AW06 Maison Margiela ‘Lightning Bolt’ Cherry Red Knitted Sweater

Martin Margiela’s Autumn 2006 collection played on tropes of deconstruction and anonymity. Staged in ballroom, models intermingled with guests and friends of the maison, wearing each look as the show progressed. In harsh opposition to the strict guidelines couture frequently abides by, Margiela created a fluent sense of normality between looks. Coating the model’s eyes with reflective, one sided taped, the designer intentionally removed any distinguishable facial features to void a sense of identity. In doing so, the audience was forced to perceive the collection without exterior influence, allowing for a rather authentic viewing experience in heat of a party. Revisiting trompe l’oeil ideals, Margiela extended graphics from the textile to model’s skin, allowing the wearer to become apart of the garment itself. Other artisanal tactics were used as well, up-cycling vintage items to create patched denim and other oddities.

 

Debuting in the Fall of 2006, this sweater comes as a standout of the collection. Adorning a lightning bolt atop the chest, the motif is crafted in a white and black palette, contrasting the electric, cherry red body. Finalized with a slim cut, Margiela’s infamous four stitches sit on the underside in a stroke of anonymity. With cut wash tags, this sweater fits a size medium, and is in pristine condition throughout.