99 Margiela 0s For Sale For the First Time

by Rachelle Robinett

Iconic items from Maison Martin Margiela’s handmade contraption-couture line Artisanal are for sale for the first time ever, via auction at Yoox.com.

Nostalgic and intriguing, the selections serve as a sort of Margiela retrospective. An homage to the mystery and innovation that the man and master delivered during an imageless reign of 20 years.

Belgian-born Margiela showed first under his own name in 1989, maintaining a low (invisible) profile since – avoiding photos and direct contact almost entirely. A New York Times article in October 2008 revealed both Margiela’s face and that he may no longer be head of the house. Raf Simons and Haider Ackerman were both since rumored to have turned down opportunities to assume the brand, which was most recently (2002) purchased by Renzo Rosso, president of Diesel.

The phantom Maison’s official passage was confirmed by Renzo last month, who said: “Martin has not been there for a long time. He is here but not here. We have a new fresh design team on board. We are focusing on young, realistic energy for the future; this is really Margiela for the year 2015.” {UK Vogue}

Wig Coat Spring 2009

Pivovarova, disco ball top, by Hedi Slimane

The 99 pieces currently for sale at Yoox make for a trip down Margiela memory lane. On your right: the disco ball armor top donned by Sasha Pivovarova for Hedi Slimane and loved by one of our favorite bloggers, RO ($10,995.00). On your left: the ubiquitous wig blazer ($11,795.00). And for future reference: The first book to document the work—from fashion and art to design and performance—of the Paris-based Belgian couturiere, one of the reigning luminaries of the current fashion scene. {Margiela documentary book from Rizzoli.}

{MaisonMartinMargiela.com}

{Artisanal at Yoox}