High fashion

The best haute couture brands

What are the most beautiful haute couture brands, the best couturiers and stylists?

Haute Couture Designers

About haute couture


These major high fashion brands are renowned for the excellence of their collections. Each new collection presents exceptional clothing during spring-summer and fall-winter fashion shows. The creations are made from high quality fabrics, often unusual. These fabrics are sewn with extreme attention to detail. They are finished by the most experienced couturiers and fashion designers.

Why is haute couture so fascinating?

Haute couture (French for ‘high sewing’ or ‘high dressmaking’) refers to the creation of exclusive fashions. It is a common term for custom-fitted clothing as made primarily in Paris but also in other fashion capitals such as New York, London, and Milan.

It is the creation of impeccable bespoke high-end fashion design, now partly handcrafted, often with other handmade and unique decorations, concepts, and embellishments.

High fashion garments are always made for the individual customer, specifically tailored to the wearer’s measurements and posture, personal preferences and clothing needs.

Given the time, money, and skill allotted to each completed piece, haute couture garments, until recently, were part of a person’s wardrobe, and were even designed to be dressed up.  Few women in the world can afford haute couture, where some dresses start at a price beyond the stars.

The big fashion houses take advantage of the fashion shows of new creations to communicate.

About haute couture

The most beautiful high fashion brands

We are honored to present the most iconic and celebrated brands of high fashion. These elite labels are known for their impeccable craftsmanship, use of the finest materials, and unparalleled designs that exude refinement. Indulge in the world of haute couture and elevate your sense of style with our curated selection of the most beautiful high fashion brands.

How Did the High Fashion Industry Emerge and Evolve in the 19th and 20th Centuries?

The origins of haute couture can be traced back to the fashion house of Charles Frederick Worth, a British designer who moved to Paris in the mid-19th century. Worth was the first designer to create a collection of garments that were shown on live models in his atelier and sold to clients directly, rather than being made to order.

High fashion history in the early 20 century

In the early 20th century, the high fashion industry in Paris flourished, with designers such as Coco Chanel and Christian Dior gaining international fame and recognition.

christian dior - new look 1940

These designers not only created beautiful garments but also revolutionized the way women dressed, introducing new silhouettes and styles that are still influential today.

The high fashion industry has faced many challenges over the years, including the impact of two world wars and the rise of ready-to-wear clothing. However, it continues to thrive, with new designers and fashion houses emerging and pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation.

Today, the high fashion industry is a global phenomenon, with fashion weeks held in cities around the world and luxury brands expanding their offerings to include everything from accessories and beauty products to home decor and lifestyle items.

Overall, the history of the high fashion industry is a story of creativity, innovation, and cultural influence that has shaped the way we think about clothing and style.

The Most Famous Luxury Fashion Designers and Their Success Stories

From haute couture to ready-to-wear, luxury fashion designers have created some of the most iconic and timeless pieces in fashion history. Discover the inspiring journeys of the world’s most iconic fashion designers and how they built their luxury empires.

The Most Famous Luxury Fashion Designers and Their Success Stories

Coco Chanel

Revolutionized women’s fashion Coco Chanel is one of the most iconic fashion designers of all time. Born in 1883, Chanel revolutionized women’s fashion by introducing comfortable and functional clothing that allowed women to move freely. She is best known for creating the little black dress, the Chanel suit, and the Chanel No. 5 perfume. Chanel’s success story is one of determination and perseverance, as she built her empire from scratch and became a symbol of modernity and elegance.

Christian Dior

Introduced the “New Look” Christian Dior is a legendary fashion designer who introduced the “New Look” in the 1940s, a style that emphasized femininity and elegance. Dior’s designs were characterized by their full skirts, cinched waists, and soft shoulders, which became a symbol of post-war luxury. Dior’s success story is one of creativity and innovation, as he built his empire by introducing new styles and pushing the boundaries of fashion.

Giorgio Armani

Redefined men’s fashion Giorgio Armani is a legendary fashion designer who redefined men’s fashion by introducing a more relaxed and comfortable style. Armani’s designs were characterized by their soft tailoring, neutral colors, and luxurious fabrics. Armani’s success story is one of innovation and entrepreneurship, as he built his empire by introducing new styles and expanding into new markets.

Ralph Lauren

Created the “American Dream” aesthetic Ralph Lauren is a visionary fashion designer who created the “American Dream” aesthetic, a style that embodies the spirit of the American West. Lauren’s designs were characterized by their classic and timeless style, with a focus on quality and craftsmanship. Lauren’s success story is one of creativity and entrepreneurship, as he built his empire by introducing new styles and expanding into new markets.

