French Fashion Terms

No country has led the fashion industry more than France. From the bustling ateliers of Paris to the sun-drenched shores of the Côte d'Azur, France has long been synonymous with exquisite craftsmanship, unparalleled style, and a certain je ne sais quoi. It is within this environment that iconic maisons such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Hermès, Cartier, Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, and Balenciaga have flourished, shaping not only the industry but also the very language we use to describe it.

French Words in Luxury

Appliqué

Decorative fabric sewn onto another fabric.

Atelier

A designer's workshop or studio, often associated with haute couture fashion.

Avant-garde

Pushing the boundaries of traditional fashion, often with experimental and unconventional designs.

Batiste

A fine, soft, semi-sheer fabric made from cotton, linen, wool, or polyester.

Bouclé

A fabric made from looped yarn, giving it a textured, curly surface.

Boutique

A small shop that typically sells high-end or fashionable clothes and accessories.

Brocade

A rich, decorative fabric often made from silk, with intricate patterns usually in gold or silver thread.

Chambray

A lightweight fabric with a blue and white check pattern, typically made from cotton or linen.

Charmeuse

A lightweight, satin-weave fabric with a shiny front and dull back, commonly made from silk.

Chemise

A loose-fitting, sleeveless undergarment or lingerie piece, often unfitted at the waist.

Chenille

A fabric with a fuzzy pile, similar to velvet, created from the yarns that produce a soft, plush texture.

Chiffon

A lightweight, sheer, and flowing fabric with a slightly textured finish.

Couture

High-end, custom-made clothing, often made by hand from high-quality materials.

Cravat

A scarf-like necktie, typically formal and worn with a suit.

Crêpe

A fabric with a slightly rough, crinkled texture due to twisted yarns, offering a unique drape.

Crepe de Chine

A lightweight fabric made from silk or polyester, known for its matte finish and slightly crinkled texture.

Décolleté

The part of the chest and shoulders exposed by a low-cut neckline in a garment.

Défilé

A fashion show, typically showcasing a designer's latest collection.

Denim

A sturdy cotton twill fabric typically used for jeans and other casual clothing, characterized by its diagonal weave and blue color (though other colors exist).

Drapé

The way fabric hangs and falls on a body or object, creating folds and movement.

Faille

A ribbed fabric with a slightly glossy finish, often made from silk, cotton, or synthetic fibers.

Georgette

A sheer, lightweight fabric, typically made from silk or polyester, with a slightly crinkled texture.

Jacquard

A type of fabric with complex patterns woven directly into it using different colored threads.

Lingerie

Women's undergarments and sleepwear, often made from delicate fabrics and designed for comfort and sometimes aesthetics.

Matelassé

A fabric that appears to be quilted or padded, but is actually woven on a jacquard loom to create a raised pattern.

Métiers D'Art

French for 'Art Crafts'. Refers to high-end fashion collections created using traditional craftsmanship and expertise in specialized areas like embroidery, featherwork, and pleating.

Moire

A fabric treated to give it a rippled or watered appearance, often made from silk or a synthetic fiber.

Négligée

A loose, flowing garment worn as lingerie or loungewear, often made from sheer or delicate fabrics.

Ninon

A sheer, lightweight fabric, often made from silk or synthetic fibers, with a smooth surface.

Organdy

A fine, sheer fabric, typically made from cotton, that is crisp and lightweight.

Piqué

A fabric with a raised, patterned texture, often used in cotton shirts and dresses.

Prêt-à-porter

Ready-to-wear clothing, as opposed to haute couture or bespoke tailoring. It is mass-produced in standard sizes.

Taffeta

A smooth, crisp fabric with a high sheen, typically made from silk or polyester and used for formal wear.

Tailleur

A women's tailored suit, traditionally consisting of a jacket and skirt or trousers.

Tulle

A fine, lightweight net fabric often used for veils, skirts, and decorations, characterized by its airy and transparent nature.

Voile

A lightweight, semi-sheer fabric, usually made from cotton or a cotton blend, often used for dresses and blouses.

The French language, so rich with evocative terms, serves as the foundation upon which the global lexicon of luxury is built. Words like "haute couture" (high fashion), "luxe" (luxury), and "cachet" (prestige) have transcended national borders, becoming universally understood symbols of quality and refinement. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of French terminology is not merely an affectation, but rather an essential tool for navigating the world of luxury. Just as a sommelier possesses a deep knowledge of grape varietals and regional vintages, so too must one aspiring to comprehend the intricacies of luxury possess a strong grasp of the French language. By delving into this rich vocabulary, you gain the ability to not only appreciate the heritage and nuances of luxury goods, but also to communicate effectively within this esteemed industry.