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Paco Rabanne skirt Haute Couture Summer 1993
By Paco Rabanne
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
indicated, it fits a 36FR. 1993 Spring-Summer Haute Couture Collection. Prototype from a fashion show - Look
Category

1990s French Circle Skirts

Yves Saint Laurent Haute Couture 1986/1987 Black Strapless Mini Dress
By Yves Saint Laurent
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Va va voom! This Yves Saint Laurent Haute Couture mini is the only little black dress you'll ever
Category

1980s French Cocktail Dresses

1960 s PIERRE BALMAIN haute couture silk dress
By Pierre Balmain
Located in San Fransisco, CA
Very rare silk haute couture dress with ruching from Pierre Balmain dating to the 1960's. Color is
Category

1960s French Evening Dresses and Gowns

Yves Saint Laurent Goossens Haute Couture Jeweled Belt, 1970s
By Yves Saint Laurent
Located in New York, NY
Yves Saint Laurent Haute Couture Jeweled Belt, Goossens. Handmade in Paris of bronze with pate de
Category

1970s French Belts

Louis Féraud Haute Couture Satin Embroidered Dress, 1991
By Louis Feraud
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
, it corresponds to a 34FR/36FR. Collection "Pretty Woman" Haute Couture Spring/Summer 1991
Category

1990s French Evening Dresses

CHRISTIAN DIOR, Haute Couture, hand-sewn dress and houndstooth blazer, c. 1950s
By Christian Dior Haute Couture
Located in Kingston, NY
Made in New York. CHRISTIAN DIOR, Haute Couture, hand-sewn dress and houndstooth blazer, c. 1950s
Category

1950s American Dress and Coat Ensembles

Christian Dior Silk and Wool Haute Couture Set
By Christian Dior, John Galliano for Christian Dior
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Dior- Silk and wool Haute Couture set composed of a skirt and a jacket. No size indicated, it fits
Category

Early 2000s Twin Sets

1995s Chanel Shoes Pumps Haute Couture Black EU37
By Karl Lagerfeld, Chanel
Located in PARIS, FR
Chanel Haute Couture pumps in black canvas (ottoman) salomé type with fine straps, gold metal pin
Category

1990s French Shoes

Yves Saint Laurent Haute Couture Set, Circa 1985
By Yves Saint Laurent
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Yves Saint Laurent -(Made in France) Haute Couture set composed of damask silk bodice and skirt
Category

20th Century French Twin Sets

Jean Patou Haute Couture Silk Dress, Size 36FR
By Jean Patou
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Jean Patou Haute Couture - Chiffon silk dress overstiched with threads, velvet and lurex. No
Category

1970s French Evening Dresses

1960s Fontana Sisters Haute Couture Metallic Cocktail Dress
Located in Studio City, CA
Fontana Sisters haute couture cocktail dress made with metallic thread - the thread has oxidized
Category

1960s Italian Evening Dresses and Gowns

Jean-Paul Gaultier Haute Couture Patchwork Vest
By Jean Paul Gaultier
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Jean-Paul Gaultier -Patchwork vest made of strips of knitting and shagreen in color. Haute Couture
Category

Early 2000s French Vests

Important Yves Saint Laurent Haute Couture Coat, 1970 Fall/Winter
By Yves Saint Laurent
Located in New York, NY
Extraordinary Museum Quality Yves Saint Laurent Early Haute Couture coat from fall/winter 1970 in
Category

1970s French Coats and Outerwear

Louis Féraud coral and white pearled top Haute Couture
By Louis Feraud
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
and size labels missing, it fits a 36FR/38FR. A Haute Couture Collection. Condition: Very good
Category

1980s French Chemises

Louis Feraud Haute Couture Jacket Embroidered with Sequins
By Louis Feraud
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Louis Feraud Haute Couture - Jacket embroidered with sequins, beads and trimmings. No composition
Category

1980s French Jackets

Yves Saint Laurent Haute Couture Striped Wool Suit
By Yves Saint Laurent
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Yves Saint Laurent -(Made in France) Haute Couture suit composed of a skirt and a striped wool
Category

1980s French Twin Sets

1940s Haute Couture Purple Satin Chiffon Dress
Located in London, GB
beautiful unlabelled haute couture dress is of superb quality and construction and is in absolutely
Category

1940s French Evening Dresses

Valentino Skater Dress in Silk Muslin Sewn Haute Couture
By Valentino
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Valentino - Haute Couture skater dress in silk muslin sewn with dark blue sequins. No size nor
Category

