Woman's ensemble in two parts

Yves Saint Laurent's safari suit is an iconic representation of the designer's ready-to-wear work of the 1970s. The 1960s had seen the rise of boutique clothing and high-end women's ready-to-wear, a cultural shift that had put the French couture industry in jeopardy. Saint Laurent went through a difficult period of coming to terms with these changes but was able to make the transition and began to license Rive Gauche, his ready-to-wear line in 1968. This now iconic Safari suit was featured in his first collection. It was intended, and has proven to be, a wardrobe staple, to be worn season afer season. It may have also been a nod to the many travel and ethnic inspirations that found expression in YSL's designs.