Margiela Math

Decoding the cryptic brand's numbers.

Even decades after its mysterious founder departed the company, Maison Margiela remains a brand rooted in distinct codes. Among them are the label’s simple four white stitches denoting its garments, its footwear is instantly recognizable too. Most prevalent the now-inescapable Tabi-toe footwear—inspired by the jika-tabi shoes commonly worn by Japanese construction workers. And of course, the reinterpretations of sleek German Army Trainers (standard issue sneakers commonly called the Bundeswehr, the overarching name of the German Armed Forces). The “Replica” sneaker is a high-end version of a shoe formerly made by adidas (recently resurrected as the BW Army) which remain a common European thrift shop staple.