"TOO FUNKY" - THE LIFE AND LEGEND OF THIERRY MUGLER

Manfred Thierry Mugler the artist, showman, provocateur was definitely "TOO FUNKY", nod to the George Michael video featuring Mugler's memorable designs.

Mugler unfortunately passed on the 23rd of January 2022. He leaves behind a massive creative legacy, a body of work stretching across fashion, fragrance, cinema and music. His singular creative vision and determination led him on a path to be a self-made man, a world-beater and an icon. He will be remembered for his creating signature looks for luminaries like David Bowie, Madonna, Diana Ross and Grace Jones, and perhaps most notably was responsible for Demi Moore’s iconic dress in Indecent Proposal. His work continued into the 21st century, working closely with Lady Gaga, The Kardashians and Cardi B, as well as crafting costumes for Beyonce’s 'I Am' World Tour.

Mugler was born in 1948 in Strasbourg, France. Showing signs of creativity from as young as 9, where he claimed to be more interested in drawing than school, he also studied dance from a younger age, leading him to join the Ballet of the National Rhine Opera at age 14. Studying for six years, he learnt the value of performance and showmanship, which would inform his career as a designer. In addition, he also attended the Strasbourg School of Decorative Art, which led to him creating and designing his own clothes.

After this six-year period at age 20, he moved to Paris and began working for a boutique called Gudule. Two years later he began freelance work for ready-to-wear fashion houses in Paris, London, Milan and Barcelona. In 1973, Mugler launched his first clothing line, “Café de Paris.” Fellow visionary Azzedine Alaia joined him in working on his early designs, their collaboration lasting until the late seventies, where Mugler encouraged Alaia to launch his own career. The following year, Mugler created his own label.

In 1976, fashion editor Melka Treanton asked him to show his collection in Tokyo, and two years later Mugler opened his first boutique in Paris. At the same time he launched a one-off male collection.

Story by Thomas Hutchinson
Film by Ruepong Jaroonkaiamonchai