This is a(Chronicle of a Small Earthquake in the Kingdom of Fashion). In the golden heavens of haute couture, where reigns the Almighty Lord of Luxury, a strange sound was heard: “Versace sold to Prada for $1.4 billion!”

The angels of marketing lost their wings. Even the tailors of “j’aDior”, overcome with emotion, pricked their fingers on their pins. For you see, the rival Capri Holdings thought to be dozing off atop its Michael Kors and Jimmy Choo had just landed a major blow, an uppercut in Italian silk.

At the head of this little rebellion stood a certain “John Idol” a name predestined, if not divine. The man may not have multiplied margins as others multiply loaves, yet he has kept the faith:

“We performed better in the second quarter,” he declared, like a preacher in a Roman collar. “Our revenues fell by only 2.5%  praise profitability!”

Granted, the prophet of ready-to-wear has yet to turn the water of losses into champagne: a $34 million deficit still means a lot of bubbles to chase. But optimism remains the essential accessory in this world even more than handbags.

And to prove his devotion, Idol announced:

“We will repay our debts and strengthen our balance sheet!”

Ah, what a fine verse of economic gospel! Meanwhile, from his Parisian throne, the Lord of LVMH raises an eyebrow. A rival dares to stir, even to breathe, within the suffocating realm of global luxury.

And so, in this vast empire where everything glitters, a small light flickers that of an underdog who, despite dwindling numbers, still dares to dream. And sometimes, a $1.4 billion dream is enough to tickle the side of the Lord.

FM