Couture School: The Art of Luxury

Want to go to couture school and see the inner workings of your favorite luxury brand? Whether you love fashion or jewelry – or both, consider your next trip focused on behind-the-scenes to learn more about the technique and craft itself.

Learn about gemology at Van Cleef in Paris where visitors can attend not only courses, but lectures. Work hands-on – and I do mean you actually can touch the jewels. The classes, which are led by historians and expert craftsmen, include tutorials on the design process.

In Fort Worth, Texas, understand 16th-century skills combined with 21st- century technology to make incredible Cartier watches. Much work in this class is focused on its mechanical techniques and scientific accuracy in making luxury timepieces. Students can even make their own special timepiece.

And finally, in Rome, guests can have the opportunity to learn the secrets of haute couture of Maison Valentino. At a 16th-century Palazzo, visitors will experience firsthand the special techniques from draping to layering lace on tulle.