Top 15 Oldest Luxury Brands (Over 100 Years Old!)

The 15 Oldest Luxury Brands Still Thriving in the Fashion Industry

Hey there, fashion enthusiasts! Have you ever wondered which luxury brands have stood the test of time and are still thriving in today's competitive fashion industry? Well, you're in for a treat because in this blog post, we'll explore the 15 oldest luxury brands that continue to make waves in the fashion realm.

From haute couture to high-end accessories, these heritage brands have been around for decades, captivating the hearts of fashion connoisseurs across generations. So, grab your cup of coffee and let's take a trip down memory lane as we uncover the secrets behind the success secrets of these fashion houses. Get ready for a sip of luxury fashion!

1. Goyard (1792/1853)

Goyard is considered an old luxury brand with a rich history that dates back to 1792.

In 1792, Pierre-François Martin founded the company, establishing Goyard as a trunk-making specialist. Fast forward to the late 19th century, and Edmond Goyard revolutionized the brand by introducing the iconic Goyardine canvas and the emblematic chevron pattern.

In 1998, Goyard underwent a resurgence in popularity when Jean-Michel Signoles acquired the company and brought it back into the limelight, elevating it to new heights of desirability. In the following years, Goyard continued to expand its global presence, opening boutiques in major cities worldwide, including Tokyo, New York, and Hong Kong. Today, these significant years in Goyard's history are a testament to the brand's enduring legacy of craftsmanship and refinement.

2. Hermes (1837)

Founded in 1837, Hermes began as a harness workshop, specializing in equestrian accessories. Over time, the brand expanded its repertoire to include luxurious scarves, leather goods, and high-end fashion apparel. Known for its iconic Birkin and Kelly handbags, as well as their silk scarves, Hermès continues to captivate fashion enthusiasts with its exquisite craftsmanship.

Hermès, the esteemed French luxury brand, has a rich history that dates back to its establishment in 1837 by Thierry Hermès. Originally a harness workshop in Paris, Hermès quickly gained recognition as a manufacturer of high-quality equestrian accessories.

The iconic Birkin and Kelly bags, named after actress Jane Birkin and Princess Grace Kelly, respectively, have become timeless symbols of luxury and exclusivity. With its distinctive orange boxes, the Hermès brand continues to showcase its enduring legacy of sophistication and craftsmanship.

3. Tiffany (1837)

Founded in 1837, Tiffany & Co. is renowned for its exquisite diamond jewelry and iconic blue boxes.

The Tiffany brand was founded in 1837 by Charles Lewis Tiffany and John B. Young in New York City. The company began as a small stationery and gift shop, but soon shifted their focus to jewelry, introducing their first catalog of fine jewels in 1845. Tiffany quickly became known for its exceptional quality and craftsmanship, and quickly gained a loyal following among affluent customers.

In 1886, Tiffany introduced what would become its most iconic design: the Tiffany setting for engagement rings, which revolutionized the jewelry industry and set a new standard for diamond rings. Over the years, the brand expanded its offerings to include silverware, timepieces, and luxury accessories, solidifying its position as a legendary American luxury brand.

4. Cartier (1847)

Established in 1847, Cartier is a high-end jewelry and watchmaker. The brand's exquisite designs and exceptional craftsmanship have made Cartier a symbol of luxury and elegance.

The Cartier brand was founded in 1847 in Paris, France by Louis-Francois Cartier. Initially a jewelry business, the brand quickly gained recognition for its unparalleled craftsmanship, beautiful designs, and quality of materials. Cartier quickly became the favorite of royalty and aristocrats, and by the early 20th century, Cartier had established itself as a high-end luxury brand with a reputation for style and sophistication. In addition to jewelry, Cartier expanded its offerings to include watches, leather goods, and other high-end accessories. Over the years, the brand continued to innovate and push boundaries by introducing never-before-seen designs, such as the iconic Cartier Tank watch created in 1917. Cartier's enduring legacy of excellence in creativity, design, and craftsmanship has earned it a place among the world's most prestigious and influential luxury brands. Today, Cartier remains committed to its legacy of quality and elegance, creating meticulously crafted and stunning pieces that continue to captivate audiences around the world.

