Includes bibliographical references (p. 174) and index.

Illustrated with Victor Skrebneski's breathtaking closeups of the master couturiers' finest creations, this sumptuous volume goes behind the seams to reveal the exquisite details and special techniques that raise fashion to the level of true art. The book examines the ingenious ways couturiers work with line, texture, and ornament to create sweep and volume, draping and pleating, illusion, and drama. All of the major designers of the twentieth century are represented, including Adolfo, John Anthony, Balenciaga, Balmain, Geoffrey Beene, Chanel, Dior, Erte for Poiret, Louis Feraud, Ferre, Galanos, Givenchy, Charles James, Lacroix, Lagerfeld for Chanel, Lanvin, Laroche, Claude Montana, Nina Ricci, Yves Saint Laurent, Scaasi, Scherrer, Schiaparelli, Ungaro, Valentino, Venet, Versace, Vionnet, and Vera Wang. With an illuminating text by Laura Jacobs and quotes from the couturiers themselves as well as from some of their celebrated clients, The Art of Haute Couture is a must for fashion lovers everywhere.