Yves Saint Laurent fashion house is a symbol of French couture. The history of this brand takes start in early sixties of the past century. In 1962 the first YSL collection, inspired by national costumes of different nations, was released.
YSL gave life to many fashion trends, such as beatnik look. This company made tight pants, high boots and safari jackets attributes of style and good taste in 60s and 70s.
Yves Saint Laurent is the father of unisex style. Brand was one of the first that created elegant and glamorous tuxedos, pant suits and leather jackets for women. One of the most known models is Le Smoking tuxedo suit, that what presented by fashion house of Yves Saint Laurent in 1966. Moreover, this brand was the one, who surprised the fashion world, bringing back the retro silhouettes of 20s-40s.
Designer mixed ethnic motives, dark colors and retro silhouettes into a charming cocktail in every one of his collections. YSL designs always were provocative, although, not outrageous.
In 1964 company launched the first perfume for women with letter “Y” on it, and in 1971 YSL fashion house presented famous fragrance “Pour Homme”, that was advertised by the naked designer.
Fashion house was sold to a Sanofi pharmaceutical company in 
1993 and in 1999 – to Gucci Group.
Saint-Laurent designed only haut couture collections during last years of his work, while ready-to-wear things where created by Tom Ford.
In 2002 Yves Saint Laurent got tired of pressure to make new collections all the time, the drug abuse and alcoholism affected his health. He decided to finish the career and arranged the last retrospective catwalk show.
Legendary designer Yves Saint Laurent passed away in 2008 after the long and exhausting illness, but the empire, named after him, is alive. Haut couture and prêt-a-porter clothing is only the top of the iceberg. Brand also produces jewelry, shoes, bags, glasses and other accessories and has cosmetics and perfume line. Company has stores in the world’s biggest cities, including Tokyo, New-York, London and Paris.