What is Couture
Couture is one of fashion’s most borrowed words. Here is what it actually means, and how we use it at Orhan.
Book an AppointmentA Word With a Precise Origin
Couture is simply the French word for sewing and dressmaking. Haute couture, its most famous form, grew out of the Paris ateliers of the nineteenth century and remains a legally protected term in France, reserved for houses that design for private clients, work from their own workrooms and construct garments largely by hand.
Outside Paris the word is used more loosely, and often as little more than a label. That is why it is worth being clear about what couture genuinely involves.
More Than Sewing
True couture describes a way of working rather than a price tag. A garment is designed for one person, cut from a pattern that exists for no one else, shaped over a series of fittings and finished with extensive hand work inside and out.
The difference shows in the parts you cannot see: the structure beneath the cloth, the balance of a seam, the way a bodice holds you or a sleeve moves with you. It is the difference between a garment that fits and a garment that could not belong to anyone else.
Couture, Bespoke or Made to Measure?
The three terms describe closely related crafts. Made to measure adapts a proven pattern to your measurements and preferences. Bespoke begins with an individual pattern drawn from scratch. Couture applies the same individual approach to dressmaking, with an added emphasis on hand construction, fabric work and finishing.
None of these is a lesser choice. The right service depends on the garment, the occasion and the level of hand work it calls for, and we will always explain honestly which one suits your commission.
Where You Will Find Couture at Orhan
Couture technique runs through our bridal work, evening dresses and dressmaking, from hand-finished hems and delicate lace work to structured bodices and embellishment. Our alteration studio applies the same standards when refining couture and designer pieces entrusted to us.
If you are considering a garment that deserves this level of craftsmanship, we would be delighted to talk it through with you.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does couture actually mean?
Couture is simply the French word for sewing and dressmaking — but in practice it describes garments designed for one person, cut from an individual pattern, shaped over fittings and finished extensively by hand.
What is haute couture?
The most famous form of couture, born in the Paris ateliers of the nineteenth century. In France the term is legally protected, reserved for houses meeting strict requirements for private clients, their own workrooms and hand construction.
What is the difference between couture, bespoke and made to measure?
They are closely related crafts. Made to measure adapts a proven pattern; bespoke begins with an individual pattern drawn from scratch; couture applies that same individual approach to dressmaking with added emphasis on hand construction and finishing.
Is couture only about gowns?
No — couture technique runs through bridal work, eveningwear, dressmaking and fine alteration alike. It is a standard of making, not a category of dress.
Where will I find couture at Orhan?
In our bridal and evening work, our dressmaking and our couture alteration studio — from hand-finished hems and lace work to structured bodices and embellishment.
Is couture right for my commission?
The right service depends on the garment, the occasion and the level of hand work it calls for. None of the three is a lesser choice, and we will explain honestly which suits your commission.
Do I need an appointment?
Yes — consultations and fittings are by appointment at our Shoreditch studio, 25a Pitfield Street, London N1 6HB, so we can give you our full attention. Call 020 7250 3569 to arrange a time.
What should I bring to my consultation?
Only yourself, if you like. Reference photographs, a garment that fits well or fabric ideas are all helpful, but plenty of clients arrive with no fixed idea at all — the consultation is designed to find the right direction together.
How many fittings will I need?
Most garments are refined through two to three fittings. At each one we assess balance, comfort and movement, and you will see the piece take shape around you.
How long will my commission take?
It depends on the garment, the cloth and the fittings involved, so we will give you an honest timeline at your consultation. If you are dressing for a fixed date, tell us when you enquire and we will plan around it.