Maison Margiela is a Paris-based fashion house founded in 1988 by Belgian designer Martin Margiela. Celebrating unconventional aesthetics and embracing the philosophy that fashion is an art of expression rather than a cult of personality, Maison Margiela offers haute couture, ready-to-wear for women and men, contemporary line MM6, footwear, interior design, and accessories, including leather goods, fine jewelry and fragrance.
John Galliano was named Creative Director of the house in 2014, bringing his sense of spectacle and creative mastery to the unique ethos of Maison Margiela. Whilst developing his own vision for the house, John Galliano has entirely respected the Martin Margiela state of mind, creating a fascinating organic process.
In 2002, the French house became part of OTB. Along with sister brands of the group, Maison Margiela continues pushing the boundaries of modern fashion while preserving its distinctive identity and heritage.
 

Function

Design – Artisanal Collection

Job Mission

As an Artisanal Designer, you will contribute to the development of Maison Margiela’s Artisanal Collection, translating creative concepts into innovative garments and silhouettes that embody the Maison’s values of experimentation, craftsmanship, and conceptual design.

Working closely with the Creative Director, Head of Design, Fabric and Embroidery teams and Atelier teams, you will be responsible for research, design and development, proposing creative solutions, and supporting the realization of the collection from concept through prototype development and final presentation. The role requires a strong sensitivity to artisanal techniques, material innovation, garment transformation, and the Maison’s unique approach to deconstruction and storytelling.

Job Responsibilities & Activities

Creative Research & Concept Development

• Conduct extensive visual, cultural, historical, and material research to support the seasonal Artisanal narrative.
• Develop innovative design proposals aligned with the Creative Director’s vision and the Maison’s codes.
• Explore new approaches to garment construction, transformation, upcycling, and artisanal craftsmanship.
• Research vintage garments, found objects, archives, and unconventional materials as sources of inspiration and development.
• Propose innovative silhouette, volume, and proportion studies through both 2D and 3D experimentation.
• Contribute to the development of seasonal themes, concepts, and creative storytelling.

Design Development

• Create sketches, photoshops, technical drawings, mock-ups, drapes, and development documents for Artisanal collection and special projects.
• Collaborate closely with Atelier teams to transform concepts into prototypes and final garments.
• Participate actively in fittings, ensuring creative integrity, construction quality, and consistency with the collection vision.
• Develop and refine unique construction techniques, surface treatments, embellishments, and handcrafted details.
• Support the development of runway pieces, one-off creations, and special projects.

Material & Technique Innovation

• Research and develop innovative materials, fabrics, treatments, and artisanal processes.
• Collaborate with textile, embroidery, print, accessories, and development teams to achieve creative objectives.
• Explore sustainable and circular design approaches through material recovery, transformation, and creative reuse.
• Maintain a strong awareness of contemporary artistic, cultural, and fashion movements to inspire innovation.

Collaboration

• Work closely with Creative, Design, Fabrics and Embroideries, Atelier and Development teams throughout the collection process.
• Contribute to maintaining an inspiring, collaborative, and experimental studio environment.
• Share research, ideas, and technical knowledge with colleagues across functions.
• Ensure timely completion of design deliverables in line with collection calendars and show deadlines.

Skills & Experience

• Degree in Fashion Design, Textile Design, Costume Design, or related disciplines.
• Experience within luxury fashion, couture, artisanal product development, or highly creative design environments.
• Strong understanding of garment construction, draping, pattern development, and couture techniques.
• Exceptional research skills with a strong conceptual and artistic sensibility.
• Experience working on runway collections and creative development projects.
• Strong knowledge of materials, textile manipulations, embellishment techniques, and artisanal craftsmanship.
• Ability to translate abstract concepts into tangible products and silhouettes.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and industry-standard design tools.
• Fluent English required; French considered a plus.

Ideal Profile

• A highly creative and culturally aware designer with a strong conceptual approach.
• Passionate about craftsmanship, experimentation, and innovation.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, highly creative environment.