Saint Laurent Rive Gauche Wool Cape, 1970s

Though it now seems impossible that fashion could exist without ready-to-wear, no couturier had ever designed and produced clothes specifically for the average woman until Yves Saint Laurent (1936-2008) opened the first of his Rive Gauche boutiques in 1966. Even before founding his eponymous couture house in 1962, Yves Saint Laurent expressed interest in creating clothing that was accessible and functional for people beyond traditional couture patrons. Saint Laurent and his partner Pierre Bergé chose to realize this concept in the Latin Quarter of Paris’s Left Bank, known as “Rive Gauche” in French, for its bohemian, countercultural spirit. The boutique was an immediate success. Its vibrant, somewhat androgynous offerings quickly became a phenomenon among the Parisian youth. Icons of 1960s and 1970s style such as Francoise Hardy, Catherine Deneuve, and Talitha Getty frequently wore Rive Gauche. Major media attention spread this fervor around the globe, and Saint Laurent soon opened Rive Gauche boutiques in New York, Milan, Saint-Tropez, Munich, and many other cities. As his career progressed, Saint Laurent felt increasingly that, because the world of haute couture was so disconnected from the realities of modern life, Rive Gauche was a truer mode of expression than his couture house could ever be. With this, Yves Saint Laurent was among the first couturiers to recognize that fashion trickles up as well as down. This brand set the model for prêt-à-porter, that took the fashion world by storm.

Long, hooded cape in striped, multicolor wool. Features a braided knot/loop closure at neck with wool ribbon binding at edges. Unlined. Made in France.
Label: Saint Laurent Rive Gauche
Size Label: N/A
Style/Serial No.: N/A

Approximate Measurements:
Length (high shoulder point to hem): 53"
Hood Depth (from center back to front neckline): 12.5"
Hood Height (center front neckline to top): 15.5"
Span (from top edge to top edge):

This lot is located in Chicago.

Condition:

The overall condition is very good with light pilling.

Everything is sold 'As Is’. The stated overall condition of the lot is based on the assumption that the wear is consistent with age and use. The absence of any reference to the condition of a lot does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections, or the effects of aging. All other condition issues are stated above. To request additional working condition photos, please email [email protected] with the lot number. Condition is a matter of opinion of the evaluator and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Clients must review and agree to the Conditions of Sale before participating in an auction.

The physical condition of lots in our auctions can vary due to age, normal wear and tear, previous damage, and restoration/repair. All lots are sold "AS IS," in the condition they are in at the time of the auction, and we and the seller make no representation or warranty and assume no liability of any kind as to a lot's condition. Any reference to condition in a catalogue description or a condition report shall not amount to a full accounting of condition. Condition reports prepared by Freeman's staff are provided as a convenience and may be requested from the Department prior to bidding.

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Please email [email protected] for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot.

Tanner Branson

Associate Vice President, Head of Department, Luxury Handbags & Couture

[email protected]312 280 1212

Tanner Branson joined Freeman’s in 2022 where he provides streamlined services for couture clients evaluating and appraising luxury handbags and luxury goods. Mr. Branson brings over a decade of experience in the luxury market working for brands such as The Row and Brunello Cucinelli. He has also collaborated with celebrity clients to curate personal and public wardrobes and done commercial and editorial styling work for print and digital publications internationally. At Freeman’s Mr. Branson combines his endless passion for fashion history and luxury goods with his educational background. He has a BA in Fashion Business from Columbia College. Mr. Branson is affiliated with various auxiliary boards including the Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum. Mr. Branson also appears on the top-rated PBS television program Antiques Roadshow.

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Saint Laurent Rive Gauche Wool Cape, 1970s

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