Couturier Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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couturier

[kuːˈtjʊərɪə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

fashion designer

A couturier is a person or a business that creates fashionable clothing according to their own original designs. Couturiers are known for creating high-end, custom-made garments that are often one-of-a-kind pieces.

Synonyms

dressmaker, fashion designer, tailor.

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Word Description / Examples
couturier

Refers to a high-end fashion designer who creates custom, exclusive clothing often with intricate details. Typically used in the context of luxury fashion houses.

  • The couturier spent weeks designing the intricate gown for the red carpet event.
  • Paris is home to many famous couturiers who set the trends in haute couture.
fashion designer

A general term for individuals who create original clothing, accessories, or footwear. It can refer to someone working in an array of fashion, from high-end to ready-to-wear.

  • The fashion designer presented her new collection at New York Fashion Week.
  • He dreams of becoming a well-known fashion designer.
dressmaker

Used for someone who makes tailored clothing, often for women, usually working on a smaller scale than a fashion designer. Suitable for more everyday garments or simple custom clothing.

  • She hired a dressmaker to create a unique dress for her wedding.
  • The dressmaker took her measurements and promised to complete the dress within a week.
tailor

Typically refers to someone who makes, alters, or repairs clothing, particularly men's suits and formal wear. The term can be used for both retail and bespoke work.

  • He went to the tailor to get his suit altered for the wedding.
  • The tailor worked meticulously to ensure each suit fit perfectly.

Examples of usage

  • The famous couturier showcased his latest collection at Paris Fashion Week.
  • She decided to have her wedding dress made by a couturier to ensure it was unique and perfectly fitted.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Fashion History

  • Couturiers have played a vital role in fashion since the mid-19th century, with figures like Charles Frederick Worth often regarded as the first modern couturier.
  • Couturiers often host runway shows to showcase their latest designs, influencing trends and styles globally.

Cultural Influence

  • The work of couture designers has impacted not just clothing but art, film, and overall cultural aesthetics, making fashion a significant form of expression.
  • Iconic couturiers such as Coco Chanel and Christian Dior transformed women's fashion and helped redefine femininity in the 20th century.

Modern Day

  • Today, while traditional couturiers focus on bespoke garments, many also embrace sustainability and technology in their design processes.
  • Virtual 'couture' is emerging, with designers creating digital clothing for avatars in virtual spaces and social media.

Economic Impact

  • The haute couture industry contributes significantly to the luxury fashion market, with designers often being brand ambassadors for their creations.
  • Couturiers often collaborate with artisans and craftsmen, supporting local economies and preserving traditional techniques.

Origin of 'couturier'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the French word 'coupure,' meaning 'to cut,' reflecting the skill of cutting fabrics to create garments.
  • It entered English usage in the late 19th century, aligning with the rise of high fashion in Paris.

The term 'couturier' originated in France in the 19th century and is derived from the French word 'couture,' which means sewing or dressmaking. Couturiers were initially known for creating custom clothing for the elite and wealthy individuals. Over time, couturiers have become synonymous with high fashion and luxury, with their creations often setting trends in the fashion industry.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,474, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.