PARIS — Jean Paul Gaultier has appointed Duran Lantink as its new creative director, a decision confirmed by the Puig-owned brand on Tuesday.
This appointment makes the Dutch designer—renowned for his voluminous, body-contouring silhouettes and unconventional prints—the first to succeed the label’s iconic founder. Gaultier rose to prominence in the 1980s for his innovative blend of pop theatricality, gender-fluid narratives, and meticulous couture craftsmanship.
Lantink is set to unveil his vision for Jean Paul Gaultier during Paris Fashion Week in September, marking the brand’s first ready-to-wear show in over ten years. His haute couture collection is expected to follow in January 2026.
“I see in him the energy, audacity and playful spirit through fashion that I had at the beginning of my own journey: the new enfant terrible of fashion,” remarked Mr. Gaultier, who fully endorsed the decision.
“Duran isn’t referencing Gaultier exactly, but you can find his values there in the way he is rethinking volumes, rethinking the body,” added managing director Antoine Gagey.
“I’m grateful, proud, and incredibly lucky to be trusted with the role of permanent creative director at Jean Paul Gaultier. Thank you to everyone who believed in my team and me from the very beginning. Your support has meant everything. A special thank you to the JPG family for giving me this big opportunity. I’m excited and ready to begin this new chapter,” Lantink expressed in an Instagram post.
“I consider Jean Paul Gaultier as a genius and part of a generation that kicked down doors, so people like us can walk through them freely and be who we are without apology. Stepping into the role of Creative Director is a true honor,” Lantink added.
