GAULTIER Jean Paul (Designer)

The Breton stripe, modelled here by Hannelore Knuts, is given iconic status by l'enfant terrible fashion designer Jean Paul Gaultier. Since establishing his label in 1978, he has taken inspiration from a  variety of influences, from the traditional ethnic textiles and techniques of historic costume, to the dishevelled garb of London's punks. Playing with sexual iconography _ from the ambiguity of men in skirts, to the overtly erotic costumes of Madonna's "Blonde Ambition" tour _ has become his trademark. His menswear uses camp clichés of macho bodybuilders and butch sailors, simultaneously celebrating and challenging archetypal gender roles. His skillful ability to adapt pop culture has given success on and off the runway, designing costumes for films such as The Fifth Element (1997). As with most of his work, his style is a humorous, energetic and eclectic challenge to the French establishment. 

Also look up for Alexandre, Van Beirendonck, Galliano, Madonna, Margiela, Pita