More than 150 years ago, wealthy fashionistas from around the world came to Paris to be dressed by the couturier Charles Frederick Worth. Founded in 1858, the fashion house continued for three generations after his death in 1895. His legacy is now showcased in the new exhibition "Worth: Inventing Haute Couture," which runs until September 7 at the Petit Palais Museum of Art in Paris. This is the first retrospective of the House of Worth, organized in collaboration with the Petit Palais and the Palais Galliera. The exhibition is dedicated to the 200th anniversary of the House of Worth.
Charles Frederick Worth, born in England in 1825, is celebrated as the founder of modern haute couture. He established himself in Paris in 1845, initially working in textiles before opening his own couture house in 1858.
Worth revolutionized fashion by introducing complete collections presented in advance and using live models. He is also credited with the invention of the crinoline and bustle, key elements of 19th-century feminine silhouettes.
His clientele included Empress Eugenie, Princess Pauline de Metternich, and Countess Greffulhe, extending his influence to European nobility and the Russian aristocracy. In 1868, Worth founded the Chambre Syndicale de la Couture, paving the way for the future Federation de la Haute Couture et de la Mode.
His couture house, managed by his sons, operated until 1956.