French fashion house Jean Paul Gaultier has appointed Dutch designer Duran Lantink as its permanent creative director, effectively ending the “collaborative era” in place since the departure of the brand’s namesake designer in 2020.
“I consider Jean-Paul Gaultier a genius and part of a generation that kicked down the doors, so people like us can walk freely and be who were without an apology”, Lantink said in a statement. “To now step into the role of Creative Director is a true honour.”
Lantink will present his first ready-to-wear collection for Gaultier during the Paris RTW women’s fashion week in September 2025. His debut haute couture collection will be unveiled in January 2026.
Designer Jean-Paul Gaultier had stepped down from the runway in 2020, putting an end to a designing career that had started in 1976 and was marked by irreverence and bold choices.
Following his departure, his house had adopted a rotating model, appointing guest designers for each haute couture season. Chitose Abe, Olivier Rousteing, Haider Ackermann and Ludovic de Saint-Sernin, among others, all stepped in to temporarily leave their mark on the brand.
New appointee Duran Lantink first rose to prominence in 2018 when he created the “vagina pants” worn by American singer Janelle Monáe in her ‘Pynk’ music video.
The 37-year-old designer, based between Amsterdam and Paris, has since become known for his sustainable approach to fashion through his use of upcycled materials. Stars from Billie Eilish to Lizzo and Beyoncé have worn is designs.
Lantink has won several prizes in the last few years, including the 2024 LVMH Prize for young fashion designers and the 2025 International Woolmark Prize, which recognises innovative rising creators.
During his latest show at Paris Fashion Week A/W 25 in March, Lantink presented designs that explored animality and gender identity.
On the runway, a male model paraded in silicon breasts, while a female model wore a top made to look like a male torso, showcasing Lantink’s fluid approach to gender norms.
His creations caused a sensation, like those of Jean-Paul Gaultier before him.
“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. Welcome, Duran”, said Gaultier.