5. Louis Vuitton (1854)

Established in 1854, Louis Vuitton is one of the most recognizable luxury brands in the world.

Since its founding in 1854, Louis Vuitton has undergone significant changes while still maintaining its essence of luxury and timeless appeal. Originally specializing in luxury trunks and travel essentials, the brand has expanded its product range to include a wide array of handbags, accessories, ready-to-wear clothing, and even fragrances. Under the leadership of visionary designers and creative directors, Louis Vuitton has embraced modernity without sacrificing its heritage and craftsmanship. Collaborations with renowned artists and designers have infused the brand with fresh perspectives, pushing the boundaries of design and innovation. Despite these changes, Louis Vuitton has remained true to its iconic monogram pattern, which has become instantly recognizable worldwide and a symbol of the brand's status and prestige.

The brand has grown to include more than 50 stores worldwide and has expanded its product range to include a wide array of handbags, accessories, ready-to-wear clothing, and even fragrances. Under the leadership of visionary designers and creative directors, Louis Vuitton has embraced modernity without sacrificing its heritage and craftsmanship. Collaborations with renowned artists and designers have infused the brand with fresh perspectives, pushing the boundaries of design and innovation. Despite these changes, Louis Vuitton has remained true to its iconic monogram pattern, which has become instantly recognizable worldwide.

6. Burberry (1856)

With a history dating back to 1856, Burberry is known for its iconic trench coats, plaid patterns, and timeless British style. The brand's commitment to quality and craftsmanship has solidified its position in the luxury market.

The Burberry brand has a rich history that dates back to 1856 when Thomas Burberry, a 21-year-old draper's apprentice, established a small outfitter's shop in Hampshire, England. Burberry initially focused on creating durable, waterproof clothing, introducing gabardine, a breathable and weather-resistant fabric, in 1879. The brand quickly gained recognition for its innovative designs and quality craftsmanship, attracting an array of notable clients, including explorers and adventurers. In the early 20th century, Burberry became the outfitter of choice for British military officers, contributing to the iconic trench coat design that remains synonymous with the brand today. The company's trademark plaid pattern, known as the Burberry check, was introduced in the 1920s and became instantly recognizable around the world. Burberry's commitment to innovation and timeless British style has ensured its enduring success, expanding its product offerings to include not only clothing and outerwear but also accessories, fragrances, and eyewear. Additionally, Burberry's digital initiatives and collaborations with renowned artists and designers have kept the brand at the forefront of the fashion industry, solidifying its position as a global British luxury brand with a rich heritage.

7. Bvlgari (1884)

Established in 1884, Bvlgari is renowned for its bold and distinctive designs in jewelry, watches, and accessories. The brand's commitment to creativity and innovation has made it a sought-after name in luxury.

The Bvlgari brand, founded in 1884 by Greek silversmith Sotirios Boulgaris, has a rich history rooted in the fine art of jewelry-making. Originally starting as a small jewelry shop in Rome, the brand quickly gained recognition for its bold, innovative designs that blended traditional and modern techniques. In addition to jewelry, Bvlgari has expanded its offerings over the years to include high-end watches, leather goods, fragrances, and accessories. The brand's popularity skyrocketed in the 1960s and '70s, when it became a favorite of Hollywood's elite, expanding its reputation as an international luxury brand.

Despite changes in ownership over the years, the brand's commitment to timeless style and exceptional craftsmanship has remained constant. Today, Bvlgari continues to be a renowned Italian luxury brand for its exquisite jewelry, watches, and accessories, and remains one of the most prestigious and influential luxury brands in the world.

8. Lanvin (1889)

Established in 1889, Lanvin is the oldest French fashion house still in operation. Known for its feminine and elegant designs, the brand continues to inspire with its luxurious creations.

The Lanvin brand, founded by Jeanne Lanvin in 1889, has a storied history in the world of fashion. Jeanne Lanvin initially started as a milliner, designing elegant hats for Parisian women. She later expanded her offerings to include clothing for women and children, and quickly gained recognition for her exceptional craftsmanship and couture designs. Lanvin's sophisticated and feminine aesthetic resonated with clients, leading to the brand's rapid growth and popularity.

Throughout the years, Lanvin continued to innovate, introducing styles that combined elegance with comfort, such as her iconic robe de style silhouette in the 1920s. Lanvin's daughter, Marguerite, also played a significant role in shaping the brand's success, expanding its reach globally and establishing it as a prominent name in the fashion industry. Today, Lanvin remains renowned for its timeless elegance, luxurious fabrics, and impeccable tailoring, continuing to create beautiful and refined collections that embody the brand's rich heritage and enduring legacy.

9. Rolex (1905)

Founded in 1905, Rolex is synonymous with luxury timepieces. The brand's watches are renowned for their precision, durability, and timeless design.

Certainly! The Rolex brand has a captivating history that begins with its founder, Hans Wilsdorf. In 1905, at the age of 24, Wilsdorf founded a company in London specializing in the distribution of timepieces. He had a vision of creating wristwatches that were not only accurate but also elegant and reliable. In 1908, the company registered the name "Rolex" and embarked on a journey to become a renowned luxury watchmaker. Over the years, Rolex introduced several groundbreaking innovations, including the first waterproof wristwatch called the Oyster in 1926.

This was followed by other iconic models like the Datejust, Submariner, and Daytona, solidifying Rolex's reputation for precision, durability, and style. Today, Rolex continues to be a symbol of excellence and is celebrated as one of the world's most prestigious and sought-after watch brands.

10. Chanel (1909)

Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel established her eponymous brand in 1909, revolutionizing women's fashion with her elegant simplicity and forward-thinking designs. Today Chanel is known for their iconic quilted handbags, classic tweed suits, and the timeless fragrance, Chanel No. 5.

Even though Chanel has always been seen as a premium brand, since its founding in 1909, it has transformed significantly. Known for revolutionizing women's fashion by introducing the Chanel suits, Chanel has evolved from a fashion house to a global luxury brand.

Under the leadership of Karl Lagerfeld, who took over the reins in 1983, Chanel has expanded its product range beyond clothing to include handbags, cosmetics, and fine jewelry. In recent years, Chanel has embraced digital platforms and social media to reach younger audiences, while collaborations with renowned artists and designers keep the brand innovative and exciting. Despite these changes, Chanel's iconic interlinked "CC" logo, classic tweed designs, and the enduring allure of Chanel No. 5 perfume remain defining elements of the brand today.

11. Prada (1913)

Established in 1913, Prada is renowned for its sophisticated and avant-garde style. The brand's unique designs and innovative materials have made it a leader in luxury fashion.

Prada is an Italian luxury fashion house founded in 1913 in Milan by Mario Prada. It specializes in creating leather handbags, travel accessories, shoes, ready-to-wear clothing, and other fashion accessories. The brand initially gained recognition for its exceptional craftsmanship and sophisticated designs. In 1919, Mario Prada's daughter, Luisa Prada, took over the business and further expanded its offerings. It was in the mid-1970s when Luisa's daughter, Miuccia Prada, joined the family business and dedicated herself to designing accessories, including high-quality bags and luggage. Miuccia's innovative and avant-garde approach to fashion transformed the brand's image and propelled it into the international spotlight. Collaborations with renowned architects, artists, and designers further showcased Prada's commitment to creativity and experimentation. Today, Prada remains an influential player in the fashion industry, known for its timeless elegance, innovative designs, and high-quality craftsmanship.

12. Balenciaga (1919)

Established by Cristóbal Balenciaga in 1919, the Balenciaga fashion house has become an emblematic representation of the luxury Spanish fashion brands. The brand is celebrated for its unconventional and daring designs, and has been adorned by some of the most significant women in history, including Jacqueline Kennedy and Princess Grace of Monaco. In recent times, Balenciaga is renowned for its modern, streetwear-infused fashion, as reflected in its clothing, accessories, and shoes.

