New Necklace Inspired by Yves Saint Laurent

In a remarkable homage to fashion history, the latest collection from Saint Laurent features a striking necklace inspired by the original piece beloved by the late designer Yves Saint Laurent. Titled "First of Its Kind, Last of Its Kind," the necklace tells the story of its exceptional design and the archival piece that inspired its revival. The original heart-shaped necklace, known as the coeur fétiche, was created by jeweler Roger Scemama and became a signature accessory for Saint Laurent, who showcased it in nearly every collection from 1962 until his final show in 2002. Saint Laurent's journey in fashion began when he was hired by Christian Dior as a studio assistant. After a brief stint at Dior, he launched his own couture salon in 1961 with the support of his partner, Pierre Bergé. The coeur fétiche, adorned with smoky gray diamonds, red crystals, and pearl teardrop cabochons, was a staple in his collections, often worn by his favorite models. Saint Laurent cherished one of the necklaces so much that he kept it in his apartment. For the Fall 2024 collection, current creative director Anthony Vaccarello has reimagined this iconic piece. The new version, crafted from colored rhinestones and oxidized silver-toned metal, made a stunning appearance during the Paris Fashion Week show, complementing the collection's sheer caramel and ocher garments. This revival not only pays tribute to Saint Laurent's legacy but also showcases the enduring influence of his designs in contemporary fashion.