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Jean Paul Gaultier

There are certain extraordinary personalities who have become, over time, true emblematic figures of French heritage. In the world of fashion, Jean-Paul Gaultier has delighted in overturning conventions for more than 30 years now. Almost everyone knows his eternal Breton stripe shirt and his platinum brush cut. Here is the story of the man nicknamed the enfant terrible of fashion.

Jean Paul Gaultier perfumes

Chypre

Jean Paul Gaultier

Scandal

Orange · Mandarin

Jean-Paul Gaultier’s journey

Jean-Paul Gaultier was born in 1952 in Bagneux. In 1970 he joined Pierre Cardin before spending time at Jacques Estérel and then Jean Patou, then returning to work for Cardin. He then decided to launch his first collection in a rock biker style, in 1976. Unfortunately, his first show did not achieve the expected success. However, he created a collection for the Japanese group Kashiyama, and this one drew more attention. This is how Jean-Paul Gaultier began to make a name for himself in the world of fashion. Nevertheless, his contrarian vision only truly won over audiences in the 80s. From then on, Jean-Paul Gaultier shows multiplied and the designer’s timeless Breton stripe shirt made its appearance. Likewise, cult objects by Jean-Paul Gaultier were created during this period, such as his cone-breasted dress. In 1984, Jean-Paul Gaultier even dared to send men down the runway in skirts, upending conventional fashion codes and establishing himself as a highly creative, even provocative, figure. Since that day, Jean-Paul Gaultier has continued to multiply spectacular shows, overturning clothing conventions while at the same time being recognized for his flawless mastery of cut. Today his success remains undiminished, and Jean-Paul Gaultier appears to be adored by all.

Jean-Paul Gaultier perfumes

At the height of his fame, in the 90s, while Madonna wore Jean-Paul Gaultier’s famous corset for her tour, the designer decided to venture into perfumery. Ever fond of self-mockery, Jean-Paul Gaultier chose to present his first fragrance in packaging imitating a tin can, in 1993. As one might recognize, this was the timeless Classique. This feminine juice, embodied on screen by Kate Moss, was followed by its masculine counterpart, in 1995, named Le Mâle. Although other fragrances followed, the house now seems more eager than ever to refocus on these two essentials.

Until 2016, the house Jean-Paul Gaultier Parfums was marketed under the aegis of Beauté Prestige International, a subsidiary of Shiseido. The latter represented as much as 40 % of the overall revenue of this luxury giant. Nevertheless, since January, the house has been acquired by the Puig group.