The word "couture" primarily refers to the design and creation of high-end fashion garments. It denotes not just the clothes themselves but also the art and technique involved in creating them, often implying a very high level of craftsmanship and exclusivity. In the fashion industry, "couture" specifically refers to custom-fitted clothing made for individual clients, typically by a designer or a fashion house.
The word "couture" comes from the French word for sewing or dressmaking. It originates from the Latin term "coctura," which means cooking or preparing, reflecting the idea of crafting or creating something.