KEY POINTS:
Dana Thomas is not the luxury goods industry's public enemy number one, but she'd come close. She is the author of Deluxe: How Luxury Lost its Lustre, an expose of how the modern industry is unrecognisable from the luxury industry of old - the one that was only available to old money and royalty.
Gone also are the majority of family-owned luxury goods businesses. In their place are enormous corporations that have largely replaced the handmade ethos and outsourced much of the production to places such as China.
She's seen workers gluing together "Made in Italy" bags in China. It's called the massification of the luxury industry.
A journalist for 15 years, Paris-based Thomas has written for Newsweek, the Washington Post, New York Magazine and many other publications.
What does luxury mean to you now?
When it comes to the luxury business, the same as it did when I was working on Deluxe: something unique, something special, made of the finest materials available and by the finest craftsmanship possible. For me personally, it's the same: something rare, unique, a pleasure, like taking a nap with my little daughter, eating a vine-ripe tomato still warm from the sun, doing absolutely nothing at all.
What is your advice to women desperate for the latest It bag?
Ask yourself, "Why?"
Do you ever buy luxury goods now?
Only on sale or at an outlet. There's no reason to pay such outlandish over-inflated prices when you don't have to.
Since the book, have you ever found yourself lusting after the latest must-have seasonal item?
No, never. Not before, not during, and surely not after. I think that's why I'm able to write objectively about fashion. Because I don't get worked up over any of it.
What's your biggest indulgence?
An afternoon of pampering at a spa.
Who are your favourite designers?
The Paris-based Australian Martin Grant. I've been buying and wearing his clothes since his first collection. And Tom Ford. I wish he'd get back to making womenswear.
Who does the best shoes?
For me, Christian Louboutin. His shoes are pretty, witty, and they fit my feet perfectly. And even if they are dangerously tall, you can walk in them, dance in them, stand all night in them, comfortably.
Who or what inspires you?
My daughter, Lucie. She is my light.
What's the one thing everyone should have in their wardrobe?
Underwear!
Your best beauty tip?
I don't wear makeup, except for big dressy events or TV. I prefer to keep my face clean. I have no proof, but I suspect the less you slather on and wash off, the better for your skin. And of course: no smoking, little alcohol, and lots of water.
Is there anything you'd never wear?
Platform shoes. They remind me too much of Chinese women with bandaged feet, and they are deeply unflattering for the foot and leg.
If money were no option?
Flying private.
Most stylish city?
Paris. It has to be Paris.
Dana Thomas will be speaking about how luxury lost its lustre on Monday March 10, 6.30pm, AUT City Campus, Gate 4, WE Block, Lecture Theatre 240, Lorne St, Auckland City. Admission is free but registration desirable. Email kristine.andersen@aut.ac.nz
