1986 Yves Saint Laurent Haute Couture Black Velvet and Jacquard Dress
This black evening dress was commissioned by a special client from Yves Saint Laurent’s 1986 haute couture runway collection. The fabric is a shimmering black moiré jacquard silk woven with tonal motifs of bows and swirling ribbons that appear to ripple as they catch the light. The romantic bodice is crafted from velvet and boned the whole way around to cinch the waist and support the bust. The sleeves have puff shoulders and are cut slim at the wrist, creating an exaggerated silhouette that epitomised 1980s evening wear. The cuffs have hidden tonal zips to allow for ease of access. The jacquard skirt is theatrical and voluminous, falling from high on the waist at the front and curving round to sit lower on the back. A wide rimmed ruffle flounce falls from halfway down the skirt. This dress is lined at the bust in black silk and silk tulle.
A strapless version of this gown walked the runway in the 1986 show, and we believe this dress was an adapted couture-made piece for one of the House’s prestigious clients. It has the addition of a beautiful leather-backed velvet belt that allows for a more cinched silhouette and is separate from the dress. It is embossed with intricate botanical forms, roses and vines and is secured with hook-and-eye clasps with the option of three different lengths. The label reads “Yves Saint Laurent” and is numbered with “60908”.
This piece is in excellent archival vintage condition with no flaws of any note. It would make an exceptional addition to any collector of Yves Saint Laurent and is perfect for a high-profile black-tie event. It has no composition or size labels, so please check our measurements below carefully. The fabric has no stretch. We estimate a good fit for sizes up to a UK 8-10 or US 4-6.
MEASUREMENTS
BUST - 30 in. (76 cm)
WAIST - 28 in. (71 cm)
HIP - 70 in. (178 cm)
LENGTH - 64 in. (163 cm)
Pickup available at CIRCA VINTAGE
Usually ready in 24 hours
F.A.Q.
Will you set anything aside for me before I come?
We are happy to find anything you may be interested in from our website - please let us know a week in advance.
We also have an extensive offline collection. If you let us know your size, style, favourite colour to wear and perhaps your budget, we can browse through our archive in advance of your appointment.
Do I need to bring anything with me?
Clients may wish to bring modern shapewear when trying on garments from certain eras, especially the 1950s. Vintage clothing was often worn with undergarments that shaped the waist and as such is tailored for them.
We have a huge variety of slip dresses and petticoats to complete your look; many of which are also for sale.
You may also wish to bring your favourite footwear. We often find a classic pair of nude shoes work well when trying on, or a pair in gold or silver.
Do you have a price range?
Many of our lower-priced pieces (under £150) are not available to buy online. Our prices range from £80 - £600 for separates. Dresses start at around £150 and go up to £2,500 for the very best antique pieces and designer vintage. Our bridalwear ranges from £300 - £3,000.
Can I bring anyone with me?
Yes but please do let us know the size of your party in advance.
Where can I get alterations?
We offer some alterations in house. Should you need alterations we cannot provide, we can refer you to one of our tried and trusted tailors.
Do you have an after-care service?
We will advise you on the best way to clean and preserve your vintage pieces and can also recommend trusted local dry cleaners.
Can I cancel my appointment?
You are free to cancel but please do give us as much notice as possible. If you cancel less than 24 hours before your appointment, you will be invoiced a late cancellation fee of £25.
Where's the showroom?
Our address is Circa Vintage, 87A Lansdowne Way London SW8 2PB
Upon arrival, buzz the 87A button on the gate or call us 020 7736 5038 to let you in.
Do you have parking?
We offer free, secure, off-street parking but it is a tight squeeze – so do let us know in advance if you will be needing this and we can make sure that there is space available.
How do I get there by public transport?
Underground:
Stockwell (7 min walk) - Northern and Victoria Lines
Nine Elms (9 min walk) – Northern Line
Overground:
Wandsworth Road (13 min walk) – Westbound to Clapham Junction / Eastbound to Dalston Junction
What payment methods do you accept?
Cash, credit/debit card, bank transfer, contactless, Paypal