Appearance Quote by Carine Roitfeld
“Yves Saint Laurent liked women to put their hands in their pockets, or to hold cigarettes, and act a bit like boys. It was to give an impression of composure, some self-assurance, and to counter the feminine appearance.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Fashion and Yves Saint Laurent, 1995
Yves Saint Laurent encouraged women to adopt masculine gestures like pocketed hands or holding cigarettes to project composure and confidence, countering traditional femininity.
In simple terms: He suggested women mimic masculine poses for confidence.
Key Takeaway
Adopt confident, composed body language regardless of gender norms.
Themes
fashion
gender
confidence
image
identity
Mood
confident
stylish
thoughtful
Type
fashion
gender
psychology
When to use this quote
- runway shows
- personal styling
- media campaigns
- social events
- personal confidence training
Key Concepts
masculinity
body language
self‑presentation
gender performance
Questions to Reflect On
- Do these gestures empower women or perpetuate male‑centric standards?
- How can confidence be expressed without borrowing masculine symbols?
A Different Perspective
Such gestures may be perceived as inauthentic or reinforcing gender stereotypes.
