With no formal fashion education to boast of, Jean Paul Gaultier established himself in the 70s and 80s as the “enfant terrible" of French fashion. His irreverent style left nothing sacred, dancing over the standard guard rails of high-fashion — he played with gender roles, adorning men in skirts decades before others opted to, and allowed plus sized women and older men to grace his runways. His talent was undeniable, though his utilization of such gifts made him a fiercely divisive designer. While often ripped by the French press, he gained the hearts of numerous subversive, forward-thinking icons, including Madonna and Marilyn Manson, both whom he conceptualized tour wardrobes for.

This top is constructed of pink flowers knit with chenille yarn, and copper colored lurex which gives it a subtle sheen, ascribing an ‘80s glam accentuation to the traditional art nouveau visuals. The cut is representative of the era of Gaultier’s work, and employs similar techniques to those used two years later in his Russian Constructivist collection, with a dropped shoulder, oversized body, cropped length, and heavy weight which allows the knit to sit perfectly straight atop the wearer.

Condition: 9/10. No significant flaws.

Tagged size: 44

Shoulder: 25in

Pit to pit: 24in

Length: 25in

Sleeve: 15in (drop shoulders)