How it works
A haute couture garment is made for a specific client, by hand, with many fittings, and can take hundreds of hours of work. Few such garments are made each year, and they cost as much as a car or a flat.
In France haute couture status is granted by the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode. A house must have workrooms in Paris, permanent staff and present a collection twice a year. Haute couture weeks are held in Paris in January and July.
For a model a couture show is prestige: few models walk, and the walk and posture must be flawless, because the garments are heavy and complex.
In practice
In July a model is invited to a couture show in Paris. The fitting takes three hours: the gown is sewn on her and the seamstresses adjust every seam. During the show the gown weighs several kilos, so she walks more slowly and holds her shoulders especially straight. Afterwards that gown may be sold to a single client in the whole world.
What to watch for
- Couture fittings are long: be patient.
- Handle the garments with great care: they are unique.
- Adapt your walk to the weight and length of the gown.
Related terms
Frequently asked
01How does haute couture differ from ready-to-wear?
Haute couture is handmade to individual measurements; ready-to-wear is made in standard sizes and sold in stores.
02When is haute couture week?
In Paris, in January and July.