Jean Paul Gaultier To Exit Ready-to-Wear Fashion

French designer Jean Paul Gaultier is bidding adieu to Ready to wear fashion.

In the Sept. 16 issue of WWD, Gaultier announced that, after 38 years, he would be closing his ready-to-wear business to focus on couture, perfume and various other projects. “For some time, I have found true fulfillment in working on the haute couture and it allows me to express my creativity and my taste for research and experimentation," the 62-year-old designer wrote in a letter published by the fashion trade publication. "

Gaultier also told WWD that the decision to withdraw from both men and women's ready-to-wear fashion reflected changes in the industry. "We looked at various possibilities considering the present state of the company and we have reached the same conclusion," he said. "Commercial constraints, as well as the frenetic pace of collections, don't leave any freedom, nor the necessary time to find fresh ideas and to innovate."

The Gaultier Fashion house, is controlled by Spanish perfume maker Puig who bought control of the firm in 2011 from Hermes. However Puig has not commented on any of the above news.

Gaultier's final ready-to-wear show during Paris Fashion Week is scheduled for Sept. 27.