2005 Compact Stretch Jersey Starship Uniform T-Shirt

IT 48 (stretches to fit): Best for any size between an IT 44 - 34 Chest - XS and a slim IT 48 - 38 Chest - S/M.

Raf Simons space logo fitted top from S/S 2005 'History of the World'. In excellent used condition. Made in Belgium.

Ambitiously titled 'History of the World', Simons's S/S 2005 collection was a flawless exercise in the designer's transgressive experimentations with tradition and innovation. The clean lines of Raf's razor-sharp tailoring were paired with dramatic streetwear to create a visionary proposal for contemporary menswear. Cathy Horyn writes:

'Not many designers would have the instinct to call a collection History of the World, as Simons did in July 2004, and have the models descend on a pair of huge escalators or print on their invitation the names of people and things that had changed the modern world, as if to suggest that fashion -- or any one of us -- could do the same. How many people would make such a moral claim in a cynical age?' (our emphasis)

In a similar statement, Tim Blanks explains:

'Simons has undoubtedly made a difference to the world of menswear, and this collection only served to underscore the power and originality of his vision. Once absorbed by radical punk icons and slogans, Simons has now shifted his frame of reference to an earlier period: specifically, the moment when Kraftwerk put its pop culture spin on the nexus between man and machine. [...] He expressed his tailoring skill in linear, luxurious suits and coats that had a Gattaca flair. [...] Then the leanness exploded, in triple-pleated leather trousers, funnel-necked tops, and huge white coats that floated like angel wings. On that optimistic note, Simons concluded a stunning show that felt like a fresh start for him.' (our emphasis)

Bearing a lucid resemblance to the costumes of Star Trek's Next Generation series, this piece was the collection's signature T-shirt. features a contrasting panel on the upper torso and shoulders that lends it a retro-futuristic edge. The distinctive aesthetic is further reinforced by the bold R S emblem that prominently decorates the chest. The piece is crafted from a stretch knit in a compact jersey stitch consisting of 92% cotton and 8% elastane with a slightly irregular/grained finish. The elastane percentage allows the dense knit to expand considerably, creating a razor-sharp skinny silhouette. 

Like many Raf Simons designs, it is the details and thoughtful finishing that give substance to the the design's directional concepts. The contrasting panel on the chest is beautifully attached with curved front edges, whereas the back finishes in a sharp diagonal line. The sleeves are cut slightly longer for a more serious look, and the crew neckline and cuffs are finished with thick ribbed binding. 

Bold and quintessentially Raf, this iconic T-shirt is a testament to the Belgian designer's idiosyncratic and much-imitated aesthetic. Combining streetwear with an avant-garde sensibility, it will become the key piece of any contemporary outfit.