Helmut Lang zipped evening case/wallet from S/S 2004. In brand new condition with carry bag. Made in Italy. RRP: $495 (£302)
S/S 2004 is one of Helmut Lang's most famous seasons and many of its captivating designs are now part of modern fashion history. One of the collection's strongest themes was the' 'iridescent color' and 'lightness of structure' of dragonflies. Lang's typical sharp silhouettes were intensified by abstracted shapes, elastic straps, cut-outs and unexpected splashes of reflective materials. Inspired by raver accessories, this luxurious evening case features many of the season's distinctive details while demonstrating Lang's penchant for material experimentation.
The case is made from luxurious calf leather with a metallic patent finish. After being assembled the piece was deliberately battered and washed, giving it a faded pink/silver hue with a beautiful aged patina and pronounced texture/colour variations. According to Lang, this unique treatment was inspired by John Chamberlain's metal artworks. It was one of the collection's signatures and was used for all many runway leather goods. The leather's subversive appearance is further enhanced by the wallet's unusual design, with abstract asymmetrical military-inspired forms. The side features two individual zippered compartments, as well as a chunky silver metal D-ring. On the back, a thin leather rope comes out of two metal metal eyelets and is secured to form a loop, that was shown attached to a handcuff bracelet from the same collection to carry the case.
Helmut Lang bags and accessories from this period were made by Prada's Italian manufacturers, and their finishing is excellent. Unlike most patent coatings, the leather's patent finish is the result of natural oils rather than synthetic coatings. This gives the leather a very pleasant texture that will age well by developing a natural patina. The zipper heads are painted in tonal pink to complement the colours of the leather, while the oversized pull tabs have been stamped with the Helmut Lang logo. The interior is fully lined in black cotton, while all leather edges are hand-waxed and painted like all traditionally made leather goods.
This is a unique accessory with a multitude of signature Helmut Lang details. Its subversively luxurious materials and high quality set it apart from ordinary leather accessories, without compromising on its practicality.
