NEW YORK - A month after the death of Yves Saint Laurent, Christie's is auctioning seven pieces of the legendary French fashion designer's clothing and jewelry representing nearly every decade of his career.
The items at the July 2 auction include a 1958 cocktail dress for Dior and a 1970s Rive Gauche camel cable-knit sweater trimmed in fox fur similar to one Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis wore.
Saint Laurent died on June 1 at age 71.
Considered one of the most influential designers of the 20th century, his creations -- from pop-art print mini-dresses to peasant skirts and elegant pantsuits -- endure to this day.
The cable-knit sweater has a with a pre-sale estimate of US$250 to US$400.
The Christie's auction catalog says the sweater is a version of one Onassis was often photographed wearing.
"What's exciting about the collection is that you see the progression of his career. He was a real style-setter," said Christie's couture specialist Laura Leyfer.
Saint Laurent died on June 1 at age 71. Considered one of the most influential designers of the 20th century, his creations -- from pop-art print mini-dresses to peasant skirts and elegant pantsuits -- endure to this day.
All of the items are in excellent condition and are relatively inexpensive because they aren't new designs and have been worn, Leyfer said Fridy. "That's part of the appeal and it's what makes it a collectible," she said.
Another item for sale is a dusty pink layered tulle evening dress with metallic pink and silver embroidery, which Saint Laurent designed for Dior in 1958. It could fetch US$1,000 to US$1,500.
The costume jewelry includes a floral gold-tone metal and crystal stone necklace from 1990, estimated to sell for US$1,000 to US$1,500, and a hammered gilt-metal "ethnic" necklace from the 1970s that could bring US$600 to US$800.
The sale also includes pieces from other designers including Christian Lacroix, Thierry Mugler, Balenciaga and Gianni Versace.
