Maison Margiela unveils an avant-garde collaboration with Pendleton, as a highlight of the Co-Ed 2023 Collection. This dynamic partnership weaves the rustic plaids of Pendleton’s American heritage with the haute couture essence of Creative Director John Galliano. The resulting collection ranges from outerwear and dresses to denim pieces and shirting, all elegantly influenced by the Southern Gothic motifs of the collection.
Pendleton, hailing from Oregon since 1863, resonates with Maison Margiela’s authenticity. With a commitment to traditional craftsmanship, they employ vintage looms and dyeing techniques for their iconic woven plaids. The collaboration spotlights three mid-century weaves meticulously selected by John Galliano from Pendleton’s archives: a vibrant red buffalo pattern, a serene sunset plaid in pastel pink and blue, and a striking red, white, and black windowpane check. This fusion of opposites transforms each piece into a stunning balance between the modest and the sophisticated.
The genderless wardrobe, reflecting the hues of the Great Western Plains, experiments with the innovative decortique? technique. This technique strips garments to their structural essence, manifesting the Maison’s new Rorschach cutting method that intricately morphs one image into another. Garments don cut-out motifs inspired by Western yokes, metamorphosing into enigmatic illusions reminiscent of familiar characters. This technique graces blousons, trousers, and even sweatshirts, revealing Pendleton linings with artistic flair. A parallel effect is achieved in denim pieces, where ripped fabric unveils the plaid hidden beneath.
The art of hasty dressing is reimagined through classic Pendleton shirts, ingeniously transformed into rompers using the innovative rompage technique. Spontaneous tucks create an effortless waist, a silhouette echoed in shorts crafted from regimental Pendleton trousers. Freeze-framing captures motion in a fusion of a Pendleton shirt and tulle dress, encapsulating the essence of mid-century party dresses.
Notable pieces include a carcoat adorned with an enlarged 1930s Pendleton label across the shoulders, and labels that playfully grace oversized Pendleton shirts. A Rorschach-cut caban, reminiscent of an archival Pendleton jacket, adds an air of whimsy with its neoprene and foam padding.
The Maison Margiela x Pendleton collection is now available both in-store and online, offering a distinctive blend of heritage and couture that captivates the essence of two pioneering brands.
