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 Paris Multicolour Striped Cotton T-Shirt Size M by Hedi Slimane
By Saint Laurent
Located in London, GB
Saint Laurent Paris by Hedi Slimane striped cotton T-shirt featuring a blue base with bold navy, green, yellow, orange and red horizontal stripes. A standout piece from the Hedi Slim...
Saint Laurent Paris Waiting for Sunset Graphic T-Shirt M Men's by Hedi Slimane
By Saint Laurent
Located in London, GB
Authentic Saint Laurent Paris graphic ringer T-shirt from the Hedi Slimane era. Crafted in France from soft white cotton with a contrasting black ribbed neckline, featuring the ‘Wait...
Saint Laurent Paris Yellow Cotton T-Shirt Unisex L by Hedi Slimane
By Saint Laurent
Located in London, GB
Worn as a men’s or unisex style. Lightly used condition. The size/care label has been removed, but it measures approximately 22 inches pit to pit, fitting like a men’s Large slim fi...
Saint Laurent, Jota 85 Heaven sandals
By Saint Laurent
Located in AMSTERDAM, NL
Saint Laurent, Jota 85 Heaven sandals. The item is new but has a few scratches on the leather and heels.
SAINT LAURENT black 2016 FLORAL LACE SLEEVELESS Blouse Shirt 40 M
By Saint Laurent
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Saint Laurent blouse in black sheer mesh composed of acetate (52%) and viscose (48%) with an intricately shiny embroidered floral front, contrasted by a solid black ba...
SAINT LAURENT black leather BETTY 70 Ankle Boots Shoes 36.5
By Saint Laurent
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Saint Laurent Betty 70 ankle boots black lambskin leather. Feature thin buckled ankle straps, block heel and square pointed toes. Open with a zipper on the side. Brand...
Saint Laurent Polo T-shirt - '10s
By Saint Laurent
Located in Milano, Lombardia
Saint Laurent classic black polo T-shirt in cotton, featuring short sleeves and a subtle embroidered YSL logo on the chest. Measurements: Shoulder:42;Sleeve:18;Bust:52;Length:65 ...
Saint Laurent Maxine Runway 115 Patent Buckle Slingbacks Sz EU40/US10
By Saint Laurent
Located in KRAKÓW, PL
Saint Laurent "Maxine 115" Patent Leather Buckle Slingbacks – Runway Statement Power Command the room with the ultimate expression of modern power dressing and high-fashion edge. St...
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 ...
Tan & White Saint Laurent Suede Spellout Low-Top Sneakers Size 37.5
By Saint Laurent
Located in New York, NY
Tan and white suede spellout low-top sneakers by Saint Laurent. Rubber soles. Lace-up tie closures at tops. 1" platform height, 1" heel height.
Saint Laurent Black Evening Gown With Crystal Details 38 FR
By Saint Laurent
Located in Sydney, New South Wales
This exquisitely crafted Saint Laurent black evening gown features shimmering crystals and is sure to catch all eyes at your next special event. The delicate crystal details will lea...
SAINT LAURENT 2024 Le 5 a 7 supple calfskin YSL logo Large hobo tote bag
By Saint Laurent, Anthony Vaccarello
Located in Hong Kong, NT
SAINT LAURENT 2024 Le 5 a 7 off white supple calfskin YSL logo Large hobo tote bag Reference: CNPG/A00168 Brand: Saint Laurent Designer: Anthony Vaccarello Model: Le 5 à 7 Hobo Mate...
Saint Laurent Tribute Multicolor High Heel Sandals - Size 40
By Saint Laurent
Located in Krakow, PL
Step out in style with these gorgeous Saint Laurent high-heel sandals! These pre-owned shoes are in very good condition and are ready to elevate any outfit. Features: - Size: 40 (r...
Saint Laurent Anja Black Patent Leather Stiletto Pumps
By Saint Laurent
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Saint Laurent Anja Black Patent Leather Stiletto Pumps are the epitome of sophisticated elegance and modern chic. Crafted from glossy patent leather, these pumps feature a sleek poin...
Saint Laurent Dress New As Is
By Saint Laurent
Located in Ardmore, PA
Saint Laurent Dress New As Is 2 Small Flaws - Please see photos New $3,750 **Fits like Size US 00
SAINT LAURENT blue Denim CLASSIC COURT STAR Sneakers Shoes 39.5
By Saint Laurent
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Saint Laurent Court Classic in light blue denim embellished with white leather stars. Have been worn and are in excellent co...
