You spot it in Vogue, on red carpets, across billboards, and on runways. Design houses crank it out seasonly and fashionistas crave it. The label ‘couture’ albeit sacred, is not given…its earned. But what exactly does it mean? Because the definition still remains elusive to some I wanted to explore it just a bit and break it down.

Today the word ‘couture’ is often generically used to refer to any high fashion garment no matter where it has been fitted. But it actually is the process by which the clothes are made that means couture (while ‘haute couture’ refers to the actual items produced). The true French tradition dates back to the mid-1800’s and requires that a particular garment have been produced by a member of the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture (which includes designers such as: Chanel, Christian Dior, Jean Paul Gaultier, and Givenchy, among others). Garments must be fitted client specific, with at least one custom session to ensure that the item correctly compliments the individual. In addition to this, the company must have a workshop in Paris equipped with French staff and present a collection during both fashion weeks.

But who are we kidding? Most women aren’t Angelina Jolie and can’t afford to buy, and/or don’t have a place to wear this fabulous gear. So in attempt to take advantage of this growing market share, designers have answered the call for couture-inspired pieces that are ready to wear. Need some inspiration for that affordable take on couture? Here are a few options from 6PM that you can use as a starting point.

 Also (*in a whisper*), a little birdie told me they have a sale Nov. 16-18th.

http://www.6pm.com/null/4gIBMIIDAt5q.zso

The link will be live at 6AM. Price points on the site will be: $49, $99, $149.