Yves Saint Laurent YSL Couture Collectors Black Rainbow Hat, 1980s

Accessories by Yves Saint Laurent speak to his design vision of sophistication and casual elegance. From refined traditional styles to exotic artistic creations, Saint Laurent has proven to be a master of millinery design. While the accessories brought forth by Saint Laurent consistently carry a refined shock value, this 1985 Rive Gauche hat is rare, and highly collectible.

Seen on his 1985 runway, photographed in the same year by Helmut Newton, and on Violetta Sanchez by Roxanne Lowit. Made from a high-gloss black lacquered straw, this hat has a traditional domed crown done by coiling the straw. The drama of this design comes from the radiating skeletal brim comprised of struts of straw in colors of the rainbow with a black mesh material in between that implies a fascinator style with the function and impact of a round brim hat.

As documented through various photoshoots in the 80s this YSL hat is striking and nothing short of a must-have statement piece. Due to the circular shape of the crown this hat can sit around the forehead or slightly higher up. 

Measurements:

Brim: 6 inches

Circumference: 23 inches

Unlike a typical hat, the brim of this design rests higher on the crown which creates a different visual dimension. A black grosgrain sweatband finishes off this design. High-quality vintage pieces like this are yours to live in and love while increasing in value every year. It’s never too soon to start collecting them, as an investment in your wardrobe—and in yourself.