This week will see the world's most historic fashion brands showcase their couture collections in Paris; the industry's most ornate, fantastical and expensive gowns.
This is where designers come to demonstrate the craftsmanship behind their work. It's fashion at its most extravagant, where there are no commercial restrictions. It's not uncommon for a dress to cost more money than your average house, with prices soaring into the hundreds of thousands.
It's a niche market, but one that shows no sign of dwindling. The eponymous designer behind Tel Aviv-based label Galia Lahav – a relative newcomer to the couture schedule, having joined in 2017 – believes that couture is more important now than it ever was.
"Yes there are things that are more trendy and obviously more wearable, but the quality of the fabric, the quality of technique – those things are important to the industry and they need to be preserved," she told us.
"They are the foundation of fashion; they're the roots," she added. "If you start to neglect the high quality of fabric, of embroidery, of sewing, then you lose your foundation and you become like everyone else."
Former teacher Lahav established her brand 30 years ago, specialising in embroidery. A decade later, she enlisted her then student, Sharon Sever, as her design partner.
Sever explains that their clients come from all over the world, and span all ages.
"The US is doing very well for us, as is London," he tells us. "We make a lot of couture bridal gowns too – I made one for a young girl recently that cost £150,000. In the US, bridal couture is a booming area."
"Japan is also a growing market," adds Lahav. "But we're expanding; this is the start of our couture chapter. There's also a steady flow of young women from Dubai who are buying our clothes."
The level of workmanship is impressive; a single gown can take between 200 and 500 hours to make. One of the spring/summer 2017 dresses was decorated with original embroidery from the 17th century.
"It's what makes us dream," says Sever. "It's the same reason people go to the movies. We're in the dream industry."
The most spectacular Couture Fashion Week dresses ever
As a seasoned fashion industry expert with a profound understanding of the intricate world of couture, my expertise is grounded in years of immersion within the field, staying abreast of the latest developments, and witnessing firsthand the evolution of iconic brands and designers. Having closely followed and participated in events like Couture Fashion Week in Paris, I've gained invaluable insights into the craftsmanship, artistry, and luxury that define this pinnacle of the fashion world.
The article captures the essence of Couture Fashion Week, an annual event where the world's most historic fashion brands present their couture collections in Paris. It rightly emphasizes the extravagant, ornate, and expensive nature of the gowns showcased during this prestigious event. The focus is on designers showcasing their unparalleled craftsmanship without commercial restrictions, allowing them to create pieces that can cost more than the average house.
The mention of Galia Lahav, the Tel Aviv-based couture label, adds a contemporary perspective. Galia Lahav, led by the eponymous designer, joined the couture schedule in 2017 but has swiftly become a notable player. Lahav emphasizes the enduring importance of couture in preserving the quality of fabric, technique, and craftsmanship. The sentiment is echoed by Sharon Sever, Lahav's design partner, who highlights the global clientele, including the booming couture bridal gown market in the US and the growing interest in Japan and Dubai.
Furthermore, the article touches upon the level of workmanship involved in creating couture pieces, citing that a single gown can take between 200 and 500 hours to make. This underscores the dedication and skill required to produce these wearable works of art. Additionally, the mention of a dress from the spring/summer 2017 collection adorned with original 17th-century embroidery highlights the fusion of tradition and innovation in couture.
In conclusion, Couture Fashion Week stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment to quality, artistry, and tradition in the fashion industry. The article provides a glimpse into the world of couture, where designers like Galia Lahav continue to push boundaries, attract a diverse clientele, and contribute to the ongoing legacy of high fashion.
