A guide to the techniques of couture sewing. The book begins with hand-sewing, the basis for every haute couture garment and then introduces the reader to the world of haute couture, sharing the craftsmanship of the most skilled artisans in the world, including: Christian Dior; Yves St Laurent; Coco Chanel; Hubert de Givenchy; Balenciaga; Schiaparelli; Valentino; and Lecoanet Hemant. The guide also includes over 100 colour photographs and 131 step-by-step pattern illustrations.

Reviews

From the workrooms of world fashion, including Dior, Chanel, and Givenchy, the secrets of couture craft are detailed, enabling home sewers to refine their skills. Shaeffer, author of many sewing titles, focuses on the fine construction techniques of haute couture and reviews hand stitching, making pleats or finished pockets, shaping a perfect fit, producing flawless finishing, and creating beautiful embellishments and closures. Special attention is given to creating couture jackets, coats, and evening wear. Photographs of fashions and drawings of techniques accompany the text. Not for beginning sewers, this title is for libraries serving those interested in studying and re-creating the art and science of haute couture. (Glossary, bibliography, sources of supply, index, and metric conversion chart not seen.)-Judith Yankielun Lind, Roseland Free P.L., N.J.