Gaultier's Last Go: Cheers to The Last Show
This article was co-authored by Leila Roker and Lauren Tosbath
Jean Paul Gaultier debuted his last Haute Couture show last night in Paris at the Théâtre du Châtelet on January 22, 2020. The French designer has been an influential powerhouse in both the fashion industry and pop culture for half a century, which is why such a star-studded cast of characters were in attendance last night, to pay their respects to a retiring legend.
Jean Paul Gaultier announced last Friday that the following Wednesday show would be his last. "It's going to be quite a party," he added to his announcement video on Twitter. Fans and friends of the designer, alike were aghast that an era would be coming to an end. One of Gaultier's former models, Christie Turlington, took to Instagram to say, "You will be missed but never forgotten. Enjoy the rest of your life to the fullest!" Gaultier has dressed the likes of Hollywood icons like Lady Gaga, Rihanna and Irina Shayk, amongst many others. But Jean Paul Gaultier is most recognized for his design of Madonna's "cone bra" she wore during her 1990 Blonde Ambition tour, and of course, his signature striped shirt.
Gaultier, also known as "enfant terrible", earned his place as a trailblazer by preaching and practicing inclusivity. "I want to show difference. For there is beauty to be found everywhere, it all depends on how one chooses to look at it." The French designer said at the end of his theatrical production, Fashion Freak Show.
He was one of the first major designers to include plus-size and 50-year-old models on the runway. Additionally, the openly gay designer was a fierce advocate for gay rights and HIV awareness after the passing of his late boyfriend and business partner, Francis Menuge.
Jean Paul Gaultier's final show was a tribute to honor his half-century of envelope-pushing work, with a whopping 220 looks for his last runway show. He also included old and new muses alike, with Dita Von Teese, and newer muses like Gigi and Bella Hadid. Paris Jackson also made her debut on the runway. The show was concluded with a performance by Boy George, where the ensemble of models and Gaultier himself gathered around the performer for the finale.
As the fashion world continues to mourn the end of an era, there's still hope for die-hard fans. Gaultier announced to fashion show attendees, "Be reassured that Gaultier Paris will go on, with a new project which I am the instigator and that will be revealed to you very soon."
Jean Paul Gaultier, Image Credit: Shutterstock/617801318
