French fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent pioneered “cross-design” in fashion, taking inspiration from street trends to modernize haute couture.
Saint Laurent was the first to launch a ready-to-wear label, YSL Rive Gauche Prêt-à-Porter. He was the first couturier to open boutiques for both men and women. Using traditional menswear fabrics and designs for women, Saint Laurent also literally cross-dressed, giving men and women alike chic pant suits, elegant tuxedo jackets and urban safari gear. By blurring gender-specific design, he empowered individual style while creating a scissor-sharp fashion aesthetic of sensual ease and beauty. Many of his designs are today considered timeless classics. Saint Laurent also consistently used Black models, like Mounia, Iman and Naomi Campbell, and he drew endless inspiration from different ethnicities and cultures, in no small part because of his Algerian roots.
Born to French parents in Oran, Algeria, in 1936, Saint Laurent went to Paris at age 17 to study fashion at the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture. Just two years later, in 1955, his remarkable sketches were shown to Christian Dior, then the world’s reigning couturier, who hired him immediately.
Surprisingly soon thereafter, Dior publicly chose Saint Laurent as his successor, which sadly proved prescient when the fashion legend died unexpectedly, in 1957. A mere slip of a youth, the 21-year-old Saint Laurent was nevertheless up to the challenge. He shook the traditional couture clientele to its core with youthful silhouettes and styles like the A-line trapeze dress that hung with seeming effortlessness from the shoulders, the antithesis of the pinched waists and molded skirts that had been all the rage after the deprivations of World War II.
After a mandated spell in the torturous French military, Saint Laurent suffered a nervous breakdown and was dismissed by Dior in 1962. Out of the ashes rose the Age of Yves. With Pierre Bergé, his then-lover who became his lifelong business partner and friend, the designer founded Yves Saint Laurent YSL to encompass prêt-à-porter, or ready-to-wear. In 1966, they opened the first YSL Rive Gauche women’s boutique in Paris, followed soon thereafter by YSL Rive Gauche for men. Saint Laurent had given birth to a global brand.
His revolutionary Mondrian mini dress from 1965 is a core element of his fashion biography. It is a prime example of how Saint Laurent, an avid art lover and collector, looked to painters, from Goya to Picasso, Ingres to Matisse, for inspiration.
With its pure lines and hues, Mondrian’s ground-breaking 1935 color-block painting Composition C transmutes beautifully into a dress that is highly valued by collectors of contemporary fashion and widely copied commercially to this day. The design is the epitome of Saint Laurent’s aesthetic, requiring a meticulous hand piecing of each color block so that, despite the body’s curves, the visual plane is as flat as a canvas when the garment is worn. Mondrian’s purity met its match in Saint Laurent.
“I am no longer concerned with sensation and innovation, but with the perfection of my style,” Saint Laurent said four years before retiring, in 2002. After a long period of ill health, he died at his home in Paris on June 1, 2008. Under creative director Hedi Slimane, the house’s ready-to-wear collection was rebranded as Saint Laurent in 2012.
Browse an extraordinary collection of vintage Saint Laurent evening dresses, shirts, handbags and other clothing and accessories today on 1stDibs.
Saint Laurent, Heidi Slimane era FW 2016 Black Mini Dress with Tulle Shoulders
By Saint Laurent, Hedi Slimane for Yves Saint Laurent
Located in Los Angeles, CA
A show-stopping little black dress by Hedi Slimane for Saint Laurent Fall/Winter 2016 Ready-to-Wear. This dress is oozing with 1980's YSL sensuality. Slimane called upon inspirations...
SAINT LAURENT navy blue & white BIANCO POLKA DOT PLATFORM Sandals Shoes 37.5
By Saint Laurent
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Saint Laurent Bianca sandal is crafted in navy blue fabric printed with white polka dots. It features open toes with s...
