42. Helmut Lang

Born in Vienna, Austria, Lang is a cult figure in fashion. He taught himself clothes design and later he opened his own shop. He uses unconventional materials such as rubber and feathers and was the first one ever to live stream his fashion show. In 1999 Prada bought 49 a percent stake in his company. Unhappy with losing artistic control, Lang left in 2005. Since then he has been working as an exhibition artist. Upon his departure Prada sold the brand to Link Theory, which re-launched with new designers. His ready-to-wear label includes men - and womenswear, accessories, footwear and fragrances.

Official website: http://www.helmutlang.com/

01b-helmut-lang-vogue-january-1995

SS2003 HL

SS2003 HL 2

SS2003 HL 3

Catwalk 2004 FW

Catwalk 2004 FW 2

Link Theory re-launched the Helmut Lang label with new designers in 2007

Helmut-Lang-Resort-20123

Sources:

http://blog.chippmunk.com/our-favorites-from-helmut-lang/

http://www.vogue.co.uk/spy/biographies/helmut-lang-biography

http://www.vogue.co.uk/fashion/autumn-winter-2004/ready-to-wear/helmut-lang

http://www.vogue.co.uk/fashion/spring-summer-2003/ready-to-wear/helmut-lang