Maison Margiela was established in 1988 in Paris, France by Belgian designer Martin Margiela. The brand quickly gained attention for its avant-garde approach to fashion, deconstructing traditional garment structures and often repurposing materials. Signature products include the Tabi boot, inspired by the split-toe Japanese Tabi sock, and the Replica sneaker. Margiela's designs are shoes for their conceptual nature and the brand's deliberate anonymity, with team members traditionally wearing white lab coats. Over the years, Maison Margiela has collaborated with various brands, such as H&M, Reebok, and Converse, introducing its distinct aesthetic to broader audiences.