Collaborating with artists such as Demna Gvasalia, Balenciaga has gained popularity, with Gvasalia currently serving as the brand's creative director and co-founding the fashion label Vetements. Through Gvasalia's creative direction, Balenciaga has undergone a revival, with a renewed emphasis on daring silhouettes, contemporary fabrics, and exceptional textures. Gvasalia has contemporized some of Balenciaga's classic designs such as their iconic Speed Trainer, giving them a compelling edge that resonates with younger generations of fashion enthusiasts.

13. Gucci (1921)

Gucci was founded in 1921 and has become synonymous with Italian luxury and timeless glamour. The brand offers an extensive range of products, including handbags, accessories, ready-to-wear clothing, and fragrances.

The Gucci brand has a captivating history that began in 1921, when Italian entrepreneur Guccio Gucci founded the company in Florence, Italy. Initially, Gucci focused on crafting leather goods, primarily luggage and accessories, which quickly gained recognition for their exceptional quality and craftsmanship. As the brand expanded, Gucci introduced iconic designs such as the Bamboo Bag in the 1940s and the Flora Scarf in the 1960s, cementing its reputation for elegant and innovative creations. In the 1980s, Gucci faced internal conflicts but emerged stronger under the guidance of Tom Ford in the 1990s. Ford's reinvention of the brand, combining sensuality and luxury, brought Gucci into the modern era and ignited a resurgence in popularity. The Gucci Group, led by creative director Alessandro Michele, has since revitalized the brand's aesthetic, creating a bold and eclectic vision that blends classic and contemporary influences. Today, Gucci is internationally recognized as a symbol of Italian luxury, known for its prestigious fashion collections, including clothing, accessories, and fragrances, as well as its distinctive GG logo and iconic designs that reflect the brand's storied heritage.

14. Fendi (1925)

Founded in 1925, Fendi is recognized for its creative and luxurious designs. The brand offers a range of products, including handbags, clothing, and accessories, all showcasing their signature style.

Fendi is an Italian luxury fashion brand known for its high-end handbags, fur coats, and accessories. Founded in Rome in 1925 by Adele and Edoardo Fendi, the brand started as a small fur and leather goods store and quickly established a reputation for its quality craftsmanship and innovative designs. The Fendi brand's success grew throughout the 20th century, and its expansion was marked by countless collaborations with other designers, including Karl Lagerfeld, who became the creative director of Fendi in 1965. Under Lagerfeld's leadership, Fendi became known for its playful sophistication and its iconic double-F logo, which has become instantly recognizable worldwide. Today, Fendi is still a family-run business, with the founder's granddaughter, Silvia Venturini Fendi, serving as creative director. The brand continues to be celebrated for its commitment to artisanal craftsmanship and continues to expand its presence worldwide with flagship stores in major cities across the globe.

15. Salvatore Ferragamo (1927)

Established in 1927, Salvatore Ferragamo is known for its exquisite Italian craftsmanship and innovative designs in shoes, handbags, and accessories. The brand's dedication to quality and comfort has set it apart in the luxury footwear market.

Salvatore Ferragamo is an Italian luxury brand renowned for its handmade leather goods, shoes, and accessories. The company was founded in 1927 by Salvatore Ferragamo, a talented shoemaker who, after a childhood apprenticeship, advanced his skills by studying anatomy and art. He moved to California in 1914 and soon became a favorite of Hollywood actresses and celebrities, creating made-to-measure shoes for the likes of Audrey Hepburn, Greta Garbo, and Marilyn Monroe. Ferragamo returned to Italy in 1927 to establish his eponymous company, opening a workshop in Florence, where he continued to create shoes for celebrities and expand his product line to include handbags, belts, and other accessories. Today, the Ferragamo brand remains one of the world's premier luxury fashion houses, known for combining Italian craftsmanship with innovative technology and design. The company is still headquartered in Florence and continues to operate as a family-owned business, with several members of the Ferragamo family holding key positions within the company.

Summary

In conclusion, these 15 oldest luxury brands have not only stood the test of time but have redefined the fashion industry through their creativity, craftsmanship, and unwavering commitment to luxury. Their long-lasting success is a testament to their enduring appeal and dedication to exceptional design.