What is Haute Couture? And why is it so exclusive?

Haute Couture (also known as "high sewing" or "high fashion") is much more than just breathtaking ballgowns; for the French is "the heart of fashion's ecosystem". Garments can generally take up to 700 hours to make, and each is designed for 2,000 exclusive buyers. For example, if something has the word "couture" in it, in means that it has been custom-created for a specific client.

Where did Haute Couture come from?

Englishman, Charles Frederick Worth is referred to as the father of haute couture. He moved from England to Paris in 1856, where he began his fashion journey. He eventually opened his own boutique, Worth et Bobergh, which gained a very devoted clientele.

Who regulates haute couture?

The Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode is responsible for managing the haute couture industry in Paris, which protects designers such as Jean Paul. Gaultier and Schiaparelli, as well as design houses like Valentino, Chanel, and Givenchy. Only a few own the title of haute couture.

Paris Haute Couture Week

This lavish event is mostly attended by people who are willing to spend more than $20,000 on those eccentric haute couture garments. The sets used for haute couture shows are specially thought through so that the gowns are the center of attention. For example, Chanel recreated Paris to showcase their classic suits and stunning gowns.

Who actually buys haute couture?

Whoever can afford it, of course. Not all of us have more than tenths of thousands of dollars laying around to spend on a gown. Some of haute couture's clientele include Celine Dion, Elena Perminova, Queen Rania of Jordan, Daphne Guinness, and much more.

Haute Couture Week starts July 4 through July 7, so if you don't mind, we will be watching and daydreaming about owning one of these prestigious pieces.