Remembering Thierry Mugler

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.

Chillie Guide: How to re-wear party wear

When we're all making a conscious effort to reduce our carbon footprint, buy less and shop mindfully: the idea of buying partywear for a special event can seem at odds with the modern-day mantras of sustainable fashion. We get it, buying something to wear it once then never again is not only a financial drain, but also leaves you with a seriously overcrowded wardrobe. As party-season draws to a close, and those sequin pieces start getting thrown to the back of the closet, we've put together a handy guide to extend the life of your partywear.

Don't fear the repeated outfit

The phenomenon of being an 'outfit repeater' has been universally accepted as one of the biggest fashion faux passes for decades. But we've never really understood the hate? Because I like an outfit and want to get the most out of it suddenly I'm a pariah? No thanks. Clothes should be worn and used to their full potential, not taken out of rotation as soon as you're seen in public wearing it.

If you have a go-to 'party dress' that's still going strong, makes you look and most importantly feel absolutely fabulous then we say re-wear it. If you wan't to make it less obvious you're wearing the same dress as last year then change up your jewellery, shoes or make-up for an updated feel.

When in doubt, style it out...

We believe in the power in good styling, and the potential to totally transform a single garment with the right accompanying look. You can use this method to switch-up your party-wear and make just as fabulous for casual looks.

Velour body con dress, feels too formal? Pair it with chunky boots, a slouchy mohair cardigan and a natural make-up look. 80's glimmering sequin extravaganza blouse looks too fancy? Style it with wide-leg mom jeans, pointed toe mules and low-key gold jewellery. Killer Jerry Halll-esque two-piece tailored suit seems like a bit much? Wear it with a vintage band-tee, suede sneakers and hair accessories for a perfectly casual yet chic look.

Don't Bin it!

I know, sometimes you can just get stuck on a garment, it's not the vibe; it doesn't make you feel fab, it doesn't fit or it's just not you anymore. We get it, and guess what... it's totally fine to give up on a garment when you've exhausted all your other options. But if you're getting rid then do it the right way.

Don't like it but can see someone else loving it? List your wares on the plethora of marketplace apps and platforms at your fingertips; eBay, Depop, Vestiare and Vinted, not only will you get some extra spending money but you'll be extending the life of your garment with a new owner.

And when you're in the market for something new, try and look for pre-loved pieces. And you you can start with Chillie London!

While you're at it... Shop our Partywear trend edit:

Label-Hunter: Brands to look for when buying Vintage

When you're out hunting for vintage treasures, the vast array of mostly unfamiliar labels and brands can bring a whole new level to the already vastly varied world of vintage and pre-loved shopping. We've put together a guide to our favourite brands to look out for when you're securing your next vintage haul.

Guess

Originally a Denim brand started in the early 1980's started by brothers Georges, Maurice, Armand, and Paul Marciano. Still going strong today Guess has since launched several diffusion and even a home-wear line - but like many things their classic vintage pieces from it's heyday are the most sought after.

Hailed as one of the first ever brands to produce designer-jeans. Guess is mostly remembered for it's iconic ad campaigns which featured celebrities and models from Claudia Schiffer (above), Anna Nicole Smith and Naomi Campbell to Jennifer Lopez, Drew Barrymore and Adriana Lima. Guess is the brand to search for if you're after seriously sexy wardrobe staples and figure-hugging denim.

Morgan de Toi

Starting as a lingerie brand in Northern France but soon evolving to clothes, accessories and even fragrances. It's one of those retro brands from the 90's that made a comeback due to to the trend cycles fixation on y2k aesthetics. The 2000's era of Morgan de Toi has become acclaimed amongst vintage sellers due to it's signature graphic prints, sassy separates and slinky going-out tops.

There's always a rich offering of OG Morgan pieces online, often at bargain prices. So if you're after seriously cute and flirty pieces then get on it! Before the Depop sellers snap them up first.

Versace Jeans Couture

Italian fashion house Versace has been an iconic name since it was founded in the 1970's by the late great Gianni Versace. Whilst Versace's main line is known for it's luxurious pieces with designer price-tags; with some original 90's Gianni Versace label dresses costing in the 1000's. The labels diffusion lines have become extremely popular vintage finds for trendy, youthful pieces at slightly more affordable price-points.

Beating out Versus Versace and Versace Collection; Versace Jeans Couture (VJC) is not only the one diffusion line still in production today, it's also the most sought after for vintage offerings. Immortalised by legendary advertising photographed by Richard Avedon, VJC is the one to watch if you're after gorgeous Italian denim, graphic tees and iconic prints.

Tommy Hilfiger

One of the quintessential American brands, since their debut in the late 80's Hilfiger has reached acclaim for it's blend of Americana, preppy sportswear & street style and has been worn by Beyoncé, Aaliyah and Britney Spears amongst many other global superstars.

Synonymous with that cool yet casual look. Loved for it's prominent branding, slogans and prints Vintage Tommy is definitely one for label-heads who want to emulate their favourite celebs from the 90's.

Ralph Lauren

Tommy Hilfiger's slightly more preppy cousin. Founded in 1967 as a line of men's ties before evolving into a global brand producing mid-range to high fashion. Ralph Lauren's country club chic along with the everlasting cool of the iconic Polo line have made the brand a mainstay in the contemporary fashion world, inspiring endless collabs, reeditions and communities of specialist vintage resellers who exclusively stock Raplhie pieces.

After those varsity-esque, comfy yet cool, practical yet stylish pieces? Then Ralph Lauren is the brand for you. You can also hunt out classic mens tailoring, sporty outerwear and cozy winter knits. Some places price vintage Ralph pretty steeply, so be sure to shop around to find the best bargains.

St Michael

A brand owned by Marks & Spencer from the 1920's all the way to 2000 - Yes we know that might be an immediate turn off for some but hear us out. The label has seen a resurgence in vintage selling, with their retro slip dresses, 80's knits and elegant outerwear proving popular. So much so that M&S announced they're reviving the label in 2022.

For the more 'classic' vintage lovers in a more accessible range of sizes and price points. St Michael pieces range from 60's dresses, deadstock 90's lingerie and tailoring to sporty outerwear, floral granny-chic prints and men's shirts. There's plenty to sift through online and in vintage stores (or maybe even your mums wardrobe) and there are some real classic gems out there.

Shop our brand edit...

Guess PVC Zip Top Ralph Lauren Dyed Jacket DVF Studded Mini Dress