Couture dress and shoes | Yves Saint Laurent & Roger Vivier | Fashion Unpicked | V&A

Discover a dazzling 1960s evening dress embellished with precious metal threads, beads, sequins, diamantes and coral (which was commonly used in fashion at the time but is now protected). This dress was designed by French couturier Yves Saint Laurent, who took the helm as Head Designer at the prestigious House of Dior when he was only 21 years old. Assistant Curator Chloe Gilbert talks us through the dress’s exquisite craftsmanship, construction and luxury materials, and explains how this dress was on the cusp of a new era of modern fashions for women. She also unboxes a matching pair of evening shoes, designed by legendary shoe designer Roger Vivier, famous for re-inventing stiletto heels.

[leftyfourguns]

All of that beading and stitching was done by hand. Just incredible craftsmanship

[misslaeebeauty]

Am I the only one who now considers everything the museum post as ASMR even if it isn’t specifically labeled as such! These videos are so informative and relaxing. The curators are always very lovely and passionate about their jobs! ❤️

[sarahmitchell]

I love that she says, "It is now a protected lifeform."
Not "Species" but...lifeform.
This is how conservation should be taught. Even when dealing with art.

[tomvalveede]

Would love to see a photo of the dress as it was worn, back in the day! A masterpiece of detailed handwork and design!
Thank you! 🇺🇸♥️🇲🇫♥️🇺🇸♥️🇲🇫

[katford]

Early to mid-60s fashion was so beautiful. Lovely presentation-thank you.

[ericainbloom]

I just love how simple of a bodice the top is... a basic bodice block with side seams. It is transformed by the beauty of the embroidery and beadwork. A lavish work of art.

[monicacall]

While I don’t usually like lots of beadwork because it can be just too fussy, the bodice of this dress is exquisite, especially when combined with the simple but elegant skirt. My first thought upon seeing the dress was to wonder if Jackie Kennedy would’ve owned a dress like this. It would’ve suited hr style perfectly!

[lisacraze]

Just gorgeous. Thank you for the detailed descriptions.

[more__plz]

I love the combination of pinks, corals and oranges. Maybe my favorite color combination.

[jeniallenby]

As a costume curator I really enjoyed this, thank you :)

[elizabethclaiborne]

Peak rich person, a cocktail dress covered in gems.

[hrriphic]

If I had the option, i'd sit in my home all day, designing, sewing, and hand beading garments like this mouthwatering dress. Something about tambour and french beading speaks to my soul.

[Thomas-klmo]

It was just A True Work of Art, Dior was Stupendous, and St Laurent was so Gifted as well to take over such A legends House at just 21 was A true statement of his Talents.

[vdlvfwc]

Amazing how much craft goes into these garments. It’s an art.

[MicaFarrierRheayan]

I simply loving these timeless creations ❤ It is quintessentially showcasing his signature craftmanship - the silhouettes are chic for corporate and gala nights... For me, he remains one of those contemporaries whom understands the subtlety in human eyes... Not go overboard but also not too simple. You can say, he helped to shape and elevate the sophisticated persona of the client

[steves]

I'm a mechanic so shouldn't be allowed near this dress...but it is amazing and would love to see a woman happily wearing his thing of beauty. Gorgeous

[antoncelestinoestrada-gnyt]

Wow for the dress and shoes and the museum worker giving the explanation and history ❤❤❤❤

[nejojohnson]

I really would love to know where the presenter got her denim dress. It's amazing.

[ceciLOVEtaco]

Beading with REAL coral ? VERY VERY VERY Expensive .
Coral is a different form of precious STONE . It's harvested from living creature so requires very specific care, just like pearl . Judged from the condition of this dress, the conservation group really did a fantastic job .

[sharonkaysnowton]

This Polynesie dress with matching shoes is beautiful. I love the detailing on the bodice. I have never considered myself a "girly girl" but yeah, I would definitely wear this dress if asked. I really like the designs of Yves Saint Laurent.