Donna Serino

Dry Clean Down Jacket & Puffer Coat Cleaning

January 19, 2025 by Donna Serino Leave a Comment

Luxury puffer jackets are ideal for staying warm and stylish. They often become a staple in your winter wardrobe. By being your go-to outerwear, their care can often be neglected or pushed off.

Due to their unique materials and insulation, puffers and down jackets require special care. Proper cleaning helps maintain their appearance and functionality. So don’t toss your coat into the washing machine and get those tennis balls out just yet.

Puffer Jacket vs Down Coat

Puffers and down jackets share similarities, but they are not interchangeable. The key distinction lies in the insulation properties. Sometimes, it’s not about the jacket material but what’s inside that counts.

When we think of a puffer jacket. you immediately think of the quilted design. Typically, the jacket is filled with a synthetic insulation. Often, puffers are lightweight, breathable, and have water-resistant properties. From cropped to full length, there is a puffer for everyone. Bonus- they come in a rainbow of colors! (And some designers are offering full personalization such as Moncler.)

Down jackets are filled with the down from ducks and geese; there are fluffy clusters that are found underneath the feathers. This type of natural down is an excellent natural insulator. What makes it really special is that it provides warmth without being heavy. Due to the fluffiness, pockets of air get trapped and retain heat.

To keep it simple, all down jackets are puffers. All puffers are not down jackets because they may have a synthetic insulation. One is not necessarily better than the other. It is more about personal preference.

Can You Wash a Puffer Jacket or Down Coat?

Depending on your jacket, you may be able to machine wash at home. Before cleaning any item (especially luxury!), be sure to inspect the care label. Follow those instructions and consider speaking with your boutique’s sales team. They may be able to answer any additional questions you may have.

Hallak Cleaners has long-standing relationships with many of Manhattan’s boutiques. With our expertise and passionate customer service, we have become partners with many coveted designers.

Why Professional Care Matters

Puffer jackets are more complex than they seem. The delicate balance between the outer fabric, the filling, and the stitching requires expert handling. Improper washing can lead to clumping of the insulation, loss of loft, and damage to water-resistant coatings. A professional dry cleaner ensures:

Proper Cleaning
Fluff and Puff Preservation
Longer Lifespan

From working closely with so many luxury puffer jackets (Canada Goose, Moncler, and more), our cleaning department are experts. They have seen pretty much every style possible. From standard parkas to jackets that light up (yes, light up!), Hallak is the answer. (We also offer cleaning for any hoods with fur.)

Professional Care & Repair

For many, their puffers and down jackets become a daily necessity or the weekend grab-and-go outerwear. Throughout the day, we are drinking, eating, leaning, and anything else that comes up. Stains are inevitable. Even simply wearing your jacket will result in wear-and-tear. Some of the most likely trouble areas are near the zipper, collar, and wrists. Before putting away your favorite puffer, it is important to inspect for signs of your day.

Spills, general wear-and-tear, and other trouble spots should be taken care of as soon as possible. If your puffer jacket has visible stains or has lost its fluffiness, it’s time for some TLC. Preventative cleaning removes dirt and oils from breaking down. With expert techniques and attention to detail, we’ll keep your luxury outerwear ready for every winter adventure.

Hallak Cleaners Expert Services

Hallak Cleaners offers nationwide professional cleaning and minor repairs. At times, we are also able to spot-clean an item. However, spot cleaning is not always advisable since it can leave an obvious ring on the outer shell fabric. When in doubt, bring in your jacket for an in-person consultation.

Our cleaning department has the proper cleaning solution for any fabric. Every jacket dry cleaning process is unique to its fabric, style, and dirty spots. There is also the science of different stain removers for different kinds of stains – oil-based or water-based.

In addition to cleaning, we also offer additional repairs and zipper replacement. You love your favorite jacket. We totally get it. That’s why we offer expert repairs to keep your beloved jacket in the rotation.

Hallak offers free pick-up and delivery in Manhattan, Bergen County, Westchester, and Greenwich.

Your Outerwear’s Journey

All garments and outerwear that come through our store are thoroughly inspected. From tears to a stuck zipper, our team catches it all. Troublesome spots. Bad stains. Ripped boudins. Next, your jacket receives spot treatment prior to the proper dry cleaning process. Once cleaned, your jacket will receive another inspection.

