Hybrids of luxury and mass-market brands remain in vogue

The work of haute couture designers used to be owned only by a discerning few. But as austerity becomes a catchphrase in Europe and North America, more luxury brands are 'kowtowing' to mass consumers and tying up with 'high street' brands to create crossover products. These hybrids not only appeal to wallet-conscious consumers but also create media buzz. Here are some examples.