"The Ultimate Guide to Jean Paul Gaultier: Mastering the Iconic Rebel of Fashion"

90’S CYBER DOT

Jean Paul Gaultier has always been a master of color, using bold, vibrant hues to create designs that are as visually captivating as they are emotionally charged. His knack for mixing patterns and hues results in pieces that are truly one-of-a-kind. Take his legendary autumn/winter 1995 show, that quickly earned the nickname “Mad Max” – though Gaultier cheekily dubbed it "Mad Maxette" for its emphasis on fierce, feminine silhouettes. This collection introduced a futuristic, dotted print inspired by Op-Art legend Victor Vasarely, splashed across everything from hooded catsuits to dresses, and skirts. The vibrant cyber-patterns reminiscent of the costumes he designed for The Fifth Element have since become one of his signature design triumphs. With spots that trace the body's curves and playful prints that mimic a triangle bikini and briefs, this collection still stands as a testament to Gaultier’s fearless approach to fashion.

PARIS, FRANCE: Helena Christensen walks the runway during the Jean Paul Gaultier Ready to Wear show as part of Paris Fashion Week Fall/Winter 1995-1996 in March, 1995. (Photo by Victor VIRGILE/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images)

Getty | David M. Benett

03’ BUTTERFLY PRINT

From Jean Paul Gaultier’s unforgettable 2003 Spring/Summer Collection comes one of his most mesmerizing creations: the butterfly psychedelic print. A design that effortlessly blends nature’s beauty with vibrant, kaleidoscopic flair, it quickly became a standout in the fashion world. Seen on models like Kendall Jenner, this bold, graphic motif encapsulates Gaultier's fearless approach to color and pattern. Rare and highly sought after, this piece is a true archive treasure—a collector’s gem that showcases Gaultier's ability to turn even the most whimsical elements, like a butterfly, into a statement of haute couture.

99’ VENUS DE MILO

This vintage Jean Paul Gaultier Spring/Summer 1999 mesh top is a true piece of fashion history, featuring the iconic Soleil Venus De Milo print. Known for his bold, unconventional silhouettes, Gaultier’s designs have long challenged traditional views of gender and femininity, with a fearless approach that celebrates individuality and diversity. The use of unique materials and optical illusions—like "tattooed" tops and "nude" prints—pushes the boundaries of fashion in the most captivating way. This piece, with its daring design and unmistakable Gaultier flair, is a testament to his trailblazing style and unwavering commitment to redefining fashion.