When summed up like this, it seems like a simple process. Of course, we skipped over the intricate details of determining a stain and the proper stain removal treatment. Or how to expertly repair a jacket tear so it’s hardly a blemish visible to the eye.

When it comes to insulated outerwear, it is important to stress that following your item’s cleaning instructions is vital. If the label says dry clean only, we advise you to follow the instructions. It’s not just because we are a dry cleaner. It’s we have met many upset people at our counter requesting us to ‘save’ their favorite jacket. Why not skip the stress and trust the professionals from the beginning?

Schedule Hallak’s dry cleaning service today.

Does Dry Cleaning Shrink Clothes?

January 18, 2025 by Donna Serino Leave a Comment

Dry cleaning is surrounded by misconceptions and misinformation.

When it comes to its impact on clothing size, there are many stories and theories. As an expert in dry cleaning, we are here to set the record straight.

For many garments, dry cleaning is the only safe way to clean. It’s important that clients feel comfortable purchasing and caring for these clothing items. You shouldn’t have to be stressed prior to scheduling your pick-up.

So let’s dive into this highly debated topic.

The Basics: Why Does Clothing Shrink?

Clothing shrinkage occurs due to several factors. Primarily, any possible shrinkage is related to a fabric’s fibers and process used. Fabrics respond uniquely to moisture and heat.

Natural fibers, like cotton and wool, have a tendency to contract when exposed to water and heat. This causes them to shrink. If you have ever shrunk a sweater, this is most likely the cause behind it.

Machine washing often leads to shrinkage because of the agitation and tumbling. The mechanical action can stress certain fibers and cause them to shrink. If you were then to toss these same garments into the dryer, the additional high heat exacerbates the shrinkage.

Dry cleaning, while generally gentler, can also lead to shrinkage. It is important that you rely on a professional dry cleaner who has the knowledge of all the different textiles and ornamentation. Like you, we follow clothing care labels. Then, pair this information with our own knowledge-base and innovative processes. Unfortunately, some washing instructions are incorrect. If you are not well-versed in fabric, you may not be able to catch a misinformed cleaning method. (We have helped many clients that fell into this trap.) Following the recommended (when correct!) cleaning instructions minimizes the risk of damage. It also ensures clothes retain their original size and shape. If you are unsure, feel free to ask one of our professionals. We are always happy to inspect and offer our expertise.

How to Prevent Shrinking

To prevent shrinking of clothes, follow these guidelines from our dry cleaning experts:

– Read Care Labels: Always check the fabric care instructions on labels for specific washing and drying recommendations.

– Wash in Cold Water: Use cold water for washing to minimize the risk of heat-induced shrinkage.

– Gentle Cycle: Opt for a gentle wash cycle to reduce agitation and prevent fabric stress.

– Avoid High Heat: Do not use high heat settings for drying. Instead, tumble dry on low or air dry your clothes.

– Pre-shrink Fabrics: Purchase pre-shrunk garments or pre-shrink fabric before sewing to ensure minimal future shrinkage.

– Use Fabric Softeners: Incorporate fabric softeners to relax fibers, reducing the chances of shrinkage.

– Store Properly: Avoid folding damp clothes and ensure they are fully dry before storing them to prevent mildew, which can lead to shrinkage.

– Iron with Care: Use the appropriate heat settings when ironing to avoid damaging the fabric, which may lead to shrinkage.

By following these tips, you can help maintain the size and shape of your clothes for a longer time.

The Dry Cleaning Process

This is not a one size fits all answer.

To reiterate, fabrics respond to heat and water differently. They also are affected by the solvents and process being used. Hallak Cleaners is a family-owned and operated couture dry cleaner. We take our responsibility to provide expert garment care very seriously. Everyone in our cleaning department is continuously trained on fabric, the latest cleaning techniques, and more.

