Yves Saint Laurent YSL Vintage Glossy Blue and Black Straw Hat, 1990s

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 richness of color that belies the lightness of its construction.

Made from braided and coiled ramie-based straw, the bright royal blue crown is made more startling by contrasting with the deep black brim. An interior sweatband is made from yellow grosgrain ribbon, with the Yves Saint Laurent label affixed to the center back. A black elastic chinstrap is integrated into the sweatband for secure fit. 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 inches

Circumference: 22 inches

This 1990s era boater hat by Yves Saint Laurent is in excellent condition. The hat is lightly constructed with braided and coiled ramie-based straw in the same manner as traditional boaters. 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.