Yves Saint Laurent

Born in Algeria in 1936, Yves Saint Laurent is one of the most famous classical French fashion designers who established houses of couture and boutiques in Paris and New York. He was previously the foremost assistant to Christian Dior and became his successor as head of the House of Dior at the age of 21.

Yves Saint Laurent's early collections were noted for their extreme and maverick quality. He opened his own Paris house in 1961, featuring the “chic beatnik” look; knitted turtlenecks; thigh-length boots; and short jackets. He revolutionized the fashion world by creating trousers and broad-shouldered suits that were images of power for women.

His later designs include sophisticated tweed suits, the Mondrian dress, pleated skirts, updated peasant costumes, tuxedos for women, and heavy costume jewelry. He also designed for the Ballets of Roland Petit. By the mid-1970s his design empire included sweaters, neckties, eyeglass cases, linens, children's clothes, and fragrances. Gucci acquired his ready-to-wear and cosmetics divisions in the year 2000.

Yves St. Laurent announced his retirement to the fashion world and press in 2002.

Find fashion by Yves Saint Laurent @ the following eshops: