In the wake of the death of one of the most influential fashion designers in the world, Manfred Thierry Mugler, the fashion world has gone into collective mourning and remembrance of his instantly recognisable; hyper-feminine, theatrical and visually stunning haute couture legacy which inspired a whole new generation of fashion creatives and was worn by countless celebrities and cultural icons.
We've rounded up our favourite Mugler looks throughout the history of the label to remember Mugler's visionary impact on 21st century fashion and give you some major style inspiration.
Peek-a-Boo Pearls
From the Fall 1995 Couture collection which featured corseted looks made in collaboration with legendary corset maker Mr Pearl and also showcased some of Mugler's most celebrated looks. Made from velvet and duchesse satin this cheeky-cut out reveal moment is the best way to showcase Mugler's unique take on sexiness, which never took it's self too seriously, and was always fun whilst still staying ultra glam.
Dreamy Drapery
Archetypal Mugler, this look comes from Spring 1998 haute couture collection which birthed many of Mugler's most iconic design tropes. The simple sexiness of this look embodies the pillars of Mugler's legacy; classic drapery, daringly cut shapes and just pure feminine power.
Crystal Cowgirls
Spring/Summer1992, one of Mugler's most legendary fashion shows-cum performance spectaculars. Worn by model, actress and New York club icon Connie Fleming, the look now known as 'The Red Cowgirl' is quintessential Mugler glamour; just the right amount of Camp kitsch paired with couture silhouettes, and of course an overload of bling.
Birth of an Icon
From the Fall 1995 Couture collection, a catwalk show now dubbed "The Woodstock of Fashion" which saw legendary supermodels such as Jerry Hall and Veruschka walk the runway. This dress inspired by Botticelli's The Birth of Venus is the definition of a show stopper. Modelled by one of Mugler's muses Simonetta Gianfelice - the look was famously re-worn over 20 years later by Cardi B at the Grammy Awards in 2019.
Dripping in Elegance
Another knockout look from Spring 1998 Couture, which saw the debut of the 'Wet Look' dress, which became one of Muglers design pillars - we've all seen that Kim K dress he came out of retirement to design for the Met Gala in 2019. A more sleek predecessor to Kimmy's look - the bias cut drapery, chunky jewellery and glass neckpiece is just pure 90's glamour, which we say never goes out of style.
Vava-Voom
Another iconic piece from Spring/Summer1992 - not only were there bedazzled western getups but there were also Biker chicks with a Mugler twist. Now dubbed the Motorcycle corset, complete with leather fringed hem shorts, a leg holster for your beer can and the most major pair of boots we've ever seen - this look captured the hearts of many, most notably Beyoncé who wore a reissued version of the piece for her I am Sasha Fierce tour.
Cyber Sexy
One of Muglers most universally recognisable looks, the seminal 'Robot Woman' will always be one of the most memorable moments in couture history. The look was immortalised by photographer Helmut Newton and to many represents the pinnacle Mugler's theatricality, innovation and imagination - which is why he was able to make such a lasting impact on the fashion industry.
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