BALENCIAGA
The son of a seamstress, Cristobal Balenciaga founded this legendary fashion house in Madrid in 1918. After the Spanish Civil War, the designer relocated to Paris where he swiftly built a reputation for refined elegance and was hailed as "the couturier of couturiers". Frenchman Nicolas Ghesquière has been at the helm since 1997, drawing inspiration from the house's archives and fans including Nicole Kidman (who wore Balenciaga for her 2006 nuptials) can't get enough of the fine finishes. This retro-chic sunglasses collection upholds the brands luxury heritage with oversized Jackie O frames and dramatic tinted lenses.
BOTTEGA VENETA
Renowned for its signature intrecciato woven leather, Italian fashion house Bottega Veneta's timeless style has earned it a loyal and discerning following since its launch in 1966. German designer Tomas Maier took over as head designer in 2001, giving the label's classic brand of chic a new, modern perspective. Update your wardrobe with Maier's fashion-forward designs - from sleek separates to impeccably crafted accessories.
CHLOÉ
Egyptian-born designer Gaby Aghion launched Chloé in Paris in 1952 as an alternative to haute couture - and with that, prêt-à-porter was born. The list of past designers reads like a who's who of fashion, and includes the likes of Karl Lagerfeld and Phoebe Philo. With Hannah MacGibbon now at the creative helm, look out for classic styles reworked with a refined take on effortless glamour.GUCCI
Founded by Guccio Gucci in Florence in 1921, Gucci is now one of the world's most iconic fashion houses. Designer Frida Giannini took the creative reins in 2006, infusing the label's feminine, wearable clothing with a uniquely ladylike, intelligent sense of glamour. With an enduring nod to the Gucci archives, Giannini has reinvigorated its glossy brand of timeless sophistication, re-interpreting signature styles with a fresh eye and a contemporary approach.JIMMY CHOO
Luxury accessories designer Jimmy Choo has built up an extremely loyal, star-studded clientele since the launch of his eponymous label in 2006. Indeed, company president Tamara Mellon regularly decamps to Hollywood to personally attend to the feet of the world's most glamorous women. Put a spring in your step with the label's iconic pumps, sandals and boots, and don't miss its to-die-for selection of totes and clutches.
MIU MIU
Miuccia Prada launched Miu Miu in 1992 as the visionary sister label to fashion powerhouse Prada. Since then, it has filled some of the hottest runway shows with its sophisticated, eclectic collections, and earned a host of A-list devotees in the process. Blending classic cuts with avant-garde detailing, expect brightly colored prints on everything from sleek mini dresses to liquid-silk shorts.MULBERRY
Luxury British label Mulberry was founded in 1971 and has long been recognised for its highly crafted fine leather goods. The company's strength lies in its elegant must-have handbags - like the Bayswater and Alexa, which both became instant fashion classics. British designer Emma Hill took the creative reins in 2008 and has swiftly built a loyal following with her unique take on refined Brit-girl cool.
YVES SAINT LAURENT
Founded in 1962, Yves Saint Laurent is synonymous with elegance, innovation and flair. From the 'Le Smoking' jacket to the dropped-crotch pant, the iconic French label has remained at the forefront of design, pushing boundaries without compromising on style. Under the creative direction of Milan-born Stefano Pilati since 2002, the brand's polished mix of chic dresses, ladylike totes and artisanal jewelry continues to top every woman's wish list.
GUCCI
Founded by Guccio Gucci in Florence in 1921, Gucci is now one of the world's most iconic fashion houses. Designer Frida Giannini took the creative reins in 2006, infusing the label's feminine, wearable clothing with a uniquely ladylike, intelligent sense of glamour. With an enduring nod to the Gucci archives, Giannini has reinvigorated its glossy brand of timeless sophistication, re-interpreting signature styles with a fresh eye and a contemporary approach.
JIMMY CHOO
Luxury accessories designer Jimmy Choo has built up an extremely loyal, star-studded clientele since the launch of his eponymous label in 2006. Indeed, company president Tamara Mellon regularly decamps to Hollywood to personally attend to the feet of the world's most glamorous women. Put a spring in your step with the label's iconic pumps, sandals and boots, and don't miss its to-die-for selection of totes and clutches.
MIU MIU
Miuccia Prada launched Miu Miu in 1992 as the visionary sister label to fashion powerhouse Prada. Since then, it has filled some of the hottest runway shows with its sophisticated, eclectic collections, and earned a host of A-list devotees in the process. Blending classic cuts with avant-garde detailing, expect brightly colored prints on everything from sleek mini dresses to liquid-silk shorts.
MULBERRY
Luxury British label Mulberry was founded in 1971 and has long been recognised for its highly crafted fine leather goods. The company's strength lies in its elegant must-have handbags - like the Bayswater and Alexa, which both became instant fashion classics. British designer Emma Hill took the creative reins in 2008 and has swiftly built a loyal following with her unique take on refined Brit-girl cool.
YVES SAINT LAURENT
Founded in 1962, Yves Saint Laurent is synonymous with elegance, innovation and flair. From the 'Le Smoking' jacket to the dropped-crotch pant, the iconic French label has remained at the forefront of design, pushing boundaries without compromising on style. Under the creative direction of Milan-born Stefano Pilati since 2002, the brand's polished mix of chic dresses, ladylike totes and artisanal jewelry continues to top every woman's wish list.
