“At Regent’s, our students work directly with luxury brands through live projects, industry speaker events and our Luxury Lab programme, so we’ve seen for ourselves how the perception of ‘luxury’ is changing — from fashion and design to hospitality and wine. This, in part, has been driven by social media influencers, which has prompted a rise in mid-level ‘luxury’ brands and products being perceived as more attainable and less exclusive. I refer to these products as ‘mass luxury’. This type of luxury is more widely accessible to the average shopper — it is cheaper, readily available and often visibly branded. Those who might not have historically shopped for high-end items choose them because they signpost to others that they are actively participating in the concept of ‘luxury’.

“This contrasts significantly with ‘true luxury’, which remains exclusive and refined. Unlike mass luxury, these products often don’t feature overt branding. Instead, they are quieter and more discreet and rely on craftsmanship and heritage to signal their importance to those ‘in the know’.”

Five questions to ask before buying a luxury product

How many seasons will this last for?

True luxury is built on real quality, instead of trends. This results in pieces that are made with durable materials that can be worn again and again. They are also timeless, meaning they can be used the next season (and the one after that) without looking out of place.

·      Look for items that feel substantial, instead of mass-produced

·      Choose pieces you could wear again the following year

·      Prioritise a few luxury pieces instead of multiple cheaper items

What about how the item has been finished?

Hand-stitching, precise pattern matching and quality hardware are all good indications of the real workmanship that goes into luxury pieces. These details, however small, are what differentiate genuine luxury from cheaper, mass-produced items.

·      Ask whether any part of the item is hand-stitched or hand-finished

·      Inspect seams, stitching, zips and overall structure. Imperfection usually signals mass production

·      Look for brands that explain how the product is made — transparency is a tell-tale sign of real craft

Does the price reflect the substance?

It should never be cheap, but the price tag should always be justified through quality and craftsmanship rather than marketing hype or trend chasing.

·      Ask why the piece costs what it costs — it should reference materials and workmanship

·      Be wary of brands with high prices but factory-level production practices

·      Remember that true luxury often feels expensive but not unduly inflated

Do the brand’s ethics and values align with yours?

For many of us, a brand’s values matter more than ever. We want to support brands that are ethical, sustainable and genuinely making a positive impact.

·      Check whether the brand shares where, how and by whom the products are made — silence may indicate poor labour practices or conditions  

·      Look for quantifiable sustainable commitments and real evidence, rather than meaningless slogans

·      Pay attention to the brand’s stance on social issues, diversity and inclusion

·      Take a look at who the brand partners with — ambassadors, creators and communities likely reflect its own values

What is your experience as a customer?

Consider as much about how you are treated as what you buy. Boutique appointments, personalised advice, champagne service and upscale environments are all indications that the brand you’re buying from is truly exclusive.

·      Note the in-store experience: do staff make you feel welcomed, respected and valued?

·      Look for personalised services like private appointments, styling guidance or concierge support

·      Be cautious of brands whose stores feel intimidating or inconsistent, as true luxury should never make you feel judged

·      Exclusivity should feel curated, not exclusionary: bespoke service should still feel human, rather than performative and fake

A final word of advice

Building a luxury collection of any kind, whether it’s a wardrobe, watches and jewellery or even a wine cellar, is about curating, not simply accumulating. When you choose pieces deliberately rather than impulsively, prioritising quality, craftsmanship and timelessness, you can never go far wrong.

The post How to Tell if a Brand is Really Luxury Before Investing appeared first on Best of Living.

Fortnum & Mason’s Feasting Advent Calendar

Eat, drink and be merry this Christmas with this calendar packed with gourmet delights — from black truffle and Champagne butter, Christmas gin, Amalthea Gin Olives and oh-so-much more.

£250, www.fortnumandmason.com

Cartwright & Butler Advent Calendar

This British brand’s packed with delectable treats in this moreish masterpiece, from savoury cheese biscuit and onion chutney to Earl Grey tea, sugar-topped shortbreads and an entire iced Christmas cake.

£249.99, www.selfridges.com

Liberty Men’s Advent Calendar

This stylish calendar includes a Liberty LBTY Fragrance Tudor Eau de Parfum; Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel; Votary Night Star Serum Meta Active Complex: just the start of its 25 line-up. 

£260, www.libertylondon.com

Penhaligons The Advent Calendar

Fabulous. Festive. Fully knitted. And that’s just the outside. Penhaligon’s iconic advent calendar is back, stitched with 24 scentsational surprises to keep you wrapped in wonder. What will you wear today?

£425, www.penhaligons.com

Jo Malone Advent Calendar

This calendar’s filled with an array of festive goods, from seasonal favourites to timeless colognes, candles, bath and body luxuries — alongside a celebratory 30ml fragrance and travel candle.

£360, www.jomalone.co.uk

Christian Louboutin Holiday 2025 Beauty Advent Calendar

Get set for 24 iconic pieces, from fragrances to signature lipsticks and glamorous accessories. Each piece reflects Christian Louboutin’s spirit and savoir-faire. Go on: you know you want to treat yourself.

£545, www.selfridges.com

Sisley Luke Edward Hall Advent Calendar

Another calendar filled with decadence, you’ve got Phyto-Lip Balm n°2 Pink Glow, Phyto-Noir Mascara, Sisleÿa l’Intégral Anti-Âge Anti-Wrinkle Concentrated Serum, Black Rose Cream Mask; we can go on.

£640, www.harrods.com

Villeroy & Boch Multi Christmas Toys 3D Advent Calendar

Crafted using premium porcelain, this calendar includes a Christmas tree, while each box reveals an ornament or figurine which you hang on the tree. It’s ideal for little ones and adults seeking nostalgia.

