This look was one of the cornerstones to the famous "Russian peasant" Haute Couture collections with its banded and fitted upper hip and flowing skirt. This is from the Rive Gauche line so would have been produced for the fall season just after the Couture show and it is glorious. The red is a mix of wool with just a touch of angora that gives it a bit of a texture while still allowing the fabric to be light and fine. The band around the hip that perfectly balances the volume of the lower skirt is done in a black velvet that acts as an anchor and gives the illusion of slimness and shape as it curves up to the waist. It falls in a long and lean column when still but there is a volume there that will show when you move or walk. These were worn with his signature voluminous tops and colors were mixed with riotous abandon. The Russian collection is one that is constantly referenced and looked back upon as one of his greatest achievements and having a skirt like this in your collection will be a coup. It still feels insanely fresh and modern with endless styling possibilities. Excellent condition.

The main portion of the skirt is unlined and the velvet part lined in a black silky rayon. It closes at the side with a painted metal zipper and large flat hook & eye at the waist. Tagged a vintage 44 but please check actual listed measurements below.

Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam, 19" at the bottom of the black velvet band which is 7" deep
Hips below the velvet: open
Length: 44.5" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: MED-LRG

Item# S704

Photo credits: Yves Saint Laurent, YSL Runway, Vogue 1976, Guy Bourdin for Vogue 1976

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