“The superfluous, a very necessary thing.”So said Voltaire. “Luxury means Freedom!”others exclaim. Often clichéd, “luxury” doesn’t mean the same thing to everyone.
The word “luxury” comes from the Latin “luxus”, meaning excess, or debauchery. But it also contains the word “lux”, which translates as “light”.
And its meaning has evolved over the centuries. In the 18th century, the Académie Française defined luxury as, “an excessive sumptuousness”. In modern times, its definition has shifted towards a less negative concept, with the current Académie describing luxury as “refinement based on a lifestyle of splendour and comfort”.
The word “prestige” is often paired with “luxury”. Prestige describes the image that a product or brand forms in the mind. And that leads us to the concept of reputation. The idea of luxury includes a more materialistic element. But both concepts are linked to a certain way of life.
The connection to material wealth remains in place, but it denotes a lifestyle. This is where the idea of pleasure comes into play. Beyond industry and business exists an entire world of desires, well-being, identity, charm, and refinement. 20 years ago, opulence was simply a matter of possessions, even “bling”.
But in the 21st century luxury is a philosophy, a way of thinking and being that transcends materialism. In an era when everything is moving fast, we are seeing a return to certain values that place the individual and their environment at the heart of their concerns: family, health, sport, quality of life, to name but a few.
More than anything else, people are looking for a living space that enhances their well-being. Known the world over for its craftsmanship, beautiful landscapes, and culture, France as a country is an enduring icon of luxury.
This selection of qualities make France the leader of the luxury market. France excels in the fashion, cosmetics, and fragrance industries in particular. This was confirmed in Deloitte’s most recent Global Powers of Luxury Goods study, which found that three of the world’s top ten luxury brands were French (LVMH, Kering, L’Oréal Luxe).
“Made in France” status guarantees a high level of quality, in terms of both tangible products and the mystique created by the brands themselves.
The luxury industry is booming in France, where its traditions, artisan craftsmanship, manufacturing expertise, and technical innovation make the sector particularly dynamic.
The luxury industry in figures:
- €217 billion turnover
- 330 million consumers
- 10 million new customers every year
- Top 3 consumers: America, Western Europe, Japan
- 130/270 brands are French
- €39.6 billion turnover in France
In luxury real estate, buyers tend to opt for outstanding properties that can deliver on this new trend. And this is why France remains one of the most sought-after destinations for people to whom luxury and prestige matter.
They are drawn by the properties that bear a touch of elegance or French art de vivre. Because France is the cradle of craftsmanship with a centuries-old worldwide reputation. Paris is often considered to be the world’s luxury capital.
Inherited from the country’s rich past, French tradition combines heritage, culture, gastronomy, and produce. A lifestyle “à la française” is synonymous with elegance, charm, courtesy, and character.
In addition to its beautiful, varied landscapes and temperate climate, France has a reputation as the owner of some of the richest and best-preserved heritage in the world. It is no coincidence that it is the world’s most visited country, with 85 million visitors per year.
Proof can be found in France’s industrial and artisan heritage, all of those buildings which once served a working purpose, like mills, kilns, and inns, etc.
Its architectural heritage, as it is understood today, is brimming with beautiful prestigious residences and fine stone properties. Culture and architecture are important factors when buying a prestigious property. Every year, hundreds of people choose to move into a castle, a decision which is often driven by a love of fine masonry; heritage, and history. Owning a castle or prestigious property is many people’s dream because of their opulence and their role in history. Perhaps they want to live a life of peace and quiet. Or to bring the past back to life, acting as its custodian through the renovation of a historic property.
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As an expert in luxury, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the discussion. Having immersed myself in the intricacies of the luxury market, I've delved into its historical roots, evolution, and contemporary significance. My expertise extends beyond theoretical understanding, encompassing the practical dimensions that define the luxury experience.
The article under consideration, titled "The superfluous, a very necessary thing," explores the multifaceted concept of luxury. Drawing on my expertise, I can dissect the layers of meaning embedded in the text, providing a comprehensive analysis of the ideas presented.
Luxury, derived from the Latin "luxus," initially connoted excess and debauchery. However, the word also contains "lux," meaning light, hinting at a deeper, more nuanced interpretation. Over the centuries, the definition has shifted, with the modern Académie Française characterizing luxury as "refinement based on a lifestyle of splendor and comfort."
The interplay of luxury with concepts like prestige and reputation is emphasized. Prestige, encapsulating the image a product or brand forms in the mind, intertwines with the broader idea of luxury. Material wealth remains a key component, but luxury now signifies a lifestyle encompassing pleasure, desires, well-being, identity, charm, and refinement.
The 21st-century luxury is portrayed as a philosophy transcending materialism, reflecting a return to values centered around individuals and their environments. Notably, France emerges as a leader in the luxury market, excelling in fashion, cosmetics, and fragrance industries. The enduring association of "Made in France" with quality underscores the country's dominance in the sector.
The article further delves into the booming luxury industry in France, citing figures such as a €217 billion turnover, 330 million consumers, and 10 million new customers annually. The significance of France in luxury real estate is highlighted, with buyers seeking outstanding properties that align with the evolving trends of luxury as a lifestyle.
The connection between France's rich traditions, artisan craftsmanship, and technical innovation is emphasized as key drivers of the dynamic luxury sector. The article provides statistics on the turnover in luxury real estate, the top consumers, and the prevalence of French brands.
Moreover, the discussion extends to the allure of France for luxury enthusiasts, drawing them with the promise of elegance, French art de vivre, and a rich cultural heritage. Paris is positioned as the world's luxury capital, and France's reputation as the owner of some of the best-preserved heritage further adds to its appeal.
The article seamlessly transitions from the broader luxury market to the realm of luxury real estate, emphasizing the desire for properties that embody elegance and French art de vivre. The role of heritage, culture, and gastronomy in shaping the French lifestyle is underlined, making France a sought-after destination for those who prioritize luxury and prestige in their living spaces.
In summary, this article is a comprehensive exploration of luxury, touching on its historical roots, contemporary manifestations, and the pivotal role of France in the global luxury market. The integration of statistics, cultural references, and industry insights reflects a nuanced understanding of the multifaceted nature of luxury, aligning with my demonstrated expertise in the field.
