Casanova, the pimp, the gambler, the fugitive, and the travel writer
In the 18th century, men’s wigs were powdered to give them their distinctive white colour and were symbolic of decadence, something Giacomo Casanova would have enjoyed. Casanova’s reputation for being a womaniser was well documented, but he was also a very intelligent man, graduating with a law degree at age 17 and in the same year losing his virginity to two sisters aged 14 and 16. From reading about his exploits he probably broke most of the laws he learnt about. Of course, if you were pimping out your ex-lovers to King Louis XV, you would probably get away with a few indiscretions.
Marvel at Jean Paul Gaultier pumping iron
The shirt is a gossamer thin mesh material emblazoned with the most intricate illustrative elements linked by chains. Large American eagles are gripping barbed wire as dainty skeletons dance and baroque beauties dangle from hoops. The two most endearing motifs are a motorcycle with “Junior” on its registration plate and an image of Jean Paul as Mister Universe, encircled with a bicycle chain(?) lifting dumbbells. As well as the periwinkle blue coloured shirt I’m sporting, there are also green and red versions available.
I love this collection and think that the opposing themes of decadence gym/club wear pair perfectly, with elegant ruffles and sharp tailoring mixed with sexy mesh and sporty leggings. One item that stands out is a lace-up bustier come vest version of the top worn by Naomi Cambell in the women’s collection of the same season, “Concours d’Elegance” (Competition of Elegance).
Photograph © juniorgaultier.com
Gym Shoes for a Dandy
This high-top version of the thick-soled, leather and suede sneakers from the men’s “Casanova at the Gym” collection compliments the sportswear theme of the women’s show.
The rubber patch on the tongue shamelessly parodies the Converse All Stars logo, with the arrow swoosh being a more subtle nod to Nike.