1980s Cocktail Dresses

Pierre Balmain dress Haute Couture Spring-Summer 1986
By Pierre Balmain
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Haute Couture Collection. To be mentioned, some discoloration around the shoulder line. Condition: Good
Category

1980s French Cocktail Dresses

Pierre Cardin Haute Couture Houndstooth Coat, 1980s
By Pierre Cardin
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Timeless and elegant with a hint of mod detailing, this classic haute couture coat has just the
Category

20th Century Coats

Franck Sorbier dress Cloud Haute Couture winter 2024/2025
By Franck Sorbier
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
chantilly lace, drapery, and pleats. 2024/2025 Fall-Winter Haute Couture Collection. Condition: Decent
Category

2010s French Cocktail Dresses

1975 Lanvin Haute Couture Silk Dress Numbered
By Lanvin Paris
Located in Paris, FR
Lanvin Haute Couture dress featuring a front button down closure down chest, a lavalliere tie
Category

1970s French Day Dresses

1980S YVES SAINT LAURENT Black Haute Couture Silk Velvet Strapless Gown
Located in New York, NY
1980S YVES SAINT LAURENT Black Haute Couture Silk Velvet Strapless Gown
Category

1980s Formal Gowns

1980S YVES SAINT LAURENT Black White Haute Couture Wool Tattersall Blazer
Located in New York, NY
1980S YVES SAINT LAURENT Black & White Haute Couture Wool Tattersall Blazer
Category

1980s Blazers

1980S GIVENCHY Black White Haute Couture Silk One Shoulder Cocktail Dress
By Givenchy
Located in New York, NY
1980S GIVENCHY Black & White Haute Couture Silk One Shoulder Cocktail Dress
Category

1980s Cocktail Dresses

Philippe Venet Haute Couture Cocktail Dress
By Philippe Venet
Located in Geneva, CH
Rare 70's Philippe Venet haute couture marigold silk dress. Fully lined in a refined matching silk
Category

1970s French Cocktail Dresses

Franck Sorbier dress Haute Couture Summer 2024 Le Chant des Guérisseuses
By Franck Sorbier
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
36FR/38FR. 2024 Summer Haute Couture 'Le Chant des guérisseuses' Collection Haute Couture. Condition
Category

2010s French Cocktail Dresses

Lanvin by Claude Montana Haute Couture Straw Cloche Hat
By Lanvin Paris
Located in New York, NY
Lanvin Haute Couture woven straw cloche hat designed by Claude Montana. The hat is inspired by an
Category

1980s French Cloche Hats

CHANEL HAUTE COUTURE By KARL LAGERFELD F/W 2007 Runway Dress
By Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, Chanel
Located in Berlin, BE
Chanel Haute Couture by Karl Lagerfeld Couture Collection Fall Winter 2007 Brand: Chanel Designer
Category

Early 2000s French Evening Dresses and Gowns

1950S PIERRE BALMAIN Ivory Haute Couture Silk Chiffon Ruched Strapless Cocktail
By Pierre Balmain
Located in New York, NY
1950S PIERRE BALMAIN Ivory Haute Couture Silk Chiffon Ruched Strapless Cocktail Dress
Category

1950s Cocktail Dresses

1998 Valentino Haute Couture Cashmere and Leather Embellished Jumper
By Valentino Couture
Located in London, GB
/ 1999 Haute Couture collection. The hand-written label inside the hem states "MOD 70" and the years
Category

1990s Italian Pullovers

1980S EMMANUEL UNGARO Black Gold Haute Couture Silk Lurex Matelassé Evening
Located in New York, NY
1980S EMMANUEL UNGARO Black & Gold Haute Couture Silk Lurex Matelassé Evening Suit
Category

1980s Dress and Coat Ensembles

Valentino Skirt Haute Couture with Sequins and Lurex Yarns
By Valentino
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Valentino - Haute Couture skirt in silk taffeta and silk muslin entirely sewn with sequins and
Category

1980s European A-Line Skirts

Christian Lacroix Haute Couture Purple Silk Dress, S/S 2004
By Christian Lacroix
Located in Paris, FR
From Christian Lacroix’s Spring/Summer 2004 Haute Couture collection, this dress captures the
Category

Early 2000s French Evening Dresses and Gowns

1980S GIVENCHY Black White Haute Couture Silk Strapless Cocktail Dress With
By Givenchy
Located in New York, NY
1980S GIVENCHY Black & White Haute Couture Silk Strapless Cocktail Dress With Bolero Jacket
Category

