Couture in the 21st Century is a reference book of inspirations, featuring interviews with 30 of the world's top designers today expressing, in their own words, the importance of the traditions of couture in shaping the future of fashion. Over the last decade, designers have been delving into the archives of the old masters such as Paul Poiret, Christian Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, Elsa Schiaparelli, Coco Chanel and Madeline Vionnet and discovering a new relevance in traditional techniques. This comprehensive study of contemporary couture features interviews with designers such as Giorgio Armani, Oscar de la Renta and Azzedine Alaia, as well as the fresh faces such as Pier Paolo Piccioli and Maria Grazia Chiuri at Valentino, Stefano Pilati at Yves Saint Laurent and Riccardo Tisci at Givenchy. Each designer describes his or her own particular relationship with couture accompanied by beautiful photographs and illustrations, as well as a portrait of the designer by Rankin, the internationally renowned photographer. Couture in the 21st Century captures the allure of couture in the hands of the world's best-known couturiers. It is a must have this season for anyone interested in fashion.