For almost 30 years the couture house of the illustrious Yves Saint Laurent has kept its doors firmly closed. But now, after almost 18 months of renovations, the three-storey extravagant mansion is open to the public. Exhibiting exquisite work from this charismatic prodigy who took Paris by storm and went on to redefine the way women dressed for decades to come.

The museum will feature rotating exhibitions of Saint Laurent’s spectacular couture, including such memorable pieces as the 1965 Mondrian dresses, Cossack-style brocade coats from the 1976 Ballets Russes collection and the 1988 van Gogh “Sunflowers” jacket. The museum also pays attention to the creative process and genius of the couture designer. Through poignant photographs, method books and joyous sketches, you can delve into the innovative imagination of one of Paris’s most influential designers.

Beyond its monographic ambitions, the museum aims to address the history of the 20th century and the haute couture traditions that accompanied a way of life that no longer exists. Designers Nathalie Crinière and decorator Jacques Grange, both long-time collaborators of Saint Laurent, have recreated the original atmosphere of the haute couture house. On the ground floor you’ll find the exhibits amidst neoclassical columns, burnished statues and the salons where Saint Laurent’s wealthy clients would have tried on their custom made pieces.

This artfully put together museum is the first in Paris to be solely dedicated to the work of one of the 20th century’s greatest couturiers. You are not only invited into his atelier where he designed his clothes, but also into his thoughts.

 Musée Yves Saint Laurent

5 Avenue Marceau, 75116 Paris