1980s Cocktail Dresses

Chanel Spring 2016 Haute Couture Embellished Tweed Jacket with Brooches Matchi
By Chanel
Located in Sydney, New South Wales
Chanel Spring 2016 Haute Couture Embellished Tweed Jacket with Brooches & Matching Bag (FR 50–52
Category

2010s Jackets

Yves Saint Laurent Short Purple Wool Jacket Haute Couture
By Yves Saint Laurent
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
indicated, it fits a 34FR/36FR. A Haute Couture Collection. Additional information: Condition: Very good
Category

1970s French Jackets

Franck Sorbier suit Haute Couture winter 2024/2025
By Franck Sorbier
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
. 2024-2025 winter Haute couture Collection. Condition: Very good condition Dimensions: Jacket
Category

2010s French Skirt Suits

Givenchy Haute Couture 1950’s Audrey Hepburn black evening gown
By Givenchy
Located in PARIS, FR
Rare Givenchy Haute Couture 1950’s Audrey Hepburn black dress, serial number under the tag, it can
Category

1950s French Evening Gowns

Franck Sorbier dress Les Saltimbanques Haute Couture Winter 2022
By Franck Sorbier
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
size indicated, it fits a 34FR/36FR. 2022/2023 Winter Haute Couture 'Les Saltimbanques' Collection
Category

2010s French Babydoll Dresses

1990S MAURIZIO GALANTE Ecru Haute Couture Silk Charmeuse Artfully Hand-Pleated
By Maurizio Galante
Located in New York, NY
Missing label 1990S MAURIZIO GALANTE Ecru Haute Couture Silk Charmeuse Artfully Hand-Pleated
Category

1990s Formal Gowns

Yves Saint Laurent jacket Haute Couture fall-winter 1977
By Yves Saint Laurent
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
details. Silk lining. Composition and size labels missing, it fits a 36FR. 1977 Fall-Winter Haute Couture
Category

1970s French Jackets

Emanuel Ungaro set Haute Couture Spring-Summer 1979
By Emanuel Ungaro
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
, and a skirt. No size nor composition label, it fits a 36FR. 1979 Spring-Summer Haute Couture
Category

1970s French Skirt Suits

Yves Saint Laurent Silk Velvet Dress Haute Couture, circa 1990/91
By Yves Saint Laurent
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Yves Saint Laurent Haute Couture Silk velvet dress with drop waist, embellished with a jewel made
Category

20th Century French Cocktail Dresses

Christian Dior Purple Silk Velvet Coat Haute Couture, 2005
By John Galliano for Christian Dior, Christian Dior
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Summer Haute Couture Collection. Additional information: Condition: Very good condition Dimensions
Category

Early 2000s French Coats

Balenciaga Haute Couture Red Swing Bolero Jacket, Early 1960s
By Balenciaga
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Balenciaga haute couture early 1960's red silk evening jacket. Cropped swing bolero silhouette
Category

20th Century Jackets

Lanvin Haute Couture 1980s Velvet Bias Cut Black Gown
By Lanvin Paris
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Introducing the Lanvin Haute Couture 1980s Velvet Bias Cut Black Gown, a breathtaking masterpiece
Category

1980s French Evening Dresses and Gowns

Emanuel Ungaro Haute Couture Pink Silk Chiffon Set
By Emanuel Ungaro
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Emanel Haute Couture - Set comprised of a pair of pants and a jacket, composed of pink silk chiffon
Category

1980s French Twin Sets

1950’s Haute Couture Tapestry Beaded Dress
Located in Geneva, CH
A rare example of 50’s Egyptian haute couture, at the time Egypt was a constitutional monarchy
Category

1950s Egyptian Cocktail Dresses

DANIEL MIEXEL, Haute Couture, Carmel Suede Feels Like Butter, Fringe Shirt
Located in Kingston, NY
DANIEL MIEXEL, New York designer, Very Vintage Haute Couture Carmel Suede Like Butter Fringe Long
Category

20th Century American Shirts

1950S Seafoam Haute Couture Silk Duchess Satin Beaded Strapless Gown
Located in New York, NY
flaws are to be expected. 1950S Seafoam Haute Couture Silk Duchess Satin Beaded Strapless Gown
Category

1950s Formal Gowns

Elegant Haute Couture Madame Gres Anthracite Silk Crepe Ensemble
By Madame Gres
Located in New York, NY
panels at shoulder which is repeated at left hem. Wonderful hand finishing throughout. Haute Couture
Category

