A look back at an insightful interview wit Hedi Slimane from 2010. Style gets Hedi Slimane for his first interview in three years (as of 2010). Though done over email, the discussion and topics are very insightful and give a view of the Slimane’s opinion and presence in the world of fashion and music. His thoughts on “new” luxury are worth a read by themselves. They remain on point today.

“Can electric motoring deliver a true Rolls-Royce experience? We’ve created 102EX as a working test-bed to get feedback from Owners, opinion leaders, enthusiasts and journalists on alternative drive-train technologies in ultra-luxury cars. In this film, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars CEO, Torsten Müller-Ötvös, introduces the car and the debate, encouraging contributions from all who are interested. Join the debate at www.electricluxury.com“

Wallpaper* reports in on the latest in in flight luxury from Swiss Air. “when we were asked to take a peek at Swiss Air’s newly designed first class suite, we had high hopes for the Alpine air maestros… What we did not expect, however, was the well-lit, spaciously fitted, techno wonderland that we encountered. Clean lines, white paneling and waffle pine detailing all add to the sense of comforting costliness that wafts around the cabin.”

Read the full review of Swiss Air’s New First Class Suite at Wallpaper*.

A great article over at IHT on the how sportswear is beginning to make more of an inroad into the luxury houses of fashion. It is a trend that may have been provoked due to the introduction of new start up brands looking to catch the eye of the higher end buyer. "ports has been a playground for designers frustrated by the status quo of the formal suit and tie side of a man’s wardrobe. Looking good does not always mean dressing up, and new sports brands are merging technical expertise with luxury and style to put casual gear on a par with high fashion."

Full story at International Herald Tribune.

When looking for an outlet to plan your next African Safari, you only have to visit Madison Ave’s F.M. Allen branch to get the ball rolling. But do not sleep on their luxury safari womens and menswear. Featuring traditional pleated tops and shorts, F.M. Allen is worth looking into for the summer months; with or without a rhino on the horizon.

More views after the jump.

Buying luxury items using online auctions has always been a touch and go affair in this day and age. Counterfeiters has caused a wash out and even with good amounts of positive feedback, you can never really be sure if your purchases are legit.

Portero.com has solved this dilemna with their online auction service. “Portero has been serving the luxury lifestyle, offering unparalleled access to the finest in pristine & pre-owned luxury goods. Portero’s mission is to be the premiere online auction-based marketplace for luxury merchandise.”

Their main promise to customers is “authenticity.” Check their brand list and find a vast array of pre-owned luxury items – watches, luggage, fine china, art. Check this Matisse lithograph for starters!

Italian born and Gucci owned, Bottega Veneta, has opened it online store to the US market. Its a pleasing move by them as it allows for a new consumer group to access their day to day goods.

Have no fear, fashion purists, Bottega Veneta is limiting the online store to their staple luggage, bags, shoes, and accessories at this time.

Its a changing global market for all things luxury.

Visit their USA online store at: www.bottegaveneta.com

Founded in England in 1880, Barker Black has been revived by two brother not too long ago. Now they present a modern alternative to Men’s shoes and accessories. You just have to love their shoes. Outstanding quality of leathers, sole and remarkable attention to detail. Also their unconventional skull and bones logo is a nice contrast to the other classic English shoe makers.

There is a break in the tradition concerning image and brand equity, at the same time they present super classic footwear, sometimes with a twist. You have to check out their collection here.

Too many nice shoes to name our favorite, but the Velvet Slipper is in the top 5!