Jean Paul Gaultier Backs Out of Menswear–WWD reports that Jean Paul Gaultier is ending the production of women’s and men’s ready to wear collections and accessories. The 62 year-old designer will be dedicating all his time and energy to couture, fragrances and other products. Gaultier shares, “We looked at various possibilities considering the present state of the company and we have reached the same conclusion. For some time, I have found true fulfillment in working on the haute couture and it allows me to express my creativity and my taste for research and experimentation. At the same time the world of ready-to-wear has evolved considerably. Commercial constraints, as well as the frenetic pace of collections don’t leave any freedom, nor the necessary time to find fresh ideas and to innovate. After more than 38 years spent producing men’s and women’s ready-to-wear collections, it seems to us that the time has come to stop some of our activities and to concentrate principally on the development of the haute couture, of perfumes and to certain collaborations that I have not yet had time to explore. This is a new beginning, I will be able to express again my creativity fully and without constraints.”
