Haute Couture

On average, it takes 150 hours to create a basic couture dress or suit, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail involved in haute couture.

Since the reign of Louis XIV in France, the country has supported its textile industry with great importance. Jean-Baptiste Colbert, the monarch's minister for finance, recognized the economic impact of fabrics on France and prioritized the textile sector.

Charles Frederick Worth, born in 1825, was an Englishman who moved to Paris in 1845 and played a significant role in the development of haute couture.

In 1845, Charles Frederick Worth moved from London to Paris, where he later became a prominent figure in the world of haute couture.

In 1851, Charles Frederick Worth gained acclaim for his displays at the Great Exhibition in London. This event marked his early success in the fashion industry before establishing The House of Worth in Paris.

In 1858, English couturier Charles Frederick Worth founded the first haute couture house in Paris, pioneering exclusive luxury fashion for the upper-class women. He also coined the term 'fashion designer' to elevate the status of designers.

Le Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture was established in 1868 to safeguard high-fashion standards. Designers had to meet specific criteria to be recognized as a couture house, a system further detailed in 1945.

The term 'haute couture' was first employed in 1908 to describe the high-end, custom-made fashion created by designers for private clients. It marked a significant milestone in the fashion industry.

In 1912, Madeleine Vionnet opened her own boutique called Vionnet, where she became known as the architect of fashion with her bias cut clothes dominating haute couture in the 1930s.

In 1919, Cristobal Balenciaga opened his atelier in Spain, which later moved to Paris and became widely recognized for his revolutionary designs.

In 1921, the French press established PAIS to safeguard individual haute couture designs from piracy. Designs were documented through photographs on mannequins to provide legal evidence of ownership.

The House of Worth, founded by Charles Frederick Worth in the 19th century, closed its doors in 1925. Worth was considered the father of haute couture and his designs were renowned for their opulence and luxury.

In 1927, Elsa Schiaparelli founded her fashion house, known for its modern take on embroidery and collaborations with artists like Christian Berard, Jean Cocteau, and Salvador Dali. Schiaparelli played a significant role in bringing French Haute Couture to the global stage.

Vivienne Westwood, born in 1941, is known for her influential role in shaping the punk style movement. Her designs challenge traditional fashion norms and continue to inspire avant-garde fashion trends.

On January 23rd, 1945, the legally registered designation of origin 'Haute Couture' was created by the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture, ensuring that only approved institutions could bear this prestigious title.

The House of Christian Dior was officially founded on December 16th, 1946, but it is often cited that 1947 is the true year of conception as it was when Dior showcased his debut collection, setting the tone for the return of Paris to the international fashion stage.

In 1947, Christian Dior introduced his revolutionary 'New Look' collection, featuring soft shoulders, cinched waists, and full skirts. This collection marked a significant shift in post-war fashion, bringing back luxury and femininity.

Italian fashion has been a significant influence in the global fashion industry since the mid-20th century. The Made in Italy movement showcases the craftsmanship and luxury associated with Italian fashion.

In 1957, Hubert de Givenchy founded his eponymous fashion house, House of Givenchy. Known for his elegant and sophisticated designs, Givenchy dressed iconic figures like Audrey Hepburn, solidifying his place in fashion history.

In 1966, Yves Saint Laurent founded his own fashion label after leaving the House of Dior. He is credited with revolutionizing women's fashion by introducing ready-to-wear clothing and popularizing the tuxedo suit for women.

In 1970, the number of couture houses decreased significantly to just 19 from 106 in 1946. Designers blamed the strict regulations of Le Chambre Syndicale de La Haute Couture for imposing unsustainable conditions post-war.

The Chambre Syndicale du Prêt-à-Porter des Couturiers et des Créateurs de Mode was established on October 8th, 1973, bringing together fashion designers and couturiers to promote ready-to-wear fashion.

The book 'Worth: Father of Haute Couture' explores the life and legacy of Charles Frederick Worth, who is considered the pioneer and founder of haute couture fashion.

An exhibition catalogue titled Haute Couture was published in 1995 by Martin, Richard, and Harold Koda at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.

The exhibition catalog 'Christian Dior' at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1996 showcased the iconic work of the renowned fashion designer, highlighting his significant contributions to haute couture.

In 1998, the Chambre Syndicale introduced Guest Members, allowing new luxury brands to showcase their collections during haute couture week alongside official houses.

Haute couture is a discipline that focuses on ultimate imagination and quality in fashion design, unconstrained by cost. It remains a symbol of the most beautiful and visionary clothing that can be created.

Harold Koda explored the history and significance of the chopine in October 2002.

Harold Koda penned an essay in October 2003 called 'Classical Art and Modern Dress' discussing the influence of classical art on contemporary fashion.

In October 2004, The Costume Institute at The Metropolitan Museum of Art opened a new exhibition showcasing various iconic fashion pieces and designers throughout history.

Harold Koda's essay 'Paul Poiret (1879–1944)' from September 2008 discusses the life and work of the influential fashion designer Paul Poiret.

Since 2010, the official Haute Couture calendar has featured the Finest Jewellery Houses affiliated with the Federation. This initiative allows for synchronized presentations and showcases the history of two sectors known for exceptional craftsmanship.

In 2011, John Galliano, a renowned couture designer, was fired from Dior, signaling a significant event in the world of haute couture.

In 2013, Rad Hourani made history by showcasing the first ever unisex couture collection.

In 2014, Christian Dior created waves by hosting the first haute couture show in Shanghai, expanding the reach of high fashion.

In S/S 2015 show, the designer announced the closure of the ready-to-wear labels to focus on haute couture.

In 2016, Karl Lagerfeld organized the Fendi autumn/winter 2016 couture show at the iconic Trevi Fountain in Rome to celebrate the house's 90th anniversary. Models like Kendall Jenner and Bella Hadid showcased the collection 'Legends and Fairytales' by walking on water.

On June 29th, 2017, the Fédération Française de la Couture, du Prêt-à-Porter des Couturiers et des Créateurs de Mode was rebranded as the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode, highlighting the importance of Haute Couture in the fashion industry.

An event presenting the haute couture collections for the Spring/Summer 2018 season, highlighting the latest trends and designs in the fashion industry.

For the first time ever, Haute Couture Fashion Week for the Autumn/Winter 2020 season was conducted online due to social-distancing rules and travel restrictions. This decision was made to adapt to the current global situation.

An overview of the Paris Haute Couture Week in 2023, featuring the latest trends and collections from top fashion houses and designers.