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 2020 blue distressed washed denim high waisted shorts 29"
By Saint Laurent
Located in Hong Kong, NT
SAINT LAURENT 2020 blue distressed washed denim high waisted shorts 29" Reference: NKLL/A00052 Brand: Saint Laurent Collection: 2020 Material: Denim Color: Blue, Black Pattern: Solid...
Saint Laurent YSL Medium Kate Tassel Bag Burgundy Croc Embossed Leather
By Saint Laurent
Located in Guangzhou, CN
Condition Normal signs of wear, scratches on hardware, corner scuffs, interior and exterior are clean. Size Width: 24cm, Height: 15cm Designer Saint Laurent Model Medium Kate Tassel ...
SAINT LAURENT 2023 Runway iridescent satin cowl open back dress gown FR36 S
By Saint Laurent, Anthony Vaccarello
Located in Hong Kong, NT
SAINT LAURENT 2023 Runway black iridescent satin plunge neck cowl open back dress gown FR36 S Reference: TGAS/F00688 Brand: Saint Laurent Designer: Anthony Vaccarello Model: 761176 Y...
$1,960Sale Price|30% Off
Saint Laurent Purple Crushed Velvet Plunge Wrap Dress YSL Runway, 1985
By Yves Saint Laurent, Saint Laurent
Located in Boca Raton, FL
The 1980s and Yves Saint Laurent are an iconic pair. Capturing the 80s culture, YSL had a talent for designing for the everyday woman but also making sure that she stood out whether ...
Yves Saint Laurent Vintage Black Belted Coat with Pockets, Size M
By Yves Saint Laurent, Saint Laurent
Located in Krakow, PL
Yves Saint Laurent Vintage Black Belted Coat with Pockets Size: M Condition: Very Good Condition Description: Minimal signs of use, including fading to the lining at the cuffs and ...
SAINT LAURENT 2022 Bridal ivory silk cowl neck open back mini slip dress FR42 XL
By Saint Laurent, Anthony Vaccarello
Located in Hong Kong, NT
SAINT LAURENT 2022 Bridal ivory silk cowl neck open back mini slip dress FR42 XL Reference: TGAS/G00240 Brand: Saint Laurent Designer: Anthony Vaccarello Collection: 2022 Material: S...
Saint Laurent 2014 Robe Dentelle FR42 Slimane White Cotton Lace Dress UK14 US12
By Hedi Slimane, Saint Laurent
Located in PARIS, FR
Saint Laurent 2014 dress by Hedi Slimane in white cotton eyelet lace, Peter Pan collar fastened at the front with three buttons and one snap under a placket on a mini ruffled bib, lo...
$3,163Sale Price|40% Off
Saint Laurent Cropped Mink Fur Coat FR 38/M
By Saint Laurent
Located in Krakow, PL
Step into luxury with this absolutely stunning Saint Laurent Cropped Mink Fur Coat! This exquisite piece, sized FR 38 / M, is perfect for adding a touch of sophisticated elegance to...
SAINT LAURENT 2019 black white brushed wool jacquard cocoon cardigan XS
By Saint Laurent, Anthony Vaccarello
Located in Hong Kong, NT
SAINT LAURENT 2019 black white brushed wool jacquard cocoon cardigan XS Reference: NKLL/A00664 Brand: Saint Laurent Designer: Anthony Vaccarello Collection: 2019 Material: Wool, Blen...
Saint Laurent, SL28 Metal sunglasses
By Saint Laurent
Located in AMSTERDAM, NL
Saint Laurent, SL28 Metal sunglasses. The item is in very good condition and comes with case and dust cloth.
Saint Laurent ID Convertible Travel Duffel Bag Large Black Canvas Leather Trim
By Saint Laurent, Anthony Vaccarello
Located in San Diego, CA
Saint Laurent ID Convertible Duffel Designed for the modern tastemaker who refuses to compromise on utility or high-fashion prestige, this premium weekender seamlessly bridges the g...
Early 1980's Collection Saint Laurent Rive Gauche Silver Lame Shirt & Cummerbund
By Saint Laurent
Located in Toronto, Ontario
Elegant 1980's YSL Saint Laurent Rive Gauche silver lame 2 button shirt with matching cummerbund. Button sleeve with cuff and slight gather, full body loose cut with notched collar a...
Saint Laurent Suede Pump High Heels
By Saint Laurent
Located in London, GB
Saint Laurent Suede Pump High Heels. Features dusty pink colour and pointed toe design. Crafted in slip-on pump style with stiletto heel. Made from suede, finished with black leat...
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 Grain De Poudre Medium Kate Chain Bag
By Saint Laurent
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Saint Laurent Black Grain De Poudre Medium Kate Chain Bag SKU: 153776 MSRP: 2450.00 USD Condition: Pre-owned Handbag Condition: Excellent Condition Comments: Item is ...
