The first word that always comes to mind when you hear the name Jean Paul Gaultier is boundaries…and not because he has them. Rather, fashion’s enfant terrible (French for bad boy) is famous for his lack thereof.
With no formal training, the Parisian designer got his start by boldly sending design sketches to Pierre Cardin. It paid off. The then 18-year-old was hired. Fast forward 47 years to present day and the now world-renowned designer has an enviable CV complete with seven years at the helm of luxury house Hermès, men’s skirts in the ’80s, Australian BFFS Nicole Kidman and Kylie Minogue, Madonna’s famous Blonde Ambition conical bras of the ’90s, creative direction for Diet Coke and nearly 100 namesake fragrances in less than 30 years.
The latest scent to bare his brand’s DNA is Le Male Essence de Parfum.
Rifting off the original Le Male created in 1995, this incarnation is as equally contradictory as its predecessor. Built on contrasts, the eau is layered in fresh and warm spices, sharp botanicals and soft florals, sensual leather and comforting vanilla. It is strong and sexy, tender and mild. And it’s all captured in the iconic Gaultier bust.
Slightly broader at the shoulders and more discernably nipped in at the waist than before, this updated flacon is as chiseled and sleek as before. While nary a frosted stripe to be seen, the juice’s navy blue hue shines through clear glass adding a definitive, sophisticated touch. And it’s as memorable as the man who designed it.
Jean Paul Gautier Le Male Essence comes in 125 ml for $118. It’s available exclusively at the Hudson’s Bay stores across Canada.
