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This is a sector of high-end fashion that involves the creation of exclusive custom-fitted clothing, made from high-quality, expensive fabric and sewn with extreme attention to detail by the most experienced and capable artisans.

The governing body that determines which fashion houses are eligible to be true haute couture houses. Members must follow strict guidelines, including making made-to-measure garments for private clients with more than one fitting.

This term refers to clothing made to a buyer's specifications. Each garment is unique, and its pattern is typically made from scratch for each client.

This is the workshop or studio of a professional artisan, often referring to a fashion designer's workspace where haute couture garments are created and crafted.

Also known as 'ready-to-wear,' these are factory-made clothes, sold in finished conditions and standardized sizes. Although of high quality, they are not as exclusive or as expensive as haute couture.

A fashion industry event, lasting approximately one week, where fashion designers, brands, or 'houses' display their latest collections in runway shows to buyers and the media. Haute couture collections are typically shown during Paris Fashion Week.

A fashion designer who designs and makes haute couture clothing. Often these designers will lead or own an eponymous fashion house.

A French term used in haute couture workshops denoting the division responsible for creating soft garments like dresses and blouses, focusing on draping and flow of the fabric.

A French term referring to the division within a haute couture house specializing in tailored garments, such as suits or coats, where structure and fit are crucial.

A mock-up or prototype of a garment made from an inexpensive material like muslin. It is used to perfect the design and fit before the final garment is made from the actual fabric.

A design technique where the fabric is draped directly on a mannequin to create a garment. It is a sculptural approach to fashion design, highlighting the form and flow of the material.

The craft of decorating fabric using a needle to apply thread or yarn. In haute couture, embroidery is often elaborate and meticulously done by hand to add beauty and value to a garment.

A decorative design made of one piece of fabric sewn or fixed onto another to add dimension and texture. In haute couture, appliqués are often detailed and hand-stitched.

The French fashion industry's governing body responsible for organizing Paris Fashion Week and ensuring the promotion and regulation of French fashion and haute couture worldwide.