Yves Saint Laurent feather coats are rare but the ones that are made from the ostrich feathers rather then the more typically seen down feather ones are the holy grail. This one, in black, in especially wonderful and a very rare find. A similar version in black and white resides in the Museum of Bath and was displayed in 2013 in the exhibit "50 Fabulous Frocks". There is also a photo showing Yves with ballerina Margot Fonteyn who owned the museum version. Additionally, for the Saint Laurent’s spring-summer 2015 campaign and show, Hedi Slimane played homage to this coat in the ad campaign featuring singer and model Julia Cumming, vocalist and bassist of the Brooklyn-based band Sunflower Bean.

This is perhaps the ultimate hippie rock and roll coat and one that you will reach for over and over. It is made from hand dyed jet black ostrich feathers that are set onto the base fabric in a way that is almost like they have created a bias cut fabric out of the feathers. This allows it to drape on the body underneath perfectly so that when you are wearing it, it moves with you wonderfully. Once on, you get this long lean line and it always seems to sit perfectly in place. It definitely has volume but does seem to create bulk like some feather pieces can. It feels like next to nothing on and is long enough that you get the feeling of a true coat. The black is just amazing, the feathers give it a rich, deep texture and you will be able to wear it over anything.  This is a very rare and special piece. Excellent condition

Fully lined in a black taffeta rayon and has a hook and eye closure at the neck. I see no signs of shedding. The bias cut and loose fit will allow it to be worn on just about any size.

Sleeves: 23"
Shoulders: 18"
Bust: to 22" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: open
Hips: open
Length: 48" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-LRG

Item# C459

Reference Photos: (1) Yves Saint Laurent and Model in Harper's Bazaar, July 1965.  /  (2) Mid-60s Yves Saint Laurent Coat on Display at the Bath Fashion Museum (credit: Cagney & Lace)  /  (3-6) Fall 1997 Yves Saint Laurent Presentation.  /  (7) Julia Cummings for Saint Laurent S/S 2015 Ad Campaign  /  (8) Cherie, Owner of Shrimpton Couture, by Erin Leydon.

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