Helmut Lang
2003 Soft Fleece Chesterfield Coat with Bondage Cuff Straps
2003 Soft Fleece Chesterfield Coat with Bondage Cuff Straps
IT 44: Best for an IT 46 - 36 Chest - S, a large IT 44 - 34 Chest - XS or a Women's UK 12/US 10.
Helmut Lang tailored coat from A/W 2003-2004. In excellent used condition. Made in Italy.
A/W 2003 is seen by many as Helmut Lang's definitive 'bondage' collection. A diverse variety of inspirations -ranging from airforce uniforms and Vivienne Westwood's Seditionaries to classic evening tailoring- were refined into a unique collection that combined subcultural aggression with refined sartorialism. The season's conceptually rich designs have become part of contemporary fashion history, influencing a wide range of designers in the process. Originally presented on the A/W 1993 runway, Lang's classic Chesterfield coat was released every season that followed in different fabrics. This 2003 version of the classic design is given an impressive update, featuring a beautiful fabrication and an abundance of quintessential Lang details.
Featuring a classic concealed three-button closure, the coat is crafted from a thick polar fleece fabric with a soft, fluffy texture reminiscent of cashmere wool. In a beautiful heather grey colour, the fabric has a gently unstructured drape that gives a softer edge to the sharp lines of the piece. The silhouette is easy and relaxed, with a slightly oversized body and fitted shoulders. The front has a concealed three-button closure, while the back has a short buttoned vent. The cuffs are finished with Lang's signature elastic bondage cuff straps that can be removed.
The quality of this piece is excellent, as to be expected from Helmut Lang's renown tailoring. The undercollar features hand-sewn felt in a marbled tonal hue that looks beautiful when worn up. The concealed placket is hand-finished with a separate lining. All buttons are made from matte tonal resin in line with the piece's minimalist aesthetic. The interior is fully lined in silky gold viscose that feels pleasant against the skin, while all pockets are lined in smooth cotton. The lining is attached by hand on the shoulders and hem, while its edges are adorned with sartorial pick stitching. The interior is finished with two buttoned pockets.
This sophisticated piece exemplifies Helmut Lang's subtle yet groundbreaking transformation of classic designs into highly conceptual runway pieces. While sporting a timelessly sharp silhouette, the coat's tactilely pleasant fabric and effortless silhouette set it apart and make for a beautiful piece that can be worn from day to night. Strongly recommended.