Gender roles are steadily changing in the Middle East, with 71% of young Arab women saying a woman’s role in society is to seek employment for financial support and independence. Aiming to empower them is Arwa Al Banawi, whose ‘Suitable Woman’ line pays tribute to females in the boardroom.

As well as featuring fantastical gadgets and dastardly villains, 2017 movie sequelKingsman: The Golden Circlecelebrates secret agent style. And it’s letting fans replicate the spy look with an official capsule collection launched in collaboration with luxury menswear retailer Mr Porter.

Although the average US woman is now a size 16, only 0.1% of high-end brands identify as ‘plus-size’. Aiming to diversify the luxury fashion industry and tap into the growing demand for greater size-inclusivity in fashion, 11 Honoré is an online platform offering chic fashion styles in US sizes 10-20.

In 2017, Saint Laurent partnered with famed boutique Colette for a collection that celebrated “the traditions and tenets of Parisian culture” – but the range was noticeably short on actual clothes. So, how did a branded Vespa, skateboard, and BDSM paddles aim to broaden the luxury label’s appeal?

While luxury travellers may once have taken monogrammed Louis Vuitton luggage on their trips, the fast and functional Rimowa is prized by the new jet set. With Gen Y flying abroad more often than older generations, the sturdy suitcase brand serves as a no-frills status symbol for those on the go.

Stepping away from the catwalk, Dolce & Gabbana is investing in what makes people salivate. The luxury brand has collaborated with Pastificio Di Martino to create a limited edition gift box that celebrates family, pasta and Italy – but what gives the fashion label legitimacy on the dinner table?

While 78% of affluent shoppers in the Middle East like to keep up with the latest trends, that’s not always an option when it comes to couture. Designer-24 is giving people a more affordable option by letting them hire high-end fashion, aiming to change consumption habits in the process.

The resale market for streetwear has expanded from niche online communities to form a sizeable part of the $18 billion apparel resale industry. But who are the key players in this world? And what drives people to spend small fortunes to secure particular sneakers, t-shirts and hoodies?