Designer Profile: Jean Paul Gaultier

Jean Paul Gaultier

Who? What? Where? Why? When?

Compelling as they are paramount, several top designers in our glorious fashion industry may remain unknown or simply unfamiliar to the general public. Whether culturally-defining or trend-inducing, simple facts detailing information such as birthplace, education, and sources of inspiration are sadly unnoticed by both the average person and fashion consumers alike. Quite regularly, people have questioned me whether or not Christian Dior was female or living which sees an unfortunately dreadful cringe spread about my face. Nonetheless, I suppose such exhausting questions about Dior have inspired this desire to begin writing, perhaps once or twice a week, about simple designer profiles.

Today's guest of honor is none other than Jean Paul Gaultier.

Prêt-à-Porter Fall/Winter 2009/2010

Born: April 24, 1952

Birthplace: Arcueil, Val-de-Marne, France

Nationality: French

Title: Grand couturier (member of the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture - the French legal body that states which designers & houses can officially employ the title of "haute couture")

Labels: Jean Paul Gaultier, Hermès (Creative Director 2003-2010), Gaultier PARIS, JEANS Paul Gaultier, Eyewear Jean Paul Gaultier, Jean Paul Gaultier Argent

Education: Never received formal training. Sent sketches to Pierre Cardin who was highly impressed and subsequently hired Gaultier as his assistant in 1970.

Inspirations: Typically found ideas through street-wear and the general public

Classifications: Haute couture, prêt-à-porter (ready-to-wear), menswear, beauty & fragrance, accessories.

Clients: Kylie Minogue, Madonna, Mylène Farmer, Marilyn Manson, Rihanna.

Menswear Fall/Winter 2010/2011

Jean Paul Gaultier Haute Couture Automne/Hiver 2010/2011