Size S (oversized): Best for any size between an IT 50 - 40 Chest - M and an IT 46 - 36 Chest - S. Can also be worn by women sized between UK 10 - US 08 and UK 14 - US 12.
Helmut Lang backstage print T-shirt from S/S 1999. In excellent used condition. Made in Italy.
'Men and women who have access to every garment in the world are going crazy for sweatshirts and jeans and pale khaki suits.'
- Sally Singer on Helmut Lang, Vogue May 2000
For S/S 1999, Helmut Lang Jeans launched a limited edition of reissues of celebrated sportswear designs from past HL collections. The selection ranged from stripe-decorated basics and jackets to slash-sleeved tops, as well as earlier classics like this T-shirt. This piece was shown on both S/S 1994 and A/W 1994 runways, and in the latter it was styled with shiny-reflective jeans (also part of ENDYMA's collection) and cowboy boots irregularly painted with red nail varnish. This fantastic look was immortalised by Juergen Teller in a photograph that used in the A/W 1994 seasonal campaign.
Archetypal in its simplicity yet intricately constructed, the T-shirt has an oversized silhouette with dropped shoulders and a waist-length body, featuring side seams that spiral towards the left to enhance the top's drape when it is worn. The 'Helmut Lang Backstage' print that decorates the torso has been applied by hand using thick rubber ink that gives it a pronounced texture. It has then been reversed on the upped back, creating a subtle and sophisticated play that is quintessential Lang.
Furthermore, two different cotton fabrics have been used to construct the T-shirt; the front panel is a cushioned waffle knit, while the back and sleeve panels are crafted from a basketball-style jersey with a dense drop-stitch pattern. Both fabrics are soft, stretchy and have been washed to achieve a vintage finish. The crew neckline is finished with ribbed trim.
An exceptionally rare find in excellent condition, this piece has a beautiful construction and its iconic print is evidently part of contemporary fashion history.