New Limited Edition Saint Laurent Incredibly Rare Celebrity Roller Skates Sz 37
By Saint Laurent
Located in Conroe, TX
Brand New & Incredibly Rare Saint Laurent Roller Skates Spring Summer 2017 Runway Heels Size: 37 Vintage Inspired Roller Skates High Top Sneakers Heavy Metal Base 4 Solid Core Whee...
$1,140Sale Price|20% Off
New Tom Ford for YSL Yves Saint Laurent Final Collection Satin Heels Sz 40.5
By Tom Ford for Yves Saint Laurent, Saint Laurent
Located in Conroe, TX
Tom Ford for Yves Saint Laurent Heels Brand New The Countess of Albemarle wore these in Beige to Tom Ford's Book Signing Size: 40.5 * Lilac Satin * Leather Insole * Adjustable Ankle ...
SAINT LAURENT brown wool 2020 LEOPARD JACQUARD Coat Jacket XS
By Saint Laurent
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Saint Laurent knit coat in light and dark brown leopard jacquard wool (73%), mohair (15%), polyamide (11%) and elastane (1%) is a bold outerwear statement. Design...
SAINT LAURENT black suede 2017 BIKER Jacket 40 M
By Saint Laurent
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Saint Laurent 2017 suede biker jacket is a sleek and edgy wardrobe essential. Crafted from rich black suede, it features matte silver-tone zipper details that hig...
SAINT LAURENT red leather KATE SMALL MONOGRAM Shoulder Bag
By Saint Laurent
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Saint Laurent Kate Small (original) shoulder bag in red Grain de Poudre leather embodies timeless sophistication. Accented with gold-tone hardware, it features th...
Saint Laurent Grecian Inspired Dress Gown
By Gucci, Saint Laurent
Located in Los Angeles, CA
One of the best from Saint Laurent! Grecian inspired gown designed to make the wearer look like a Grecian goddess. Fashioned of ivory silk chiffon accented by a substantial silk an...
New Tom Ford for YSL Yves Saint Laurent Collection Satin Heels Sz 39 U.S. 8.5
By Tom Ford for Yves Saint Laurent, Saint Laurent
Located in Conroe, TX
Tom Ford for Yves Saint Laurent Heels Brand New The Countess of Albemarle wore these in Beige to Tom Ford's Book Signing Marked Size: 39 Fits U.S. 8.5 * Lilac Satin * Leather Insol...
SAINT LAURENT raspberry leather CASSANDRE MATELASSE A5 Pouch Bag
By Saint Laurent
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Saint Laurent "Cassandre" pouch, crafted from raspberry red chrome-metal free quilted leather, combines eco-conscious design with timeless style. Featuring gold-t...
Saint Laurent Beige Shiny Calfskin Small Le 37 Bucket Bag
By Saint Laurent
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Saint Laurent Beige Shiny Calfskin Small Le 37 Bucket Bag SKU: 151295 MSRP: 2900.00 USD Condition: Pre-owned Handbag Condition: Pristine Condition Comments: Item has ...
SAINT LAURENT black silk 2017 BEADED CRYSTAL FRINGE Cocktail Dress 40 M
By Saint Laurent
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Saint Laurent cocktail dress in black silk (100%), exquisitely embellished with black and silver beadwork throughout. Features a sleek, sleeveless fitted silhouette wi...
SAINT LAURENT natural beige SHEARLING FUR 2021 SMALL PUFFER Clutch Bag
By Saint Laurent
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Saint Laurent Puffer Small Clutch in natural beige quilted shearling exudes effortless sophistication with a cozy, luxurious touch. Featuring the iconic gold-tone...
SAINT LAURENT Wicker basket bag, YSL signature gold chain, wicker +black leather
By Saint Laurent
Located in KRAKÓW, PL
SAINT LAURENT Wicker basket bag, The coolest summer bag, St Tropez old money style NEW with tags Org price €2500 Beautiful bag with leather wrapped around its top handle, leat...
