Maison Margiela Applies Hand-Painted Effect to Its Tabi Boots
Put the cleft toe forward in style.
Maison Margiela and the split-toe tabi design are synonymous with one another, and in recent years a newfound obsession with the style has taken the tabi from an IYKYK subculture within fashion’s elite into a somewhat ubiquitous realm. So, to switch things up and keep the boot relevant, Margiela has dropped a new pair infused with its signature “Bianchetto” technique for Fall/Winter 2021.
For Margiela, “Bianchetto” means to apply a rough yet chic slathering of white paint to the shoes all over. Having previously appeared on its gladiator-esque Reeboks, loafers, and also on the tabi boot in the past, it’s not something new — but it is something instantly recognizable, thus making these “future vintage,” according to Machine-A.
The ankle boot has the classic hook and loop closure on the interior of the collar and is made entirely from ovine leather — including the sole. Of course, the cleft toe and single stitch on the rear of the collar round out the design and make this shoe identifiable from afar.
Maison Margiela’s latest pair of tabi boots can be seen above and purchased from Machine-A now for $1,300 USD.
For other hand-painted shoes, check out Offspring’s latest collaboration with adidas Originals.