1970s French Evening Dresses and Gowns

Jean-Louis Scherrer Haute Couture Chiffon Top with Sequins
By Jean-Louis Scherrer
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Jean-louis Scherrer Haute Couture - Chiffon top embroidered with sequins and beads, from the 1970s
Category

1980s French Blouses and Tops

1960 s PIERRE BALMAIN haute couture black dress with flounced trim
By Pierre Balmain
Located in San Fransisco, CA
Jet black haute couture wool dress with beautiful flounce trimmed in satin from Pierre Balmain
Category

1960s French Cocktail Dresses

ATELIER VERSACE FW 02 Iconic Haute Couture jais halter neck dress
By Atelier Versace
Located in Milano, MILANO
Fall Winter 2002 Iconic jais halter neck dress by Atelier Versace Haute Couture Strings on the back
Category

Early 2000s Evening Dresses and Gowns

Emanuel Ungaro evening dress Haute Couture Spring-Summer 1992
By Emanuel Ungaro
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
. Composition and size labels missing, it fits a 38FR. 1992 Spring-Summer Haute Couture Collection under the
Category

1990s French Cocktail Dresses

1990s Max Nugus Haute Couture Yellow Graffiti Print Mesh Vintage V Neck Shirt
By Max Nugus, Max Nugus Haute Couture
Located in San Diego, CA
Awesome 90s MAX NUGUS HAUTE COUTURE pale yellow double layered mesh short sleeve v-neck shirt
Category

1990s American T-Shirts

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Haute Couture For Sale on 1stDibs

You are likely to find exactly the vintage or contemporary piece of haute couture you’re looking for on 1stDibs, as there is a broad range for sale. Black is a pretty popular color, but we also have Brown, Gray, Beige and more in stock now. Making the right choice when shopping for an item from our selection of haute couture may mean looking at versions that date from different eras — you can find early iterations from the 19th Century and a newer version made as recently as the 21st Century, both of which have proven very popular over the years. Making an accessory such as this has likely been a part of the legacy of many fashion designers, but those produced by Yves Saint Laurent, Christian Dior and Chanel are consistently popular. There aren’t many items for men if you’re seeking these accessories, as most of the options available are for women and unisex.

How Much is a Haute Couture?

The price for a piece of haute couture starts at $166 and tops out at $60,169, and on average, selling for $2,497.

Finding the Right Clothing for You

Start building your collection of covetable and iconic vintage clothing today — no matter where you roam, there is a curated selection of designer dresses and gowns, sweaters, shirts, dazzling shoes and more on 1stDibs that will keep you covered in the hottest styles from head to toe.

From elegant museum-worthy vintage Chanel dresses and jackets to audacious T-shirts and trousers from provocative punk designer Vivienne Westwood, one thing is abundantly clear: If the clothing for sale on 1stDibs could talk, it would certainly make a statement. 

For fashion lovers, the 1990s have become associated with styles adopted by today’s supermodels and influencers — think John Galliano and Roberto Cavalli — but maybe ‘80s accessories are among your (guilty?) pleasures. 

Playful, boldly colored coats and outerwear from Moschino, Ralph Lauren and other titans of the era can take a simpler ensemble to the next level, while chic and practical suits from the likes of Christian Dior and Balmain endure for haute couture advocates and beyond. 

And vintage is the name of the game on today’s red carpets, too. Celebrity stylists are turning to archival pieces created by the likes of Bob Mackie, Thierry Mugler and Jean-Paul Gaultier as alternatives to new gowns plucked straight off the runway. Wearing such sought-after items gives celebrities instant allure and suggests a personal style that’s not only achingly glamorous but intellectually informed and influenced by a love of craftsmanship. 

Those seeking contemporary luxury looks and in-demand street-style fits can indulge in designs by Bottega Veneta, Miu Miu and Loro Piana, while pieces from Gucci, Yves Saint Laurent and Versace endure as examples of fashion’s most covetable goods. 

The future — and glamorous past — of fashion is yours for the wearing. Find vintage clothing and accessories for sale on 1stDibs, including designs by Balenciaga, Valentino, Celine, Loewe and more.

