Yves Saint Laurent Haute Couture Evening Dress with Wrap, 1980s

This dress was was made for and worn by Jayne Wrightsman (1919-2019). Tastemaker and connoisseur of the arts, Jayne Wrightsman was known for her impeccable fashion sense, unparalleled collection of art and antiques, and impressive social circle. Her couture clothing comprises only a portion of the immense Wrightsman Collection of fine art and European furniture now at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Pieces from her collection, such as this Yves Saint Laurent evening dress, include some of the finest examples of haute couture from the 1960s and 1970s.

For detailed biography and description of her fashions, see Hamish Bowles, “Hamish Bowles Remembers Jayne Wrightsman, Esteemed Arts Connoisseur and Legendary Hostess,” Vogue, April 24, 2019.

Ivory silk tricot evening dress with jewel neckline, padded shoulders with long sleeves, front hip welt pockets above box pleated skirt, center back zipper closure, and back keyhole; paired with matching gathered self fabric belt and silk chiffon sheer wrap.
Label: Yves Saint Laurent
Size Label: N/A
Style/Serial No.: 67693

Approximate Measurements:
Shoulders: 15.75"
Chest: 36.5"
Waist: 24.25"
Hips: 34"
Length (high shoulder point to hem): 58"
Sleeve (center back neck to hem): 32"
Belt Length: 25.5"
Belt Width: 3"
Wrap Length: 81"
Wrap Width: 44"

Property from the Collection of a Midwest University

Condition:

The overall condition is very good though the left hip welt has some popped stitches on the top, and the hemline appears to have been altered or restitched which is most noticeable due to the pulls in the fabric at the hemline near the side seams. There are some very minor snags at the sleeve hems nearest the zipper closures. The belt has a reattached bar closure where the tip attaches. The center back and sleeve hem zippers all appear to have been previously replaced as indicated by stitching irregularities and color.

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 for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot.

Timothy Long

Director, Senior Specialist, Couture & Luxury Accessories

[email protected]312.334.4222

Mr. Long has nearly 20 years of experience as a curator of fashion and decorative arts in museums including the Museum of London, the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York, and the Chicago History Museum. At Hindman, he works with individual clients, collectors, dealers, and museums to bring to auction collections of couture and luxury accessories. Mr. Long’s recent publications include Charles James: Designer in Detail and a chapter on the same designer in London Couture: British Luxury 1923–1975, both published by V&A Publishing.

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Yves Saint Laurent Haute Couture Evening Dress with Wrap, 1980s

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