For his fall 1995 show, "Paradise Pleasure Productions," Walter Van Beirendonck wrapped his models in latex, obscuring their faces and bodies, and dressed them atop their new rubbery skins. The anonymity created by such a choice was a statement against the status quo of runway shows, which had became star-studded affairs where celebrity models overshadowed the clothes themselves. Though the latex bodysuits were made by an S&M wear manufacturer, the collection was not particularly sexual in connotation, and was rather playful, emphasizing Walter’s love of nature. Butterflies hovered around the models with flowers in their hair, and the graphics emphasized love, with heart-centric graphics and cartoon images.

This jacket’s heavy PVC fabric carries through the latex motif from the runway. It’s also an excellent example of the cartoon imagery that appeared throughout the collection. It features the kind of creative, playful accentuations Walter is known for, including see through panelling on the backside, stars down the arms, and glow-in-the-dark buttons.

Condition: 7/10. Scuffing and signs of wear throughout, two very small cuts in the fabric - one on the upper right sleeve, one on the left shoulder.

Tagged size: XL

Shoulder: 18in

Pit to pit: 25in

Length: 22.5in

Sleeve: 28in