Why are crafts essential to luxury?

When we think of luxury, we immediately think of excellence. But behind every piece, every detail, lies the work of women. These crafts, although often discreet, are absolutely crucial to the luxury industry. And why is that?

Exceptional expertise in the service of the unique

Art crafts embody rare and precious know-how. A perfect seam, a hand-embroidered motif, a piece of furniture sculpted to measure: these details tell a story, the story of a craftswoman who has put all her talent into creating a unique work. These skills, rooted in tradition, are inseparable from our cultural heritage. A luxury brand that values craftsmanship does more than simply produce objects: it highlights a living heritage.

An ecological challenge and a response to consumer aspirations

At a time when consumers are increasingly looking for sustainable and responsible products, craftsmanship offers an alternative to industrial production. Creating timeless pieces that are designed to last is a way of meeting today's ecological challenges, while at the same time making the most of noble, sustainable materials.

According to a study by Wordstream, 61% of young people in Generation Y say they are concerned about the state of the planet and want to consume differently. By favouring artisanal creations, they are contributing to respectful consumption and giving meaning to their choices.

Innovation at the heart of tradition

Craft is rooted in tradition, but it is also an incredible source of innovation. Craftspeople are constantly experimenting, whether with modern techniques, collaborations with designers or even technological innovations. This dialogue between past and future is one of the reasons why these professions are essential to luxury.

A worrying shortage: 10,000 vacancies every year

Yet these exceptional skills are under threat. In France, every year, there are almost 10,000 vacancies in luxury-related arts and crafts. In Italy, the shortfall is estimated to reach 90,000 profiles within three years. This lack of manpower, combined with the low priority given to these professions in school curricula and a lack of awareness among the general public, is jeopardising a whole section of the industry.

Faced with this situation, companies and institutions are taking steps to preserve these craft treasures.

Initiatives to preserve and pass on skills

LVMH, with its Institut des Métiers d'Excellence (IME) launched in 2014, now offers 288 continuing education programmes around the world. In 2023, the group also inaugurated a Maison des Métiers d'Excellence, incorporating training workshops and spaces to raise awareness of craft trades among the general public. Other initiatives, such as the Show Me event organised by LVMH, help to raise awareness among the younger generation. Its third edition, held last October, welcomed secondary school students to discover these manual trades.

These programmes show that it is possible to restore the prestige of artistic craftsmanship.

LVMH / Institut des Métier d'Excellence

Preserving these professions: an essential mission

At Paula, we firmly believe that the future of luxury rests on the ability to protect and pass on these treasures of craftsmanship. Crafts are not just a heritage: they are a source of creativity, innovation and sustainability for the future.

Our mission is clear: to preserve these exceptional skills, shine the spotlight on craftspeople, and create a network to connect masters and apprentices. Because protecting these crafts means guaranteeing the future of luxury and the values it embodies.