When we meet, Jean Paul Gaultier – he has been in town for fewer than 24 hours yet he seems chirpy, jet lag free and thrilled to be at the National Gallery of Victoria, surrounded by his collection. This is the 10th stop for The Fashion World of Jean Paul Gaultier: From the Sidewalk to the Catwalk , which he flew in to launch. But, despite the repetition that comes with a travelling exhibition, Gaultier is excitable, as if this is the first time, because fashion – even that which he creates – has a way of drawing attention to new details every time you view it. “I noticed some tulle in a dress I forgot I had created,” he says, pointing to a gown in the yonder. “The way the light draws your attention to certain pieces reminds you of things you once forgot. I have been designing for 38 years so it’s easy to forget every intricate detail to every dress.” His beautiful French accent, wave of silver hair and childlike smile draw attention to the first corset dress he design...