Tom Ford

Revived the Gucci brand Tom Ford is a visionary fashion designer who revived the Gucci brand in the 1990s, turning it into one of the most successful luxury brands in the world. Ford’s designs were characterized by their bold and sexy style, with a focus on luxury and craftsmanship. Ford’s success story is one of creativity and entrepreneurship, as he built his empire by introducing new styles and expanding into new markets.

Valentino Garavani

Known for his exquisite red dresses Valentino Garavani is a legendary fashion designer who is known for his exquisite red dresses. Valentino’s designs are characterized by their romantic and feminine style, with a focus on intricate details and luxurious fabrics. Valentino’s success story is one of creativity and passion, as he built his empire by introducing new styles and pushing the boundaries of fashion.

Gianni Versace

Created bold and daring designs Gianni Versace is a visionary fashion designer who created bold and daring designs that became a symbol of 1980s and 1990s excess. Versace’s designs were characterized by their bright colors, bold prints, and sexy silhouettes. Versace’s success story is one of creativity and innovation, as he built his empire by introducing new styles and challenging the status quo.

Alexander McQueen

Known for his avant-garde designs Alexander McQueen is a visionary fashion designer who was known for his avant-garde designs that pushed the boundaries of fashion. McQueen’s designs were characterized by their dark and dramatic style, with a focus on intricate details and innovative materials. McQueen’s success story is one of creativity and passion, as he built his empire by introducing new styles and challenging the status quo.

Yves Saint Laurent

Pioneered the “Le Smoking” suit Yves Saint Laurent is a visionary fashion designer who pioneered the “Le Smoking” suit, a tuxedo-style suit for women that became a symbol of female empowerment. Saint Laurent’s designs were characterized by their bold colors, intricate patterns, and exotic influences. Saint Laurent’s success story is one of passion and creativity, as he built his empire by introducing new styles and challenging the status quo.

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The Most Memorable Luxury Fashion Shows of All Time

Fashion shows are a spectacle of creativity, artistry, and innovation. From the designs that grace the runway to the sets that bring them to life, these events are a celebration of the fashion industry’s most talented visionaries. Here are some of the most memorable luxury fashion shows of all time.

Alexander McQueen Spring-Summer 1999 – London UK

Alexander McQueen Spring/Summer 1999 – London, UK

Theatricality Alexander McQueen’s Spring/Summer 1999 show was a theatrical masterpiece, with models walking on water and a finale featuring a model in a billowing white dress being spray-painted by robots. This show cemented McQueen’s reputation as a fashion visionary and pushed the boundaries of what a fashion show could be.

Chanel Spring/Summer 2014 – Dallas, USA

Spectacle Chanel‘s Spring/Summer 2014 show was a spectacle of epic proportions, with a set designed to look like a Texas drive-in movie theater, complete with vintage cars and a snack bar. The collection itself was a celebration of Americana, with models wearing cowboy hats and denim, and the show ended with a fireworks display that lit up the night sky.

Christian Dior Spring/Summer 1947 – Paris, France

Innovation Christian Dior‘s Spring/Summer 1947 show introduced the world to the “New Look,” a revolutionary collection that featured full skirts, cinched waists, and soft shoulders. This show marked a turning point in fashion history and cemented Dior’s reputation as one of the industry’s most important designers.

Yves Saint Laurent Fall/Winter 1976 – Paris, France

Cultural significance Yves Saint Laurent’s Fall/Winter 1976 show was a celebration of African culture, with models wearing tribal-inspired jewelry and clothing. This show was groundbreaking in its representation of diversity on the runway and its celebration of non-Western beauty standards.

Versace Fall/Winter 1991 – Milan, Italy

Glamour Versace‘s Fall/Winter 1991 show was a glamorous affair, with models wearing bold prints, bright colors, and over-the-top accessories. This show cemented Versace’s reputation as the go-to brand for over-the-top glamour and established the brand as a favorite among celebrities.

Marc Jacobs Spring/Summer 2016 – New York City, USA

Unforgettable characteristic: Emotional impact Marc Jacobs’ Spring/Summer 2016 show was an emotional rollercoaster, with models walking the runway in complete silence and a soundtrack of birds chirping and waves crashing. The collection itself was a celebration of individuality and self-expression, with models wearing eclectic and colorful clothing. The show ended with a powerful message of love and unity, with models walking the runway arm in arm.

More info about high fashion

What is high fashion?

High fashion, also known as haute couture, emphasizes craftsmanship in the manufacture of garments. High fashion is often considered an art form as it combines creativity, skill and technical know-how to create unique and beautiful clothing.

How to become a high fashion designer?

Becoming a high fashion designer requires a combination of education, skills, and experience. A fashion design degree will teach the technical skills and artistic concepts necessary to create garments. After graduation, working as an assistant to a top designer, gain valuable industry experience. Starting an own clothing line demand to build awareness and reputation through fashion shows, contests, and other industry events.

