The fall of 2003 stands as both an apex of Lang’s work, and a bellwether which implied the beginning of the end for his eponymous label. The runway, described as “soft armor” by Vogue, provided much of what one had came to expect from Lang: austere tailoring with lurid undertones, elaborate layering created through negative space, and militant outerwear, all executed at perhaps the highest levels he ever reached. Even yet, the zeitgeist is fickle, and waning sales suggested that the mainstream’s fascination with his work had began to fade. Lang would step down after only two more years at his label. 

Though specifically cited in their time as the niche of Lang’s work which particularly struggled to find a consumer market, the bondage bombers from 2003 have endured as some of his most famous pieces. This high-neck iteration is made with a sturdy nylon cotton blend, ribbed cuffs, and features a complex interweaving of straps, which trace the edges of the back, and fasten down the arms. 

Condition: 9/10. No significant flaws. 

Tagged size: 50

Shoulder: 19in

Pit to pit: 24.5in

Length: 24.5in

Sleeve: 26in