The Englishman Charles Worth (1825-1895) is considered the founder of haute couture, which elevates fashion to an art form. Before his time, couturiers were almost always anonymous. From the early 1860s, Worth literally attached his name to his own designs by ‘signing’ them on the inside. This dark blue velvet bodice shows how Worth’s idea was copied by other fashion houses. Today, designer clothing is an integral part of the street scene. [text 2025]