MM6 Maison Margiela and Salomon are back again with a new hybrid silhouette that continues to combine of the French fashion label's subversive design perspective with the footwear brand's high-performance expertise.
The XT-Mary J incorporates the visual cues of the Salomon XT-4 trail running shoe in the form of a traditional Mary Jane. Chunky athletic outsoles are lugged for additional traction, laying the foundation for uppers that remain relatively simple with low-profile carbon fiber overlays. Where the tongue would usually sit, a deeply scooped opening extends before the toes, secured by a singular velcro strap.
Salomon's prominent silver word mark appears diagonally along the sleek overlays, while the signature MM6 numerical graphics are subtly embossed into the velcro strap and quietly printed along the toe caps. Further appeal is drawn by the application of color in two contrasting variants. A minimal black and blue colorway with tonal accents is juxtaposed with an exuberant gradient colorway that fades from teal to coral with touches of hot pink and acid green along the midsole.
The XT-Mary J strikes a thoughtful balance of aesthetic polarities, bringing Salomon's tactical edge to a style that is often perceived as delicate and formal. While Mary Janes have traditionally been associated with womenswear, the recontextualized design is made with inclusive intentions for people of all genders.
The latest Salomon interpolation to come from the luxury Maison arrives following the release of the XT-4 Mule slip-on clogs last summer and the XT 15 Cross Mids, which famously featured a ripstop gaiter covering the uppers.
The MM6 Maison Margiela x Salomon XT-Mary J will be available at both brands' in-store an online shops, as well as select stockists, on October 17.