In news that will be sure to have fashion aficionados frothing at the mouth, Sotheby’s has announced that it will be selling a private collector’s archive of nearly 20 years of Martin Margiela’s Maison Margiela pieces.

Dubbed “Hors Normes II”, the collection spans 1989 to 2006 – almost the entirety of Margiela’s expansive career – and includes nearly 200 ready-to-wear and couture garments. Some of the most coveted pieces from the designer’s most famous collections will be up for grabs, with highlights including the plastic-coated dress (with its original plastic bag still intact) from FW98 and the duvet coat from FW99. Full runway looks from the designer’s FW04 collection are also available. 

The auction will take place online on the Sotheby’s website and will run from March 3 through to March 9. 

For those of us without the funds to participate in this momentous occasion, not to worry. There are other ways to get your Margiela fix. In January it was announced that the elusive designer will be exhibiting previously-unseen work later this year. Taking place in Paris, the exhibition will showcase Margiela’s work as an artist including sculptures, photographs, and installations.

In the meantime, revisit the 2019 documentary Martin Margiela: In His Own Words which gives a rare glimpse into the life, career and inspirations of the designer. Read Dazed’s conversation about the film with director Reiner Holzemer here.