Yves Saint Laurent Multicolored Print Terry Cloth Caftan Dress, 1970s

From couture to ready-to-wear, Yves Saint Laurent’s vision was to create a breadth of fashion that could be worn by a range of women. Around the 1970s, Saint Laurent’s universality translated from the runway into practical leisure attire that employed the use of stark color combinations and geometric prints that reflected the linearity of his ready-to-wear and couture clothing designs. This 1970s tunic dress serves as an intermediary piece between Saint Laurent’s crossover.

Made of a cotton terry cloth, the dress is designed with an emblematic 70s stripe print of black, burnt umber, red-orange, parrot green, and sienna. The vertical stripes stand in a varietal contrast undulated down the length of the dress where at the bottom the stripes engulf two yellow diamonds.

A high neckline gives a slightly monastic look which is offset by the subdued, groovy striped pattern. While it could be worn as a quick and easy summer dress, this YSL tunic makes for the perfect cover up for the beach or pool. The terry cloth makes sure that this piece is not only an interesting vintage piece but also a highly functional one.

Size estimate: S/M

Measurements:

Bust: 36 inches

Waist: up to 34 inches

Hips: up to 40 inches

Length: 51 inches

This YSL tunic style is the epitome of ease. The dress closes at centre back with a center zip, and although it is unlined, the cotton terry cloth ensures that this dress is soft and comfortable. At either side, 19-inch slits rise from the hem for ease of stride and leg mobility. This dress is in excellent vintage condition with signs of light wear throughout. 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.