is, according to official 2024 figures, the most visited place on Earth. Yes, Earth, welcoming a record-breaking 111 million visitors. But don't call it a mall. At least not to its fans (which, as it turns out, includes most of the planet). This is less shopping centre, more secular haven—equal parts luxury department store, cultural museum, Michelin promenade, and speculative future-world. To wander Dubai Mall is to tumble into a universe where fashion, food, and fantasy all swirl together beneath chandeliers and domes and enough marble to make Michelangelo weep. You could start your day on the ground floor, in the shadow of the Burj Khalifa, watching the fountains put on a performance better choreographed than most runway finales. Then, perhaps, you're off to the VIP entrance—past the scent of oud, past Dior, past Chanel, past the personal shopper waiting to reinvent your wardrobe and your sense of self. The mall's concierge team can arrange private styling, restaurant bookings, even same-day tailoring. Think of it as the Four Seasons of retail—only with 1,200 rooms, and no check-out time. The shopping is, of course, absurd—in the best way possible. Level Shoe District alone offers more than 15,000 styles, Apple built a flagship here with solar wings that open like a beetle taking flight, while Sephora and Louis Vuitton feel less like shops and more like runways. Unlike other luxury centres that echo one another from country to country, Dubai Mall has regional exclusives: concepts and collections you won't find in Paris, London, or even Doha. Retail, here, is theatre. No one is buying a handbag—they're buying a chapter of a life they haven't lived yet.