NWT Saint Laurent 2016 Size 40 Heart Print Mini Dress Black Red White Silk YSL
By Saint Laurent, Hedi Slimane for Yves Saint Laurent
Located in San Diego, CA
Fall head over heels for this brand new with tags Yves Saint Laurent Paris heart-print mini dress, designed by Hedi Slimane for the Spring/Summer 2016 collection. Crafted in France f...
Saint Laurent Runway Blue Silk Georgette Off Shoulder Top Blouse French 38 US 6
By Saint Laurent
Located in Montgomery, TX
Saint Laurent Silk Georgette Off-the -Shoulder Top Blouse French 38 - US 6 Extraordinary and beautiful blouse in cobalt blue designed with oversized gathered sleeves. Glamour aesthet...
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 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 cream silk 2015 SHEER Shirt 40 M
By Saint Laurent
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Saint Laurent shirt in cream semi-sheer silk (100%). Features an airy, relaxed silhouette with a refined point collar, gently draped long sleeves, and classic buttoned...
SAINT LAURENT black KOLLER STRETCH CLOQUE OVER KNEE Boots Shoes 39
By Saint Laurent
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Saint Laurent Koller over-the-knee boots are made from black tactile stretch-cloqué that has a sock-like fit through the calves and thighs. They have internal rubberiz...
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 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, 2019 galaxy teddy bomber
By Saint Laurent
Located in AMSTERDAM, NL
Saint Laurent, 2019 galaxy teddy bomber. The item is in very good condition. CONDITION: very good condition SIZE: IT48 - M MEASUREMENTS: length 62 cm, width 55 cm, waist 54 cm, s...
$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 2022 brown slinky scoop neck sheer knit maxi dress XS
By Anthony Vaccarello, Saint Laurent
Located in Hong Kong, NT
SAINT LAURENT 2022 brown slinky scoop neck sheer knit maxi dress XS Reference: TGAS/F00654 Brand: Saint Laurent Designer: Anthony Vaccarello Collection: 2022 Material: Viscose Color:...
Saint Laurent Rive Gauche Paris Velvet Trim Wool Coat – '70s
By Saint Laurent
Located in Milano, Lombardia
A refined vintage coat from Yves Saint Laurent Rive Gauche Paris, embodying timeless Parisian elegance at its finest. Crafted from premium wool in a grey tone, it features a soft, r...
Saint Laurent Russian Braided Tunic Dress - '70s
By Saint Laurent
Located in Milano, Lombardia
A Saint Laurent Rive Gauche tunic dress, dated 1976, featuring a vibrant multi-colored geometric micro-diamond pattern set against a rich royal blue base, creating depth and strong v...
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 2022 Sandales Tribute EU39 Dark Grey Leather Pumps UK5.5 US8.5 NIB
By Saint Laurent
Located in PARIS, FR
Saint Laurent pumps Tribute sandals in anthracite gray (almost black) patent leather, covered stiletto heel, beveled platform, crisscross straps and strap with Saint Laurent Paris br...
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...
SAINT LAURENT 2013 leather peak lapel grey black houndstooth blazer FR34 XS
By Hedi Slimane, Saint Laurent
Located in Hong Kong, NT
SAINT LAURENT 2013 leather peak lapel grey black houndstooth blazer FR34 XS Reference: MELK/A00630 Brand: Saint Laurent Designer: Hedi Slimane Collection: 2013 Material: Wool, Leathe...
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 2016 Hedi Slimane Ivory Hibiscus Print Crepe Midi Dress, FR40 NWOT
By Saint Laurent
Located in Richardson, TX
Dating to 2016 and the final year of Hedi Slimane's celebrated tenure at Saint Laurent, this beautiful crepe midi dress is most likely from the Pre-Fall 2016 collection with an origi...
$243Sale Price|20% Off
Saint Laurent Babies Leopard Print Calf Hair Lace-up Sandals
By Saint Laurent
Located in London, GB
Fabulous Saint Laurent Babies leopard print calf hair lace-up sandals. Bought for £750, worn once and come with dustbag. Made from soft animal print calf hair and black leather, they...
Yves Saint Laurent Decollete Era Black Leather Pumps 37 FR
By Saint Laurent
Located in Sydney, New South Wales
The Yves Saint Laurent Decollete Era Pumps are a stylish and sophisticated choice crafted from premium, smooth black leather. The timeless silhouette offers a comfortable and secure ...
SAINT LAURENT 2023 brown cotton fleece overlapping cowl neck pullover L
By Saint Laurent, Anthony Vaccarello
Located in Hong Kong, NT
SAINT LAURENT 2023 brown cotton fleece overlapping cowl neck drop shoulder pullover L Reference: MELK/A00555 Brand: Saint Laurent Designer: Anthony Vaccarello Collection: 2023 Materi...
