Haute couture can be undeniably mesmerizing. It has larger silhouettes, hand-beaded details and even something unapologetic drama. It’s definitively the kind of fashion that will make your jaw drop. But also, being realistic no-one is wearing a 20-pound tulle gown to the grocery store. As fashion lovers who are always inspired by the Paris runways, we always wonder how can we take the essence of couture and make it wearable for our everyday lives.
There is good news! You don’t need a celebrity stylist or even have a six-figure wardrobe to bring the flair of high fashion into your day-to-day outfits. You simply need a bit of creativity, a sharp-eyed and of course, the courage to experiment. This is how you can translate haute couture into wearable everyday style.
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Start with one statement element
One of the most effective ways to channel couture into your daily look is by incorporating a single, elevated and bold element into a simple outfit. Couture is about making a statement, but in real life, less is more.
Consider a structured and exaggerated sleeve on a simple black blouse. A ruffled mii skirt with a plain tee. Even metal boots with your favorite pair of jeans. The dramatic piece will be enough to transform the entire look without making it look and feel overdone.
If you want a pro tip. You can pair your statement piece with neutral tones or clean lines to keep a chic balance instead of it all looking chaotic.
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Experiment with couture fabrics
Haute couture is all about celebrating textures. Think of taffeta, silk, feathers, lace, sequins, velvet and embroidery. For sure, you won’t be walking around in a full-on organza gown. But there are ways to integrate these rich fabrics into your closet subtly.
For example, you can try a velvet blazer with a button-down. Or you can try a sequined tank layered under a nice jacket. Even a satin skirt or lace-trimmed camisole evokes couture without screaming for attention. You need to lookat pieces that feel elevated to the touch. Remember that it’s all about sensory luxury.
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Tailoring
One of the defining characteristics of haute couture is that these pieces are made-to-measure. Every garment is fitted to perfection. And in a world, where oversized trends and fast fashion is the rule, tailored pieces feels luxurious.
Don’t hesitate to visit a tailor to adjust the jacket sleeves or to take in the waist of your trousers. This can elevate your look, and also make you feel like it was made just for you. Even simple outfits can look like they are designer ones when they fit you perfectly.
The details that make the difference
Couture lets you play with intricate details. Like corset lacing, pearl buttons, delicate pleating and even artistic stitching. While these can seem subtle, they will turn even the basic of items into something amazing.
When you are styling or shopping, you need to pay attention to little things. Like a blouse with crystal buttons, a handbag with architectural hardware, or even jeans with a scalloped hem. These pieces will add quiet drama and couture-inspired personality to your wardrobe.
Elevate your outfit with accessories
Accessories are actually where your couture dreams can meet the practicality of real life. For example, an oversized hat, structured mini bags, gloves and even bold, sculptural earrings. These pieces are all fashion-forward without being costume-y.
A good example is wearing denim and a white tank and with the right accessories you’ll be looking like you know what you’re doing. You can swap your everyday belt for one with a luxe buckle that will make you feel like you just stepped out of the runway.
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Follow a couture mindset
Couture is also about attitude and not just clothes. A sense of play and confidence too. When you wear something that is a little out of the ordinary, you’ll make people stare, and that’s the point.
Being able to translate couture into everyday style, is that it will help you stop dressing out of your normal habit and start dressing with intention. Try and wear the fuchsia trench you’ve been saving for. Pair tthe ule with sneakers. And even mix your masculine blazer with a delicate slip dress. Don’t forget that fashion is supposed to be fun.