SAINT LAURENT black suede 2018 BILLY PLATFORM Ankle Boots Shoes 39.5
By Saint Laurent
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Saint Laurent Billy platform ankle boots in black suede featuring silver-tone metal buckle. Opens with a zipper on the inside. Brand new. Come with dust bags. Measur...
Saint Laurent 2024 Sac Niki Baby Red Vintage Leather Shoulder Bag New
By Saint Laurent
Located in PARIS, FR
Saint Laurent Niki bag, PM size (small), red "vintage" leather, quilted in chevrons, Cassandre clasp covered in matching leather, interior in ca...
SAINT LAURENT 2024 rose champagne satin plunge contour panel slip gown FR36 S
By Saint Laurent, Anthony Vaccarello
Located in Hong Kong, NT
SAINT LAURENT 2024 rose champagne satin plunge contour panel slip gown FR36 S Reference: TGAS/F00499 Brand: Saint Laurent Designer: Anthony Vaccarello Collection: 2024 Material: Silk...
SAINT LAURENT Runway 110 Aylah Over-The-Knee Vinyl Boots Size 40 patent leather
By Saint Laurent
Located in KRAKÓW, PL
SAINT LAURENT Aylah 110 Over-The-Knee Vinyl Boots Size 40, perfect condition Product Details No one does slick, all-gloss over-the-knee boots quite like Saint Laurent. The blac...
Rare & Iconic Saint Laurent Jamie Heels Org Price 2400€ size 40
By Saint Laurent
Located in KRAKÓW, PL
Saint Laurent Jamie Heels Org Price 2400€ size 40 Perfect condition Are you looking for the perfect statement shoe that will elevate your outfit to the next level? Look no further...
$1,140Sale Price|20% Off
New Tom Ford for Yves Saint Laurent YSL Final Collection Satin Heels Sz 40
By Tom Ford for Yves Saint Laurent, Saint Laurent
Located in Conroe, TX
Tom Ford for Yves Saint Laurent Heels Brand New The Countess of Albemarle wore these in Beige to Tom Ford's Book Signing Size: 40 * Lilac Satin * Leather Insole * Adjustable Ankle St...
SAINT LAURENT black metal Sunglasses 203/K
By Saint Laurent
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Saint Laurent SL 203/K sunglasses in black metal with grey lenses. Feature a logo engraving on the arms. Have been worn and are in excellent condition. No case. Measu...
SAINT LAURENT black suede PAIGE 145 Platform Sandals Shoes 39
By Saint Laurent
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Saint Laurent Paige 145 sandals in black suede. Feature a chunky platform and block heel. Tie around the ankle. Brand new. Come with...
SAINT LAURENT Senape mustard BALDE VELVET Sllingbacks Pumps Shoes 38
By Saint Laurent
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Saint Laurent Blade slingbacks in glamorous plush velvet and feature square toe and sculptural stiletto heel. Have been worn once in...
$3,320Sale Price|20% Off
SAINT LAURENT black cotton FUR LINED HOODED Parka Coat Jacket 36 XS
By Saint Laurent
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Saint Laurent oversized parka in black cotton (77%) and ramie (23%). Features long raglan sleeves (sleeve measurements taken from the neck), four buttoned pockets and ...
Saint Laurent F/W 1969 Fringed Satin Silk Evening Ensemble
By Saint Laurent
Located in Paris, FR
Evening ensemble Saint Laurent satin featuring a silver metallic long-sleeved blouse with matching wide-leg trousers. The blouse showcases a lustrous satin construction with asymmetr...
Saint Laurent 2022 Sandales Tribute EU39 Red Suede Pumps Heels UK5.5 US8.5 NIB
By Saint Laurent
Located in PARIS, FR
Saint Laurent pumps Tribute sandals in red suede, covered stiletto heel, beveled platform, crisscross straps and strap with Saint Laurent Paris logo pin buckle on the ankle. Size 39F...
