French fashion designer Jean Paul Gaultier paid tribute to the iconic Countess de Ribes with his spring 1999 couture collection, Divine Jacqueline. The show, which took place in Paris on January 17, 1999, showcased Gaultier’s unique interpretation of Parisian chic and classic style.
Gaultier, known for his boundary-pushing designs, was one of the few French designers presenting at couture during a time when London designers like Alexander Lee McQueen and John Galliano were making waves in the industry. Despite feeling constrained by traditional Parisian fashion norms, Gaultier has always been a champion of French style. The inspiration behind Divine Jacqueline was Countess de Ribes herself, who Gaultier described as the epitome of Parisian chic and a fashion icon.
The collection featured elements that paid homage to other iconic French designers such as Madame Grès and Yves Saint Laurent. Gaultier’s references to YSL were particularly notable, sparking rumors in the industry that he may succeed the legendary designer. Although that scenario didn’t come to fruition, Gaultier went on to become the creative director at Hermès in 2002, solidifying his status in the world of luxury fashion.
A standout piece from the collection was Julia Schönberg’s denim dress, which cleverly combined denim with marabou feathers, showcasing Gaultier’s wit and creativity. The show also featured closing looks with Spanish influences, including fans that added a flirtatious touch reminiscent of French paintings by artists like Manet, Cassat, and Tissot.
Overall, Divine Jacqueline was a testament to Gaultier’s ability to blend tradition with innovation, paying homage to French fashion history while pushing boundaries and creating a collection that was truly divine.
