Haute or Naute: Maison Margiela Spring/Summer 2024

Maison Margiela left an indelible mark on the fashion landscape with its Spring-Summer 2024 Haute Couture Show in a mesmerizing display of innovation and creativity.
The iconic fashion house, under the visionary leadership of John Galliano, transformed the runway into a realm of artistic expression, pushing the boundaries of traditional haute couture. The show, hosted in a carefully curated venue that doubled as an immersive art installation, set the stage for a runway experience beyond the mere exhibition of garments.
Attendees were transported into a world where every detail was meticulously crafted to create a multi-sensory journey. Galliano’s masterful exploration of deconstruction and reconstruction took center stage in the collection. Each garment seemed to defy conventions, with asymmetrical silhouettes, unexpected fabric pairings, and intricate layering that challenged the very essence of traditional haute couture.
The designer’s penchant for pushing the boundaries of texture was evident, as luxurious fabrics seamlessly melded with unconventional materials, creating a tactile richness that invited a closer examination. One of the most striking aspects of the show was the narrative woven into the collection. Each ensemble appeared to tell a story, a visual journey that unfolded with every model’s confident stride down the runway.
The juxtaposition of fragility and strength, chaos and order, added a layer of complexity that prompted contemplation on the nuances of the human experience. Maison Margiela’s commitment to diversity was prominently featured in the casting of models, showcasing a range of ethnicities, body types, and gender identities. This deliberate inclusivity challenged industry norms and celebrated individuality, making a powerful statement about the evolving landscape of fashion.
Beyond the aesthetic brilliance, Maison Margiela’s SS24 Haute Couture Show made a resounding statement on sustainability. Incorporating upcycled materials and eco-conscious practices underscored the brand’s dedication to responsible fashion, signaling a progressive shift in the industry towards a more sustainable future.
Another notable mention was the makeup done for the models of the show. The world-renowned Pat McGrath had the unhoused pleasure of being behind the looks that have taken the world by storm. Through TikTok, many had begun to take note of the look’s unique color pallet, style, and texture. Fans raved about trying to find the unique “glass” like product that McGrath used to achieve the “porcelain doll” look. Models such as Nyaduola Gabriel, Lea Julian, Leon Dame, and even actor Gwendoline Christie had graced onlookers with the season’s most wanted in a unique character-like walk.
Not everyone agrees or likes the high fashion pieces that many designers create, “I don’t like that type of fashion. Expensive name brands can release some repulsive pieces of clothing at times,” said one student, Myles Thompson, a sophomore from Mobile, Alamaba. Another student, Laila Anderson, a sophomore from Miami, Florida, felt differently. “Twisted. Textural. Layered. Subverted elegance. Margiela ’24. A true delight while incorporating lavish layering along with imaginative construction.”
Maison Margiela’s Spring-Summer 2024 Haute Couture Show was a transformative experience that transcended the conventional confines of fashion. John Galliano’s visionary approach reaffirmed the brand’s position as a trailblazer, leaving the audience in awe of the fusion of art and fashion. This showcase redefined the haute couture narrative and set a new standard for the industry, encouraging a thoughtful reflection on the intersection of creativity, inclusivity, and sustainability.