Size M: Best for a Women's UK 8/US 6 or a slim UK 10/US 8.

Helmut Lang deconstructed top from A/W 1997-1998. In excellent used condition. Made in Italy.

For A/W 1997 -the first winter collection of his year-old Helmut Lang Jeans label-, Lang took the denim-based explorations of S/S 1997 to new heights of sophistication. While the runway show focused on the clean lines of Lang's tailoring, it is the streetwear that is now considered as some of his most covetable output: This collection introduces the iconic bulletproof vest, Lang's renown take on the M-51 military parka and several groundbreaking fabric treatments for denim.

This long-sleeve T-shirt has a slender, tailored cut with narrow shoulders and elongated proportions. Asymmetric side seams on the body create a contoured effect, while the sleeves have a two-piece construction adapted from Lang's traditional shirts. This cut -in combination with the structured jersey fabric- results in a modern and flattering silhouette that is rarely found in T-shirts, where more simplistic straight lines prevail. The sleeves feature Lang's iconic 'slashed' construction on the elbows. This unique detail has become a hallmark of Helmut Lang's womenswear and variations can be seen in several of his collections until the label's demise (pictured: A/W 1997, S/S 1996, A/W 2003 and editorials from A/W 1996). Subtle yet impactful, it artfully turns the wearer's body and arm movements into essential parts of the shirt's design. 

Upon a closer inspection, several interesting features reveal the thoughtfulness of the T-shirt's design. The fabric is a finely knit structured cotton jersey with a mercerized treatment that produces a deep colour with a sateen-esque finish. Its high thread count results in a very pleasant smooth texture, while suggesting that it will maintain its softness and colour for longer. The slashed sections of the sleeves feature strong reinforcement stitching, while a double-layered construction is used to maintain their sharp slit shape. The wide crew neckline is finished with ribbed knit.

A truly iconic basic, this top exemplifies Lang's rare ability to bestow couture sophistication to the most basic garments. With its beautiful details and directional silhouette, it will make a bold yet sophisticated statement. Strongly recommended.