Jean Paul Gaultier, our renowned French couturier, gracefully opened the Vogue World: Paris festivities. Behind the scenes at the Ritz hotel, he made the final adjustments to the haute couture gown custom-created for Aya Nakamura. With the final tightening of the corset, both the singer and the designer gave the go-ahead for this unique event at Place Vendôme, a celebration of the union of fashion and sport, as well as the legacy and excellence of French haute couture. Accompanied by an orchestra of around forty classical musicians, the occasion commenced with Erik Satie's ‘Gymnopédie No. 1.’ Aya, wearing Fred jewelry, then took the stage to perform her hit ‘Fly.’ It was simply marvelous!
Aya Nakamura was sensational in Jean Paul Gaultier at Vogue World: Paris
Jean Paul Gaultier thrives on the lively buzz backstage just before a show starts. This time, however, he sends a particularly special first model, Aya Nakamura, through the corridors of a grand Parisian palace for a unique, one-night-only event, stirring up memories of his earliest shows. “I’m just backstage doing my job,” he says, adjusting a corset and arranging the train of a gown. He laughs, remembering his first show: “It was total chaos! The music started, and the models weren't ready!” Tonight's atmosphere is just as electric. Gaultier watches as Aya moves through the evening in her stunning ruffled gown, and we get a chance to ask how he prepared for this memorable moment.
The 2024 Vogue World event is taking place in arguably the most iconic fashion city in the world: Paris.
Vogue: Is this your first time meeting Aya Nakamura?
I obviously knew of her, her songs, her hits, but not personally. I'm very happy to have met her. She's extraordinary! Her gestures, her beauty...
It's true, Aya really fits the Gaultier mold! She’s someone who belongs in your shows.
I really like her personality. I noticed it, just like everyone else—she’s got real energy. The way she looks, the way she moves. She’s a lot of fun, free and natural, fully embracing who she is. She knows exactly what she wants! She doesn’t let herself be objectified or pushed around, and rightly so! During fittings, I showed her a video of Madonna’s children dancing to her music, which she hadn't seen before. We took a photo together that I sent to Madonna, and she loved it. Both of them share a strong character.
I understand Aya’s outfit combines two earlier ones from your haute couture collections.
This led me to revisit that theme with a corset from the Amy Winehouse collection from Summer 2012. Naturally, it had to feature my iconic corset! It accentuates her beautiful hips and her magnificent figure. It’s like a patchwork of different collections. It reminds me of the days when I would go to flea markets and alter clothes or how, early in my career, I’d go to La Samaritaine and buy hosiery, which has been a source of inspiration throughout my career. I love the idea of taking a dress and breathing new life into it.
How did you decide on this outfit?
I was initially tempted to design a trench coat for her, envisioning a long one in taffeta... But this dress showcases her body and skin better, so it turned out perfectly! Plus, it's easier to make than a trench coat! The original design had less raffia. I added more around the neckline and hip—just like that! It emphasizes her curves and the dramatic slit along her leg. We only needed one fitting, and it fit immediately! I’m truly flattered that they asked me to design for her. It's an honor to participate in this event by crafting a dress for Aya. She truly embodies the beauty of France
Translated by Nafiseh Soolari
Read more on fashion Vogue.fr:
“Everything is ready for a fantastic party. Now I just hope it doesn’t rain!” Carine Roitfeld and Ib Kamara share the behind-the-scenes story of the fashion event of the year, Vogue World: Paris.
25 looks that prove Bad Bunny is always in fashion
Aya Nakamura covers the first issue of Vogue France
