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There was a time when the mention of the words luxury and Detroit brought up one image: a car. But local and world-famous designers and major retailers are changing that perspective. The metro Detroit area has been developing into a fashion epicenter, with names such as Johnny Was and �󲹲�’r���� establishing local outposts in recent years and Bottega Veneta choosing the city as the site of its Salon 03 collection’s show in October.

Now, a fresh wave of national brands are putting down roots, and our local designers and retailers are expanding their footprints. Here are some of the highlights:

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The maker of the classic Birkin handbag made its Michigan debut last June. The new store carries women’s and men’s silk and leather accessories, as well as items from the ������è�� home and fragrance lines. It also carries the the brand’s first blush and lip tint products, as part of the Rose collection, composed of eight blush shades, two blush brushes, and three lip enhancers. A statement from ������è�� U.S. President and CEO Robert Chavez says, “We are honored to join the Troy community at the Somerset Collection, bringing ������è�� culture and craft to the heartland of American ingenuity and industry.” ������è��, Somerset Collection, 2801 W. Big Beaver Road, Troy; 947-218-0740;

Aritzia

In October, Canadian women’s fashion retailer Aritzia opened an enormous, 116-foot-long storefront at Somerset Collection. The retailer offers a diverse selection of clothing, accessories, and shoes from such brands as Wilfred, Sunday Best, Agolde, and Levi’s. In addition, guests can enjoy private shopping rooms and personalized shopping experiences. The store is also home to the retailer’s A-OK Cafe — the second in the U.S. — which offers a selection of unique drinks, such as the Mushroom and Miso Caramel Latte, as well as a variety of pastries. Aritzia, Somerset Collection, 2800 W. Big Beaver Road, Troy; 248-458-0955;

Xhibition

In November, Ohio-based fashion retailer Xhibition opened the doors to its Detroit location, providing locals access to its extensive selection of men’s and women’s apparel and footwear. The merchant specializes in streetwear and athleticwear, working with more than 100 notable brands — including Adidas, Nike, Ugg, and Dr. Martens. Through its X Community Works initiative, the brand regularly collaborates with local organizations on charitable endeavors, such as food drives and mentorship programs for kids and teens. Xhibition, The Farwell, 1251 Griswold St., Detroit; 313-634-4080;

Well Done Goods

A decade after the debut of her sophisticated neckwear retailer, Cyberoptix Tie Lab, Bethany Shorb opened her flagship store in 2016, on Gratiot Avenue, under the new name Well Done Goods. She has also branched out into apparel, bath and body products, candles, and Detroit- and Michigan-themed gifts. In November, the Cranbrook alumna relocated Well Done Goods to a 4,000-square-foot space in Eastern Market. In addition to allowing Well Done artisans to craft wares right where they are sold, the expanded space makes the shop Detroit’s largest provider of crystals, minerals, fossils, and handmade jewelry. The retailer’s community involvement includes participating in a six-week paid employment program that prepare Detroit youth for the workforce. Well Done Goods, Eastern Market, 1515 Division St., Detroit;��313-404-2053;

The Great Eros

Founded in New York City, in 2016, The Great Eros found its way to Birmingham, where it opened a second location in October. Minimalism and elegance converge in the form of silk and sheer tops, cotton skirts, and luxury lingerie. The retailer — with fashion industry veteran Christina Viviani at the helm — prioritizes comfort, ethics, and sustainability, working with family-owned factories and studios in Italy and New York. The shop also offers lifestyle items, like candles and face masks. The Great Eros, 245 W. Maple Road, Birmingham; 248-792-9247;

Rebel Nell

The jewelry maker opened its second retail location — and first stand-alone — at Twelve Oaks Mall, in November. Since launching in 2013, Rebel Nell has become well known among metro Detroiters for crafting one-of-a-kind earrings, bracelets, necklaces, and rings out of fallen graffiti chips collected from around the city of Detroit. Each sale supports the brand’s charitable mission of hiring, training, and providing support services for local women facing barriers to employment.��Rebel Nell, Twelve Oaks Mall, 27500 Novi Road, Novi;

Louis Vuitton��

Louis Vuitton was founded in Paris in 1854 and has since become one of the most influential fashion houses in history. But Somerset Collection shoppers are now seeing the brand in a new light, following the opening of its expanded and freshly renovated location in October. Wood surfaces are carved with iconic Louis Vuitton patterns, complemented by works from Michigan artists Frank Lepkowski and Jennifer Kroll. Shop for women’s and men’s ready-to-wear clothing, jewelry, handmade leather goods, and fragrances. Private appointments are available, as is a brand-new VIP room. Louis Vuitton, Somerset Collection, 2800 W. Big Beaver Road, Troy;248-643-8930;