Too Haute To Handle: Alexandre Vauthier
A designer that has got us all haute under the collar is the couturier (and top of Rihanna’s phonebook) Alexandre Vauthier. One of the few independently owned couture houses is back at Browns for SS19 and we are already booking events in the diary for any excuse to wear one of his spectacular pieces.
The French designer refined his craft when working under the 80’s couture powerhouse Thierry Mugler who he credits as training him “on the importance of precision tailoring and to play with the shape and cut of a garment.” Considering Mugler as a “godfather”, it is clear his influence remains true through Vauthier’s structured garments and powerful silhouettes. Following his four formative years with Mugler he went on to work as Head Designer of Couture at Jean Paul Gaultier for eight years before starting his own haute house in 2009.
The haute couture world is an elusive one, guided by a strong set of rules and followed by a unique set of collectors. Currently, there are just 12 official members that have been appointed by Fédération Française De La Couture and all must adhere to the below commandments:
1. Make original garments for private clients with more than one fitting
2. Use an atelier with at least 15 full-time staff
3. Have 20 technical workers in the workshop
4. Present a collection of no less than 50 designs that range from day to night looks
As one of the few true couture houses, Vauthier is known for dressing the likes of Rihanna and Caroline Vreeland, which has only helped to catapult him into the spotlight with his standout pieces. The rebel of the couture house, his designs break the traditional confines of haute couture as a whole line of evening gowns is not necessarily what the modern woman seeks. Not wanting the clothes to wear the woman, Alexandre is creating pieces for all occasions and cultures so today’s woman can discover her perfect couture piece.
His SS19 collection stays true to his '80s aesthetic with plenty of ruffles, sequins, one shoulders and a touch of tiger print. Combining a New Romantic style with a hint of 'femme fatale' each piece is a true expression of his fine-tuned craftsmanship and dominant style. Dressing for strong personalities his expertly crafted dresses represent the powerful woman with that extra dash of sex appeal. It is pretty impossible to not feel like you rule the world in an Alexandre Vauthier dress.
The SS19 collection of ready to wear and shoes are available online now.
Words by Alexandra Oliver