£446, www.harrods.com

BVLGARI Allegra Countdown Calendar

Starting from 25th December, unwrap a new fragrance until 1st of January — what better way to see in the New Year? It includes, among more, Bvlgari Allegra Insieme Eau de Parfum and a set of perfumable ceramics.

£393, www.harrods.com

ELEMIS x Harrods 25 Days of Pro-Collagen Skin Wonders Beauty Advent Calendar

Exclusive to Harrods and worth £1,229, expect Elemis formulas to leave skin looking and feeling its best. Think cleansers, masks, exfoliators, moisturisers, oils, eye creams — and all at nearly a third of its price.

£440, www.harrods.com

Disclaimer: This feature is for editorial purposes only. Prices, product details and availability were correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.

The post 10 Premium Advent Calendars to Purchase Now Before They Sell Out appeared first on Best of Living.

Watchtrader & Co – Specialists in Pre-Owned Luxury Watches

Watchtrader & Co is a leading UK-based dealer of pre-owned luxury watches, with boutiques in Newcastle, Knightsbridge and Manchester, and a growing global clientele. The company specialises in sourcing and selling prestige brands including Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, Richard Mille and Cartier. Every watch is authenticated and sold with a 12-month warranty, giving customers added confidence. With strong industry connections and a trusted supplier network, Watchtrader & Co can source rare or in-demand models on request. The team also offers consignment and purchase services for clients looking to sell. Whether you’re building a collection or seeking a single, standout timepiece, Watchtrader & Co offers personalised guidance, competitive pricing and an honest approach to luxury watch investment.

Visit watchtrader.co.uk

Matfen Hall – Country Living Redefined

Matfen Hall is a luxury hotel set within 300 acres of Northumberland parkland. The estate offers 65 individually designed rooms and suites, along with fine dining restaurants, a wellness spa, championship golf course and curated concierge experiences. Its unique location, close to landmarks like Hadrian’s Wall, makes it a popular base for those exploring the natural and cultural beauty of northern England. Guests can enjoy wine tastings in the cellar, spa treatments at The Retreat, or relaxing moments surrounded by landscaped grounds. Matfen Hall combines traditional elegance with attentive service, creating an atmosphere of understated refinement and comfort for leisure guests and corporate visitors alike.

Visit matfenhall.com

Lemuria London – Designed for Legacy

Lemuria London creates refined, handcrafted pieces including travel cases and tailored garments. Every product is handmade in London from ethically sourced materials, with a focus on craftsmanship, longevity and elegance. Their collections are produced by skilled artisans — many with Royal Warrants — who bring a deep understanding of traditional techniques and modern functionality. From one-of-a-kind leather accessories to bespoke apparel, each Lemuria creation reflects the brand’s dedication to timeless design and exceptional quality. These are pieces made to be cherished, reflecting personal style and enduring value.

Visit lemurialondon.com

Maxxmora – Outdoor Living, Redefined

Maxxmora transforms outdoor spaces into refined lifestyle environments, offering luxury furniture and garden collections that combine design innovation with durable materials. Their bespoke projects integrate artistry with technical precision, reflecting a commitment to both form and function. From carved stone and woven textures to sleek metal finishes, every piece is handmade by artisans chosen for their skill and attention to detail. Maxxmora also provides comprehensive project management — from consultation to delivery — tailoring each setting to the client’s preferences and property. With a design-led ethos and global inspiration, Maxxmora brings an elevated approach to open-air living.

Visit maxxmora.com

Kudo Lifestyle Concierge – Personalised Support for Modern Living

Kudo Lifestyle Concierge offers tailored assistance across travel, events, lifestyle management and family services. Founded by Sasha Baldwin, a hospitality expert with decades of industry experience, Kudo delivers thoughtful, transparent and value-driven concierge support. Clients benefit from access to negotiated rates, custom itineraries, and trusted service providers — all curated with personal attention. Whether booking travel, organising events or managing properties, Kudo’s team operates with discretion and dedication. Their services extend to home administration, health coordination, education advice, and exclusive bookings. Kudo’s goal is to simplify life’s logistics so clients can focus on what matters most.

Visit Kudo Lifestyle Concierge.

FlyAffinity – Private Aviation with Transparent Pricing

FlyAffinity offers private aviation services through a membership model focused on clarity, efficiency and savings. Members benefit from expert flight sourcing, reduced overhead costs and full visibility on pricing. Unlike traditional brokers, FlyAffinity charges a fixed service fee rather than a commission, passing cost savings directly to clients. For example, a flight from London to Hong Kong could generate substantial savings under their model. With access to vetted aircraft and global support, FlyAffinity provides tailored solutions for personal and corporate flyers alike. Their team manages every aspect of the journey, ensuring a smooth, discreet and efficient experience.

Visit affinity-aviation.com

Màzo Candles London – Natural Scent, Thoughtfully Made

Màzo Candles London creates handcrafted candles using biodegradable wax and natural essential oils. Each blend is formulated for a rich, layered fragrance profile that lingers beautifully whether lit or unlit. Sustainability is at the heart of the brand, with a commitment to clean-burning ingredients and minimal waste. Their small-batch production ensures consistency and quality across every product. With four signature scents and an evolving range, Màzo Candles bring elegance, atmosphere and conscious craftsmanship into the home — ideal for those who value both aesthetics and environmental awareness.

Visit mazocandleslondon.com

The post Discover Timeless Design, Thoughtful Craft and Exceptional Experiences appeared first on Best of Living.