The organisations behind the fashion weeks, the couture label and the industry’s rules.
By Shreya S · Last reviewed 15 November 2026
Who runs fashion in Paris?
The Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode (FHCM), whose roots go back to 1868. It organises the official calendars of Paris Fashion Week and couture week, decides which houses may show, and, with the French government, controls who can use the legally protected title “haute couture”. See haute couture, explained.
What about New York and London?
The Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), founded in 1962, is a membership group of American designers that sets the official New York Fashion Week schedule, runs the CFDA Awards and supports young talent. The British Fashion Council (BFC), founded in 1983, organises London Fashion Week and The Fashion Awards and funds emerging designers through schemes such as NEWGEN.
And Milan?
The Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana (CNMI), founded in 1958, represents the Italian fashion industry and organises Milan Fashion Week. Unlike the CFDA, its members include the big companies and manufacturers, reflecting how central making clothes is to Italy’s economy.
Who runs fashion in India?
The Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI), founded in 1998, organises India Couture Week and works with Lakmé Fashion Week. It supports Indian designers at home and abroad. See fashion weeks beyond the Big Four.
Read on Ayerhs: The History of Haute Couture · London Fall 2026: A Quick Overview · New York Fall 2026: A Quick Overview