I guess technically this could go under the "Helmut Lang" thread we've already got... but then again, since that one has more to do with Lang himself, I think it's fair to start a new one. Plus, the purist in me doesn't want the following discussion anywhere NEAR Helmut himself, haha.
Anyway, as the times draws closer for Link Theory tounveil their Helmut Lang collection (NOT designed by Lang), does anybody else think that they really made a boneheaded decision to buy the brand? I know that the proof is in the pudding, but is there ANY buzz whatsoever related to these new designers and what they will do with the brand?I mean, if there is, please tell me. I hear tons about Raf for Jil, Viktor&Rolf, Junya, Tom Ford, etc... but nothing more than"eh,whatever" when it comes to this.
It seems to me that nobody is really talking about it, most everybodyisambivalent, and nearly everybody expects it to be like Theory + 20% retail price. And, I for one have never been impressed with Theory's retail or pricing model (Basic stuff that is made in China and about 10x's too expensive at retail, to be picked up after the sales for 80% off).
I just don't see how they will win this one. Two lackluster jeans designers at an eponymous brand where the namesake is long gone, now owned by a large, boring business conglomerate? WOW! I'll be the first waiting in line.... (not!) The only thing I MIGHT pick up is if they are smart enough to release a few standard models of Helmut's classic black suit (with that strange Austrianmix of slimness and boxiness). But, if they charge the same $1500+ retail and make the thing with cheap stretch wools in China, no way.
In actuality, what I think we'll see are just more of Helmut's basics, easily manufactured and "popular." My guesses? Lots of jeans (they'll def. be made in China and will be $150-175), tshirts (slim cut but no longer Egyptian Cotton... probably will be $80 or so), button fronts that are just like the Theory button fronts, only with PERHAPS the Lang higher-cut armholes ($250), and some stretch-wool and stretch-cotton flat front dresspants. And a few accessories like a few scarfs, pairs of gloves, etc. In other words... boring.
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