Saint Laurent, Yves, << san law RAHN, eev >> (1936-2008), became perhaps the most influential fashion designer of the late 1900’s. In 1957, at the age of 21, Saint Laurent was appointed head designer of the famous Dior fashion house in Paris. Saint Laurent’s designs were noted for their superb sense of line, rich color, and exceptional craftsmanship. He made innovations in his adaptation of the comfort, wearability, and lively spirit of everyday fashion to haute couture (high fashion).
Saint Laurent was born on Aug. 1, 1936, in Oran, Algeria. In 1958, at the house of Dior, the young designer created the trapeze, a loose, unbelted dress that flared from the shoulders to the hem.
In 1961, Saint Laurent opened his own fashion house in Paris. The firm probably had more impact on fashion design and merchandising than any other fashion house of its time. In 1966, Saint Laurent introduced a woman’s evening pants suit that was tailored like a man’s tuxedo. Also in 1966, he opened his first ready-to-wear boutique called Rive Gauche. He presented one of his most famous collections in 1976. The collection won praise for its elegant and luxurious fabrics and colorful adaptation of Russian peasant costumes to high fashion. Saint Laurent also designed for the theater.
In 1999, Saint Laurent transferred control of his business to Gucci, an Italian fashion house, but retained control of his haute couture line. In 2002, he announced his retirement and closed the haute couture line. Saint Laurent died on June 1, 2008.
