2005 Heavy Virgin Wool Biker Sweater

Size 52: Best for an IT 48 - 38 Chest - S/M or a large IT 46 - 36 Chest - S.

Raf Simons biker sweater from A/W 2005-2006 'History of My World'. In excellent used condition. Made in Belgium. RRP: £680

A/W 2005 was one of Raf Simons's classic seasons. Tim Blanks wrote one of our favourite pieces about Simons's work in his review of this collection, where he described this very sweater:

'A lot of the clothes had military or uniform connotations, with one outfit combining black trousers, black shirt, and black tie. Yes, these rang a little sinister. But, like the shoulder and elbow pads on his Jacquard knits, they were surely just reflecting the essentially combative nature of Simons' designs. If you're not thinking about these clothes, they're not working.' (our emphasis)

Over the past few seasons, the importance of Raf Simons's visionary work has been increasingly acknowledged by fans and critics alike. Consequently, more and more people are rediscovering Simons's strongest collections to date, from the 90s to the mid 00s. The conceptualism, design and execution of the garments from Simons's first decade demonstrate his competence as a truly experimental designer, while making most of his contemporary collections pale in comparison. Besides looking comprehensively stellar, 'History of my World' was a turning point for the Raf Simons aesthetic; it marked the transition from layered, subculture-inspired streetwear (clothes for boys) to a precisely tailored modernist vision (clothes for men).

The sweater for sale perfectly encapsulates the collection's hard-edged precision. Made from a substantial double-faced virgin wool, it has an incredibly sharp cut with tight and defined shoulders and an elongated slim silhouette. The body features A/W 2005's signature distorted fair isle-inspired pattern. The pattern is disrupted on the chest by ornate braiding and on each side by long ribbed panels. Heavy biker-inspired ribbing extends across the super slim sleeves from the shoulders to the cuffs, and its chunky volume gives the sweater an architectural precision. Overall, this robust piece feels like armor when worn and will get the wearer through the heaviest winters.

While looking spectacular, this sweater is made to a very high standard. The shoulders, armholes and sleeves have a completely three-dimensional pattern that follows the lines of the body. The finishing is extremely precise and all knit pieces are attached flawlessly despite the sweater's multi-panelled construction. In combination with the extremely substantial fabric, this high quality construction ensures that this piece will be enjoyed for years without pilling or stretching.

Overall, this is a rare and iconic piece with a unique design and a sharp cut. It successfully combines Raf Simons' unparalleled avant-garde experimentation with a classic sense of craftsmanship-driven luxury.