Saint Laurent Creama Soft Grain De Poudre Triquilt Monogram Clutch
By Saint Laurent
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Saint Laurent Creama Soft Grain De Poudre Triquilt Monogram Clutch SKU: 152367 MSRP: 900.00 USD Condition: Pre-owned Handbag Condition: Good Condition Comments: Item ...
Saint Laurent Loulou Medium Suede Matelassé Chain Shoulder Bag
By Saint Laurent
Located in Houston, US
Brand: Saint Laurent Gender: Ladies Measurements (W x H x D): 12.00" x 9.00" x 3.50" Weight: 990.00 grams Saint Laurent loulou medium suede matelassé. Engraved with "Paris". The...
SAINT LAURENT 2023 Runway vert green hooded draped maxi sheer dress FR34 XS
By Anthony Vaccarello, Saint Laurent
Located in Hong Kong, NT
SAINT LAURENT 2023 Runway vert olive green hooded draped maxi sheer dress FR34 XS Reference: TGAS/F00471 Brand: Saint Laurent Designer: Anthony Vaccarello Collection: Spring Summer 2...
$920Sale Price|20% Off
SAINT LAURENT black silk PADDED SHOULDER PUSSY BOW Blouse Shirt 34 XXS
By Saint Laurent
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Saint Laurent long sleeve pussy bow blouse in black silk (100%). Features buttoned cuffs and ruched details at the cuffs. Unlined. Has been worn and is in excellent co...
Saint Laurent Black One Shoulder One Piece Swimsuit size S bodysuit
By Saint Laurent
Located in KRAKÓW, PL
Saint Laurent Black One Shoulder One Piece Swimsuit It beautifully highlights the silhouette and thanks to its great cut, the body looks great and the proportions are maintained. ...
SAINT LAURENT 2023 Runway black butterfly applique sheer maxi dress T2 M
By Saint Laurent, Anthony Vaccarello
Located in Hong Kong, NT
SAINT LAURENT 2023 Runway black butterfly applique sheer maxi dress T2 M Reference: TGAS/F00496 Brand: Saint Laurent Designer: Anthony Vaccarello Collection: Pre Fall 2023 - Runway M...
Saint Laurent Glitter Canvas & Black Leather City Gym Duffle Bag
By Saint Laurent
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Saint Laurent Glitter Canvas & Black Leather City Gym Duffle Bag SKU: 111445 MSRP: 2150.00 USD Condition: Pre-owned Handbag Condition: Very Good Condition Comment...
SAINT LAURENT black leather CHARLOTTE STUDDED ANKLE Boots Shoes 39
By Saint Laurent
Located in Zürich, CH
These 100% authentic Saint Laurent Charlotte Studded Leather Ankle Boots are a sleek blend of elegance and edge. Crafted from smooth black leather, they feature a sharp pointed toe a...
Saint Laurent Womens LE 5 A 7 Shoulder Bag Smooth Leather Black Gold YSL Logo
By Yves Saint Laurent, Saint Laurent
Located in Miami, FL
- Black exterior - Brass colored hardware - Made in Italy - Zipped pocket interior Condition: The bag is in overall great condition with no major imperfections, this bag was ...
$1,756Sale Price|20% Off
YSL Kate Medium Tassel In Crocodile-Embossed Leather Beige
By Saint Laurent
Located in Salt Lake Cty, UT
Authentic Saint Laurent kate medium tassel in crocodile embossed leather shoulder bag in Ivory. This classic bag is one that will take you through all seasons. Adorned with iconic 'Y...
SAINT LAURENT 2023 Runway gold hooded draped maxi sheer dress FR36 S
By Anthony Vaccarello, Saint Laurent
Located in Hong Kong, NT
SAINT LAURENT 2023 Runway gold hooded draped maxi sheer dress FR36 S Reference: TGAS/F00657 Brand: Saint Laurent Designer: Anthony Vaccarello Collection: Spring Summer 2023 - Runway ...
