Maison Martin Margiela

Date Founded: 1989
Most Notable Designers: Martin Margiela (1989 - 2009)
Muses Throughout History: No official muses, but Kanye could be seen as the unofficial spokesperson (just jackets, though)
Most Famous Contribution To Fashion: For loyal Margiela fans, those four white stitches at the upper back of Margiela creations are like a badge of honor. The house has also taken everyday objects like pen caps, synthetic wigs, and gloves and made them as high-impact as paillettes, expensive furs, and hand embroidery.
House Drama: Martin Margiela has long been criticized for refusing interviews, forgoing bows at the ends of shows, and shunning photographers. In fact, the last verified image of the man is from 1997.

Illustrations by Gabriela Alford