Maison Margiela’s Shanghai Debut

Glenn Martens, the creative force behind both Maison Margiela and Diesel, recently shared insights into his work with the “The Run-Through” podcast. The Belgian designer welcomed the podcast team to Margiela’s Paris headquarters during fashion week to discuss his upcoming Fall 2026 collection.

A Combined Collection and Chinese Exhibitions

On Wednesday, Martens unveiled both the ready-to-wear and Artisanal collections in a presentation held in Shanghai. This event coincided with the opening of four exhibitions across China, each dedicated to a core principle of the Maison Margiela brand.

Exploring Margiela’s Heritage

These exhibitions aim to introduce the history of Maison Margiela to Chinese audiences. They will showcase key elements of the house’s identity, including the signature “bianchetto” technique and its enduring commitment to anonymity.

Martens’ Design Philosophy

“We love clothes and craftsmanship and garments,” Martens explained. “We don’t want to focus on the person wearing it.” This statement reflects the brand’s long-held philosophy of prioritizing the design itself over celebrity or individual identity.

A Four-Legged Muse

Martens also revealed a surprising tactic he used to build rapport with the Margiela studio team early in his tenure: his border terrier, Murphy. “Everybody was smiling, the doors opened, people were screaming, playing around,” he recalled fondly. Murphy has since been honored with his own miniature lab coat.

The Joy of Fashion

Looking ahead, Martens emphasized his desire to maintain a sense of enjoyment in his work. “At the end of the day… that’s the reason why we started fashion: because it brings joy,” he stated, highlighting the fundamental pleasure at the heart of his creative process.