Fashion Features
Glenn Martens Appointed as New Creative Director of Maison Margiela
2025-01-29

In a significant move within the fashion industry, Glenn Martens has been appointed as the new creative director of Maison Margiela. The announcement was made today by the company, marking a pivotal transition for this iconic fashion house. Renzo Rosso, chairman of OTB, expressed his confidence in Martens' abilities, highlighting the designer's talent and vision. Martens will succeed John Galliano, who held the position from 2014 until last year. This appointment comes after much speculation following Martens' departure from Y/Project in September 2024. Known for his innovative designs at Diesel and Y/Project, Martens brings a unique blend of commercial success and avant-garde creativity to Maison Margiela.

A New Chapter Begins: Glenn Martens Takes the Helm at Maison Margiela

In an era of evolving fashion narratives, Maison Margiela has ushered in a new era with the appointment of Glenn Martens as its creative director. This momentous decision was announced on a day that will be remembered as a turning point for the brand. The Belgian designer, renowned for his unconventional approach and exceptional talent, will now lead one of the most influential houses in the world of couture.

Martens' journey to this prestigious role is marked by several milestones. Having graduated from Antwerp’s Royal Academy of Fine Arts, he followed in the footsteps of Martin Margiela, the founder of the eponymous brand. Both designers share a common path, having worked for Jean Paul Gaultier before venturing into their respective careers. Martens’ tenure at Y/Project, which lasted 11 years, showcased his ability to push boundaries and challenge conventions. His departure from Y/Project in September 2024 set the stage for this new chapter.

The transition at Maison Margiela reflects a deep respect for tradition while embracing innovation. Martens' dual role as creative director of Diesel underscores his versatility. Renzo Rosso, the chairman of OTB, praised Martens' unique perspective, emphasizing that "couturiers have a different way of designing. Every single piece has a story to tell." Martens himself expressed gratitude for the opportunity, stating that he feels honored to join a house that has inspired the world for decades.

This appointment not only signifies a change in leadership but also heralds a fresh direction for Maison Margiela. Martens' unconventional attitude, as evidenced by his recent focus on raising chickens, aligns perfectly with the brand's ethos of challenging norms. The parallels between Martens and Margiela are striking, suggesting a continuity of vision and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of fashion.

From a reader's perspective, this news is both exciting and inspiring. It signals a bold new era for Maison Margiela, where tradition meets innovation under the guidance of a visionary leader. As we look forward to the future, it is clear that Glenn Martens will bring a fresh, dynamic energy to the house, ensuring its continued relevance and influence in the global fashion landscape. This appointment is a testament to the power of creativity and the importance of embracing change in an ever-evolving industry.

Bowling Bags Make a Grand Return for Autumn/Winter 2025
2025-01-29

The fashion world is once again embracing the iconic styles of the early 2000s, with the bowling bag set to make a significant comeback this autumn/winter season. Leading designers have reintroduced this versatile accessory, blending nostalgic charm with modern elegance. Prada's recent men's show in Milan highlighted the resurgence of these curvaceous bags, drawing nearly as much attention as the unique footwear showcased on the runway. Other luxury brands like The Row and Miu Miu have also added their own interpretations, offering a range of stylish options for fashion enthusiasts.

Prada's revival of the bowling bag has been particularly noteworthy. Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons, known for their innovative reworkings of classic designs, presented color-blocked top-handle versions that hark back to the original Noughties models. These bags first appeared in the early 2000s, were reissued in 2012, and celebrated their 20th anniversary in 2020. Even today, they remain popular on resale platforms. The brand’s latest iterations continue this legacy, capturing the essence of the original design while adding contemporary flair.

The Row has joined the trend with its India and Agnes collections. The India bag, available in various finishes and two sizes, offers practicality alongside style. Its full-zip closure and padlock details provide security without compromising on aesthetics. Meanwhile, the slouchier Agnes complements the India, echoing the simplicity of The Row’s successful Margaux line but with added functionality. Both designs retain the traditional elements of a bowling bag, such as top handles, while introducing modern twists.

Miu Miu’s Aventure and Beau bags further exemplify the influence of the bowling bag silhouette. The Aventure features curved lines and antique horsebit hardware, while the Beau boasts a boxy shape with a wrap-around zip and a front logo stamp. These designs showcase how the bowling bag can be adapted into diverse forms, each retaining key characteristics that define the style.

As the season approaches, consumers will find a plethora of options across various materials, from suede and leather to nylon. Vintage sites and retailers stocking new arrivals offer a wide selection to suit every taste. Whether you prefer the timeless appeal of an original or the fresh take of a modern interpretation, the bowling bag promises to be a must-have accessory for the coming season.

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Zoë Kravitz Embraces Bohemian Elegance in a Rare Departure from Black
2025-01-29

In recent years, Zoë Kravitz has become synonymous with the timeless allure of black. Whether she appeared in understated dark denim or exuded elegance in Saint Laurent’s iconic black lace at premieres, her fashion choices have consistently leaned towards this classic shade. However, during the autumn/winter 2025 menswear show for Saint Laurent at Paris Fashion Week, Kravitz made a striking shift. She opted for an unexpected bohemian-inspired look that marked a significant departure from her usual style. This trend is not unique to Kravitz; several celebrities have embraced a more refined version of boho chic, reflecting a subtle and understated approach compared to its earlier iterations.

A New Chapter in Style: Zoë Kravitz's Bohemian Transformation

On the vibrant streets of Paris during the autumn/winter 2025 menswear show for Saint Laurent, actress and director Zoë Kravitz unveiled a new facet of her personal style. In a scene-stealing moment, she donned a ruffled, off-the-shoulder cream-colored dress paired with an extra-wide brown belt. Her ensemble was completed with multicolored heels, adding a whimsical touch to the overall look. This outfit signaled a bold move away from her signature black attire, embracing the bohemian aesthetic in a modern and sophisticated manner.

The boho trend has been gaining momentum among celebrities, with notable figures like Rihanna and Sienna Miller also adopting their own versions of the look. Unlike the flamboyant styles of the early 2000s, characterized by vibrant paisley prints and coin belts, today’s bohemian chic is much more nuanced. Designers are favoring muted tones and minimalist details, creating a look that is both elegant and understated. Vogue’s Christian Allaire aptly described this evolution as a reflection of "stealth wealth," where even the boldest trends adopt a more discreet and refined presence.

Kravitz's choice to embrace this new trend underscores a broader shift in fashion, one that values subtlety and elegance over overt displays of extravagance. Her appearance at the Saint Laurent show not only highlighted her versatility but also signaled a fresh chapter in her sartorial journey.

From a reader’s perspective, Kravitz's transformation serves as a reminder that fashion is a form of self-expression that can evolve over time. It encourages us to explore new styles and embrace change, while still maintaining our individuality. The subtle yet impactful shift towards boho chic reflects a desire for authenticity and a return to more understated forms of beauty. As we witness this evolution, it becomes clear that fashion is not just about following trends but about finding a style that resonates with who we are.

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