Haute couture shows start in Paris this week. The ultra-expensive, handcrafted looks on display there are among the few luxury items brands can still count on their customers to buy these days.
The category is off to a grim start this year, with a slew of bleak sales and profit warnings from brands such as Burberry and Hugo Boss. The slowdown appears to be global, and driven by a pullback from aspirational shoppers who are most vulnerable to inflation and economic uncertainty (quiet luxury purveyor Brunello Cucinelli and high-end jewellery focused Richemont have fared better as they cater to the wealthiest consumers, the reason couture labels likely also have little to fear from the current moment). Though inflation is coming under control in most major economies, it may take some painful discounting to lure those entry level customers back into stores.
LVMH’s fourth-quarter results on Thursday will provide the definitive read on the state of luxury in 2024. The conglomerate has the biggest window into just about every geography and strata of the market, whether it’s how entry-level Louis Vuittion handbags are selling in China, appetite for Dior couture in the Middle East or global beauty sales at Sephora.
Expect a mix of optimism and caution: Loro Piana’s sales are almost certainly surging right alongside Cucinelli’s, and perhaps executives can make the case for modest improvement in the US and China at megabrands Louis Vuitton and Dior. Among LVMH’s smaller labels, Celine and Loewe are starting to gain critical mass commercially.
Investors have low expectations. LVMH shares are trading close to the lows they hit after reporting a shock slowdown in sales growth in October. A strong showing will likely lift the entire category. Another weak report will be interpreted as a sign luxury brands haven’t yet hit bottom.
What Else to Watch for This Week
Sunday
Paris men’s shows conclude with Sacai, Rhude, GMBH and others.
Monday
Haute Couture Week begins with Schiaparelli, Dior and Giambattista Valli
Tuesday
Couture Week: Chanel, Giorgio Armani Privé
New Hampshire presidential primary; Donald Trump will all-but lock up the Republican nomination with a strong showing here.
Wednesday
Couture Week: Elie Saab, Jean Paul Gaultier, Valentino
Tod’s reports results
Thursday
LVMH and Levi’s report earnings
Couture Week: Fendi, Maison Margiela
First reading on fourth-quarter US GDP
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