FASHION EXPLAINED HAUTE COUTURE

Haute couture, a French term translating to “high sewing” or “high dressmaking,” represents the peak of fashion design.

- Bidisha Mitra

It is a niche sector within the fashion industry characterised by exclusive, customfitted clothing meticulously crafted by hand from start to finish. Each piece in haute couture is an ode to excellent craftsmanship, luxurious materials, and intricate detailing designed to fit a client’s exact measurements and specifications.

THE HISTORICAL CONTEXT OF HAUTE COUTURE The origins of haute couture can be traced back to the mid-19th century with Charles Frederick Worth, an English designer who founded the House of Worth in Paris in 1858. Worth is often credited with transforming the concept of dressmaking into the high art it is today, effectively establishing the modern fashion industry. He introduced the notion of designers presenting their collections through live models, a practice now known as fashion shows.

DEFINING FEATURES OF HAUTE COUTURE

1 Custom Design: Each garment is custom-made for the client. This involves numerous fittings and adjustments to ensure a perfect fit.

2 Artisanal Craftsmanship: Haute couture pieces are often hand-sewn by skilled artisans using techniques that have been passed down through generations. These techniques include embroidery, pleating, and lace-making.

3 Luxury Materials: Only the finest fabrics and materials are used, often sourced from exclusive suppliers. This can include rare textiles, precious stones, and intricate embellishments.

4 Unique Designs: Every haute couture creation is unique, reflecting the designer’s vision and the client’s preferences. This exclusivity is a hallmark of the haute couture tradition.