In general, dry cleaning utilizes a solvent, typically perc or eco-friendlier alternatives. (It is important to note that the dry cleaning industry is held to very strict standards that must be adhered to. And Hallak won a few awards for its environmentally friendly practices.) The process begins with an inspection of the clothing to identify any stains or trouble spots. Garments are then placed in a dry cleaning machine that resembles a standard washing machine but operates dry. The dry cleaning solvent circulates through the fabric, breaking down dirt and oils.

After the cleaning cycle, the clothing is extracted from the machine. It undergoes a thorough drying process. Finally, the garments are pressed and finished. The entire process minimizes shrinkage and color fading, making it ideal for items like suits, silk, and wool.

Dry cleaning is a wonderful way to protect your wardrobe investment.

How Do You Know the Risk of Shrinkage?

Great question. Before investing in a garment, you should consider the type of fabric (and embellishments) and its care. If you are not willing to pay for dry cleaning services, you should opt for fabrics that can be machine-washed. (No judgement here! We just want your clothing -and wallet- to be safe. Cleaning mistakes can be costly.)

Save yourself some time and disappointment by having a better understanding of common fabrics. Here are a few examples:

– Cotton: Cotton clothes often shrink significantly, especially during its first wash. (Ouch. We have all made this mistake, right?)

– Wool: This natural fiber can felt and shrink dramatically if washed in hot water or dried at high heat.

– Linen: Linen can also shrink if not pre-washed properly or washed in hot water.

– Viscose: Viscose can contract when washed and may lose shape if not handled carefully.

– Rayon: Similar to viscose, rayon is prone to accidental shrinkage when subjected to water, particularly in hot conditions.

– Satin and Silk: These delicate fabrics can shrink or even lose their luster if exposed to heat during washing or drying. Costly!

Unsure of the fabric fibers or how to handle? Delicate items? Ask an expert. No charge for a friendly question.

Fabrics Less Prone To Shrinking

Synthetic fibers tend to offer better resistance to shrinking compared to natural fibers. Here are a few examples of fabric that offer no to minimal shrinkage risk:

– Polyester: Highly resistant to shrinking and wrinkling. This is exactly why it skyrocketed to popularity.

– Nylon: Durable with excellent strength, it doesn’t shrink easily when washed.

– Acrylic: Similar to wool in texture but is much less prone to shrinking and retains its form.

Pay special attention to the different types of fabrics and appropriate laundering process, you can better enjoy your favorite garments without the fear of shrinkage.

Proper Garment Care

We hope that you walk away feeling a bit more confident in both caring for your clothes at home AND stopping by your favorite dry cleaners. (Us, possibly?)

Before concluding, it is important to briefly touch on an important subject – sustainability. The importance of investing in quality clothing and proper garment care should be stressed. Fast fashion has led to a culture of disposability.

Choose high-quality clothing made from durable, natural fibers. Provide the proper care required. Good decisions mean reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimizing waste. This thoughtful approach to fashion consumption reduces the environmental footprint of clothing production.

Typically, quality garments are made by skilled artisans under ethical conditions. They utilize sustainable practices and materials. Let’s support their conscious efforts that align with your values.

Dry Cleaning Locations

Hallak Cleaners has two locations: Bergen County and Manhattan. We also offer free delivery service in Bergen County, Manhattan, Westchester, Greenwich, and the Short Hills neighborhood. Out of the area? You can also ship your garments.

Schedule your pick-up today.

Luxury Gifts: Your Holiday Gift Guide

November 2, 2024 by Donna Serino Leave a Comment

Updated November 2, 2024

Find the perfect luxury holiday gifts for the ones you love! You’re going to be happy you checked out our perfect luxury gift guide!

When you think luxury gift, what types of items come to mind? Is it something tangible? Is it an experience? The choice really depends on the recipient. Whatever it is, you know it is going to ‘say’ high-quality, opulent, and indulgent. And it’s certainly going to be beyond the ordinary.

Best Luxury Gifts

The luxury gift (not an experience) is characterized by craftsmanship, premium materials/fabrics, and exclusivity. It aligns perfectly with one of our other favorite topics – luxury fashion.

The best luxury gifts can range from high-end fashion accessories, fine jewelry, and other designer items. For the person that has everything, consider bespoke experiences such as: a trip, Michelin dining, or other personalized services. Make it memorable that also reflects the person’s taste and lifestyle.

