Haute couture is the French phrase for high sewing or high dressmaking made to order for specific customer. It is usually made from high quality, expensive fabric, and sewn with extreme attention to detail and finished by the most experienced and capable seamstresses, often using time-consuming, and hand executed techniques.

The couturier Charles Worth (1826–1895) is widely considered the father of haute couture as it is known today. Although born in England, Worth made his mark in France. Revolutionazing how dressmaking had been previously perceived Worth made it into an art form.

Following in Worth’s steps were: Soeurs, Patou, Vionnet, Fortuny, Lanvin, Channel, Mainbocher, Schiaparelli, Balenciaga, and Dior. In the1960’s, young designers followed – Saint Laurent Cardin, Courreges, Lapidus, Ungaro and Mori. Lacroix Gaultier and Mugler appeared in the late 20th century. However, due to the high expenses of haute couture many have gone out of business.

Currently in the world of haute couture, clothing is no longer an important source of income, but rather the image/aura which derives the licensing ventures which are the numerous and huge source of incomes.