1980s Yves Saint Laurent Ensemble

The original owner of this dress said she bought it in the early 1980s. I am figuring it was 1982 as Yves winter collection was full of velvet and taffeta gowns, though the style is very much in the fashion of his 1976 Carmen Collection. The dress has very strong elements of a Spanish flamenco dancer's dress, without being too costume like.

The top is darling, fitted to the contours of the body without seeming tight or restrictive. The fabric is rich, deep black velvet (probably a silk/rayon blend) with a little ruffle of purple taffeta at the top. There is a hidden side zipper and the top is lined in silk.

The skirt is of the same velvet and taffeta. The velvet is cut close to the body, then a few inches above the knee the taffeta explodes out in over a full circle of fabric, in 2 tiers, beautifully pleated for perfect fullness. There is even a little extra ruffle of taffeta under the skirt at the start of each tier to give it extra fullness. The skirt also has a hidden side zipper as well as a hook at the waist band.

The taffeta is remarkable. Its a deep amethyst with und