Alexander McQueen reported that its custom order business is already profitable; Dior has doubled its guest list for its Spring 2011 couture show due to high demand; Jean Paul Gaultier says he experienced a spectacular return of American clients last year; Armani Prive logged a 45% increase in 2010 sales; and Givenchy's decision to do a presentation instead of a show boomed its business.
Americans are slowly but surely regaining lust (and trust) in couture, while other emerging markets seem to be becoming loyal fans. The Middle East, China, Russia, and other ex-Soviet bloc countries are all contributing to make sure couture does not die. For this very reason, designers such as Karl Lagerfeld are expanding their Spring show itineraries. Chanel will be showing not only in Paris, but in New York, Los Angeles, Shanghai, Hong Kong, and possibly Beijing and Tokyo.
Can you really say couture is dead?
