a tribute

Yves Henri Donat Mathieu Saint Laurent: August 1, 1936 – June 1, 2008
'Following Chanel, Balenciaga and Dior, Saint Laurent had emerged as fashion’s "fourth force."' (WWD)
With personal loss, I am — we are — likely drawn into a vortex of a more intimate pain or sadness. Today, it's more a revered awe (selfish) as I think that this last force of (French) fashion has passed in my time, in my burgeoning foray into the fashion industry. My mom even called to mention it (from Nigeria). I'm appreciatively aware (and still learning) of his radical innovations and immense contributions to women's fashion — he was absolutely amazing, what made him tick??!! Proust was reportedly St. Laurent's author. Remarkably, about two weeks ago, I'd put down the first volume (of which there are six!!) of Proust's¹ translated "À la recherche du temps perdu": "In search of Lost Time" to read Micheal Tonello's "Bringing home the Birkin."²

In continuing homage to Mr. Laurent, I figure a pair of Tribute sandals is only appropriate. Really :). I do so love these shoes though I've kept my distance because I'm afraid everyone's buying them; especially the cognac and red ones!! (Need I say I never want what everyone has??!!) Still, at my furtive vantage point, I've been eyeing these two in particular (haute!!)... (I'll go try them on at the end of the week. *cheshire grin*)

Le Smoking (the powersuit):
It debuted on YSL's runway in fall 1966, and has been especially recreated every season since.
Just the way I like it: refined, severe; the silk chiffon underneath — a touch of knowing elegance.

St Laurent thought it fitting — a transfer of power. A balance. The world agreed, and followed. In his own words: "For a woman, le smoking is an indispensable garment with which she finds herself continually in fashion, because it is about style, not fashion. Fashions come and go, but style is forever." Oozing a powerful sex appeal, no?? (Pic: Helmut Newton)







L: YSL closing the door on a historic career (2002). R: Running exposition ad of YSL's life and works that ended in January.









Elegant kisses.



Footnotes:
1. I can't even say why I started reading Proust?!! I need a life!!
2. Review of the latter: eh. Tell you more later. (My Hermès curiosity/obsession continues though.)