This is Couture

 

 

Photo via www.thelovelyroom.com

A few months ago, I wrote a small piece about the protection and definition of the word Couture. Response was incredible and I received dozens of messages here,  by email, and through Facebook

I really have no intention of being some kind of linguistic fashion police. But the over use of the word is still omnipresent and infuriates me. (I may sound like an old broken record too!)

The main issue that was discussed, was the definition of Haute Couture and how this could only be created in Paris. This of course provoked a huge reaction, especially amongst some of my wonderful Indian designer friends who feel that this kind of work could be developed in India.

I have had no doubt that 'couture like' work can and probably is being developed in India, and also in China.

After reading Cathy Horn's NYT piece on Gou Pei only confirms that of course this is possible. ( I recommend anyone interested in fashion and Couture to read this)

Exquisitely designed dresses weighing 50 kilos, taking 55,000 hours to embroider and probably at a cost of over 100,000$...YES..

THIS IS COUTURE

Labour intensive and intricate work like that can, and will only, be possible in these countries in the future

But there is a standard which, in some way, needs to be set and controlled. We need this artistry to be protected so that others can aspire or have a standard to look up to, as consumers and as designers

Probably if the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture recognises this work in the Far East, as it does with its correspondent members, will make it clear to everyone how the standard is defined and that it welcomes work made elsewhere.

If collections are made to order, limited or one off's they are not automaticaly entitled to be defined as Couture.

And as many friends commented last time...it's worse when designers use it.

Everyone one knows that 25 € encrusted Swarovski T shirt in H&M is not Couture...but if you are selling a dress for €1000, the deception is real if the customer truly believes they are buying couture

Comments

[Madeleine Gallay]

Yes. Just yes.

(I would love to see her work)