Questions About Haute Couture
  • 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 23, 2024
    To identify haute couture, start by locating the brand label on your item. Once you know who produced it, you can check the official list of haute couture fashion houses published on the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode website to see if the maker is on the list. By law, only maisons that meet certain standards established by the Paris Chamber of Commerce can be considered haute couture. Find a wide variety of apparel, bags and accessories on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 23, 2024
    Why it's called couture is owed to the origin of the word. In French, couture means "dressmaking" or "sewing." The term fits couture fashion because it refers to pieces that are designed and tailored to order. On 1stDibs, find a wide range of apparel from some of the world's top boutiques.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 25, 2024
    In fashion, “haute couture” means "high sewing" or "high dressmaking." Haute couture is French and refers to the creation of one-of-a-kind pieces by an esteemed fashion designer or house for a particular client. 

    Haute couture garments such as dresses are pieces of clothing constructed by hand from start to finish and are made with the highest quality materials. They are expertly created by firms that are official member organizations of the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode (FHCM), which is the governing body in France that regulates this segment of the fashion industry. Dior, Maison Margiela and Schiaparelli are some of fashion's universally revered haute couture houses.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 26, 2024
    Haute couture is the name of custom-designed clothing that select fashion houses produce. To qualify as haute couture, a maker must receive certification from the Chambre de Commerce et d'Industrie de Paris. Each year, this chamber of commerce publishes a list of the current haute couture maisons. Shop a selection of apparel and accessories on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMay 30, 2024
    The difference between couture and haute couture comes down to the regulations and laws of France. A couture fashion label is any label that produces made-to-order pieces for clients. To be accurately identified as haute couture, a couture maison must secure certification from the Chambre de commerce et d'industrie de Paris. Each year, this organization publishes a list of current haute couture fashion houses. Explore a large selection of apparel and accessories on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 25, 2024
    Yes, Versace is haute couture. The Italian fashion house is an official member of the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode (FHCM), which is the governing body in France that determines which firms can operate with haute couture status.

    More than any designer before him, Gianni Versace mined celebrity, music and Pop art for inspiration. In fact, the New York Times noted in 1997 that the fashion industry "is now driven by contemporary culture because Mr. Versace made it that way."

    On 1stDibs, find vintage Versace clothing and accessories.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Haute couture is described as high-end luxury wear that has been custom-fitted and constructed by hand from start to finish and is governed by the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode in France. ​​You can shop a variety of top fashion houses' haute couture designs from some of the world's top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 25, 2024
    A haute couture dress is dress is a dress that was made by an esteemed haute couture designer. Dresses created by haute couture houses are constructed by hand from start to finish. They’re made of the finest materials and are individually tailored to meet the needs of a specific client.

    Haute couture garments are expertly created by firms that are official member organizations of the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode (FHCM), which is the governing body in France that regulates this segment of the fashion industry. Dior, Maison Margiela and Schiaparelli are examples of universally revered haute couture houses.

    Find haute couture dresses on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 20, 2024
    Yes, Dior is haute couture.

    The French luxury fashion house Christian Dior is an official member of the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode (FHCM), which is the governing body in France that determines which maisons can operate with haute couture status.

    When Christian Dior launched his haute couture house, in 1946, he wanted nothing less than to make “an elegant woman more beautiful and a beautiful woman more elegant.” He succeeded, and in doing so the visionary designer altered the landscape of 20th century fashion. Vintage Dior bags, shoes, evening dresses, shirts and other garments and accessories are known today for their feminine and sophisticated sensibility.

    On 1stDibs, explore a wide range of vintage Dior apparel and accessories.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 18, 2024
    Yes, Balmain is haute couture. The term haute couture refers to high-end luxury wear that has been custom-fitted and constructed by hand from start to finish. The world of haute couture is governed by the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode in France.

    Fashion designer Pierre Balmain established his now-iconic label in 1945. In the postwar years, Balmain became known for bell-shaped skirts falling from slender waists, structured jackets over sheath day dresses and embellishments like fur trim.

    From the dresses favored by Hollywood icons like Audrey Hepburn and Marlene Dietrich to the sleek, skinny jeans seen on Nicki Minaj, Kid Cudi and every Kardashian, clothes from the House of Balmain have long been mainstays in celebrity wardrobes. Shop a collection of vintage Balmain from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 16, 2024
    Whether Mugler is haute couture may vary from year to year. This is due to the fact that the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode updates its list of haute couture fashion houses annually. Generally, the French luxury fashion house founded by Thierry Mugler has regularly appeared on the list of official haute couture fashion houses. Explore a variety of Mugler apparel and accessories on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 7, 2024
    Yes, Louis Vuitton is haute couture. The iconic French luxury brand is a member of the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode (FHCM), which is the governing body of haute couture as an art form.