Holiday Luxury Gifts

Designer Silk Scarf or custom silk tie: Add to their exquisite silk scarf or tie collection. Crafted from the finest materials in beautiful patterns, there is an accessory for any taste. This level of accessory never goes out of style. (For custom pieces, visit our friends at Tiecrafters.)
Personalized Travel Set: Jetsetter friend or loved one? Gift them with a custom travel set. And don’t forget the passport holder, luggage tag, and travel wallet. It makes both a thoughtful and practical gift for the frequent traveler.
Vintage-inspired Cocktail Set: Even though Mad Men ended years ago, the vintage cocktail set is always a ‘yes’. While this may require a personal shopper or some research, it is so worth it. In addition to the set, be sure to include some premium spirits that they love.
Cashmere Lounge Set: Who wouldn’t want to wrap themselves in luxury cashmere on a New York winter night (or day!). Fortunately, there are plenty of sets available that come in different neutrals, shades, and patterns. Although simple in style, there is nothing simple about the indulgence of premium cashmere.
Artisanal Chocolate Collection: For the chocolate lover in your life, share with them a curated collection of artisanal chocolates. While NYC has many renowned chocolatiers, there are also plenty online options to choose from as well. And if you pick up a few for yourself, we won’t tell. After all, everyone deserves a little luxury near the holidays – and that includes you!
Fine Jewelry and Watches. When in doubt, jewelry is always welcome. Timeless tennis bracelet. Trinity de Cartier ring. One-of-a-kind watch. Visit your favorite jewelry store for a little inspiration.
Bespoke Tailoring Experience: Does he have everything? Well, he can always have one more custom suit. Find a renowned tailor that offers this type of experience. There is really nothing better than a suit tailored to you in every way possible.
Sculptural Home Décor or Art Print A home’s aesthetic is very personal. This type of gift is for the person that is very near and dear to you. It is important to keep their personality and interior choices in mind prior to any purchase. To make it more personalized, consider a commissioned piece that is as unique as your loved one.
Caviar Tasting Experience: Do you have a friend that appreciates the finest in caviar? Then, treat them to a caviar tasting experience. The proper tasting will include a selection of the finest caviars paired with gourmet accompaniments.
Private Yacht Charter: If you are a fan of Below Deck, then you’ve been wanting this gift yourself! Spoil their sense of adventure with a private yacht charter for a day or weekend getaway. Eating gourmet meals with the most picturesque of backdrops…it doesn’t get much better than that.

Additional Luxury Holiday Gifts

Fashion & Accessories

Looking for the perfect gift idea for the fashionista in your life? Our New York area is full of designer fashion enthusiast. A visit to your loved one’s favorite boutique is a great place to start.

Designer Handbags –Classic design or something trendy from houses like Gucci, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, or Hermès. (And don’t forget! Hallak can keep your luxury handbags their best with our expert care.)
Fine Jewelry – You can’t go wrong with the quiet luxury found at Cartier and Tiffany. Little luxuries can make a big impact.

Related topics – Holiday Fashion Looks and Couture Fashion

Home & Lifestyle

The holiday season often means more gatherings than usual. Home decor make great host/hostess gifts. Use any personal information you have to make it that much more special.

Premium Candles & Diffusers – Consider a gift set from Diptyque or Jo Malone
Luxury Home Decor – Designer vases, decorative trays, or art pieces
Collectible Album – Do a little rare vinyl digging for that music lover in your life

Travel & Experiences

While we already mentioned a private yacht charter, there are plenty of other options depending on what you are looking for.

Luxury Hotel Stays – Weekend getaways at renowned boutique hotels
Private Wine Tasting – Exclusive winery tours and tastings

And for the sentimental person in your life, Hallak can help! Give the gift of a vintage or heirloom restoration . A professional restoration is ideal for : antique dolls, vintage fashion, hand-me-down quilts, military uniforms and more.

Why Lean to Luxury?

When thinking about what are the best luxury gifts, you should think about what makes something luxurious.

Premium craftsmanship and high-quality make a difference. It means that whatever you get is going to last a long time.These types of finer things also leave a lasting memory. If you give the right gift, the recipient knows thought was given. That this was picked out just for them.

