Couture is the French word for sewing. It has come to be used to describe stylish feminine clothing such as the designer suits that were created in the 40s and 50s. Dior's 'New Look' and Channel's trademark tailored suit are examples of couture.

Chic tailored suits were the staple uniform for women in the early 60s and it was frowned upon to leave the house without wearing your hat, gloves and stockings.

Teenage girls wore clothes similar to their mothers. They were pretty and feminine, like the Doris Day, girl-next-door look.

As time progressed and younger styles replaced couture it would have been easy to spot the older generation from the younger - they were the ones still wearing hats!

Last updated: June 01, 2003

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