1. plural of modiste; women who design, make, or sell fashionable clothing, especially hats and dresses
Usage: formal; somewhat archaic

Examples

• The modistes on Fifth Avenue created elegant gowns for wealthy clients.
• Several modistes displayed their latest hat designs at the fashion exhibition.
• The department store employed skilled modistes to alter expensive dresses.
• In the early 1900s, modistes were highly respected artisans in the fashion industry.
• The modistes worked tirelessly to complete the wedding dress collection.
• Famous modistes from Paris influenced American fashion trends.