    Founded in 1868 as the Chambre Syndicale de la Couture and renamed FHCM in 2017, the organization has around 100 members — and Sidney Toledano, the CEO of Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton (LVMH), sits on its executive committee. "Haute couture" is a legal term that, literally translated, means "high sewing" and refers to innovative, hand-crafted garments created for private clients and presented to the public every January and July.

    Find vintage Louis Vuitton Neverfull bags, clothing and accessories from some of the world's top boutiques on 1stDibs.

  • 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 27, 2024
    Worth, the father of haute couture, is Charles Frederick Worth. In 1858, he established the House of Worth in Paris and began creating custom-made dresses for celebrities like Sarah Bernhardt and Jenny Lind and elites of fashion. By the 1870s, he was widely known throughout Europe, and many now consider him the first truly successful fashion designer. Explore a wide variety of apparel on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 20, 2024
    To tell if something is haute couture, first look for a size tag. Haute couture is custom-made for the purchaser, eliminating the need for a size tag. Every inch of a haute couture item will be flawless as well. Imperfections like misaligned or uneven stitches, poor-quality fabrics or cheaply made zippers and buttons are a sign that a piece isn't haute couture. You can also consult the list of haute couture fashion houses published by the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode every year. The list is accessible on the organization's website. Explore a wide variety of apparel and accessories on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024
    The difference between luxury and haute couture relates to exclusivity. Luxury is a general term for items made from fine materials and with meticulous crafting techniques that maximize quality, allowing them to be sold for high prices. Makers that produce these items are luxury brands. To be called haute couture, a brand must meet the strict requirements of the Paris Chamber of Commerce. Each year, its commission, the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode, publishes a list of haute couture fashion houses. Explore a collection of luxury apparel and accessories on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertAugust 20, 2024
    The difference between high fashion and haute couture comes down to official recognition. For its pieces to be legally called haute couture, a fashion house must meet the standards set forth by the Chambre de commerce et d'industrie de Paris, which publishes a list of haute couture labels every year. High fashion is a general term for pieces designed and tailored to order that sell at aspirational price points. On 1stDibs, shop a wide variety of apparel and accessories.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 7, 2024
    The difference between ready-to-wear and haute couture comes down to availability and pricing as well as whether or not the brand in question can assert haute couture status (this denomination is protected by law). Haute couture garments are crafted by maisons that are official member organizations of the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode (FHCM), which is the governing body in France that regulates this segment of the fashion industry. Haute couture items are custom-made and individually tailored to fit the wearer. As a result, they sell for very high prices. Fashion houses produce ready-to-wear apparel on a much larger scale in a range of predetermined sizes and sell it at lower price points. On 1stDibs, find a large collection of apparel and accessories.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 20, 2024
    The difference between prêt-à-porter and haute couture is availability and average price points. Also called ready-to-wear, prêt-à-porter is the term for apparel available for purchase in stores in various sizes. Haute couture pieces are custom-made to fit the wearer's body size and type, as well as their tastes. As a result, haute couture fashion tends to cost significantly more and its pieces are one-of-a-kind. On 1stDibs, shop a wide range of apparel and accessories.

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A Chanel Obsessive’s Cache Extends Well beyond Her Walk-In Closet

From handbags and heels to jackets and jewels, Sharon Coplan Hurowitz has a deep admiration for (and collection of) all things Chanel.

Behind the 1970s and ’80s Glam of ‘Halston’ with the Hit Show’s Costume Designer

Jeriana San Juan explains how she undertook the intimidating project of designing costumes for the new Netflix series about the New York fashion legend. (Hint: She found vintage Halston on 1stDibs!)

A Short History of Capri Pants, on the 100th Birthday of Their Inventor

Once considered a controversial item of clothing, fashion designer Sonja de Lennart's creation is now a bona fide classic.

How the Chanel Jacket Forever Changed What Women Wear

The classic tweed garment has been a wardrobe staple of chic women around the world since the 1950s.

A Pair of Shoes — Heels or Flats — Can Tell an Impactful Story

Amanda Benchley and Bridget Moynahan teamed up to explore the relationship between powerful women and their most significant footwear.

You Saw It at the Met Ball. Here’s What Camp Fashion Is Really About

This year's Costume Institute exhibition is all about embracing the eccentric.

The V&A Takes a Fresh Look at the New Look’s Pioneering Progenitor, Christian Dior

Ballrooms, Bar Suits and British royals — in a sweeping exhibition, the London museum looks back on 70 years of the French fashion house, as well as its illustrious founder and his fondness for the United Kingdom.