©trendluxury.com
LM : Before launching TrendLuxury.com, what was the most meaningful experience that happened to you ?
Carlos: The Bora Bora Nui Resort & Spa and the world’s first all-glass under-sea restaurant. Even if you never visited these places, just seeing photos is a flash of luxury before your eyes.
LM : Where does your passion for luxury come from?
Carlos: Beautiful things and exotic places around the world inspire me along with some of the great pillars in fashion like Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, Giorgio Armani, Bill Blass, Givenchy, Gucci, Versace, Kenneth Cole etc. I also remember growing as a young man owning my first GQ magazine, taking aspects of fashion & luxury and adding it to my daily life. I begin participating in small fashion shows which led me towards print modeling. Even though I never got to start that journey its still something I would like to explore. The possibilities are endless !
LM : What made you want to create an online magazine dedicated to upscale shopping & lifestyle?
Carlos: I felt like there was not enough magazines that catered to the affluent and trend-setting audience. This vision transpired from an online shopping portal to a luxurious magazine with shop therapy features. Fusing both flavors of extravagance and lifestyle trends, showcases the uncanning beauty of life’s hidden treasures.
LM : What is the biggest challenge that you have had to face since your launch?
Carlos: It may come to you as a surprise but I would have to say getting media placements. Being that I have an online magazine I’m used to having the final decision on editorial. Until you are on the other end of the spectrum you see the challenges first hand. I’m not sure if editors think I’m not news worthy enough or they don’t want to cover a story on another publication. This industry can be very cut-troat and alot of editors have a firm disposition but I find myself straying from that stereotype. I hold no animosity against my fellow peers, this is a business that revolves around influence, status and competition. I never give up on a challenge and there is always something exciting that were doing that will have others talking. Currently we are partnering with several top-tier luxury and fashion events so stay tuned!
LM : In your opinion, what differentiates US savvy consumers from their European peers?
Carlos : US consumers are very savvy in the savings department. Even though they spend alot, a good sale will send them in a frenzy. The luxury market has felt the recession and alot of luxury brands find themselves slashing prices or adding philanthropy their promotions. I believe luxury fulfills an emotional need that offers social relevancy and status among peers. This explains one of the reasons why a staggering amount of consumers were hit hard by the economic downturn. European consumers on the other hand project a stronger buying power and seem to be more financially conscious about the way they spend. Luxury aficionados seem more enthused by the innovation and creative qualities of luxury goods. Having something unique and rare defines more of whats true opulence to them.