Every major fashion house today is typically associated with an iconic piece that catapulted their name into the spotlight. In the same way that Christian Louboutin has red-lacquered soles and Bottega Veneta offers intrecciato craftsmanship, Maison Margiela is lauded for the iconic Tabi shoe.
Characterized by a unique split-toe design, Margiela's ever-growing Tabi line continues to fascinate fashion lovers across the globe more than 30 years after its initial launch. Learn more about the shoe ahead as we give you the lowdown on how it became the buzz-worthy fashion staple we know and love today.
History of the Maison Margiela Tabi
Contrary to popular belief, Maison Margiela founder Martin Margiela did not actually invent the Tabi. Margiela's design is a reference to thonged Japanese socks from the 15th century, which were believed to promote a clear mind through a reflexology strategy. Although the design was initially exclusive to the elite due to cotton scarcity, it became a lot more accessible when countries began trading with China. By the 1900s, Japanese workers performed outdoor activities in Jika-tabi, split-toed boots with rubberized soles.
Years later, Margiela would take a trip to Japan and get inspired by the traditional Japanese Tabi. He eventually unveiled his first-ever Tabi Boot in his debut collection in 1988, with the shoes dipped in red paint to leave bright footprints on the runway.
Despite initial skepticism and budgetary restraints, Margiela's split-toe design gradually became the quintessential symbol of avant-garde fashion. International A-listers like Olivia Rodrigo, Sarah Jessica Parker, Nick Jonas, and Dua Lipa embraced the Tabi's eclectic style, further propelling the shoe to fame. To keep up with growing demand, the fashion house has since expanded its unmistakable Tabi collection to high heels, sneakers, loafers, and ballet flats. Most recently, the Lyst Index also named the Tabi Mary Jane as the number-one Hottest Product of 2023.
Filipino Celebrities Wearing the Maison Margiela Tabi
1. Liza Soberano
While sightseeing in Korea, Liza Soberano dressed in a school girl-inspired OOTD in tonal hues. She capped off the look with Tabi Mary Janes rendered in patent leather for that cool-girl edge.
2. Mimiyuuuh
According to Mimiyuuuh, the classic white tee and jeans combo never gets old. To elevate the classic pairing, she dons a pastel Chanel bag and leather Tabi Ankle Boots.
3. Laureen Uy
Laureen Uy is another Filipino influencer who owns a pair of Tabi Ankle Boots. Contrary to Mimiyuuuh, however, she opts for a bold red pair that perfectly matches her colorful wardrobe.
4. Marian Rivera
If it's Marian Rivera-approved, then it's probably worth all of the hype. The style icon added some character to her all-neutral OOTD with a pair of beige Tabi Pumps.
5. Maja Salvador
On one of her trips abroad, Maja Salvador rocked duo-toned coords with a blush Chanel bag and black Tabi Boots.
6. BJ Pascual
For his tropical-themed vacay look, BJ Pascual decided to slip into a pair of Tabi Mary Janes.
7. David Guison
Keeping things cozy in a cardigan and baggy jeans, David Guison had on a pair of Tabi Boots, which are actually a gift from his girlfriend Angelique Manto. Awww!
8. Alden Richards
For our May 2024 cover, Alden Richards looked as dapper as ever in a head-to-toe Margiela 'fit, sealed off with Tabi Slip-ons.
How Much the Maison Margiela Tabi Costs
The Tabi's price varies depending on what kind of shoe you want to invest in. For flat shoes like sneakers and ballet flats, prices can range from around €600 to €800. That's approximately P40,000 to P50,000 when converted to Philippine Peso.
Tabi Sneakers, €665 (approximately P40,815), MAISON MARGIELA, maisonmargiela.com
Tabi New Ballerina, €835 (approximately P51,249), MAISON MARGIELA, maisonmargiela.com
Meanwhile, chunkier styles like boots are more expensive at nearly P80,000.
Tabi Ankle Boots, €1,200 (approximately P73,652), MAISON MARGIELA, maisonmargiela.com
Tabi Leather Knee-High Boots, €1,219 (approximately P74,801), MAISON MARGIELA, mytheresa.com
Heeled shoes with unique silhouettes can also spike up in price, with the Tabi Monster Satin Bow Pumps valued at nearly P100,000.
Tabi Leather Mary Jane Pumps, €775 (approximately P47,556), MAISON MARGIELA, mytheresa.com
Tabi Monster Satin Bow Pumps, €1,475 (approximately P90,499), MAISON MARGIELA, mytheresa.com
Products recommended on our websites are independently selected by editors. If you buy something through our links, Summit may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Links are updated regularly and as much as possible, but note that products can run out of stock, discounts can expire, and listed prices can change without prior notice.
Some of the prices mentioned in this article have been sourced from authorized resellers and not directly from the brand's official website. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, it is important to note that prices may vary depending on the reseller and the region. We encourage readers to visit the official brand website or consult authorized resellers for the most up-to-date pricing information.
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