So, I’ve been down the rabbit hole lately. You know how it is. You see something cute online, and suddenly you’re spending hours scrolling through listings with titles like “YSL *Inspired* Heels” and “Authentic? Vintage Yves Saint Laurent *Style*.” The question mark is always a red flag, tbh.
And honestly, it’s kinda confusing! Like, there’s the actual vintage stuff, which, if you can snag a real pair, is *chef’s kiss*. I’m talking classic pumps, maybe with a slightly chunky heel (totally back in style!), or some killer flats that make you feel like you’re Audrey Hepburn, even if you’re just running to the grocery store. The *real* vintage stuff…whew. Can be pricey! But hey, think of it as an investment, right? (That’s what I tell myself, anyway.)
Then you got the “vintage *style*” stuff. Which, okay, some of it is actually pretty good! Like, you can find flats that totally give off that 60s YSL vibe without breaking the bank. And sometimes, let’s be real, you just want something cute and comfy that *looks* the part. I mean, who’s gonna know the difference, really? (Don’t answer that.)
But then, you gotta be careful. ‘Cause there’s also the straight-up *dupes*. And some of those…well, let’s just say the quality ain’t always there. I saw a pair of “YSL Tribute Slides” the other day that looked like they were made of, like, plastic. And the “leather”? Yeah, no. So, like, buyer beware, y’know? Do your research!
And don’t even get me STARTED on trying to figure out if something is *actually* authentic. I saw this thread on Reddit, r/poshmark, where someone was asking about some vintage YSL heels, and the comments were all over the place. “Check the stitching!” “Look for the specific serial number!” “Only buy from trusted sellers!” It’s intense! Honestly, sometimes I think it’s easier to just admire them from afar. Plus, if you buy the real deal, and then something happens to it, you’re just kicking yourself for spending so much money.
The Saint Laurent website, of course, has the new stuff. Which is gorgeous. Don’t get me wrong. I could totally rock some white Court Classics. But there’s something about the *idea* of vintage YSL that’s just…cooler. More unique. More…me.