Saint Laurent Black Smooth Calfskin Toy Sac Du Jour
By Saint Laurent
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Saint Laurent Black Smooth Calfskin Toy Sac Du Jour SKU: 152303 MSRP: 1350.00 USD Condition: Pre-owned Handbag Condition: Very Good Condition Comments: Item is in ver...
SAINT LAURENT camel brown cashmere 2021 LEATHER TRIM FELT CAPE Jacket 36 XS
By Saint Laurent
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Saint Laurent cape in camel brown felted cashmere blended with wool (3%), finished with sleek black leather trim that frames the silhouette with subtle contrast. Desig...
$384Sale Price|20% Off
SAINT LAURENT La 16 Mules Cassandre Denim blue YSL monogram sandal heels EU37.5
By Anthony Vaccarello, Saint Laurent
Located in Hong Kong, NT
SAINT LAURENT La 16 Mules Cassandre Denim blue YSL monogram sandal heels EU37.5 Reference: TGAS/F00123 Brand: Saint Laurent Designer: Anthony Vaccarello Model: Step into effortless P...
Saint Laurent, Suede western jacket in cognac 2019
By Saint Laurent
Located in AMSTERDAM, NL
Saint Laurent, Suede western jacket in cognac 2019. The item is in good condition. The item has very light discoloration.
$672Sale Price|30% Off
SAINT LAURENT Saharienne blue indigo washed denim belted safari shirt dress
By Saint Laurent
Located in Hong Kong, NT
SAINT LAURENT Saharienne blue indigo washed denim belted safari shirt dress Reference: NKLL/A00447 Brand: Saint Laurent Model: Saharienne Mate...
$547Sale Price|69% Off
Saint Laurent Bomber Men Jacket Size 50IT(M)
By Saint Laurent
Located in Kaunas, LT
Item for sale is 100% genuine Saint Laurent Men Bomber Jacket Color: Blue/White (An actual color may a bit vary due to individual computer screen interpretation) Material: 100% visc...
$1,248Sale Price|20% Off
SAINT LAURENT Kaia brown heart embossed print YSL crossbody bag
By Saint Laurent
Located in Hong Kong, NT
SAINT LAURENT Kaia brown heart embossed print YSL crossbody bag Reference: TGAS/E00792 Brand: Saint Laurent Designer: Hedi Slimane Model: Kaia Collection: 2021 Material: Leather Colo...
SAINT LAURENT Niki beige canvas brown leather trim logo flap crossbody chain bag
By Saint Laurent
Located in Hong Kong, NT
SAINT LAURENT Niki beige canvas brown leather trim logo flap crossbody chain bag Reference: NILI/A00051 Brand: Saint Laurent Model: Niki Material: Leather, Canvas Color: Beige, Brown...
SAINT LAURENT black suede BABIES 70 CRYSTAL ANKLE Boots Shoes 39.5
By Saint Laurent
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Saint Laurent Babies 70 ankle boots in elegant black suede. A refined silhouette featuring rounded toes, sleek ankle-high shafts, and signature block heels fully embel...
SAINT LAURENT hot pink leather DEBBIE Platform Sandals Shoes 37
By Saint Laurent
Located in Zürich, CH
authentic Saint Laurent Debbie open-toe ankle-strap sandals in magenta calfskin. Brand new. Come with dust bag. Imprinted Size 37 Shoe Size 37 Inside Sole 24cm (9.4in) Width 7cm (2....
SAINT LAURENT black glazed leather 2015 BABIES TASSELED Loafers Shoes 42
By Saint Laurent
Located in Zürich, CH
These 100% authentic Saint Laurent Babies loafers in black glazed leather exude timeless sophistication with a modern edge. They feature small tassels for a touch of detail, stylish ...
