In a world where fashion reinvents itself daily, Glenn Martens seeks something deeper. His works are not just clothes or shoes. They are transformation. They are the deconstruction of the everyday and the reconstruction of meaning. That is why his collaboration with the Brazilian brand Melissa is not just another capsule collection, but a designer manifesto about a future that does no harm to the planet.
It all began with Y/Project - the brand where Martens developed his signature aesthetic: hybrid silhouettes, curves, and complex layering. It was in this context that the first collaboration with Melissa was born. Although initially intended as a one-off, this partnership stretched across several seasons - because it became too organic.
Martens didn’t just create footwear. He told a story.
Crystal-like mules reminiscent of a Rococo fairy tale. Rubber clogs that look like artifacts from the future. All within the boundaries of a material that can be flexible, rigid, and completely sustainable.
Melissa - a brand that has been working for decades with Melflex® - a patented 100% recyclable PVC. And this became the key. Martens uses this material not as a limitation but as a privilege:
“I want fashion to be not only beautiful but responsible. With Melissa, I found a partner with whom I can create something timeless - without harming the planet.”
In this collaboration, ecology became not a theme but a form.
Monomaterial design, no glue or metal. Full recyclability. Minimalist packaging. Yet at the same time - dramatic, refined aesthetics that look like art objects. Martens created footwear that could exist in a museum but walks the city streets. No blind following of trends - only designs that withstand time.
At Diesel, where Martens is now the creative director, he continues this direction - rethinking denim, textiles, and mass culture. But it is through the collaboration with Melissa that he demonstrated how to create a fashion product that harms neither people nor nature, while remaining an expression of intellectual vision.
This story is not just about rubber shoes. It is about how plastic becomes poetry when guided by an artist.
The collection is called Quantum, inspired by optical illusions and distorted forms, with a focus on fluidity and dynamics.
The collection consists of three key models:
- Quantum Thong - futuristic flip-flops in transparent shades, slightly elevated for rave aesthetics and minimalism.
- Quantum Platform - mules with XL platforms and textured sole structure, available in red, blue, black, and transparent icy shades.
- Quantum Sneaker X - slip-on sneakers without laces, with an asymmetric silhouette in transparent green, fiery red, and anthracite black shades.
Material and Aesthetic
The collection uses Melflex® - a flexible, recycled material that is waterproof, hypoallergenic, and even scented (bubble-gum).
All models are vegan, easy to clean, and feature futuristic designs with minimal seams.
Size range and availability
Sneaker X are available in sizes EU 35–47 (up to US 13).
Platform models are offered in EU 35–43 with a platform of about 10 cm.
Prices
Quantum Sneaker X: from €285 to £250 (depending on region).
Quantum Platform: around €175 or $290.
Why is this interesting?
The collection is a combination of innovative design and Diesel’s recognizable cultural code.
The principle of “future-ready streetwear”: exaggerated forms, light effects through the material, and the Diesel logo harmoniously blend with Melissa’s practicality.
The brands say they wanted to create a design that feels “fresh and familiar at the same time,” both accessible and avant-garde.
This Diesel x Melissa collaboration is not just a new step in footwear but an important symbol of modern fashion, where innovation combines with ecological responsibility. Thanks to the fusion of futuristic design, sustainable materials, and Diesel’s cultural code, the Quantum collection shows that style and conscious care for nature can go hand in hand. It proves that fashion of the future is not only about beauty and experimentation but also about caring for the planet, comfort, and durability. Thus, plastic truly becomes poetry when backed by deep ideas and artistic vision.
