A collaboration between Hermès and Martin Margiela is blooming at the heart of the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, where an exhibition known as “Margiela, Les Années Hermès” will be lasting until September 2nd, 2018. Originally conceived by the ModeMuseum (MoMu) in partnership with Martin Margiela and presented in Antwerp in 2017, the project brings back the memories of a fruitful collaboration between Hermès and the Belgian designer, from 1997 to 2003.
And so, the tribute pegs itself as the first ever opportunity in France to showcase Margiela’s women’s ready-to-wear collections for Hermès, in contrast with his own creations under his eponymous label. Indeed, Margiela’s world is highlighted through an interplay of 120 accessorized silhouettes, exhibiting mostly innovative deconstruction and timeless luxury – two worlds that intertwine to create a base for the “Margiela, Les Années Hermès” exhibition, with the artistry of Martin Margiela himself.
Margiela, who had previously designed 12 of Hermès’ women’s ready-to-wear collections – from 1997 to 2003 – is considered to be one of the most non-conforming designers of his generation. His vision of the Hermès woman was mostly characterized by comfort, timelessness, sensuality and authenticity. In fact, the designs were instilled with monochrome colors that contrasted with the colorful world of Hermès.
That said, the exhibition takes visitors into a melting pot of two distinct styles, characterized by a display of themed sequences with over 100 outfits, photographs and short films – all of which highlight the dialogue between the Belgian designer and Hermès.