Saint Laurent Sac de Jour Noir North South Black Leather Hand Bag extra strap
By Saint Laurent
Located in PARIS, FR
Saint Laurent "Sac de Jour" bag (North/South model) in black embossed supple leather; black leather interior featuring two slip pockets and one zippered pocket; wide zip closure; inc...
Saint Laurent 2017 Sac Autruche noir Eddie Black Leather Shoulder Bag Pristine
By Saint Laurent
Located in PARIS, FR
Saint Laurent Eddie bag in black ostrich-effect leather and gold-tone metal, wide flap with snap closure adorned with a large tortoiseshell-colored bakelite ring, black suede interio...
Greyish beige "Loulou " quilted leather shoulder bag SAINT LAURENT
By Saint Laurent
Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR
Greyish beige "Loulou " quilted leather shoulder bag . Black rayon lining. Snap closure under the flap. Large inside pocket with zip closure. SIZE: 30cm X 23cm X 9cm Shoulder chain ...
SAINT LAURENT black 2013 METALLIC TEXTURED TUXEDO Blazer Jacket 40 M
By Saint Laurent
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Saint Laurent tuxedo blazer black metallic textured polyester (80%), acetate (13%), and polyamide (7%). Features peak lapels in satin and two flap pockets at the waist...
Saint Laurent Escarpins EU39 Tribute High Platform Beige Leather Heels UK6 US8.5
By Saint Laurent
Located in PARIS, FR
Saint Laurent Tribute sandal pumps in taupe beige grained leather, stiletto heel covered in natural leather, beveled platform, crisscross straps and strap with Saint Laurent Paris br...
Saint Laurent Tan Calfskin Cassandra 100mm Heels
By Saint Laurent
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
The Saint Laurent Tan Calfskin Cassandra 100mm Heels are an exquisite example of timeless elegance and modern sophistication. Crafted from luxurious tan calfskin leather, these heels boast a sleek and polished appearance that complements a variety of outfits. The 100mm heel height adds a subtle lift, perfect for both daytime events and evening occasions, while maintaining comfort and stability. The pointed toe design enhances their chic silhouette, making them an ideal choice for those looking to elevate their style. These heels can be effortlessly styled with high-end designer pieces such as a tailored Chanel blazer, Dior silk dress, or Balenciaga leather pants...
Saint Laurent Dark Grey Leather Cabas Chyc Shoulder Bag
By Saint Laurent
Located in Guangzhou, CN
A timeless classic from Saint Laurent Paris, this Cabas Chyc tote bag is crafted from supple, premium grained calfskin leather in a versatile dark grey/charcoal hue.
Saint Laurent Take Away bag natural leather
By Saint Laurent, Anthony Vaccarello
Located in CANNES, FR
Saint Laurent "Take Away" bag in natural tan embossed leather, two handle cuts, YSL logo antiq gold. Very good condition (few marks as seen on pictures). Dimensions : 19x21x10cm.
Saint Laurent Canvas Calfskin Rive Gauche Small Tote
By Saint Laurent
Located in Houston, TX
The French fashion house was founded in 1961 by designer Yves Saint Laurent and his partner, Pierre Bergé. Yves Saint Laurent revolutionized the world of women's fashion. In 1963, th...
Saint Laurent YSL Loulou Medium Shoulder Bag Leather Chain Bag Beige - Preowned
By Saint Laurent
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Saint Laurent YSL Loulou Medium Shoulder Bag Leather Chain Bag Beige - Preowned A refined Saint Laurent Loulou bag crafted in soft beige quilted lea...
SAINT LAURENT 2024 lambskin leather low cut back slit slip gown dress FR34 XS
By Saint Laurent, Anthony Vaccarello
Located in Hong Kong, NT
SAINT LAURENT 2024 black lambskin leather plunge low cut back slit slip gown dress FR34 XS Reference: TGAS/F00440 Brand: Saint Laurent Designer: Anthony Vaccarello Collection: 2024 M...
Saint Laurent, Crystal velvet teddy bomber 2018
By Saint Laurent
Located in AMSTERDAM, NL
Saint Laurent, Crystal embellished velvet teddy bomber 2018. The item is new with tag.
SAINT LAURENT 2018 blue washed denim patch pocket mid waist flare leg jeans 27"
By Saint Laurent, Anthony Vaccarello
Located in Hong Kong, NT
SAINT LAURENT 2018 blue washed denim patch pocket mid waist flare leg jeans 27" Reference: NKLL/A00640 Brand: Saint Laurent Designer: Anthony Vaccarello Collection: 2018 Material: De...
SAINT LAURENT red black white wool PLAID SHEARLING COLLAR TRAPPER Jacket L
By Saint Laurent
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Saint Laurent trapper jacket is crafted in red, black, and white plaid wool. Designed with a straight cut, it features a detachable cream shearling collar, two sl...