Choosing the Right Holiday Gifts

Still a little lost? Let’s ask ourselves a few questions about your gift’s recipient that may help narrow your options down.

What are their favorite luxury brands?
Do they have a favorite color or scent?
Is there somewhere they have wanted to go?

When in doubt, consider classic styles of jewelry, fashion accessories, or decor. Unless you are buying for someone eclectic. Then, shop a bit outside of the box. Surprise them with something that really speaks to their uniqueness. It will sure to become their new favorite luxury item.

With whatever you choose, you know it will be appreciated. If you are still unsure, it’s okay to drop some subtle hints to see if there’s any interest or direction provided. While gift cards are always welcome, the best gifts come from the heart (and a little thoughtfulness).

We hope that we have helped you with some luxury gift ideas. Happy shopping!

Fall Fashion

November 2, 2024 by Donna Serino Leave a Comment

Updated November 2, 2024

As the air turns crisp and leaves begin to change, fall fashion takes center stage with rich colors, luxurious fabrics, and cozy layers. This season’s trends are all about adding warmth and sophistication. With New York being such a fashion mecca, take to the streets in coveted looks and statement outerwear.

Cold in the morning, beautiful during the day, and then back to a crisp chill. And let’s not even talk about the rain! (Or worse, snow!) Working in the city? Fall can be that much trickier to navigate thanks to your possible public commute.

Fall Fashion Trend Picks

Before jumping into any trends, take a look at your current style and fashion goals. Are your fall pieces mainly neutrals? Consider adding some jeweled color pieces. Already have lots of solid color garments? Bring in some fun patterns and different textures.

Why we all turn to New York Fashion Week for some inspiration? When it comes down to it, you know what you like. And you know that you have great style. So take a look at some trends and see what fits your fall wardrobe best.

Statement Outerwear

Interesting necklines (including funnel), classic cuts, and bold colors. While you may be seeing a lot of red, expect to bring in the green later this winter.

Luxurious Fabrics

Yes! It’s time to break out our favorite velvet, suede, leather, and cashmere favorites. They create great visual appear and scream “It’s fall!”.

Layered Knits

In our area, an autumn day can have quite the range of temperatures. That’s why layering is the perfect way to combat too hot or too cold. Make sure your wardrobe contains some chunky knits, light under layers, bold cardigans, etc. Pair with the right accessory and shoes – and they are anything but boring.

Classic Patterns

A classic patter never goes out of style. Thank goodness, classic is always cool. Think plaids, houndstooth, and animal prints. They are great for pairing with both neutrals and colors.

Fall Shoe Trends

Love ballet flats? Perfect. Over-the-knee boots? Perfect too. And pick up that statement Mary Jane, updated loafer, and stylish moto ankle booties. (And depending on your area and style, a pair of cowboy boots.)

Fall Fashion Color Trends

What fall trend is speaking to you? Take it to that extra level by purchasing in one of the trending seasonal colors. A few include:

Deep, moody wine red. Perfect for day and night. Try pairing wine red blouse with wide leg jeans or try a bold blazer with matching trousers.
Classic navy that can be used as a neutral. Easily find this in suits, sweaters, or a trench coat.
Unexpected pale yellow that may remind us of summer but perfect for autumn. This share looks great with a dark wash jean or casual maxi skirt.

What is your favorite color trend this season? Keep it really simple or get creative. Your style is as unique as you are.

Seasonal Fashion Transition

Initially, many may not want to make the pivot to cooler weather clothing. Then, we remember it is boots season ! So maybe letting go of those summer vibes isn’t so bad.

However, there is the troublesome aspect of the seasonal clothing switch. Do you switch out everything at one time and then be stuck with nothing to wear on a refreshingly warmer fall day? (Same! It’s like we never learn. Or is Mother Nature playing with us?)

Although a bit more cumbersome, it is best to have a gradual change. This way, you are not left in a tricky situation. (This will also be helpful during the return to spring months later.) For example, it is best to consider leaving layering garments around year-round.

A few suggestion would be:

Favorite jeans
Classic blazer
Light short-sleeved sweater
Short and long- sleeve tees
Mixable street style pieces

Without much stress, garments like these can easily go from summer to a fall outfit . As the weather begins to lean more towards the cold, you can then amp up the switch.

