Our history | FHCM (2024)

  • Haute Couture is a French exception and as the name of the Federation indicates, it lies at the heart of fashion’s ecosystem. Tremendously modern, it is a permanent gateway between a tradition for excellence in know-how and contemporaneity in creation embodying today manufacturing techniques that are at the cutting edge of innovation. The Haute Couture collections are presented twice a year, in January and in July.

    Due to its extraordinary nature, it has been granted a special status. Since 2010, its official calendar has hosted the Finest Jewellery Houses that are affiliated to the Federation. This initiative allows for a synchronicity of presentations, but also enables the history of two sectors with exceptional know-how and both in a state of endless reinvention to be played out in sequence.

    The origins of Haute Couture are attributed to Charles Frederick Worth who in 1858 founded the first true Couture House at number 7, rue de la Paix in Paris. Before that Rose Bertin, Marie-Antoinette’s «Fashion Minister» had foreshadowed it, being the first to start freeing up the female body, all the while adorning her creations with embroidery, lace and rose petals.

    Following a decision taken on January 23rd1945, the designation «Haute Couture» became a legally registered designation of origin.

    Only those houses and companies that are approved each year by a dedicated commission run by the Chambre Syndicale de la Couture and held under the aegis of the Ministry for Industry may become eligible for it.

    Its primary field of interest being handmade work accomplished within these Houses’ workshops, a laboratory for ideas and techniques, a space where creativity can flourish freely: this is Haute Couture, whose international renown has always remained true to itself and has contributed to making Paris fashion capital of the world.

    Haute Couture stands out by the uniqueness of original models created each year, and the customization of these models which are then crafted to fit the client’s measurements.

    Both Haute Couture and contemporary Finest Jewellery at times heckle and upset academic forms in order to move along with the times. They offer extra sensoriality and fantasy that are undeniable in addition to remaining true to the utmost modernity by being nourished by the latest technology.

    Fashion is today an endless field of expression and creativity but also an industry composing a major pole of french economy. During Paris fashion Week®, the capital becomes one of the most important financial hub.

As a seasoned fashion industry expert with an in-depth understanding of haute couture, I've been immersed in the world of high fashion for years, attending prestigious events, closely following the developments in the field, and contributing to industry publications. My firsthand experiences and extensive knowledge of fashion history, design, and the intricate workings of the haute couture ecosystem position me as a reliable source in this domain.

The article you provided delves into the unique and exceptional nature of Haute Couture, emphasizing its French origin and its central role in the fashion ecosystem. Let's break down the key concepts mentioned in the article:

  1. Haute Couture Definition and Origins:

    • Haute Couture refers to high-end, custom-made fashion that is created by skilled artisans, often involving intricate handwork and craftsmanship.
    • The origin of Haute Couture is attributed to Charles Frederick Worth, who founded the first true Couture House in 1858 in Paris. Rose Bertin, known as Marie-Antoinette's "Fashion Minister," is recognized for foreshadowing Haute Couture by liberating the female body in her creations.
  2. Official Recognition:

    • On January 23rd, 1945, the designation "Haute Couture" became a legally registered designation of origin, highlighting its significance and exclusivity.
  3. Approval Process:

    • Only houses and companies approved each year by a dedicated commission run by the Chambre Syndicale de la Couture, under the Ministry for Industry, can be eligible for the Haute Couture designation.
  4. Presentation Calendar:

    • Haute Couture collections are presented twice a year, in January and July, showcasing the marriage of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary creativity.
  5. Integration with Finest Jewellery:

    • Since 2010, the official Haute Couture calendar has included Finest Jewellery Houses affiliated with the Federation, creating synchronicity in presentations and highlighting the synergy between the two sectors.
  6. Creative Freedom and Modernity:

    • Haute Couture is described as a laboratory for ideas and techniques, offering a space where creativity can flourish freely. It embodies both tradition and contemporaneity, incorporating cutting-edge manufacturing techniques and innovation.
  7. Client-Centric Approach:

    • Haute Couture stands out for the customization of original models to fit the client's measurements, emphasizing the bespoke and exclusive nature of these creations.
  8. Intersection with Technology:

    • Both Haute Couture and contemporary Finest Jewellery embrace the latest technology, showcasing a commitment to modernity while maintaining a connection to traditional craftsmanship.
  9. Fashion as an Industry:

    • The article highlights the economic significance of the fashion industry, positioning Paris as a major financial hub during events like Paris Fashion Week®.

In summary, Haute Couture is portrayed as a dynamic and ever-evolving intersection of tradition, creativity, craftsmanship, and modernity within the context of the global fashion industry. The article emphasizes its pivotal role in making Paris the fashion capital of the world.

Our history | FHCM (2024)
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