haute couture

noun

haute cou·​ture ˌōt-ku̇-ˈtu̇r 

: the houses or designers that create exclusive and often trend-setting fashions

also : the fashions created

Examples of haute couture in a Sentence

a fashion designer who's a renowned master of haute couture

Recent Examples on the Web

During the centenary of the house this year, she was also tasked with the design of the women’s collections after Kim Jones in October 2024 exited his position as Fendi’s artistic director of haute couture, ready-to-wear and fur collections for women. —Luisa Zargani, Footwear News, 28 Nov. 2025

Nominated for Best Supporting Actress, Grande wore haute couture fresh off the runway, a structured bustier dress with a glittering tulle skirt. —Brendan Le, PEOPLE, 21 Nov. 2025

But critics believe that Paris’ reputation for haute couture, bespoke elegance and exclusive design couldn’t be further from the disposable culture epitomized by Shein’s ultra-low-price, accessible-to-all clothing. —Joseph Ataman, CNN Money, 4 Nov. 2025

For example, the first haute couture show Talley ever attended, Yves Saint Laurent’s in 1978 is paid tribute in the exhibit. —Essence, 4 Nov. 2025

Word History

Etymology

French, literally, high sewing

First Known Use

1908, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for haute couture

• candidature
• miniature
• photogravure
• rotogravure
• abjure
• adjure
• allure
• assure
• brochure
• cocksure
• coiffure
• contour