This past week, Jean Paul Gaultier showcased his newest collection at his haute couture runway show in Paris. The collection features 70 looks — many of which pay homage to the deceased jazz singer, Amy Winehouse. Not only does this new collection expand on the signature Gaultier style, it has a variety of elements that Amy Winehouse incorporated into her own personal fashion sense. Styles such as the look pictured below (modeled by Andrej Pejic), feature the classic fitted bodice and curvaceous design that Winehouse was commonly seen wearing while out and about.
Gaultier told Women’s Wear Daily that he “felt compelled” to celebrate the life of the singer “because magazines failed to do so.” Gaultier was also quoted with the statement, “I think Amy Winehouse was truly a fashion icon.” — clearly, this new collection is the designer’s way of paying homage to the late singer. Yet, not everyone is thrilled with the designs of Gaultier’s new collection. Winehouse’s father, Mitch Winehouse, expressed his disappointment on Twitter, stating, “We don’t support the Jean Paul Gaultier collection. It’s in bad taste.”
Although many of the styles featured in the collection are inspired by Winehouse, there are many that focus on the purity of the signature Gaultier design. Beehive hairstyles and distinctive aesthetic similarities are used to hearken back to the days when Amy Winehouse was in her prime, while not distracting from the overall stylistic flow that Gaultier is well known for. This collection features bold colors and prints that demand attention, in looks that are very flattering to the female figure.
At the end of the runway show, the models came out in black veils in respect for the deceased singer.
What do you think? Is Jean Paul’s new collection a fashion faux-pas or was his homage misunderstood?
For a glance at Gaultier’s latest collection, click here.
