Maison Martin Margiela put their spin on world of interiors

Citing lifestyle spaces and the idea of personal archives as an inspiration, the house unveiled strapless dresses crafted from heavy duty printed jacquard and stiff cotton
22 January 2014
The Weekender

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A collection of fabrics borrowed from the worlds of interiors and upholstery serves as a foundation to the latest offering from Maison Martin Margiela, unveiled in Paris today.

Citing lifestyle spaces and the idea of personal archives as an inspiration, the house unveiled strapless dresses crafted from heavy duty printed jacquard and stiff cotton patchwork kimono coats in collection that was high with colour.

Fabrics were left raw around the edges to emphasise the notion of deconstruction, an element key to any Martin Margiela collection. This was so much more than a load of old curtains though with the skill and workmanship of the house's many technicians and artisans this showcase's greatest asset.

Dresses, painstakingly embroidered with thousands of tiny buttons and zips, oozed with creative appeal whilst reminding customers of the houses dedication to breathing new life into that which is ordinary. Embroidery, inspired by classic 1950 Sailor Jerry tattoos and used to create a delicate top, strengthened this notion of items collected over time as did a sleeveless suit trimmed with row upon row of charms, button and pieces of smooth glass . This was a haberdashery, albeit a very beautiful one.

Continuing with the notion of interiors, carpet coats and patch work dresses crafted from off-cuts of fabric taken from hanging textile prints also stood out.

In a city which treats its designers like sovereigns, Maison Martin Margiela makes for a refreshing addition to the couture schedule. This isn't a fashion house that lives to promote the craft of one individual but of a whole company of skilled designers who consider creativity the key aim of all of their collections.

Reflecting this affection for the anonymity, each model on the catwalk today wore a black silk mask.

Of course when a collection is this good, you don't need a pretty face to sell it.

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