Sweden

Eton of Sweden is internationally known for its innovative and classic designs, exclusive colors, and full range of coordinating accessories. Eton of Sweden was founded as a made-to-measure shirt company in 1928 by Annie and David Pettersson and is still headquartered in Ganghester, the same small village in Sweden since its founding. So what is it that makes Eton of Sweden one of the premier luxury shirt makers in the world and one that has endured for nearly a century?

To learn more about what sets this luxury shirt maker the best of breed, Luxist sat down with Erik Wilkinson, Eton's Director of Sales for North America.

Wilkinson explains that Eton is one of the only apparel brands that has completely vertically integrated the process. With its mill partners, Eton of Sweden buys the raw materials---Pima and Egyptian cotton---which comprises 100% of its collection. Eton buys high quality Pima cotton directly from a consortium of farmers in Peru. "Eton of Sweden only uses Pima and Egyptian cotton because it is the finest, long staple cotton that can be used to make shirts," says Wilkinson.

The cotton is then weaved in Northern Italy and France before being transported to Switzerland for a lengthy, proprietary (and patented) and high-tech 35-step finishing process that produces a smooth, crisp and wrinkle-free result. "The finishing is the critical part of what makes our shirts so special," he adds. "Our shirts tend to last longer and keep their color better than others, too."

Gallery: Eton of Sweden: The premier men's luxury shirt maker

Fans of Stieg Larsson's thriller trilogy have increased the interest in traveling to Sweden. Larsson didn't live to see his massive success which includes selling over 46 million books worldwide and an upcoming Hollywood film of "The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo" by director David Fincher and starring Daniel Craig. Crystal Cruises has announced a new Crystal Adventure, "Stieg Larsson's Stockholm."

Crystal's Larsson-focused shore excursion will take guests to the Stockholm island of Södermalm for a walking tour centered around his novels' content. This view will be offered on three summer Baltic voyages on Crystal Serenity: May 22-June 2's "Baltic Explorer"; June 2-13's "Regal Treasures"; and June 27-July 8's "Jewels of the Baltic."

All three itineraries include overnights in Stockholm, as well as visits to Estonia, St. Petersburg, Finland, Germany, and Copenhagen. The outing is an additional $118 per person, and includes additional panoramic Stockholm highlights. Two-for-one cruise fares, starting at $6,730/person, include free round-trip air transportation from more than 20 North American gateways, and $2,000 per couple in "All Inclusive-As You Wish" shipboard credit, with additional savings for new-to-Crystal guests. For more information and Crystal reservations, contact a travel agent, call 888-799-4625, or visit www.crystalcruises.com.

Stockholm-based global online luxury marketplace JamesList - the place to go when you're in the market for a couple dozen Lamborghini Reventons - has appointed luxury industry veteran Rob Hersov (right) as the chairman of its newly-formed advisory board, consisting of leading figures from the world of private aviation, yachting, luxury cars and high-end watches.

Hersov previously served as vice chairman of NetJets and as a main board member for the Richemont group of world class luxury brands. "JamesList has redefined the global luxury marketplace," he notes. "It offers a unique way to buy and sell the very best luxury products. I am excited about what has been achieved so far and what can be achieved as we grow the business further over the coming months."

JamesList CEO and founder Noam Perski, profiled in our 10 Luxuries feature last month, is equally optimistic. "I am delighted with Rob's appointment," he declares. "His impeccable flare for the luxury market place will be instrumental in growing the JamesList phenomenon. JamesList succeeds because it provides something unique for buyers who are simply interested in owning the best."