Yves did a series of these oversized dresses that fell off the shoulder and into that great expanse of volume for the 1979 Haute Couture show and then that silhouette trickled down in the Rive Gauche collection that season and the next. This one is an unusual example of the look in that it is made out of a light and airy cotton voile rather then his usual silk taffeta's and chiffon that you see more often. The dress is cut to be very oversized and has a built in elastic binding that hooks either over or under the bust depending on how it works on you. This is suspended from the inner shoulder of the dress and is what keeps it from literally falling off of you. The elastic in the shoulder does seem to be partially gone in some places so I think this one hangs perhaps a bit more off then shoulder then originally intended but I have chosen to leave it as all original and sell it for less then what I would normally price it for. The sleeves are long and full and each has an elastic gathered cuff that has the same floral print. The body is very full with the back trailing down longer then at the front. The hem is finished with a wide ruffle that has that beautiful floral print. So pretty and volume seems to be once again in fashion so it feels very relevant yet again. Excellent overall condition with notes to review below.

The body of the dress is lined in a white silk chiffon with the sleeves left unlined. It slips over the head to wear with an inner elastic that hooks in place to keep it on the body. Parts of the elastic through the neckline has given way. It can be worn as is. I see a slight yellowing to the inside edges of the elastic collar but this is only apparent inside - the outside part that you actually see show no discoloration

Sleeves: 24" approx.
Shoulders: no defined seam
Bust-hips: open
Inner elastic: measures 22" from hook end to hook end and will easily stretch to 34"
Front Length: 42.5" from neck to hem
Back Length: 56" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: OSFA

Item# DD2923

Reference Photos: Spring 1978 Yves Saint Laurent Runway.

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.