1. Louis Vuitton - Considered the most valuable luxury brand over the last five years, Louis Vuitton continued to position itself as timeless and authentic. The brand increased prices, invested in creativity and heightened the focus on quality rather than compromising its brand value during the recession. Louis Vuitton’s overall brand value went up 2 percent to $19.78 billion.
2. Hermés - The brand chose to focus on its heritage, since the majority of Hermés is still family-owned, by sponsoring a horse competition in Paris. Hermés’ overall brand value went up 8 percent to $8.46 billion.
3. Gucci - The Italian luxury brand teamed up with Christie’s to appraise vintage Gucci luggage and handbags to give the brand a lead on its competitors. Gucci’s overall brand value increased by 2 percent to $7.59 billion.
4. Chanel - The brand’s value decreased 11 percent to $5.55 billion. This dip is a sign of the times. While Chanel still attracted affluent consumers with its classic quilted bags, cosmetics and fragrances, many consumers stayed away from the ready-to-wear.
5. Hennessy - The LVMH-owned cognac brand’s value decreased 1 percent to $5.37 billion, but remains extremely popular in China.
6. Rolex - The luxury watchmaker, along with other high-end jewelry makers, suffered greatly throughout the recession. Rolex’s overall brand value went down 14 percent to $4.74 billion.
7. Moët and Chandon - Moët still remains the top champagne brand, even though its brand value decreased 12 percent to $4.28 billion.
8. Cartier - The Richemont-owned brand reported lower sales throughout its own boutiques and to third party retailers. Cartier’s overall brand value decreased 19 percent to $3.96 billion.
9. Fendi - Well-known for its collection of “It” bags in the U.S., Fendi has a huge luxury presence in Asia. LVMH is looking to reposition the brand. The brand’s overall value went down 8 percent to $3.2 billion.
10. Tiffany & Co. - The luxury jewelry maker did not even rank on Millward Brown’s list last year, but its brand value increased 6 percent to $2.38 billion. Tiffany & Co. plans to expand in both Asia and Western Europe