Vintage 1980s Yves St Laurent Striped Blouse Skirt 2 piece Set France Size S 34

This is a wonderful blouse and skirt set made by Yves Saint Laurent as part of his “Variation” line.  The set appears to take some inspiration from Saint Laurent’s earlier “rich peasant” look.  The Variation line was introduced in 1983 as a cheaper alternative to the Rive Gauche pret-a-porter line, priced usually at about 40% less than Rive Gauche.  Still, despite this, the set is beautifully made and features wonderful form.  The blouse has large puffy sleeves in an above the elbow length - the ends are elasticized.  It does up with six plastic buttons down the front.  The skirt has five similar buttons down either side and two at the waistline that secure the skirt along with two ties that wrap around and tie at the back.  The skirt is made in a knee length.  The fabric is cotton and printed with blue stripes on the white ground.  Both pieces are unlined.  

Age: 1980s.  I believe that this is an early Variation offering, probably dating to around 1983/84

Label:  Yves St Laurent Variation.

Content label:  removed, but definitely 100% cotton and made in France

Sizing: French size 34 is indicated, which is equivalent to a US size 4 - please note the following measurements for fit (your body measurements should be smaller, or measure a similar garment that you own):

Blouse:

Sleeves:  16 1.2” long from the neck opening

Sleeve inseam:  20”

Bust:  39” around, meant to fit loosely 

Waist:  39” around, meant to be tucked in

Length:  25” long, measured flat, meant to be tucked in

Skirt:

Waist:  24” - possibly could be altered to gain a few inches

Hips:  Full, due to the gathering under the waistband

Length:  25 1/2”, measured flat

Condition: It is in very good condition with the exception of a small brownish stain on the skirt, 1/4” by 1/8” at the left side by one of the buttons (see last close-up photo).  It also appears this may have been shortened at some point in time.  Otherwise, the set looks to have seen little use and to have been well stored over the years.

This is a wonderful summer ensemble - nice crisp cotton in a striking striped pattern.  This is a nice example of pret-a porter Saint Laurent design…..great if it fits!