La Maison Martin Margiela: The Final Chapter

Founded in 1989, La Maison Martin Margiela, and its namesake designer, has been known for creating, original pieces by reusing old clothes found by the designer in vintage stores and trash bins. The Belgian born Margiela (b. 1957) gives old, rejected and condemned clothes a new life by reworking them in some form, such as dying or discoloring them, for example. He not only sees this as recycling but he is also fascinated by the history of the garments themselves, and believing that each one has a past. His creations are truly unique and since each article has to be reworked, he is a modern day couturier. In the fashion world, Margiela is labeled a “deconstructionist” because he dissects and reconstructs each outfit by bringing the inside out. He often puts the pieces back together in a different form or sews them on to another garment.

In October 2009, Margiela left his couture house, which continues to operate without him. An incredibly private person, Margiela’s next career move is still unknown. However, one should not despair because 1stdibs and Resurrection, the vintage boutique of NY and LA, is currently offering 300 “curated designs” from the Maison Martin Margiela years and which were part of the Marcia Berger collection. The sale includes some museum worthy pieces as his “Semi-Couture” jacket and vest, the dress form dress, vintage military sock sweater, and the vintage glove composite halter top. The online sale will continue through March 31st.