A visual exploration, the Maison Margiela ‘A Tabi Film’ unveils the craftsmanship and symbolism of the Tabi, signature of the Maison since its debut in 1989 at Martin Margiela’s first show, and instantly recognizable for its split-toe design inspired by traditional Japanese socks.

The film traces the journey of a pair of Tabi from concept to final assembly. In an artisanal process, every stage is carried out by hand. Preparing the base takes up to four hours, followed by the mould: cut from a block of wood, then stitching, and assembly. The practice gathers 11 artisans, each with their specific expertise, whose mastery and sensitivity to the craftmanship and unique form of the Tabi ensures a standard and quality that cannot be industrialized. Each shoe is finished with a single white stitch, the identifying signature of the Maison.

‘A Tabi film’ captures the shoe as an object that endures over time. Footage from the archive depicts the heritage associated with the form that sets it apart.