French fashion designer Jean-Paul Gaultier was born in April 24, 1952. Without proper training as a designer, Gaultier began sending sketches to some renowned couture stylists. In 1970, Pierre Cardin took notice of his talents and took him as an assistant.

Gaultier's first collection came out in 1976, and it was the start of him popularizing irreverent styles. Other collections of Gaultier followed, mostly focusing on pop culture while some particularly the Haute Couture collections were formal but extraordinarily designed.

It was Gaultier who produced the popular sculptured costumes for Madonna in the ‘90s, especially the infamous cone-bra used by the music superstar. Gaultier likewise made popular the use of skirts on men's wardrobe.

Gaultier also shocked the fashion industry when he used non-traditional models for a couple of his exhibitions in 2004. Some of these models were old men, full-figured women all of whom were pierced and heavily tattooed. While it earned him criticism it likewise got him more publicity.

Gaultier is also credited for designing wardrobes in many films. He currently has designs for three compilations: ready-to-wear lines and couture, a recently relaunched clothing line, and a leather goods firm noted for its handbags and scarves. Just recently he designed Madonna's wardrobe for the 2006 Confessions Tour, as the two renewed their long-time relationship.

This designer has also worked on several costumes and outfits by rock artist Marilyn Manson, particularly the artist's Golden Age of Grotesque release. He also has worked on several exhibits held in New York.