Saint Laurent Paris Silk Satin Blouse Glossy Black FR 38 US 6 Hedi Slimane 2016
By Hedi Slimane, Saint Laurent
Located in San Diego, CA
Authentic Saint Laurent Archival Glossy Black Silk Blouse size FR 38 fits like US 6 Medium Experience the pinnacle of Parisian luxury with this authentic Saint Laurent Paris long-s...
SAINT LAURENT 2021 Runway fil coupe metallic lurex silk blend blouse FR 36 S
By Saint Laurent, Anthony Vaccarello
Located in Hong Kong, NT
SAINT LAURENT 2021 Runway fil coupe metallic lurex silk blend blouse FR 36 S Reference: CYTY/A00121 Brand: Saint Laurent Designer: Anthony Vaccarello Collection: 2021 - Runway Materi...
SAINT LAURENT 2016 white cotton cut off frayed jean denim shorts 25"
By Saint Laurent
Located in Hong Kong, NT
SAINT LAURENT 2016 white cotton cut off frayed jean denim shorts 25" Reference: YIKK/A00208 Brand: Saint Laurent Designer: Anthony Vaccarello Collection: 2016 ...
Saint Laurent Downtown Ysl 868591 Black Patent Leather Tote
By Saint Laurent
Located in Dix hills, NY
Width (inch) : 10.2 inch(approx) Width (cm) : 26 cm(approx) Height (inch) : 8.66 inch(approx) Height (cm) : 22 cm(approx) Depth (inch) : 4.72 inch(approx) Depth (cm) : 12 cm(app...
Yves Saint Laurent Skirt Russian Collection Purple Skirt YSL, 1970s
By Saint Laurent, Yves Saint Laurent
Located in Boca Raton, FL
The 1976 Russian Collection is perhaps one of Yves Saint Laurent’s most renowned collections. Drawing international inspiration from the traditional Russian and Balkan cultures, YSL ...
Saint Laurent YSL Sunset Bag Red Patent Leather Gold Hardware Flap Bag Size Smal
By Saint Laurent
Located in Miami, FL
- Red exterior - Gold colored hardware - Comes with dustbag Condition: The bag is in overall great condition with no major imperfections Measurements: ( Approximately In I...
SAINT LAURENT 2017 floral jacquard tapestry gold crop officer jacket FR36 S
By Saint Laurent, Anthony Vaccarello
Located in Hong Kong, NT
SAINT LAURENT 2017 black pink floral jacquard tapestry gold buttons crop officer jacket FR36 S Reference: MELK/A00547 Brand: Saint Laurent Designer: Anthony Vaccarello Collection: Sp...
SAINT LAURENT 2024 100% silk beige gold sheer crew neck cardigan top L
By Saint Laurent, Anthony Vaccarello
Located in Hong Kong, NT
SAINT LAURENT 2024 100% silk beige gold sheer crew neck cardigan top L Reference: TGAS/F00557 Brand: Saint Laurent Designer: Anthony Vaccarello Collection: Fall Winter 2024 Material...
Saint Laurent Hot Pink Doodle Print City Backpack 54ys23s
By Saint Laurent
Located in Dix hills, NY
Saint Laurent Hot Pink Doodle Print City Backpack 54ys23s Date Code/Serial Number: IND326865-0514 Made In: Italy Measurements: Length: 15" Width: 5.5" Height: 16" Shoulder Handle ...
SAINT LAURENT black leather 2017 DISTRESSED BIKER Jacket 42 L
By Saint Laurent
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Saint Laurent biker jacket is crafted in black distressed leather and finished with the house’s iconic No Smokinggraphic...
Saint Laurent Crema Chevron Lambskin Monogram Mini Loulou Camera Bag
By Saint Laurent
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Saint Laurent Crema Soft Lambskin Matelasse Monogram Loulou Mini Camera Bag SKU: 156802 Condition: Pre-owned Condition Description: Yves Saint Laurent revolutionised...
Saint Laurent Yellow Plexiglass Mini Vicky Minaudiere
By Saint Laurent
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Saint Laurent Yellow Plexiglass Mini Vicky Minaudiere SKU: 156929 Condition: Pre-owned Condition Description: Yves Saint Laurent revolutionised fashion when he founde...
Saint Laurent Natural Raffia Medium Fantasie Hobo
By Saint Laurent
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Saint Laurent Natural Raffia Medium Fantasie Hobo SKU: 157152 Condition: Pre-owned Condition Description: Yves Saint Laurent revolutionised fashion when he founded hi...
Saint Laurent Magenta Boucle Tweed Patchwork Monogram Medium Jamie Baguette
By Saint Laurent
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Saint Laurent Magenta Boucle Tweed Patchwork Monogram Medium Jamie Baguette SKU: 157200 Condition: Pre-owned Condition Description: Yves Saint Laurent revolutionised ...
