Fresh off the runway in Milan, Italian fashion powerhouse Diesel has officially closed the chapter on one of the most explosive creative tenures in modern fashion. On Wednesday, Creative Director Glenn Martens presented his final Spring/Summer 2027 collection for the brand, bringing an end to a transformative era that successfully dragged Diesel back into the high-fashion spotlight and reinstated its status as a global cultural juggernaut.
Never one to go out quietly, Martens transformed his final show into a massive celebration conceived as “the party of your life,” an homage to inclusivity, radical self-expression, pure pleasure, and the democratic ethos that defined his time at the helm.
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Set inside a purpose-built venue designed to mimic a rave space, the show featured raw, performative interventions by Marseille-based artist collective (LA)HORDE. With 200 performers embedded directly into the crowd, the experience completely blurred the lines between a traditional fashion show, interactive theater, and an all-out club night.
Full-circle denim disruption
On the runway, the SS27 collection saw Martens revisit and disrupt classic Diesel signatures one last time. The line heavily featured experimental distressed denim, intricate trompe l’oeil visual tricks, sleek leather, dramatic cutouts, and delicate orchid details woven throughout.
In a poignant full-circle moment, model and actress Ella Snyder, who opened Martens’ debut Diesel show years ago, closed his final showcase wearing the ultimate look of the night. Diesel confirmed that details regarding the next chapter of its creative leadership will be announced in due course.
Mzansi stars bring Joburg drip to Milan
Adding serious local flavour to the front row, South African amapiano star and Diesel SA brand ambassador Daliwonga joined media personality Moozlie in Milan to witness the historic showcase. The pair turned heads among international fashion royalty, repping Mzansi’s street-style clout on fashion’s biggest global stage.
