The “Kaputt” crystal from the king of couture

Offsetting the designer’s celebrated theatrical humor, conventionally impeccable tailoring introduced a serious stylish edge. The sheer sleeves and side panels of a faux-snakeskin scarlet dress were given baroque embellishment in red and black crystals, while a gray, dungaree-style bodice was attached to a floaty, floor-length gown with glittering buckles. Hand-cut Kaputt crystals in one-off sizes appeared on chunky statement chokers and necklaces, cuffs and bracelets—there was even a witty, bejeweled take on a Perspex® bridal tiara. This was elegance with impact, summing up the subversive genius that has had Gaultier crowned the original enfant terrible of fashion.
The unanimous ‘wow’ verdict awarded to Kaputt’s revolutionary approach to ‘imperfect perfection’ was all the more gratifying, given that the creative and technical process behind it was exceptionally complex and difficult. It took over a year of development, requiring months of close teamwork between Jean Paul Gaultier and the technicians and artisans. The couturier will enjoy exclusive use of the new Kaputt crystal cut until September 2015, after which it will take its place as a new star in the Swarovski crystal assortment
Following his storming catwalk show, Swarovski threw an after-show cocktail party in Jean Paul Gaultier’s honor at the Mona Bismarck Foundation, attended by supporters, press, celebrities and friends. They included likes of Suzy Menkes, Stefano Tonchi, Frederique Bel, Rose Mc Gowan and Babeth Djian. The venue was transformed with thousands of floating Kaputt crystals and specially produced giant Kaputt showpieces. Guests had the chance to admire up close the craftsmanship on a ravishing couture dress made with Swarovski Fine Crystal Mesh and Swarovski Crystal Transfer motifs, along with stunning jewelry and accessories, all of which had just come off the catwalk. Check out the pictures on the Crystal Blog.
Credits
Photography Patrice Stable