When it comes to fashion, few terms ignite as much excitement and glamour as “haute couture.” Originating from the French language, haute couture translates to “high sewing” or “high dressmaking.”
Aurellia Daphne Kurniawan
But what exactly does haute couture mean in the world of fashion design?
Haute couture represents the pinnacle of craftsmanship, luxury, and exclusivity in the fashion industry. It refers to custom-made clothing created by highly skilled artisans, who meticulously handcraft each garment with extreme attention to detail. The world of haute couture is often associated with
renowned fashion houses such as Chanel, Dior, and Valentino, who showcase their exquisite creations on the prestigious runways of Paris. These fashion houses are known for their innovative designs, intricate embellishments, and impeccable craftsmanship, creating garments that are works of art.
Razan Elahadi
To be considered haute couture, fashion houses must adhere to strict criteria set by the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture, the governing body of haute couture in France. Some of these requirements include having an atelier in Paris with a certain number of skilled craftspeople, presenting a minimum number of original designs each season, and hosting private fittings for clients. Haute couture collections often feature extravagant and avant-garde designs that push the boundaries of fashion. These pieces are not intended for mass production or commercialization but rather serve as artistic expressions and sources of inspiration for the wider fashion industry.
Severin Bucher
Haute Couture Exploration at IFA Paris
Alinyeju Akomah-Mordi
For the students at IFA Paris Bachelor’s program in Fashion Design & Technology, trying their hand at haute couture with their lecturer Tanja is a thrilling opportunity to explore their creativity and master the art of precision and craftsmanship. It allows them to delve into the world of opulence and create one-of-a-kind pieces that showcase their artistic prowess. Through their exploration of haute couture, they gain invaluable insights into the mastery required to create garments that make a bold and unforgettable statement on the runway.
Victoria Valentina de Witt
By embracing the challenge of haute couture, our Bachelor’s students not only nurture their technical skills but also develop their creative vision and ability to push boundaries. They learn to balance innovation with wearability, creating designs that are both aesthetically captivating and representative of their unique artistic voice.
At IFA Paris, we encourage our students to embrace the essence of haute couture, infusing their designs with creativity, precision, and a dedication to excellence. Through this experience, they not only gain a deeper understanding of the fashion industry but also develop the skills necessary to excel in this competitive field.