1970s Yves Saint Laurent Red & Black Crescent Moon Ruffle Peasant Dress

In the late 1970s Yves Saint Laurent created a series of stunning collections season after season. During this time his inspirations ranged from China to Picasso. With a panoply of designs Saint Laurent controlled the silhouette of the 70s shifting it from tailored to flowing and back again. From one of his collections in 1978, this peasant dress is made in a fine black, polka-dot silk chiffon with a deep red crescent moon motif.

The lightweight fabric is used to capitalize on a number of design features including the double ruffle collar that hangs from the gathered scoop neckline and the voluminous sleeves cinched at the wrist with elastic. These shapely peasant sleeves add visual interest in comparison to the straight silhouette of the body of the dress. By adjusting the drawstring at the neck, the line can be altered closer to the neck or to sit in more of an off-the-shoulder fashion.

Size estimate: One size fits most

Size: 34

Measurements:

Sleeve length: 28 inches from shoulder, 22 inches measured from the underarm

Bust, waist, Hips: up to 50 inches

Length: 45 inches

Due to the adjustable features of this dress and the fullness, it is able to fit a variety of bodies. It is unlined and in excellent condition. Note that the belt is for styling only and does not come with the dress. 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. Reference photo: YSL runway 1978. Photographed by Claus Ohmn