Maison Martin Margiela SS14: Suits and spangles

When a woman wants to feel empowered she wears a suit. When she wants to feel girly she wears sparkles. Put the two together and it's a confusion that only a brand like Margiela can master. There were the suits: wide and pinstriped, in shades of navy or rich burnt maroon. The usual tunics over wide trousers or jackets with interesting cut outs - this time at the shoulders which cut a surprisingly sexy dash. But then there were the showgirl spangles - a tulip shaped bodice layered over a jacket, a swathe of fish scale sequins atop pinstripe pants, or even just a smattering of sparkles glinting out from beneath a waistcoat. It was fun and frivolous and though not as out-there and conceptual as Margiela might normally be, it certainly gave everyone something to think about.