The concept of haute couture was created by a governing body called the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode (FHCM) in Paris more than 150 years ago. The term, which translates loosely to "high dressmaking", is what fashion dreams are made of pure creativity and craftsmanship at the highest levels of skill, utilising the finest materials. Reserved for a very select group, the total base number of haute couture clients is estimated at just 4,000 people globally today. That haute couture has survived since 1868 - especially in the face of fast fashion and mass production - is a minor miracle in itself.
For a house to be eligible for haute couture status, it must create made-to-order garments in an atelier that has at least 15 full-time staff, as well as 20 full-time technical workers in one of their ateliers. Each collection needs to present at least 50 original designs, including a combination of both day and evening looks. While the pieces are to be presented to the public in Paris (in the months of January and July each year), they are created for the private clients of each house, with each piece requiring more than one fitting. In fact haute couture is known as the bastion of customisation and precision - each piece can be made bespoke for a client and to her exact specifications.
With such exacting standards, it's no wonder the number of haute couture designers remains small. Today, there are around 100 members in the FHCM, and the house of Chanel is one of its most prominent members, with its president of fashion Bruno Pavlovsky serving in the executive committee. Another little-known fact that cements Chanel's status as a leader in haute couture is the fact that the late Coco Chanel designed haute couture exclusively for her namesake brand - ready-to-wear was only introduced by the house after her death in 1978. Before that Chanel remained a classical couture house.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Check mate
For DIOR's cruise 2025 collection, Maria Grazia Chiuri weaves Scottish heritage into modern fashion, creating a dialogue between tradition and rebellion.
Glow-Up Goals
Expert-approved aesthetic treatments to get you looking refreshed, natural, and party-ready.
All The Right Notes
Singapore’s biggest Mandopop star to date, JJ LIN reflects on his two-decade career before embarking on the final leg of his world tour.
Dubai: Capital Of The Future
The most visited megalopolis in the United Arab Emirates, Dubai is a vibrant oasis of modernity; a hotbed of exciting new openings and endless plans.
ARTFUL Indulgence
Le Pristine Singapore IS THE NEW EPICUREAN ESCAPE FOR ART AND DESIGN AFICIONADOS.
Talk of the Town
Miu Miu CONTINUES DEEPENING ITS TIES TO THE art world WITH A PROJECT THAT BRINGS TOGETHER FILM, MOVEMENT AND CONVERSATION.
See Her At N°5
Margot Robbie embodies timeless chic as the new face of Chanel N°5. In this ELLE exclusive, the actress shares her take on the iconic scent.
A closer look at...
You don’t have to be a Warhammer or Arthurian legend geek to appreciate Roger Dubuis’ latest Knights of the Round Table timepiece.
BLUE Paradise
With the support of Rolex and Mission Blue, the Nusa Penida Hope Spot has become a sterling example of ocean conservation.
Counting the Métiers
In this ELLE Singapore exclusive, artistic director of watches and jewellery Francesca Amfitheatrof lays bare what goes into the making a LOUIS VUITTON high jewellery collection.