SAINT LAURENT 2023 rose bronze silk satin draped cowl slip dress gown FR40 L
By Anthony Vaccarello, Saint Laurent
Located in Hong Kong, NT
SAINT LAURENT 2023 rose bronze silk satin draped cowl slip dress gown FR40 L Reference: TGAS/F00500 Brand: Saint Laurent Designer: Anthony Vaccarello Collection: 2023 Material: Silk ...
2000S SAINT LAURENT Black Silk Chiffon Tuxedo Lapel Trained Gown With Sleeves &
By Saint Laurent
Located in New York, NY
2000S SAINT LAURENT Black Silk Chiffon Tuxedo Lapel Trained Gown With Sleeves & Pants
SAINT LAURENT brown viscose 2016 PAISLEY LONG SLEEVE MINI Dress 36 XS
By Saint Laurent
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Saint Laurent 2016 long sleeve paisley mini dress in brown, olive, mustard, beige and midnight blue viscose (100%). The design featur...
Saint Laurent ID Convertible Travel Duffel Bag Large Black Canvas Leather Trim
By Saint Laurent
Located in San Diego, CA
Saint Laurent ID Convertible Travel Duffel Bag Large Black Canvas Leather Trim This pre-owned, excellent condition Saint Laurent travel duffel bag is designed in black canvas with t...
$1,140Sale Price|20% Off
New Tom Ford for Yves Saint Laurent YSL Final Collection Satin Heels Sz 38.5
By Saint Laurent, Tom Ford for Yves Saint Laurent
Located in Conroe, TX
Tom Ford for Yves Saint Laurent Heels Brand New The Countess of Albemarle wore these in Beige to Tom Ford's Book Signing Size: 38.5 * Lilac Satin * Leather Insole * Adjustable Ankle ...
SAINT LAURENT brown suede LEOPARD LACE UP Boots Shoes 40
By Saint Laurent
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Saint Laurent lace-up knee-high boots in camel and espresso brown leopard print suede. Lined in espresso brown calfskin. Open with a zipper on the inside. Brand new. R...
$480Sale Price|20% Off
SAINT LAURENT 2015 green khaki camo print cotton studded army jacket XS
By Saint Laurent, Anthony Vaccarello
Located in Hong Kong, NT
SAINT LAURENT 2015 green khaki camo print cotton studded army jacket XS Reference: YIKK/A00252 Brand: Saint Laurent Designer: Anthony Vaccarello Collection: 2015 As seen on: Rosie Hu...
SAINT LAURENT black viscose 2016 BOW WAIST BAND Cocktail Dress 40 M
By Saint Laurent
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Saint Laurent cocktail dress is crafted in black crepe acetate (57%) and viscose (43%), accented with a sleek satin waistband finished with a refined bow. It feat...
Saint Laurent Black Calfskin Medium Manhattan Shoulder Bag
By Saint Laurent
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Saint Laurent Black Calfskin Medium Manhattan Shoulder Bag SKU: 151799 Condition: Pre-owned Handbag Condition: Very Good Condition Comments: Item is in very good cond...
Saint Laurent Paris Silk Open Collar Blouse FR 36 US 4 Off-white Quiet Luxury
By Saint Laurent
Located in San Diego, CA
Saint Laurent Silk Open Collar Off-White Blouse Approx. size FR 36 US 4 Quintessential piece of Saint Laurent craftsmanship. This ivory/cream silk blouse embodies the Quiet Luxury...
SAINT LAURENT black silk 2017 SCARF NECK Blouse Shirt 40 M
By Saint Laurent
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Saint Laurent blouse is crafted in black semi-sheer silk (100%). It features a fluid, relaxed silhouette with a refined round neckline and an attached silk scarf ...
SAINT LAURENT black suede leather buckle maryjane block heel pump EU37.5
By Saint Laurent
Located in Hong Kong, NT
SAINT LAURENT black suede leather buckle maryjane block heel pump EU37.5 Reference: MELK/A00314 Brand: Saint Laurent Material: Suede Color: Black, Silver Pattern: Solid Closure: Ankl...
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