This is an exceptional iridescent silk taffeta and velvet, tiered and ruffled ball gown skirted gown by Yves Saint Laurent. It is actually the second one I have in the shop at the moment. The other one has a more pink toned, fuchsia color to the silk taffeta parts and is a smaller size 38.

A similar gown was shown for the 1979-80 Haute Couture collection by Yves with the same high low skirt treatment. That Haute Couture look was then translated into silk taffeta gowns for the Rive Gauche collection of 1980 which was documented by Roxanne Lowitt. This dress from that collection has been made from a combination of two of his signature fabrics - a silk taffeta mixed with velvet. On this one the silk is a deep purple color. The skirt is exceptionally full and yet light. The fabric choice allows it to retain its wonderful shape and fullness. I love the wide ruffle that circles the hem giving it an extra flounce and added movement. Movement is also created by the high/low cut to the skirt. The ruffled hem also helps give the skirt weight and keeps the wonderful shape that is has. There is an incredible amount of fabric in the skirt - it is truly remarkable. The top has a ruffled collar edging in the same fabric as the skirt and each cuff is also finished with a similar treatment. The waist is cinched with a wide, attached sash that ties around the waist and is also made from a silk taffeta. It is just wonderful and truly a work of art. Excellent condition

Fully lined through the bodice under all the velvet portion and unlined through the skirt and sleeves. It closes with a side painted metal and nylon zipper. The sash is in excellent condition. Tagged a vintage YSL 40. Note that the purple is richer in tone in person. n

Sleeves: 25.5"
Inset shoulders: 13.5"
Bust: 17.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Length: 47" from shoulder to front hem, 58" to the back hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD3067

Reference Photos: (1) 1979-80 Haute Couture Yves Saint Laurent  /  (2) Sayoko, wearing Yves Saint Laurent, in Paris, March 1980. Photo by Roxanne Lowit.

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.