Helmut Lang blue jeans from A/W 1998-1999. In excellent used condition with natural fading. Made in Italy.
'It’s about America. It’s not about couture', Helmut Lang famously stated after rejecting Balenciaga's proposal to work as the maison's head designer. Lang had an enduring fascination with American workwear and particularly its most iconic identifier, denim. And of course, few garments are more representative of denim than the classic 5-pocket jeans. Their archetypal design was a strong source of inspiration for the designer, who transformed classic denim staplesto sophisticated high fashion pieces. In turn, his jeans were not only praised for their sophisticated fabrications but also for their distinctive and precisely-fitting silhouette. Renown NY fashion buyer Gene Pressman stated in 2006:
'Lang has mastered the old-fashioned fit of just being tight and narrow. The [fabrics] are worn in the way I like them. [...] And if Helmut Lang goes out of business? Look for vintage Helmut Lang jeans.'
From the A/W 1998 collection, these jeans are the most classic version of Lang's iconic jeans (pictured: S/S 1999 runway). Crafted from heavy raw denim with pronounced fades created through years of wear with minimal washing, they have a very authentic look that is impossible to replicate. This is particularly evident beautiful 'honeycomb' fades that have formed on the back of the knees. The detailing is undoubtedly inspired by Levi's 1947 501XX model, featuring a traditional five-pocket design reinforced with metal rivets. At the same time, Lang's decidedly clean lines as well as the absence of superficial decoration make his jeans timelessly modern despite their century-old origins. The jeans have Lang's typical 'classic' cut which consists of a medium rise, fitted seat, fitted thigh and a narrow straight leg. The reward of this carefully considered pattern is a flattering shape that looks simultaneously effortless and sharp.
Like all Helmut Lang jeans the construction is extremely precise, with considerable attention to detail. The hardware has a matte silver finish and is engraved with the Helmut Lang logo, while the interior is flawlessly finished with mainly flat fell seams that ensure the jeans will be worn for years without fraying. It should also be noted that there are no signs of wear on the crotch area (which is typically more prone to damage) despite the vintage character of this piece.
Overall, these classic jeans capture the sophistication and subtlety that became synonymous with Helmut Lang Jeans. Having aged beautifully over time, they remain as timeless as ever.
