Each year around November 25th, the French fashion world gathers to commemorate St. Catherine’s Day, a tradition that has roots in medieval times and is celebrated by the haute couture industry. This event, marked by vibrant green-and-yellow hats symbolizing various virtues, brings together young professionals from Parisian luxury houses at City Hall. Historically, this occasion provided single women working in couture ateliers an opportunity to meet their superiors and enjoy festivities while wearing elaborate hats that showcased their skills or interests. Over time, the tradition evolved, including men who honor St. Nicholas, and now embraces inclusivity beyond marital status and age restrictions.
The celebration of St. Catherine’s Day dates back to the late 19th century when it was first observed by the couture industry. Known as Catherinettes, these unmarried women, each 25 years old, were given a rare chance to interact with their employers and participate in street parties. The hats they wore were often personalized, reflecting either their individual talents or the distinct styles of their respective fashion houses. For instance, in the 1940s, Schiaparelli’s Catherinettes donned oversized versions of designer Elsa Schiaparelli’s surreal fragrance bottles shaped like suns and candlesticks. These extravagant headpieces served as a subtle yet clear message: "I’m available," according to Sophie Kurkdjian, an assistant professor of fashion history at the American University of Paris.
St. Catherine’s Day holds significance beyond its role as a matchmaking ritual. It also fostered camaraderie among workers, serving as what might today be considered a team-building exercise. Men eventually adopted a parallel tradition honoring St. Nicholas, celebrating on December 6th. They enjoyed additional years of singledom before becoming Nicholases at 30. In modern times, the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode has updated the rules, removing the requirement for participants to be unmarried and lowering the age limit for Nicholases to 25. This change reflects a shift towards inclusivity and adaptability within the fashion industry.
Victor Weinsanto, a French designer who started his label in 2020, appreciated the tradition during his internship at Chloé, where he witnessed Catherinettes receiving handbags along with their hats. Despite missing out on being feted as a Nicholas due to the rule changes, he still enjoys the spectacle from afar. The event remains a moment of creative freedom, exemplified by the large feathered hats worn by Hermès employees last November. As the fashion world continues to evolve, St. Catherine’s Day remains a cherished tradition, blending history, creativity, and community spirit.
