What is haute?

Haute Couture

Haute couture (French for "high sewing" or "high dressmaking") refers to the creation of exclusive custom-fitted clothing. It is high-end fashion that is constructed by hand from start to finish, made from high-quality, expensive, often unusual fabric and sewn with extreme attention to detail and finished by the most experienced and capable sewers—often using time-consuming, hand-executed techniques.

Key aspects of haute couture include:

  • Exclusivity and Customization: Pieces are made to order for private clients, often with multiple fittings.

  • Exceptional Quality: High-quality fabrics and embellishments are used, alongside meticulous craftsmanship.

  • Artistic Expression: Haute couture is a significant art form, showcasing the designer's vision and pushing creative boundaries in <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/fashion%20design">fashion design</a>.

  • Recognition and Regulation: In France, the term "haute couture" is protected by law and is awarded by the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture, which operates under the auspices of the French Ministry of Industry. To qualify, a fashion house must meet strict criteria, including designing made-to-order garments for private clients, having a workshop (atelier) in Paris that employs at least fifteen full-time staff, and presenting a collection of at least fifty original designs to the public every season.

  • History: <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Haute%20couture's%20history">Haute couture's history</a> can be traced to Charles Frederick Worth, who is widely regarded as the father of haute couture. In the mid-19th century, Worth established his fashion house in Paris and revolutionized the industry by creating designs that were presented on live models and then custom-made for clients.