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, V waist long baggy jeans in black
By Saint Laurent
Located in AMSTERDAM, NL
Saint Laurent, V waist long baggy jeans in black. The item is new.
Saint Laurent 2022 Sandales Tribute EU38.5 Black Velvet Pumps UK5.5 US8 NIB
By Saint Laurent
Located in PARIS, FR
Saint Laurent pumps Tribute sandals in black velvet (on leather), covered stiletto heel, beveled platform, crisscross straps and strap with Saint Laurent Paris logo pin buckle on the...
Saint Laurent 2014 Robe Dentelle FR42 Slimane White Cotton Lace Dress UK14 US12
By Saint Laurent, Hedi Slimane
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...
SAINT LAURENT 2022 Bridal ivory silk cowl neck open back mini slip dress FR42 XL
By Anthony Vaccarello, Saint Laurent
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 2016 black wool gold crest button military officer coat FR36
By Anthony Vaccarello, Saint Laurent
Located in Hong Kong, NT
SAINT LAURENT 2016 black wool gold crest button double breasted military officer coat FR36 Reference: MELK/A00416 Brand: Saint Laurent Designer: Anthony Vaccarello Collection: 2016 M...
Saint Laurent ID Convertible Travel Duffel Bag Large Black Canvas Leather Trim
By Anthony Vaccarello, Saint Laurent
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...
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...
Yves Saint Laurent Decollete Era Black & Emerald Green Glitter Pumps 40 FR
By Saint Laurent
Located in Sydney, New South Wales
The Yves Saint Laurent Decollete Era Pumps offer a luxurious take on the classic heel. Crafted from black and emerald green glitter, this chic design is perfect for elevating any eve...
SAINT LAURENT 2022 Runway velvet crystal brooch cut out romper playsuit FR36 S
By Saint Laurent, Anthony Vaccarello
Located in Hong Kong, NT
SAINT LAURENT 2022 Runway black velvet crystal brooch cut out romper playsuit FR36 S Reference: TGAS/F00477 Brand: Saint Laurent Designer: Anthony Vaccarello Collection: Pre Fall 202...
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 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, Suede lace up tribute 16 pumps
By Saint Laurent
Located in AMSTERDAM, NL
Saint Laurent, Suede lace up tribute 16 platform pumps in black. The item is new and comes with dustbag and box.
SAINT LAURENT 2023 Runway black iridescent satin plunge cowl back dress FR42 XL
By Anthony Vaccarello, Saint Laurent
Located in Hong Kong, NT
SAINT LAURENT 2023 Runway black iridescent satin plunge neck cowl open back dress gown FR42 XL Reference: TGAS/F00692 Brand: Saint Laurent Designer: Anthony Vaccarello Model: 761176 ...
SAINT LAURENT black & white silk ARROW PRINT CREPE DE CHINE Blouse Shirt 38 S
By Saint Laurent
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Saint Laurent longsleeve button-up shirt in black silk crepe de chine. Arrow print in off-white throughout. Pointed spread collar. Single-button barrel cuffs. Has been...
Saint Laurent, Le 5 A 7 hobo in cognac suede
By Saint Laurent
Located in AMSTERDAM, NL
Saint Laurent, Le 5 A 7 hobo in cognac suede. The item is new - unworn and comes with receipt.
Saint Laurent, chunky knitted oversized scarf
By Saint Laurent
Located in AMSTERDAM, NL
Saint Laurent, chunky knitted oversized scarf with fringes in black and gold. The item is in very good condition.
Saint Laurent, black bow tie
By Saint Laurent
Located in AMSTERDAM, NL
Saint Laurent, black bow tie. The item is new with tag.
Saint Laurent, crackled leather tie chocker
By Saint Laurent
Located in AMSTERDAM, NL
Saint Laurent, crackled leather tie chocker in black. The item is new with tag.
SAINT LAURENT 2019 black white brushed wool jacquard cocoon cardigan XS
By Anthony Vaccarello, Saint Laurent
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 by Anthony Vaccarello F/W 2017 Embroidered Button Up Shirt
By Anthony Vaccarello, Saint Laurent
Located in Milano, IT
- Designed by Anthony Vaccarello - Sold by Skof.Archive - Fall Winter 2017 Collection - Embroidered Button Up Silver Shirt - Fully Embroidered - Back in FRAC Style - French Neckline ...
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 ...