Haute Couture - which translates to French for high sewing - is the craft of dressmaking that has been around for over a century, functioning as the form of bespoke fashion that is intrinsically linked with the capital of fashion, France which showcases design and innovation to the umpteenth scale. Serving as a creative laboratory for designers to dream and create with no holds barred, these creations are often only gawked at by the masses, while a small percentage of elites get to experience these extravagant creations. Thousands of hours are spent creating a single garment, made only from the best materials money can procure.
Its slow and meticulous processes oppose the winds of today, where everything is fast-paced thanks to the dawn of technology. With Haute Couture's value system being heavily rooted in its commitment to tradition, fantasy and age-old craftsmanship, its presence within today's society is constantly challenged and comes into question. What does Haute Couture mean today and where does it fit within the bigger picture of the world?
The origins of Haute Couture reside in Paris when Englishman Charles Frederick Worth moved to set up his brand in 1858. Deemed the first-ever couturier, he transformed the world of dressmaking into what is known as Haute Couture, familiar to us today. Nearly a century after, the Fédération de la Haute Couture (FHCM) was erected in 1945 as a governing body that authorises the usage of the term Haute Couture and defines what constitutes the craft through a strict set of requirements that is continually upheld today. These factors coupled with the fact that Haute Couture is still highly regarded as an art form - account for the Fédération's official seal of approval's continued popularity.
This story is from the September 2023 edition of MEN'S FOLIO Malaysia.
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 September 2023 edition of MEN'S FOLIO Malaysia.
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
Forged in Steel
Franck Muller celebrates Sincere Fine Watches’ 7Oth anniversary with avery special Vanguard.
Made For Modern Life
The Volvo EX30 is the much-needed vehicle for a joyful and fuss-free ride.
Eastern Charm
With a blazing display of KARLS Group's culinary bravura, the Upper House KL gives classic Asian flavours a modern twist.
When Worlds Collide
Where revered tradition meets unceasing imagination, Hennessy has teamed up with French artist Jean-Michel Othoniel for its latest collaboration.
Business Means Business: Cathay Pacific
With the return of flights, and the additional of new ones, there is little reason to doubt that doing a stopover in Hong Kong with Cathay Pacific to any destination in the world from ASEAN is the best decision one might make in their lifetime. Plus, its concrete Business and Premium Economy Class offerings, and world-renowned lounges in HKIA make travelling on the Hong Kong-based airline an experience via a stopover, rather than a chore.
Malaysia's New Zenith
Celebrating the first Malaysian Zenith boutique in The Exchange TRX.
Two-Timing
Cartier's timekeeping greats for 2024 range from the classic to the experimental.
Racing Through Time
Celebrating Rolex’s timeless relationship with motor racing.
A Man And His Watch
Men's Folio Malaysia speaks to watch collectors about the first watch that drew them into the hobby.
A Cartoon's Charm
Cartoon watches might seem childish but there are reasons to feel otherwise, especially if the nostalgia transports one back to childhood days.
