1970s Yves Saint Laurent YSL Green Paisley Challis Wool Russian Peasant Skirt

For as long as anyone could remember, European and American fashion had been designed for the elite, leaving those with less means to make less expensive copies. However, the 1970’s youth movement saw street style having significant impact on high-end fashion. In 1976 Yves Saint Laurent revealed his “Russian peasant” line, unifying a youthful hippie aesthetic with fresh sophistication.

This tiered wool challis skirt borrows beautifully from eastern European folk costume, featuring a dark green paisley print. An elasticized waistband gently and evenly pleats in the skirts fullness. Green velvet trim provides a strong visual border at both the edge of the first tier and the hem.

During a French fashion season that seemed lagging in innovation, a 1976 New York Times article reported that “Yves Saint Laurent scored a triumph. An advocate of tailored, classic clothes through much of the 1970s, he’s changed his direction this time and eulogized the Russian peasant. To set the stage, his mannequins wore a thick braid of hair down their backs. Peeping out from their voluminous patterned skirts were leather boots.” Update this timeless Saint Laurent skirt with a pair of your own boots.

Size estimate: XS/S

Size: 34

Measurements

Waist: 24-26 inches

Hips: up to 37

Length: 36 inches

This 1970s era vintage skirt by Yves Saint Laurent is a striking example of his highly acclaimed “peasant” inspired fashion. In excellent condition, the skirt is made from a soft printed wool challis that features a green and ivory paisley design highlighted with purple and orange.

Fitted with an elastic waist, the skirts fullness is gently gathered forming an elegant drape down to calf length. Green velvet trim emphasizes the tier and hem. Professionally cleaned and pressed. 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.