Martin Margiela Store
Although a Belgian-born fashion designer Martin Margiela has opened a new store on one of the sleekest shopping streets in Milan - Via della Spiga, the designer's style has remained uncompromised. As it is well-known, the legendary fashion figure, a part of the 'Antwerp Six', has never graced the catwalk, appearing in person at his own fashion shows. Moreover, he never grants interviews - all questions are replied in writing, undersigned by Maison Martin Margiela as a team. Seeking for his photo is a futile attempt, too - one would get just a group portrait of his team. The Margiela's method in fashion design can be described as an analytical approach towards apparels. Meaning, taking apart already existent and putting together according to his interpretation - inside outside, sleeves attached to skirts, etc. In creation of new designs, Margiela utilizes "second hand" finds, too, as he is fascinated not only by opportunity to prolong life of already well-worn garment but also by its history as such.
His boutiques in Brussels, Paris, London, Tokyo, and other places, devoid of flashy signs, with characteristic white interiors, witty usage of antique elements and white-coated staff, perfectly reflect "Margiela style". Also the newly opened one in Milan - with its address being Via della Spiga, the store itself hides in the inner yard of a building. Only a white "ladder", painted on a pavement, leads to its door, quite easy to pass unnoticed. The building, dating back to the 19th century, once was a private house. Its interior features already well-known Margiela elements - chairs, upholstered in white, books, at the same time serving as shelves, a pile of antique window-frames, used as a peculiar installation. The floors, covered in white leather or a carpet, creating an effect of grey wooden floorboards. The shop has a small inner yard with white pebbles and a white bench. White-framed photos of the same yard adorn also shop-windows. The boutique in Milan, the same way Maison Martin Margiela stores around the world, features designer accessories as well as his current fashion collections.
Maison Martin Margiela
46, Via della Spiga
Milan