Jean Paul Gaultier looks back on the most scandalous moments of his career

What were the most outrageous moments in your career?

I do not know if scandalous is the word, but I always wanted to have fun in my creations, to play with pretenses, to go beyond the established codes. I can quote the skirts for men from my 1985 collection, the corset with conical frames worn by Madonna during the Blond Ambition Tour (1990), the parade of Naomi Campbell topless in 2002… But if I had to quote only one, this might be my first show, which was a disaster: the music had already started and I didn't know what to put on the models. I had no means, my family sewed to help me ... But I threw myself into the water: I had to hang on, and I did pretty well!

The most outrageous personality of the moment?

Throughout my career, I have had the pleasure of parading friends, personalities, sublime and independent women. For me, there is not a person more scandalous than another, but strong women, who assume themselves, with completely different beauties and styles like Rossy de Palma , Amanda Lear , Beth Ditto , Dita von Teese , Madonna , and many others with whom I have had the good fortune to work.

What does a scent of Scandal (e) smell like?

This new version So Scandal! is composed of a trio of white flowers: orange blossom, sambac jasmine and powdery tuberose, with a little gourmet touch brought by a milky note. We obtain a very sensual and feminine perfume, inspired by the Parisian woman, who creates scandal on her way without wanting to.

Being scandalous, a good way to stay young?

For me, the rule is not to follow the established rules and to continue having fun in everything we do.

If you were to compare So Scandal! to a famous woman, who would it be?

Quite simply to Irina Shayk , the face of the perfume, who perfectly embodies this free, powerful and extremely sexy woman.

And one of your iconic creations?

With the Eiffel Tower tights that I had imagined for the La Parisienne collection (Haute Couture fall-winter 2010), that I reinterpreted during my last fashion show, and that Irina Shayk wore during her first visit. Paris and its pictures have always been a source of inspiration in my creations.
 

The best compliment we can give you?

Wear my creations. As a child, I realized that I could be loved through my work - my drawings and later my clothes. Seeing my clothes worn on the street is kind of proof that I am loved.

Music that makes you want to be scandalous?

"The Freak" from the Chic group, which I also included in my show, the Fashion Freak Show.

Your wellness routine?

I don't really do sports, but I really like walking and strolling the streets, no matter what city I am in.

What scandalizes you today?

It is injustice that scandalizes me the most today.