This is an exceptional silk taffeta, tiered and ruffled ball gown skirt paired with its matching top and original sash. In the "Yves Saint Laurent" book, published by The Metropolitan Museum 1984, a dress with similar ruffle treatment is shown and mention made of the sleeve treatment that year. This Rive Gauche version would have been based on that Haute Couture gown from the 1977-78 collection. Yves designed these "poetic taffeta gowns in what might be termed a Proustian vein". This Haute Couture look was then translated into silk taffeta gowns for the Rive Gauche label. Our example is done in his signature silk taffeta mixed with velvet detailing and is just phenomenal. The skirt is full and yet light. The fabric choice allows it to be very light in weight and yet retain its shape and fullness. I love the expanse of ruffles that circle the hem and then again half way up the skirt. This helps give the skirt weight and keeps the shape. I would like to note that there is an incredible amount of fabric in the skirt - it is truly remarkable. The top has a ruffled collar that trails down each side of the plunging front. Each shoulder is cut high and wide and I have slightly styled it so that it sits up so you can truly get an idea of how fabulous the cut is. Another ruffle finishes each sleeve. The waist is further cinched with a wide, attached sash that ties around the waist and is original to the set. It is just wonderful and truly a work of art! It is also very versatile since it is separates and the pieces can be worn together and presents as a gown, or you may pair them up with other pieces in your wardrobe. Excellent condition. Very rare and museum worthy. Exceptional.

Unlined but finished to very high standards. The top has a low set button and hook & eye and is cut straight to be fitted through the body. The skirt closes with a side, fine metal painted zipper and a flat hook and eye at the waist. Hidden pockets at each hip. Both pieces are tagged a vintage 40

Top
Sleeves: 26"
Shoulders: 15"
Bust: 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 25" from neck to hem

Skirt
Waist: 13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Length: 44" from waist to hem at front, 46" at back

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# DD1709

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