Yves Saint Laurent: History of the most influential designer in women's eyewear

"Over the years I have learned that the most important thing about a dress is the woman who wears it". This reflection attributed to the renowned designer Yves Saint Laurent, highlights a very authentic, human and original vision of women's fashion, which is reflected in his eyewear line.

Considered one of the world's leading designers, along with Dior and Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent invites us to explore a universe of shapes, luxurious materials and unique designs that seek comfort without sacrificing the elegance of the contemporary woman.

In this article, you will find everything you need to know about this iconic designer. In addition, we will show you the best eyewear models that have become a classic of the YSL house. Get ready to explore a world where fashion and good taste have no limits!

From Oran to Paris: The journey of a budding designer

Born in 1936, in Oran, Algeria, Yves Saint Laurent grew up in an environment of elegance and wealth, where his mother passed on to him her passion for fashion. At the age of 17, his talent was recognized internationally when he won a competition with a cocktail dress design, capturing the world's attention.

His path to the top in the industry began in Paris after meeting the director of Vogue, Michel de Brunhoff, who encouraged him to move to the French capital to pursue a career in fashion. Thanks to Brunhoff's influence, Yves Saint Laurent met Dior, which further boosted his career.

Yves Saint Laurent, a creative genius at Christian Dior.

In 1954, Yves Saint Laurent became Christian Dior's protégé. But after Dior's unexpected death in 1957, he took over as creative director of the house at the young age of 21. His first collection, known as Trapeze Line, revolutionized fashion by freeing women from the constraints of fitted waists, giving them more organicity and looseness to their bodies.

However, Laurent's life took a turn when he was drafted into the Algerian War of Independence in 1960, an experience that left him in a deep crisis. After two months, he returned home to discover that his position at Dior had been taken by Marc Bohan. The following year, Yves Saint Laurent founded his own fashion house with his partner Pierre Bergé.

The Yves Saint Laurent label rethought the rules of fashion with its bold, provocative and even eccentric designs for the time. The introduction of his Rive Gauche line in 1966 democratized luxury by offering ready-to-wear collections that fascinated the entire world.

In 1999, the Gucci group acquired the Yves Saint Laurent brand, consolidating its position in the industry. Laurent retired from the fashion world in 2002, but his legacy lives on as a symbol of innovation.

More than a designer, an artist

Yves Saint Laurent is recognized as one of the most influential designers of the 20th century, as he transcended the boundaries of fashion to become a true artist. His creations in transparent textiles and fluid lines represent a before and after in women's fashion. Inspired by 20th century art and pop culture, Saint Laurent transformed women's closets with his creative genius.

His influence endures as a source of inspiration for future generations, preserving his most iconic designs, including:

• The Trapeze Line (1957).

• The Mondrian Dress (1965).

• Le Smoking (1966).

• The Rive Gauche Line (1966).

YSL's most iconic sunglasses models

The classics are distinguished by their exceptional high-quality design and the fascinating history behind them. Yves Saint Laurent sunglasses are no exception, as his brand is characterized by an elegant, classic and organic style, aimed at the avant-garde and empowered woman of the 20th and 21st century.

Nowadays, Yves Saint Laurent glasses represent a symbol of luxury and good taste, ideal to complement any look. Here are some designs that continue to be updated and dress women executives, entrepreneurs and artists worldwide:

YSL Eyewear from the 70's'

YSL's 70's eyewear designs were a reflection of the era, marked by innovation. Their line stood out for offering a variety of round, panto, wayfarer and oversized silhouettes. Among the most iconic models, the following stand out:

Saint Laurent SL 276 MICA

These are black wayfarer glasses with a butterfly silhouette. Made of super lightweight and quality acetate, these Yves Saint Laurent sunglasses are so stylish that they can enhance a simple jeans and t-shirt look. Want to see what this model looks like and feel like a real movie star? Take a look here!

Saint Laurent SL 232 BETTY

These women's sunglasses from the Saint Laurent brand are a work of art in themselves, with their square design and havana color. While these sunglasses will protect your eyes, they will also add a touch of style to your face.

80's YSL Eyewear

Saint Laurent's 80's eyewear is synonymous with boldness, glamour and style. Each design reflects a distinctive and unique touch, ensuring that the wearer will not go unnoticed. Let's get to know some of these models:

Saint Laurent SL 545 001 58

These classic sunglasses from the eighties are made of acetate and feature tinted lenses. They are black in color and feature a horizontal bar on the bridge, modernizing the traditional aviator style. Both men and women can wear this Saint Laurent SL 545 001 58 in style.

For a more avant-garde color, check out how they look in light brown and turn heads!

Saint Laurent SL 328_K M 002 61

Mirrored aviator sunglasses are on trend and with this silver frame you will be too. These sunglasses by designer Yves Saint Laurent feature an open-air frame that makes them irresistible. The subtle logo of the brand is on the edge of the lens, which gives a feminine and sensual touch to this classic and originally masculine model. Find out more about them here!

Optica Bassol, the best place to find Yves Saint Laurent designer glasses.

Yves Saint Laurent not only established himself as an icon in the global fashion industry, but also became a benchmark of elegance admired by countless celebrities. His legacy lives on today, being a privilege to wear his creations, which defied trends and transformed the image of women.

Haven't you had the opportunity to wear Saint Laurent's sunglasses? Now is your moment. In Optica Bassol you can try on different models of this firm, where quality and variety are assured.

In addition, we offer a flexible policy for exchanges and returns, ensuring that your shopping experience is completely satisfactory. Don't wait any longer! Make an appointment at any of our stores and take advantage of our incredible seasonal offers.