Who wears high fashion?

The elite usually wears high fashion. This includes people in the fashion industry, including models, fashion editors, and designers, celebrities and wealthy individuals who can afford to spend many thousands of dollars on a single outfit.

How has high fashion evolved since the 20th century?

In the 20th century, high fashion was influenced by popular culture and the rise of the fashion industry. High-fashion designers began experimenting with new fabrics, silhouettes and styles, and the use of sewing machines and other techniques became more widespread. Today, high fashion is more influenced by the latest trends and pop culture. The use of technology continues to play an important role in the creation of high-end clothing.

The most beautiful high fashion brands

We are honored to present the most iconic and celebrated brands of high fashion. These elite labels are known for their impeccable craftsmanship, use of the finest materials, and unparalleled designs that exude refinement. Indulge in the world of haute couture and elevate your sense of style with our curated selection of the most beautiful high fashion brands.

Jump into your dreams !

Jump into your dreams !

When you have a dream, chase it down, jump over every single hurdle, and run through fire and ice to get there.

Chanel’s Spectacular Cruise Fashion Show at the Grand Palais

Chanel’s Spectacular Cruise Fashion Show at the Grand Palais

Explore the grandeur of Chanel’s Cruise Fashion Show at the Grand Palais, a landmark event blending fashion, art, and architecture. Discover how Karl Lagerfeld’s vision transformed the iconic venue into a nautical spectacle, setting a new standard in luxury fashion.

British or Not British ?

British or Not British ?

D’une main de Maître-Tailleur, il se met en mille pour vous tirer à quatre épingles. Il vous accueille et vous aiguille avec passion.

The members of the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture

“Haute Couture”, like “champagne”, is a French-protected designation that can only be used by companies that meet certain well-defined standards.

The great couturiers are brought together by a union chamber based in Paris, forming a prestigious club around the high degree of elegance and creativity of high fashion.

Official members

  • Adeline André
  • Alexandre Vauthier
  • Alexis Mabille
  • Balenciaga
  • Balmain
  • Bouchra Jarrar
  • Chanel
  • Dior
  • Franck Sorbier
  • Giambattista Valli
  • Givenchy
  • Jean-Paul Gaultier
  • Julien Fournié
  • Maison Margiela
  • Rabih Kayrouz
  • Maurizio Galante
  • Schiaparelli
  • Stéphane Rolland

Correspondent members

Guest members

  • Aelis
  • Aganovich
  • Antonio Grimaldi
  • Azzaro
  • Atelier Garreau
  • Christopher Josse
  • Georges Hobeika
  • Guo Pei
  • Imane Ayissi
  • Julie de Libran
  • Rad Hourani
  • Rahul Mishra
  • Ralph & Russo
  • RR331
  • Ronald van der Kemp
  • Vaishali S
  • Xuan
  • Yuima Nakazato
  • Zuhair Murad
  • Javi Madrid

Former members

  • Anna May
  • Anne Valérie Hash
  • Atelier Gustavolins
  • Balenciaga
  • Callot Soeurs
  • Marie-Louise Carven
  • Christian Lacroix
  • Ektor Von Hoffmeister
  • Emilio Pucci
  • Erica Spitulski
  • Erik Tenorio
  • Escada
  • Frank Sorbier
  • Fred Sathal
  • Gai Mattiolo
  • Germaine Lecomte
  • Grès
  • Guy Laroche
  • Hanae Mori
  • Jacques Fath
  • Atelier Garreau
  • Jacques Griffe
  • Jacques Heim
  • Jean Patou
  • Jean-Louis Scherrer
  • Jeanne Lafaurie
  • Joseph
  • Lanvin
  • Lecoanet Hemant
  • Lefranc Ferrant
  • Loris Azzaro
  • Louis Féraud
  • Lucien Lelong
  • Lucile Manguin
  • Louise Chéruit
  • Mad Carpentier
  • Madeleine Vionnet
  • Madeleine Vramant
  • Maggy Rouff
  • Mainbocher
  • Mak Shoe
  • Marcel Rochas
  • Marcelle Chaumont
  • Marcelle Dormoy
  • Martial et Armand
  • Nina Ricci
  • Paco Rabanne
  • Paul Poiret
  • Philippe et Gaston
  • Pierre Balmain
  • Pierre Cardin
  • Seraglio
  • Robert Piguet
  • Ted Lapidus
  • Thierry Mugler
  • Sophie
  • Torrente
  • Vera Borea
  • Yiqing Yin
  • Yves Saint Laurent

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Find the Best luxury fashion stores and designers in GENEVA Haute couture: the best high fashion brands

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