1994 Yves Saint Laurent Red Carnation Print Dress
A notable design from Yves Saint Laurent during his tenure at the helm of his eponymous fashion house, this dress originates from the celebrated Autumn/Winter 1994–95 Rive Gauche collection. The dramatic black and red carnation print was one of the defining motifs of the season, appearing across both the runway and commercial collection.
Made in France and carrying the Yves Saint Laurent Rive Gauche label, this dress is a deceptively simple design that showcases Saint Laurent's mastery of cut and proportion. Having studied the runway collection closely, we believe this to be the commercial interpretation of the runway look, combining elements from two of the dresses presented. It shares the wide scoop neckline and close-fitting silhouette of one design, while incorporating the distinctive ruffled collar seen on another. The ruffle is fullest across the back before gradually tapering towards the front, becoming narrowest at the top button.
The elbow-length sleeves are gently tapered to complement the streamlined silhouette. The dress fastens through the front with faceted black glass buttons, while the skirt is subtly shaped towards the knee for a clean, elegant line. The original composition label is no longer present, although the fabric has the handle and drape of silk or an exceptionally high-quality silk-like fibre. The dress is unlined.
Equally suited to daytime or evening wear, this is an excellent example of Saint Laurent's ability to elevate a simple silhouette through impeccable cut and a striking print.
The dress is in very good to excellent vintage condition; there does appear to be a missing button at the bottom of the button stand which has been closed up but unless you are looking closely with the dress in hand - you can't see this when wearing. It is labelled a French size 34, equivalent to approximately a UK 6 or US 2. Please refer to the sizing information below to ensure the best fit.
MEASUREMENTS:
BUST - 32in. (81.3cm)
WAIST - 30in. (77cm)
HIP - 33in. (84 cm)
LENGTH - 35.5in. (90 cm)
SHOULDERS - 16in. (40 cm)
Pickup available at CIRCA VINTAGE
Usually ready in 24 hours
F.A.Q.
Where can I find more information about this item?
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Clients may wish to bring modern shapewear. You may also wish to bring favourite footwear. We often find a classic pair of nude shoes work well when trying-on, or gold and silver. We have a huge variety of slip dresses and petticoats to complete your look. Many of which are also for sale.
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Upon arrival, buzz the 87A button on the gate or call us 020 7736 5038 to let you in.
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What is archival fashion?
Archival fashion refers to historically significant designer garments preserved for their cultural, aesthetic, or technical importance. At Circa, archival fashion includes couture archive pieces, runway garments, early designer work, and museum-quality vintage that document the evolution of fashion history.
How is archival fashion different from vintage?
While vintage typically describes clothing over 20 years old, archival vintage is selected for its rarity, provenance, and relevance to a designer’s archive or fashion history. Circa specialises in archival pieces rather than general vintage.