While this once-public company was planning another initial public offering for 2008, the recession–and investments in new stores and product lines–has kept these plans at bay. However, the value of Muccia Prada’s designs, which continue to please industry insiders and luxury consumers alike, has pushed this brand into the ranks of luxury’s 10 most powerful. Sales were flat from 2007 to 2008 at $1.7 billion.