Hermès International, S.A., or simply Hermès (IPA: French [ɛʁmɛs] ^[3], typical British English [ɛːˈmɛz]), American English [ɛɻˈmɛz] is a French high fashion house specializing in leather, ready-to-wear, lifestyle accessories, and perfumery luxury goods. The company is renowned in the fashion world, and its products are considered to be prestigious by virtue of workmanship, reputation, and price. It is recognized by its Duc carriage with horse logo.

Established in 1837, the saddle shop of Thiery Hermès in Paris, France quickly became an international success. Hermès continues to implement its traditional techniques into its creations.^[4] Recognized clientele of Hermès include: Paris Hilton, Nicole Kidman, Julianne Moore, Elle McPherson, Elizabeth Hurley, and Madonna.^[5]

Chanel S.A. IPA: [ʃə.ˈnɛɫ] ), is a Parisian fashion house created by Coco Chanel. Specializing in luxury goods (haute couture, ready-to-wear, handbags, perfumery, and cosmetics among others), the Chanel label has become one of the most recognized names in luxury and haute couture fashion^{[citation needed]}.^[1] According to Forbes, the privately held House of Chanel is jointly owned by Alain Wertheimer and Gerard Wertheimer who are the grandsons of the early (1924) Chanel partner Pierre Wertheimer.

The main rivals of la Maison de Chanel include Christian Dior and the LVMH group. The company has had many high-profile celebrities as spokesmodels, including Catherine Deneuve (1970s Chanel No.5 spokesmodel), Nicole Kidman (early 2000s Chanel No. 5 spokesmodel), Audrey Tautou (current Chanel No.5 spokesmodel). There is a widespread misbelief that Marilyn Monroe was a Chanel No. 5 spokesmodel in the 50s, perhaps because when asked what she wore in bed, Monroe famously replied, "Why, Chanel No. 5, of course."^[2]. Indeed, Monroe was photographed by Ed Feingersh splashing herself with a bottle of Chanel No. 5, but the image was never an actual ad for Chanel.