1976 Runway Yves Saint Laurent Ballet Russes Purple Wool Coat
This runway documented aubergine-hued felt wool coat was created by Yves Saint Laurent for the brand’s beloved Fall 1976 collection. This collection was titled “Opéras - Ballets Russes”, a collection that the New York Times described as “A revolutionary collection that will change the course of fashion in the world.” Yves Saint Laurent named creating this show as his most beautiful memory in 30 years of designing, saying “Perhaps it wasn't the most successful one, but it was wonderfully received at a time when the world condemned opulence. And it was opulent.”
Tailored from a rich aubergine purple wool, it is woven with other hues - including gold, russet and cobalt - resulting in a textured, speckled felt effect. It features wide, voluminous bell-sleeves, each buttoning at the cuff with four brown buttons. The bodice is tailored and fitted to the curves of the body, finished with a graceful Mandarin high-neck and secured down the front with seven wooden buttons. The bottom half of the jacket is full, falling from under the bodice in soft pleats. The coat is trimmed at the seams, cuffs, collar and down the front with intricate twisted brown braid, which is also used as fabric loops to close the buttons. There are in-seam pockets in the side seams. This coat is lined at the top and inside the sleeves and pockets with purple satin. The label reads “Yves Saint Laurent Rive Gauche”, a reference to Paris’s younger and trendier left bank.
This piece is in excellent archival vintage condition with no flaws - it would make an exceptional addition to the archive of any collector of Yves Saint Laurent. Made in France, it is tailored from 100% Wool and labelled a French size 34, a UK 6 or US 0-2 with no stretch.
MEASUREMENTS
BUST - 34 in. (86 cm)
WAIST - 30 in. (76 cm)
HIP - 48 in. (122 cm)
LENGTH - 47 in. (119 cm)
SHOULDERS - 16 in. (41 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.
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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.
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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
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