Jean Paul Gaultier: Works of Art
By Mari Davis
Photos by FW

DALLAS, Jan 31, 2004/ FW/ --- Jean Paul Gaultier is not just a great designer; he is also an artist. His canvas is the human body, while his paint is the fabric. His Spring 2004 Haute Couture collection is a testament to the man’s art and talent.

The theme is the ‘strong woman,’ the 21st century warrior princess. Like her sister of yesteryears, she wears an ‘armor’ but instead of steel, today’s warrior princess wears fabric that has been cut into strips and then reconstructed by weaving and hand stitching.

The blue day dress is a good example. So is Ohmyrha’s red and old rose bustier dress with its high neck collar, the outfit joined together with strips of material and oversized stitching.

And then there was Liya Kebede in maroon and light green splendor, the high priestess of beauty as seen through the eyes of Jean Paul Gaultier. The gown hugged her body tightly, showing her every curve, yet the bodice was loose, and with masterful draping technique, Jean Paul Gaultier just showed a hint of the woman within.

And then there was Karolina Kurkova, looking every inch a Maori princess, 21st century style of course with her mini beige dress embellished with ribbons and oversized embroidery.

How can you pass up the look? How can you pass up the girl? In fact, how can you pass up such beauty?

The answer is no, you cannot. You will look over and over again, appreciating the woman, the clothes, and the artist, Jean Paul Gaultier.

Jean Paul Gaultier

Jean Paul Gaultier

Jean Paul Gaultier

Jean Paul Gaultier