Glenn Martens Appointed as the New Creative Director of Maison Margiela

Glenn Martens

On January 29, Maison Margiela announced the appointment of Glenn Martens as its new creative director. With this, the brand enters a new era following its founders Martin Margiela and John Galliano, who led the house for a decade.

Renzo Rosso, chairman of the OTB Group, commented on the appointment:
“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.”

Martens also expressed his gratitude, stating:
“I feel extremely honored to join the amazing Maison Margiela, a truly unique house that has been inspiring the world for decades. And I thank Renzo for the trust he is putting in me.”

From Y/Project to Diesel, and Now Maison Margiela

Born in 1983 in Bruges, Belgium, Glenn Martens stepped down as creative director of Y/Project in September 2024, following the brand’s decision to close. With his departure, he quickly emerged as the frontrunner for the role of creative director at Maison Margiela.

After graduating from Antwerp’s Royal Academy of Fine Arts, Martens began his career under Jean Paul Gaultier. He later joined Y/Project, where he was appointed creative director in 2013. While inheriting the brand’s DNA, he introduced his own vision through experimental cuts and deconstructive designs, significantly elevating the label’s reputation.

In 2020, Martens took on the role of creative director at Diesel, where he has since achieved commercial success. He launched the iconic 1DR bag, expanded the womenswear division, and significantly increased Diesel’s appeal among Gen Z consumers, driving up sales.

Further solidifying his expertise in couture, Martens was invited as a guest designer for Jean Paul Gaultier’s haute couture collection in 2022, demonstrating his versatility across both avant-garde streetwear and high fashion.

His track record at Diesel, his innovative approach at Y/Project, and his couture experience at Jean Paul Gaultier all contributed to his selection as the new creative director of Maison Margiela.

Rosso further emphasized Martens’ suitability for the role, stating:
“Glenn is not just a designer, but a couturier. Like John Galliano, couturiers have a unique way of designing. Every single piece has a story to tell.”

Future Prospects

In recent years, Maison Margiela has experienced significant growth, expanding its global footprint. The brand currently operates approximately 120 directly owned stores, with 50 new locations opening in the past four years. Its revenue has reached approximately $500 million, with fragrance and eyewear licensing alone generating over $200 million in annual sales. In this environment of rapid expansion, Martens will be responsible for guiding the brand in a new direction.

Additionally, Martens will continue his role as creative director of Diesel, another brand under the OTB Group. OTB owns several high-profile fashion houses, including Diesel, Jil Sander, Maison Margiela, Marni, and Viktor & Rolf.

As he takes the helm at Maison Margiela, the industry eagerly anticipates how Martens will blend the house’s signature deconstructionist aesthetics with the commercial success strategies he developed at Diesel. His leadership is expected to shape the brand’s future in exciting new ways.

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