Revolutionary Vision
Yves Saint Laurent, who became the youngest-ever couturier when he took over Dior at age 21, founded his own house in 1961 with partner Pierre Berge. He proceeded to fundamentally reshape how women dress, introducing Le Smoking tuxedo suit, the safari jacket, the Mondrian dress, and sheer blouses, each challenging the boundaries of feminine fashion.
Cultural Impact
Saint Laurent was the first couturier to launch a ready-to-wear line with Rive Gauche in 1966, democratizing high fashion. His embrace of diverse beauty standards, his references to art and global cultures, and his belief that fashion should empower women established paradigms that continue to influence the industry today.
Modern Era
Under Kering ownership and the creative direction of Anthony Vaccarello since 2016, the brand, rebranded as Saint Laurent, has experienced significant commercial growth. Vaccarello’s vision honors the house’s rock-and-roll sensibility and Parisian glamour while attracting a new generation of luxury consumers.
