French fashion’s governing body changes its name

By

Godfrey Deeny

Published
Jun 29, 2017

French’s fashion governing body, for decades colloquially known as the Chambre Syndicale has changed its name. From Thursday on, it will be known as the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode (FHCM), confirming information reported by FashionNetwork in February.

“This new name emphasizes Haute Couture, a remarkable French singularity and “Fashion” in its most creative forms. It celebrates both creation and innovation, know-how in all its facets, art and technology,” explained Pascal Morand, who has been executive president of the organization since 2016.
 
Previously, this powerful industry organization had the inordinately long title of Fédération Française de la Couture du Prêt-à-Porter des Couturiers et Créateurs de Mode. However, everyone always referred to it as the Chambre Syndicale.

Among its multiple roles, the Fédération controls the fashion schedules of six fashion weeks a year in Paris: two menswear, two women’s ready-to-wear and two haute couture. The latter begins this Sunday for five days.
 
“This name change also seeks to better define the Fédération's scope of intervention, as the Fédération has a key role in fashion's ecosystem on a national and international scale. Promoting its past and with an eye for the future, the Federation prioritizes in all circumstances creation, the intrinsic link between culture and industry, and the flourishing of talents,” Morand added.
 
Besides being the most prestigious fashion week, primus inter pares, the Paris seasons are the most multinational, with the couture season attracting two of American’s hottest houses – Proenza Schouler and Rodarte – to show in Paris on the opening day of couture.
 
“Openness on an international scale and respect for diversity are integral to all its endeavors,” added Morand.

 
Besides the catwalk shows, the Fédération controls the Designer's Apartment showroom, supporting fledgling fashion brands, and has developed a digital platform New Now. Moreover, it also is a founding member of the Ecole de la chambre syndicale de la couture parisienne – probably the best school for pattern makers in the world - and of the Institut Français de la Mode, Europe’s top fashion management school.
 
On Thursday afternoon, the organization will reveal a new logo, designed by Philippe Apeloig. And, the Fédération will roll out a new website over the next few months. The group’s application Paris Fashion Week®, launched in January 2016, will also see new functions appear in the next months.