Yves Saint Laurent YSL Vintage Glossy Black Straw Hat, 1980s

Yves Saint Laurent was a classic designer who always seemed to transform fashion history into fashion news. While fashionable hats had largely receded from the fashion scene by the 1980s, Yves Saint Laurent kept up the long tradition by offering new twists on old standards.

This rendition of a boater has a classic glossy black color. Made from braided and coiled ramie-based straw, An interior sweatband is made from black grosgrain ribbon, with the Yves Saint Laurent rive gauche label affixed to the center back. The glossy sheen of the straw energizes the most classic suit or enlivens a holiday dress.

A New York Times fashion review published at about the same time that this hat was released lauded the perennial success of Saint Laurent, implicating his keen ability to envision an entire ensemble. As said by Bernadine Morris on the 20th of October in 1983, “The special Saint Laurent touch was the medley of colors in the accessories…” Indeed, a kicky hat like this will bring your presence into focus, even for those with most far off stares.

Measurements:

Crown height: 2.5 inches

Brim: 3 inches

Circumference: 22 inches

This 1980s era hat by Yves Saint Laurent is in excellent condition. 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.