YSL LEXICON: An ABC of the Fashion, Life, and Inspirations of Yves Saint Laurent

Yves Saint Laurent is credited with reviving French haute couture, making ready-to-wear reputable, and using non-European cultural references. This book features a coterie of tastemakers who have supplied listings of the designer's style inspirations and significant facets of his life, revealing his inner world.

Format: Hardback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 29 March 2022
Publisher: Rizzoli International Publications

Yves Saint Laurent, a visionary fashion icon who graced the world from 1936 to 2008, left an indelible mark on the fashion industry. His remarkable contributions to French haute couture in the 1960s breathed new life into the art of fashion, making it accessible and desirable to a broader audience. Saint Laurent also played a pivotal role in elevating ready-to-wear to esteemed status, challenging traditional notions of luxury and exclusivity.

But his influence extended beyond fashion alone. Saint Laurent was a cultural maverick, drawing inspiration from diverse non-European cultures, infusing his designs with a rich tapestry of colors, textures, and motifs. His iconic creations, such as the Russian-themed autumn-winter 1976-77 collection and the tuxedo-inspired Le Smoking, showcased his bold and innovative approach to fashion.

This captivating book offers a visual feast, showcasing a myriad of images that capture the essence of Saint Laurent's style and legacy. In addition to the visual splendor, a group of esteemed tastemakers have contributed listings that delve into the inspirations behind his designs. From C for Costumes, which pays homage to his theatrical flair, to T for Tuxedo, which reflects his love for elegance and sophistication, each letter reveals a facet of his creative genius.

Furthermore, the book explores the personal aspects of Saint Laurent's life, shedding light on his passions and retreats. J for Jardin Majorelle, the enchanting garden of his paradisiacal retreat in Marrakech, paints a vivid picture of the serene sanctuary where he found solace and inspiration. R for Rive Gauche, the bohemian and chic neighborhood of Paris where his boutique stood, not only pays tribute to his artistic roots but also introduces his renowned fragrance, Rive Gauche, launched in 1970.

Through this distilled and celebratory exploration of Saint Laurent's life, readers are granted a rare glimpse into the inner world of a twentieth-century master. The book serves as a testament to his enduring impact on fashion, culture, and the world at large, reminding us of the power of creativity and the enduring beauty of his designs.

Weight: 1592g
Dimension: 212 x 288 x 35 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780847867127