For Spring/Summer 2022, the design collective at MM6 Maison Margiela taps surrealism as a part of its wider critique on the post-pandemic state of fashion and society as a whole.  

Set against the sprawling backdrop of a casual Milanese cafe, the collection explores exaggerated whim through textile interplay and a mix of wearable and experimental silhouettes. An obvious nod to the Italian cultural practice of aperitivo — a pre-dinner drink and light snack — show attendees watched the fashionable parade from the perch of restaurant-style tables complete with quirky snacks.

Referencing storied house silhouettes like deconstructed tailoring and wearable outerwear, the collection continues the label’s focus on utilitarian elements that have attracted a loyal following of predominantly young fashion enthusiasts. Interlaced with the collection’s increasingly edgy pieces are eclectic looks like pleated circle skirts, trompe l’oeil bodysuits, and an enticing range of opera-length gloves.

Accessories-wise, the collection offers a refined melange of now famed MM6 silhouettes through the lens of fantastical design elements. The brand’s buzzy triangle tote bag arrives in a variety of checkered color ways and sizes and are destined to be a commercial success for the label. 

Dispersed throughout winding color blocked motifs are a variety of practical must-haves — faux fur handle bags, slouchy wallets, and kitschy footwear — all of which incorporate elements of casual post-pandemic dressing with the cutting-edge lexicon of MM6.

Though MM6 is undoubtedly more artistically reserved than its namesake counterpart, the label has mastered the art of merging commercialism with creative experimentation. And its most recent collection was no different — Pierrot collars and layered pearl necklaces are made palatable for the everyday through the incorporation of carryall bags, oversized lapel blazers, and straight legged trousers.