This gorgeous Yves Saint Laurent dress is extra special because it is the twin of the dress that was shown on the 1983 runway and it was featured in the advance photos given to press that season as well. I love having both reference photos for you because not only does it show you how wonderful the dress is on the body but it also shows you how much styling changes it feel. On the runway it was shown with a turban and a lot of jewellery for a very dramatic, more evening feel, whereas in the advance photos the model is running through a field and it has a pretty spring daytime feel. I love that versatility. It is an absolutely stunning dress and these floral prints that he was doing during this time are some of my favourites from his work.

The colours in the silk on this dress are amazing. The silk has held the colour extremely well and they are as crisp and vibrant as the day it went on the shop floor. Yves was a master at choosing the fabrics that were the perfect compliment to the prints that he used. This dress is no exception to that rule with its riot of bright flowers covering its surface. The choice of silk also makes it feather light and allows it to float around you when you move. The bodice is cut to skim over you with a loose and easy feel and has a V neckline at the front. The waist is seamed under that but it is cut loose and generous. The matching belt is tacked into place at the back and then you can use it to cinch in the waist as much as you need. The skirt games over the hips and then flares out quite a bit. The front is cut shorter than the back so you get a bit of a trained effect floating behind you as you move. You can see this in the pictures of the girl in the field. The sleeves are spectacular. They end just below the elbow and are cut with a full balloon sleeve to pouf above their wide and easy elastic cuffs. Unlike a standard balloon sleeve, he has cut them so the volume falls mainly towards the back of your arm which gives them a unique feel. It is absolutely gorgeous. Excellent condition

Unlined and closes a side set zipper. Each sleeve has elastic at its cuff. Tagged a YSL vintage 42. The matching tie belt is attached at the back of the waist. It appears to have been worn very little if at all. It's easy cut should allow it to fit a range of sizes

Sleeves: 16" to the shortest part and approx 22" to the longest
Shoulders: 15.5"
Bust: to 21" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: to 14.5 " flat across from side seam to side seam and you can cinch it in with the belt
Hips: to 21" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 16" from top of bodice to waist but will blouse up a bit when belt is tied
Skirt: 42" from waist to front hem, 46" to the back hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD4226

Reference Photos: (1) Spring 1983 Yves Saint Laurent Runway.  /  (2-5) Spring 1983 Yves Saint Laurent Ready to Wear Advance. Photos by Tim Jenkins.

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