The term savoir-faire is a French expression that literally translates as “know-how.” However, in the context of luxury—whether in fashion or beauty—it goes far beyond manual skill. It represents a blend of knowledge, experience, mastery, and aesthetic sensitivity. And it is precisely here that its deep connection to the world of luxury lies.
Savoir-faire in the luxury sector
“To build a career in the luxury sector, it is essential to understand that this is an industry where excellence is non-negotiable. Attention to detail, aesthetic sensitivity, listening skills, and the ability to anticipate are key competencies,” explains Carina Calleja Palazuelo, Head of Marketing at NUBA in Spain, a company specialising in bespoke luxury travel and a collaborator of Vogue College of Fashion in the Master’s in International Luxury Business.
On savoir-faire and the world of exclusivity, she adds: “It is also crucial to have a genuine service mindset, to understand that every interaction builds the brand, and that clients expect a flawless experience across every touchpoint.”
Calleja also highlights that this is a sector that demands curiosity, innovation, and a strong capacity for adaptation. Luxury is constantly evolving, and those who work within it “must know how to interpret new market needs,” while preserving the essence of exclusivity and elegance.
Luxury today, according to experts
Savoir-faire in the luxury industry has evolved over time in response to changing consumer needs, with digitalisation playing a key role in this shift.
“Today, luxury is no longer defined solely by the material, but by the emotional and the experiential. For us, luxury means access to the extraordinary: the unique, the authentic, and that which cannot be replicated”
The contemporary luxury client—particularly in the lifestyle sector—is more sophisticated, highly informed, and very clear about how they want to invest their time. “They are not simply looking for a destination; they seek meaning, differentiation, and experiences that connect with their personal values and interests.”
Authenticity is also highly valued today, along with extreme personalisation—even in the smallest details—and a service that delivers peace of mind.
A company that embodies savoir-faire
NUBA was founded with the purpose of reinventing the way we travel, transforming journeys into experiences that are “personal, inspiring, and enriching.” From the outset, the brand was conceived as an exclusive club, driven by the ambition to reach places others had not and to open horizons beyond the traditional market offering. This spirit of exploration, discovery, and privileged access has been part of its DNA from day one. Their key to success? Putting the client at the centre.
“We understood that the experience begins long before the journey itself. It starts the moment a client walks through the door of our boutique—in every interaction, every detail, every decision we make as a brand,” Calleja explains. The cost of achieving this? A rebranding process, intensive learning, deeper client listening, and involvement in every stage of the journey.
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Advice for future experts and students
During the Vogue Master’s in International Luxury Business, NUBA sets students a practical case study based on a real business challenge. The aim is to bring them closer to the reality of the luxury sector through a practical lens, directly connected to current business challenges.
“To do so, we present the company in depth—its history, values, geographical scope, business lines, vision, and mission—and assign two real working cases. On one hand, we ask them to reflect on potential new products or business lines that could generate new revenue streams, incorporating competitive analysis, differentiation, financial planning, and pricing strategy,” Calleja explains.
“On the other, we task them with conducting a market and competitor analysis aimed at identifying how we can continue to differentiate ourselves, further elevate our positioning, and refine our pricing strategy within the luxury segment.”
To support them, students receive two tutorial sessions designed to guide their work and enhance their proposals. These tailored workshops and exercises are a hallmark of Vogue’s master’s programmes. Courses begin in October, and applications are now open. For more information, visit the website or contact infoadmisiones@voguecollege.
Take the next step into the world of luxury
Transform your passion into a professional career with the Master’s in International Luxury Business at Vogue College of Fashion.
