With the truly depressing news of John Galliano circulating, the question of couture came over me, and made me wonder what it actually was. Because Mr. Galliano's former fashion house, Christian Dior, is considered a couturier, serious speculation is taking place because no one knows who will replace Mr. Galliano. Now in technical terms, it does not matter who will replace Mr. Galliano in regards to who is a "couturier", because Christian Dior is considered a couture house by the French government, meaning the new designer does not have to be deemed a couturier. Yes, the French government regulates couturiers, and actually grants them use of the term Haute Couture. The main regulations are as follows...
-Design made-to-order for private clients, with one or more fittings.
-Have a workshop (atelier) in Paris that employs at least fifteen people full-time.
-Each season (i.e., twice a year), present a collection to the Paris press, comprising at least thirty-five runs/exits with outfits for both daytime wear and evening wear.
The Chambre de commerce et d'industrie de Paris based in Paris is the regulator, and publishes a list year of fashion houses each year, granting them the right right call themselves haute couture. Every haute couture house also makes prêt-à-porter (ready-to-wear) collections, which is typically more profitable than the houses made-to-order clothing. If I can suggest one person to be considered for replacing Mr. Galliano, I would nominate Christian Lacroix. His experience and previous work leads me to believe that he has the creative-ability to carry on Dior's couture reputation and vision. I think Mr. Galliano's alleged remarks are inexcusable and should not be tolerated, having said that, his work is outstanding and will be truly missed. Because I do not speak French in the slightest bit, if I misinterpreted any of the regulations or any other information, please inform so I can make the proper corrections.
The 2011 List of The Members of the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture
Official members
-Adeline André
-Anne Valérie Hash
-Atelier Gustavo Lins
-Chanel
-Christian Dior
-Christophe Josse
-Franck Sorbier
-Givenchy
-Jean Paul Gaultier
-Maurizio Galante
-Stéphane Rolland
Correspondent members (foreign)
-Elie Saab
-Giorgio Armani
-Maison Martin Margiela
-Valentino
Guest members
-Alexis Mabille
-Alexandre Vauthier
-Bouchra Jarrar
-Julien Fournié
-Lefranc.Ferrant
-Maison Rabih Kayrouz
-Maxime Simoens
Jewelry
-Boucheron
-Chanel Joaillerie
-Chaumet
-Dior Joaillerie
-Van Cleef & Arpels
Accessories
-Loulou de la Falaise
-Maison Michel Massaro
-On Aura Tout Vu
2009 Christian Dior Couture photo courtesy of style.com
