Ever since it started in the 19th century, the royals and the blue-blooded have been customizing their wardrobe in a way to uphold their special status in the society. Lavish gowns are made by the best couturiers for important occasions like weddings or anniversaries. While that was in the past, the new and the most important clients of couture today are none other than the high-flying socialites and heiresses with a finicky taste in fashion. Think Daphne Guiness and Nan Kempner.
Couture in the 21st century is much less a signifier of royal status, and more of a representation of power and position, where women can own the highest of fashion if they have what it takes. From that, it groups them into a special class of people: the elites.
Other than financial power, donning a piece of couture also enable them to express their sense of well-dressing which would then reflect onto their image.
Though it still sound like elitism, nowadays everyone can appreciate couture with just a click. Once pictures of the newest collections are out, comments and critics would flood in. People from industry professionals to starters can have their tongues in the discussion and judge the pieces whether is it bravo or boo.
HOW TO BECOME COUTURE
The rules and regulations needed for a house to be included in the couture membership are protected by law in France and they are:
1) A studio in Paris with 15 full-time employees and participate in the couture fashion week each season. Presentation of the collection to the Paris press must comprise at least thirty-five runs with outfits for both daytime wear and evening wear.
HOUSES THAT WERE ONCE HAUTE COUTURE MEMBERS
Balenciaga
Guy Laroche
Emilio Pucci
Lanvin
Nina Ricci
Yves Saint Laurent
Pierre Balmain
Emanuel Ungaro
Balmain
