Welcome to The Weekly Edit, your curated digest of the latest in the world of luxury. Each week, WLCC brings you a handpicked selection of industry news, insights, and stories influencing the future of high-end fashion, design, travel, real estate, and beyond. Consider this your insider’s guide to the latest in luxury.
Luxury Market Defies Tariffs as Top Earners Keep Spending
Even as tariffs bite and supply chains face disruption, the luxury goods sector is holding its ground, buoyed by high-income consumers. Moody’s data reveals that the top 10% of earners now account for nearly half of all spending. At Semafor’s Business of Luxury event, executives noted that while tariffs squeeze margins, affluent buyers remain relatively indifferent to price shifts. Brands like Veronica Beard are cutting their dependence on Chinese production, and strategic price adjustments help maintain customer appeal. Sotheby’s reported continued demand for European watches despite trade hurdles, keeping the luxury market resilient amid slower overall economic growth.
Via: SEMAFOR
Tesla Faces Growing Pressure from New BMW and Mercedes Electric Cars
Tesla is facing increased competition as BMW and Mercedes launch new electric vehicles in the U.S. and Europe. BMW’s iX3 can travel up to 497 miles, and Mercedes’ electric GLC reaches 457 miles, both exceeding Tesla’s updated Model Y long-range at 387 miles. Tesla’s U.S. market share fell to 38% in August, down from over 80% at its peak. Sales in Europe have dropped about a third, with BYD surpassing Tesla. Legacy automakers are investing in AI and digital features, partnering with tech firms to enhance vehicle capabilities, signaling a serious challenge to Tesla’s dominance.
Above: From Chanel
Chanel, Dior, and Gucci Face High Stakes in Designer Shakeup
Top fashion houses are introducing collections from a new generation of designers as the luxury sector seeks to regain momentum after a post-pandemic slowdown and the death of Giorgio Armani. Chanel, Dior, and Gucci, among others, are relying on fresh creative leadership to reignite consumer interest amid inflation and changing tastes. Brands are balancing bold, attention-grabbing designs with economic realities, while previews on red carpets carry risks of social media backlash. With millions of shoppers lost last year, this season’s fashion shows in New York, London, Milan, and Paris will test whether the industry can reconnect with consumers.
Above: Image from FlexJet, Via Yahoo Finance
Flexjet Adds Gulfstream G700, Raising the Bar for Private Jet Travel
Offering one of the largest and fastest large-cabin private jets in the world, Flexjet has added the Gulfstream G700 to its fleet. The aircraft, priced at $96 million, features a spacious interior with four zones, a private bedroom, lie-flat seats, and panoramic windows, accommodating up to 15 passengers. Advanced wellness features include low cabin altitude, circadian lighting, noise suppression, and a clean air system. Operated under Flexjet’s Red Label program, the G700 provides dedicated crews, personalized service, and global access. The addition strengthens Flexjet’s fleet of over 340 aircraft, highlighting its leadership in private aviation as it celebrates 30 years.
Via: Yahoo Finance , FlexJet
Luxury Real Estate Update: The Next Hotspots
Expanding beyond traditional hubs, luxury real estate new destinations are attracting high-end buyers seeking lifestyle, design, and community-focused living. Texas is moving from sprawling mansions to high-rise luxury, driven by tech and finance, offering upscale amenities and brand residences. Hudson Valley, NY, appeals to buyers seeking waterfront views and boutique-style living. Fiji is gaining traction for secluded, sustainable resort homes from brands like One&Only and Six Senses. Comporta, Portugal, and Sardinia, Italy, are emerging as luxury frontiers with development potential. As traditional markets like New York, Hong Kong, and London face challenges, these new locations signal a shift in global luxury real estate.
Via: Realtor
Luxury Sales Training: How to Train a Retail Team
Join luxury sales expert Francis Srun for the interactive webinar “Luxury Sales Training: How to Train a Retail Team”. With over 20 years of experience, Srun will share proven strategies for coaching retail staff, developing essential skills, and enhancing customer experiences in the luxury industry. Topics include challenges in training retail teams, the importance of hard, soft, and “mad” skills, fostering potential, and effective methods for developing soft skills. As the founder of Luxury Selling, the first mobile training platform for luxury sales, Srun offers unique insights into customer psychology and sales leadership. Free for WLCC members.
Details: Online | Free for WLCC Members | 25 September 2025 | 11:30 AM New York / 4:30 PM London | Register now: https://worldluxurychamber.com/events/webinar-luxury-sales-training-how-to-train-a-retail-team/
Design District
Every year the Design District transforms Vienna’s Hofburg into a world full of experiences for high-quality home design and lifestyle. National and international brands from the areas of design, real estate, automotive, interiors, technology & HIFI, art & accessories will once again invite you to taste, try and touch on more than 7.500 m² over three days.
Details: Vienna, Austria | Business | Design, Luxury Lifestyle | 03–05 October 2025 | 25% discount for WLCC Members (exhibitors booth + 100 visitor tickets) | Register Now: https://worldluxurychamber.com/events/design-district/
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