Armani Privé Haute Couture

I had the pleasure of meeting Andrea Ciaraldi, Creative Director of Giorgio Armani, last week.  First at a fitting for Armani Privé Haute Couture (trust me, there is no experience like being fitted for Haute Couture, apex to apex) and later at a dinner at Fashionista Founder Heidi Dillon’s home.  Andrea is the ultimate charming Italian man.  He insisted I try on the Haute Couture sample pieces and when I came out he raved in his delicious Italian accent “You are amazing, why are you hiding under layers of wool and boxy jacket?  You must show this body off!  Most models don’t even fit into our sample sizes, you are perfect!”  Talk about ego boost, I almost ordered the pink beaded gown on the spot.  The cost of an average Haute Couture gown made to order, is a whooping six figures.  But considering it takes over 300 hours to apply the beading and beautiful details, it is well worth the price, isn’t it?  There are a mere 2,000 Haute Couture collectors worldwide, while most are over the age of 60, there is a growing group of young girls (20′s and 30′s) buying into the art of Haute Couture.   After this amazing experience, how can I go back to off the rack ready-to-wear?Anyone who has had the same experience will agree, it is an exquisite art that must be continued.  But seeing how haute couture artisans have dropped from 46,000 to only 4,500, it is up to the new generation of collectors to keep it going.  An article from the UK Telegraph stated that ten years ago, Couture collectors consisted mainly of Aristocrats and Texan wives but are now extending to young professionals and entrepreneurs (like my girlfriend who wishes to remain unnamed).  No longer the “trophy wives”, women who make their own money collect couture as men would fine art or say, an Aston Martin.Ciaraldi said Mr. Armani was inspired by the art of Japanese origami this season.  The laminated iguana jacket pictured above and on me below was meticulously pleated and stitched so that it will always keep the orgami folds.  The two dresses also have gorgeous pleated detailing as well hand beading which took hundreds of hours to complete.  It was such a thrill to try on Haute Couture pieces hot off the Paris runway!  As you can imagine, we are just as snobby about our clothes as we are about our bags, look for the launch of Couture Snob this summer!The oversized clutch I am holding is made of laminated iguana skin with hand made mignons (the “origami” detail).  It is one of the most unique bags I have seen.  The jacket is made of the same skin and is absolutely divine.  And did I mention I was measured for couture shoes as well?  Every curve of the foot is measured, ensuring a proper fit and ultimate comfort.Photo credit: Armani Privé Haute CoutureUPDATE- This entry was updated on Sunday, March 2nd.