The French fashion brand Jean Paul Gaultier has named Dutch designer Duran Lantink as its permanent creative director, marking the conclusion of the “collaborative era” that had been implemented since.
The exit of the brand’s founding designer in 2020.
I view Jean-Paul Gaultier as a visionary who helped break down barriers, allowing individuals like ourselves to move forward unimpeded and embrace our identities without reservation,” stated Lantink. “Taking on the position of Creative Director is truly an honor for me.
During the Paris Ready-To-Wear Women’s Fashion Week in September 2025, Lantink will unveil his inaugural collection for Gaultier. This marks his initial presentation.
haute couture
The collection will debut in January 2026.
Fashion designer Jean-Paul Gaultier retired from presenting catwalk shows in 2020, concluding a design journey that began in 1976 and was characterized by his unconventional approach and daring decisions.
After he left, the house implemented a rotating system, bringing in guest designers for every haute couture season. Chitose Abe took on this role.
Olivier Rousteing
Haider Ackermann and Ludovic de Saint-Sernin, along with several others, briefly left their imprint on the brand during their tenures.
Duran Lantink, who was newly appointed, initially gained recognition in 2018 for designing the “vagina pants” featured in American singer Janelle Monáe’s ‘Pynk’ music video.
The 37-year-old designer, who divides their time between Amsterdam and Paris, has gained recognition for adopting a sustainable approach to fashion by utilizing upcycled materials. Celebrities have begun taking notice as well.
Billie Eilish
to
Lizzo
and
Beyoncé
have worn is designs.
Lantink has received multiple awards over the past few years, including the
The 2024 LVMH Prize for Emerging Fashion Designers
And the 2025 International Woolmark Prize, which honors emerging talents who show innovation.
During his most recent performance at
Paris Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2025 in March
Lantink showcased designs that delved into themes of animality and gender identity.
Down the catwalk, a male model strutted with silicone breast forms, whereas a female model sported a top designed to resemble a masculine chest, highlighting Lantink’s flexible stance on gender conventions.
His designs created a stir, much like those of Jean-Paul Gaultier did previously.
I observe in him the vigor, boldness, and whimsical essence expressed through his style, which mirrors what I possessed at the start of my personal voyage: the innovative approach.
enfant terrible
“Welcome, Duran,” said Gaultier, as he spoke about fashion.
