Low and behold, another seat at the fashion creative director's round table has been filled. In December of 2024, sartorial mastermind John Galliano announced that he would be departing his role as the creative director of Maison Margiela after an enormous 10 years at the helm of the brand. For those who are familiar with Galliano's work, it left many questions about who could be fit to fill his shoes. But now, we finally have our answer. Glenn Martens has officially been announced as the creative director of Maison Margiela.
Of the announcement, Martens shared, "I feel extremely honoured to join the amazing Maison Margiela, a truly unique house that has been inspiring the world for decades. And I thank Renzo [Rosso] for the trust he is putting in me."
OTB chairman Renzo Rosso also shared, “I have worked with Glenn for years, I have witnessed his talent, and I know what he is capable of."
"After Martin, who gave life to the Maison and its unique Artisanal line, and John, who made it the most cutting-edge couture house in the world, I am proud to have a third couturier at its helm. Glenn, who studied at Antwerp’s Royal Academy of Fine Arts like Martin, has already shown his prowess and his vision in couture," he continued.
For many who had been keeping up with the rumour mill, the appointment may not come as a huge surprise, especially following Martens' announcement a mere two weeks ago that he would be exciting Y/Project – the independent Paris-based label where he had also spent the last 11 years.
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Will Martens continue to design at Diesel?
Alongside his new role as the creative director of Maison Margiela, Martens will continue to hold his position as artistic director at Diesel, where he was appointed in 2020.
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When will we see Martens' first collection for Maison Margiela?
While details on a debut collection are still under wraps, we will hopefully see the first iteration of a Martens' Margiela by the Spring Summer seasons.
Where did Martens start his career?
Like all great fashion stories, Martens stumbled upon fashion by pure accident. Originally equipped with a degree in interior architecture, Martens applied to the prestigious Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp. Not only was he accepted, but he graduated first in his class.
After completing his studies, Martens was offered a role at Jean Paul Gaultier as junior designer for the women’s pre-collection and his menswear label G2.
This story is continuing to evolve. Be sure to check-in for regular updates to come.
Image: Instagram and GoRunway.
