Haute Style: A Lesson in Couture

As Paris Haute Couture week comes to a close, the concept of Couture itself  (French for “high sewing” or “high dressmaking”) remains mysterious to many. Unlike the ready-to-wear collections, to become a couturier, one must be certified by the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture and follow these rules:

1. Design made-to-order for private clients, with one or more fittings.
2. Have an atelier in Paris that employs at least 15 people full-time.
3. Each season, present a collection comprised of at least 35 looks for both day and night.

The favorites once again were the house of Dior, with its equestrian-inspired chic and the modern pastel brides of Chanel, though the absence of Christian Lacroix was deeply felt by all. This year also saw an extra day of splendor, devoted exclusively to the showing of fine jewelry from vendors such as Boucheron, Cartier, Chanel Joillerie, Cartier, Christian Dior Joaillerie, Chaumet, Van Cleef & Arpels, and Mellario dits Meller. Of course, the most fascinating spectacle is often the street style of the audience themselves, as they rise to the fashionable occasion, giving the paparazzi some of their best material all year. This week saw outrageous outfits from Kanye West and his partner, model Amber Rose, and singer Ciara, and burlesque diva Dita Von Teese was greeted with a chorus of boos from the photography mafia when they arrived late for the shows. All in this week’s world of fashion!

Carrie Mitchell is Haute Living’s fashion queen. For more of her fashion insight, check out her blog at StyleGroove.com.

Image Courtesy of the NY Times