Storage Tips

Whether you are storing at home or with Hallak, we stress the importance of cleaning all garments. Long-term / seasonal storage requires a full cleaning prior to any storing. Moth holes in wool, anyone? Hard-to-remove stains that settled in? We have all been there, but now we know better.

Additional tips:

Breathable storage options such as garment bags and cedar closets
Add additional cedar blocks or lavender packets
Cold storage for your fur, leather, and suede

Hallak Cleaners offers both box and cold clothing storage . The box storage ideal for all your garments. (All clothing is professionally cleaned prior to being stored.) What’s great about it is that you can add and take throughout the storage season. Plus, free pick-up and delivery available in certain areas such as Manhattan, Bergen County, Greenwich, and Westchester.

Take the stress out of clothing storage. And free up some closet space for those new fall fashion trends .

Breast Cancer Awareness Month at Hallak

October 1, 2024 by Donna Serino Leave a Comment

Breast Cancer Awareness Month at Hallak Cleaners

Celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness Month at Hallak Cleaners.

Every October, Hallak joins many other community organizations and businesses in doing their part to share breast cancer awareness and further fund research.

If you are unfamiliar with Hallak’s pink pride, allow us to quickly explain. Every year, we donate a portion of our October cleaning proceeds from all pink garments in hopes of finding a cure and awareness.

At Hallak, we love pink – and it doesn’t have to be ‘Hallak pink’! Along with being a great cause, it looks great. There is a shade for everyone. And yes, you can certainly wear pink in the fall.

If you lean towards a paler shade, be sure to be conscious of what you are pairing your pastels with. Dye transfer is a real thing – and can be quite difficult to ‘fix’. Unfortunately, it is not able to be fully removed so bring it to a professional for a proper evaluation. Hallak Cleaners has been known to be a miracle worker so it never hurts to ask!

In addition to donating, we are also giving away breast cancer awareness items at both store locations: New York and New Jersey.

Continue to wear your pink all fall and winter long. There are plenty of autumn choices in a range of shades. For your more casual items, consider our wash-and-fold service. And of course, our couture dry cleaning is always here for you. Let’s not forget our specialized leather, suede and fur department either.

What Is Couture Fashion: Behind Haute Couture

August 11, 2024 by Donna Serino Leave a Comment

Updated 8/11/2024

When you think of couture houses, it’s easy to list several in a manner of seconds. Chanel, Givenchy, Christian Dior…these high-end fashion houses’ couture garments show strict adherence to quality requirements by The Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode.So how do you find yourself showcasing your haute couture pieces at Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week?

What is Couture Fashion

Let’s answer the question – “what is couture fashion?” Otherwise known as haute couture, this level of fashion represents the highest pinnacle. These custom-fitted garments are crafted from start to finish.

Unlike ready-to-wear- garments, couture pieces are created for individuals. Made from the finest materials, these items are tailored precisely to body measurements. The process involves exceptional attention to detail. Skilled artisans spend hundreds of hours in design and creation. Couture is considered wearable art that embodies a designer’s vision. Often, haute couture pushes fashion’s boundaries.

History of Couture Fashion

The father of haute couture, Charles Frederick Worth, founded his house back in 1858. He initiated the idea of a collection of couture clothes and salon shows. The exclusive custom-fitted clothing were modeled by live models. Then, couture clients provided their measurements and custom selections. Although not a French Fashion Designer, he built his business in Paris and encompassed the luxuriousness of the French fashion culture.

Worth would also lay the foundation for Fashion Week; he organized his fashion collections to be shown twice a year. Seeing what the House of Worth accomplished, other designers joined in the Paris couture market. This is why Paris Couture Week is still such a coveted event to this day by fashion companies, fashion editors, and more. It is every fashion model’s dream to walk in the couture fashion capital’s show.

Couture and Ready-to-Wear Clothing

Garments created in haute couture fashion houses are known for their one-of-a-kind design, high-quality fabrics (and ornamentation), extreme attention to detail, and custom fit.

