Maison Margiela

As mysterious as its creator, Maison Margiela is known for its anti-conformist stance and its determination to always challenge our image of conventional beauty. Conceptual, radical and refined, it inspires and intrigues with the art of deconstruction and its use of unusual materials. Currently under the watchful and artistic eye of John Galliano, the house is embarking on a new phase in its history, embracing a more dramatic and feminine feel. Although the designer is keen to put his own stamp on the Maison Margiela brand, he remains true to the transgressive, minimalist style that made it famous. Among its many symbolic designs is its signature label, made up of numbers evoking the House's various lines, and sewn with four white stitches. Its emblematic and iconic designs have been quick to win over fans of functional and original bags, from the sculptural – and surprising – Snatched, to the cosy but sensual Glam Slam –available in tote, pouch, mini and bumbag formats, and the more recent, two-tone New Lock. Margiela biggest phenomenon, however, remains the 5AC – taking its name from the French for “bag” – which reinterprets the notion of anonymity so pivotal to the brand. This refined and elegant piece takes a somewhat classic shape, distinguished only by its visible lining, adorned with the emblematic label of the House. Reinterpreted with each new season in a mini or large size, in embossed or grained leather, in Trompe L'oeil or bucket form, the popularity of the 5AC shows no sign of waning. Footwear-wise, Maison Margiela has made its mark with the Tabi, daring to cut the toes in half. It is yet another design that has gradually evolved, in the form of heeled ankle boots, sneakers, Mary Janes and ballet flats, adapting to all circumstances and bringing originality to any look. The Tabi aesthetic has also been given a starring role in a multi-act collaboration between Maison Margiela and Reebok, resulting in fashion's most coveted sneakers in recent years.