Fashion in art
Fashion can also be the object of inspiration in art. Gaultier revolutionised fashion with sensual creations like this lingerie dress. Thus, the sailor jumper, the corset dress, the inclusive fashion shows and Madonna’s iconic looks, gave rise to ‘Freak Show’. Through a show full of magic and impressive costumes, it tells us about the life of the ‘enfant terrible de la mode’, the rebellious child of fashion, in English.
Since Jean Paul Gaultier retired from the catwalks in 2020, the house has adopted an innovative approach to its haute couture collections, inviting different designers to reinterpret his legacy each season. Collaborators include Glenn Martens (Y/Project and Diesel), Olivier Rousteing (Balmain), Haider Ackermann, Simone Rocha and, most recently, Ludovic de Saint Sernin.
This collaborative approach has allowed the Jean Paul Gaultier brand to remain fresh and relevant, incorporating diverse creative perspectives while honouring the designer’s legacy.
From his beginnings in the 1970s, Gaultier stood out for his ability to break the mould without having undergone traditional training. He worked with Pierre Cardin before launching his first collection in 1976, already displaying his provocative style. His revolutionary vision celebrated diversity and questioned the established canons of beauty. With each show, she turned fashion into a space of freedom and self-expression.
His influence transcended the catwalk, collaborating with film and entertainment, creating costumes for films such as The Fifth Element and Kika. His designs told stories and reinforced aesthetics, consolidating him as a multidisciplinary creator. The mixture of theatricality, pop culture and urban references made him a global reference. Gaultier made fashion a bridge between art, identity and society.
