An auction of nearly 200 lots from Martin Margiela's personal collection took place in Paris on Thursday, marking the first time a living designer has partnered directly with auction houses to sell such items.
The sale occurred on a sweltering Thursday afternoon inside a white brick warehouse in Paris's Belleville neighborhood. Almost 200 lots went under the hammer over five hours, including designs from Margiela's time at Hermès and pieces from his late mother Léa Boucher's wardrobe.
A pair of 1991 graffiti-print Tabi boots sold for €364,000, setting a new record for a Maison Martin Margiela piece. A top made from gray cotton socks fetched €117,000. Total earnings exceeded €1.3 million, with part of the proceeds directed to AIDS charities.
Salomé Pirson of Maurice Auction described the event as unique and historical. Bidders included fashion archivists, fans and museums, with some items starting at estimates as low as €80.
Margiela was closely involved in curating the preview exhibition, which recreated his studio. Collectors noted the pieces' historical value, while some buyers planned to wear their acquisitions.