Haute couture is everyone’s most liked style of apparel when it comes to luxury.
When we first read about Haute couture, some details actually catch us off guard, which makes us admire it even more.
1. The fashion house must be a member of the “syndical chamber of Haute couture,” which is overseen by the department of industry in Paris, France, in order to be formally known to as Haute Couture and to exhibit designs at Couture Week.
2. The syndicate is strictly exclusive to members only. To join, fashion houses must be regarded as worthy creators of “True” couture. Only 17 fashion maisons – like Dior, Chanel and Armani Privé – are recognized as such for their US$150,000 bespoke gowns.
4. Members include Jean Paul Gaultier, Chanel, Dior, and Schiaparelli this year for the first time in more than 60 years.
5. Although French design houses predominate, a few members who identify as “foreign” are also chosen to participate.
6. Each member “must” employ at least 15 workers, exhibit their collection twice a year, and have daytime and evening attire.
7. Around 15,000 women wore couture in the heyday of fashion following World War II. These days, the number is only thought to be around 2,000 women, and celebrities and actresses frequently receive free couture garments in exchange for exposure.
8. No sewing machines, overlockers, or beading machines are ever used; all seams are finished entirely by hand.
9. Each garment is produced to order and to measure, and at least three fittings are required. Additionally, French firms are typically required to maintain a workshop in Paris, which is frequently referred to as an Altier.
10. The couture clothing displayed on the runway is not intended for retail. Instead, the fashion labels use the runway events more as an opportunity to exhibit their creations.
Amazing, huh?