Lauren's Locales: Explore Golden Gate Park

By Lauren Bonney

Don't only look at it as fashion - look at it as sculpture, art, architecture and structure. The de Young's newest collection, "The Fashion World of Jean Paul Gaultier: From the Sidewalk to the Catwalk," is a fantastic exhibition by French couture designer Jean Paul Gaultier. This zany and creative designer has teamed up with the de Young to make some of his finest pieces of work available to the viewing public.

Upon entering the exhibit, the viewer is immediately confronted by a platform of mannequins that blink, smile, laugh, sing and talk about what they are wearing. These holographic facial projections add to the overall experience of this multimedia exhibit and offer a glimpse into Monsieur Gaultier's quirky and unusual sense of humor.

Gaultier's masterful creations inspire awe and wonder with his attention to detail and unique compositions. It is quite clear that his designs are not merely pieces of fabric sewn together to create an aesthetically pleasing outcome, but rather a conscientious choice in expressing a theme or deeper meaning behind his fashion choices.

Gaultier crossed gender roles by placing men in more effeminate clothing with beautifully structured jackets and blouses, and women in, masculine and austere suits. In another collection inspired by mermaids, he focused on female figures and features ornate corsets meant to be worn on the outside of clothing.

These are merely smaller vignettes to Gaultier's enormous collection. This thought-provoking and remarkable exhibit will be at the de Young through August 2012.

Jean Paul Gaultier

4/5 stars

De Young Museum
Golden Gate Park
deyoung.famsf.org

California Academy of Sciences

4.5/5 stars

While in Golden Gate Park be sure to visit this aquarium, planetarium, natural history, museum, home of an albino alligator and four story rainforest!

Japanese Tea Garden

4.5/5 stars

Wander the oldest Japanese garden in the country, admire the traditional pagoda and sprawling greenery, and top off your visit with a simmering cup of tea.

Music Concourse

4.5/5 stars

Located between the Academy of Sciences and the de Young Museum in Golden Gate Park, the concourse hosts free summer concerts on Sundays. 

Contact Lauren Bonney at lbonney@scu.edu.