Radical conceptual designer Martin Margiela founded his own couture house in 1988 and quickly took a leading position in the Belgian fashion avant-garde. By refusing to give interviews or go public throughout his career, he embodied the atelier's principles of anonymity and collective artisanal work. Reclaimed materials, shattered treatments, asymmetrical drapes and cuts, trompe-l'oeil effects, carefully minimalist leather bags and jewelry, and countless interpretations of his iconic Replica sneakers are always present in Maison Margiela's intelligent blend of conceptualism and luxury.

Before Martin Margiela's brand took off, the designer was incredibly private. This secrecy has become Margiela's hallmark, both as a brand and as a person. Little is known about his early life except that he was born in Genk, Belgium in 1957. Margiela's public history really begins in 1977, when he began studying fashion at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts of Antwerp. This led many to believe that Margiela was a member of the famous Antwerp Six, when in fact he had already worked under Jean-Paul Gaultier in the group's early years. Ultimately, with high-concept collections mixed with practical clothing, Margiela achieved cult success and became a favorite among fashion insiders. In 2006, the Italian holding group acquired Maison Martin Margiela. Martin left the brand in 2009. Afterwards, such outstanding designers as Demna Gvasalia and John Galliano worked on the brand.