Saint Laurent Dark Beige Grain De Poudre Uptown Chain Wallet
By Saint Laurent
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Saint Laurent Dark Beige Grain De Poudre Uptown Chain Wallet SKU: 157219 MSRP: 1550.00 USD Condition: Pre-owned Condition Description: Yves Saint Laurent revolutionis...
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, Black shirt with gold lurex print
By Saint Laurent
Located in AMSTERDAM, NL
Saint Laurent, Black shirt with gold lurex square print 2018. The item is in good condition
Saint Laurent Bottines Cuir Noir EU39.5 Heels Black Ankle Knot UK6 US8.5 in box
By Saint Laurent, Hedi Slimane
Located in PARIS, FR
Saint Laurent pumps, stiletto heel, pointed toe, knot closure with 2 leather ties on the ankle. Size EU39.5 ie UK6 and US8.5, heel 10.5 cm, insole 25.4 cm. The shoes are in excellent...
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 black BEADED SHEER MESH BOAT NECK Top Shirt S
By Saint Laurent
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Saint Laurent sheer top in black mesh (please note content tag has been removed). Features bead embellishment. Unlined. Has been...
Saint Laurent Leopard Print Silk Off-The-Shoulder Mini Dress
By Saint Laurent
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Indulge in the allure of the Saint Laurent Leopard Print Silk Off-The-Shoulder Mini Dress, a stunning addition to any fashion-forward wardrobe. Featuring a striking leopard print on ...
SAINT LAURENT 2013 Hedi Slimane cream virgin wool aztec long wrap scarf
By Saint Laurent, Hedi Slimane
Located in Hong Kong, NT
SAINT LAURENT 2013 Hedi Slimane cream virgin wool aztec long wrap scarf Reference: LAYU/A00045 Brand: Saint Laurent Designer: Hedi Slimane Collection: 2013 AW - Runway Material: Virg...
SAINT LAURENT black 2013 LEATHER TRIM LACE PANEL Dress 38 S
By Saint Laurent
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Saint Laurent lace panelled dress in black acetate (57%) and viscose (43%). Features short leather sleeves, a pussy-bow neck and a leather waist band. Closes with a co...
Saint Laurent Tribute Platform Sandals US 11.5 EU 41.5 Brow Tan Amber Leather
By Saint Laurent
Located in Miami, FL
- Tan brown exterior - Tagged size 41.5 - No box Condition: The sandals are in overall great condition with no major imperfections Measurements: ( Approximately In Inches ...
Saint Laurent Beige Grain De Poudre Mixed Triquilt Small Monogram Satchel
By Saint Laurent
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Saint Laurent Beige Grain De Poudre Mixed Triquilt Small Monogram Satchel SKU: 156258 Condition: Pre-owned Condition Description: Yves Saint Laurent revolutionised fas...
$490Sale Price|20% Off
SAINT LAURENT Size 7 Tan Solid Leather Ankle Boots
By Saint Laurent
Located in San Francisco, CA
SAINT LAURENT WYATT JODHPUR boots in a tan suede featuring pointed toe, ankle style, and a wrap around strap. Comes with box. Made in Italy.Very Good Pre-Owned Condition. Moderate si...
SAINT LAURENT black mesh BEAD EMBELLISHED SHEER Shirt S
By Saint Laurent
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Saint Laurent embellished sheer top in black polyester-blend (probably as content tag is missing). Unlined. Has been worn and is in ex...
SAINT LAURENT 2020 black coated cotton high waisted wide leg shorts 26"
By Saint Laurent, Anthony Vaccarello
Located in Hong Kong, NT
SAINT LAURENT 2020 black coated cotton high waisted wide leg shorts 26" Reference: AAWC/A00868 Brand: Saint Laurent Designer: Anthony Vaccarello Collection: 2020 Material: Cotton Col...
$1,350Sale Price|40% Off
New Saint Laurent Dress or Jacket Sz 44 $2250
By Saint Laurent
Located in Conroe, TX
Saint Laurent Brand New Stunning Runway Denim Dress or Pullover Jacket $2250 Sz 44 Army Green Button Closure at Front Attached Belt Drawstring Hood Two Side Pockets Two Breast Pockets Saint Laurent Buttons and Snaps Saint Laurent Jewelry...
Saint Laurent Hedi Slimane Sequin Silver Mini Dress Sz FR36
By Saint Laurent
Located in Melbourne, VIC
This Saint Laurent mini dress from Hedi Slimane's era is a bold, glamorous choice for evening events. Crafted from metallic sequins, it drapes elegantly with a cowl neckline that fla...
Saint Laurent, black fishbone blazer jacket 2018
By Saint Laurent
Located in AMSTERDAM, NL
Saint Laurent, black fishbone blazer jacket 2018. The item is in very good condition.