Since 2021, Jean-Paul Gaultier has been revolutionizing the world of haute couture by handing over the creative reins of his collections to guest designers. After the likes of Chitose Abe, Olivier Rousteing, and Glenn Martens, it is now the turn of Julien Dossena, the talented designer behind the Paco Rabanne brand, to showcase his unique interpretation of Gaultier’s iconic style for the Couture Fall-Winter 2023-2024 collection.
Jean-Paul Gaultier’s latest venture comes shortly after bidding farewell to traditional haute couture fashion shows. Instead, he has adopted a fresh and innovative approach to maintain the reputation of his Maison. By inviting renowned designers to curate the couture collection for one season only, Gaultier ensures a continuous stream of creativity and novelty. This new concept aims to fuse the distinct vision and aesthetic of each guest designer with the daring and rebellious spirit of Gaultier himself.
The guest designer initiative kicked off in July 2021, with Chitose Abe from the Sacai brand leading the way. This was followed by Glenn Martens, artistic director of Y/Project, and Olivier Rousteing from Balmain. Haider Ackermann at Berluti also left his mark on the Maison Gaultier. Now, Julien Dossena steps into this illustrious lineup, bringing his unique perspective and undeniable talent to the forefront. Having devoted 10 years to Paco Rabanne, Dossena is well-equipped to infuse Gaultier’s legacy with his own distinctive touch.
When asked about his approach to the project, Dossena emphasizes the importance of interpretation. He sees his role as a conductor, breathing new life into Gaultier’s existing pieces. Le Monde quotes him saying, “I’m not here to create a haute couture collection that would be what I would do in haute couture.” This collaboration is an opportunity for him to experiment and explore the possibilities of blending his own universe with that of the enfant terrible of fashion.
To add an element of surprise and spontaneity, Dossena will unveil his collection to the world and to Jean-Paul Gaultier himself during a runway presentation in early July, coinciding with Paris Fashion Week. This unconventional approach allows for complete artistic freedom, even for the seasoned master Gaultier, who will discover the silhouettes alongside the audience.
This innovative concept not only ensures the continued success and relevance of the Maison Gaultier but also allows the spotlight to shine on other talented artists within the industry. The guest designer shows have quickly become highly anticipated events, generating buzz and conversation on social media and in the press. By embracing this fresh perspective and embracing change, Jean-Paul Gaultier proves that his creative spirit knows no bounds.
Useful links:
– Vogue: Jean-Paul Gaultier Couture Fall 2023
– Dior Couture Shows