Fortunately, couture designers and other luxury houses offer ready-to-wear luxury clothing. Still luxurious and coveted, ready-to-wear refers to clothing that is considered more affordable fashion (for some). They are produced in standard sizes and made available to boutiques and department stores. Meant to be purchased by a wider audience, the clothing is produced in larger qualities. This does not mean that quality has been skimped. They are still made of premium materials and carry a high level of prestige.

Luxury Ready-to-Wear Clothing Industry

Although not full-on French couture, the same couture sewing techniques and fabrics can be found in high-end ready-to-wear collections.

Excellent Quality. Finest fabrics and custom creation. The fabrics used are often of superior quality and/or unique textiles. Therefore, the garment creation process is usually more time-consuming and labor-intensive.
Celebrity Designer. Both couture and RTW designers are well-known and fall in the celebrity category. No longer simply behind the scenes, they are openly appreciated for their exquisite creations thoughtfully dreamed, designed and executed. They often end up befriending fashion enthusiasts, celebrities and couture collectors.
Clothing Brands. Designer clothing brands are known for being exclusive and prestigious. In addition the garments, there is a general brand image that is associated with a couture business. It is exactly why logos are so welcome on many garments and custom clothing.
Meticulous Attention to Detail. When it comes to the couture industry, designers turn to more traditional craftsmanship techniques such as couture sewing, hand-stitching, embroidery, and other processes involving a high level of skill. With these techniques, each garment bring with it a sense of heritage and authenticity.
Exclusivity. Couture clothing and accessories are often produced in limited quantities or as one-of-a-kind. Similar to a Birkin, there often is a special VIP list for these items.

Why Haute Couture Fashion Houses are Important

There are many reasons why it’s important to have a set of standards for haute couture fashion. While we appreciate all levels of fashion, it is important to differentiate them to protect the artistic integrity of these houses.

Innovation. When you think of haute couture, it is okay to consider this style that you may not be able to walk down the street in. This type of clothing was not created with consideration to the commercial market. In fact, they purposely tend to choose fabric, lines, and ornamentation that cannot be mass produced. Thus, it allows designers to use unusual fabrics (or mediums) and innovative techniques.
Artisanship. Tailors and seamstresses already ‘wow’ us with their skills and talent that go beyond accurate measurements. And when it comes to unique haute couture designs, you can only imagine the skillset needed. Their impeccable craftsmanship ensures every detail is calculated and executed properly. Then, there is the extra step of the perfect fit (once constructed).
Trendsetting. All designers and fashion makers look to haute couture for inspiration. From these innovative styles, future designs are born; those that may be able to be outfitted to suit a more public market.

Haute Couture Today

With this level of exclusivity (and price tag), it is not surprising to learn that haute couture has and will always have a special buyer in mind.

Royalty. It is no surprises that haute couture designers love providing royal families access to their original designs. Often, princesses and queens are known for being stylish women. While not obtainable, the public looks to them to see what they are wearing next. Just think about how Markle’s wedding gown choices inspired brides across the world (and fashion designers).
High-Society. Celebrities have couture designers wanted to dress them. The feeling is mutual as this group is also clamoring for these exclusive garments. What better way to stand out or make a statement than with an innovative, haute couture piece?
Collectors. Avant-garde items are especially coveted by collectors. With a love for wearable art, they see the value and significance in these special garments. They are certainly an investment that holds great meaning to these individuals.

In today’s fashion industry, you will also find other style enthusiasts and influencers donning haute couture clothing. The fortunate ones, of course! It isn’t easy to make these connections. However when you do, we can only imagine how it must feel to attend the next fashion event wearing a custom piece. What better way to say you’ve made it in the fashion industry?

The Future of Couture Fashion

The fashion industry continues to look at sustainability and ways to address additional ethical concerns. This does not have to mean the end of couture fashion. It is simply an additional challenge and/or inspiration to look for new textiles that are ethically sourced.

What’s beautiful about haute couture is that it is that perfect mix of innovative designs and design innovation. The standards set are certainly historically rooted; they also have adapted with today’s industry regulations. Fashion house teams provide the space for these workers to create, perfect their skills and share them with others. When garment manufacturing has embraced mass production, there is still a place for custom-fitted clothing.