There’s been outrage, heartbreak and confusion all over the blogosphere these past 24 hours, thanks to rumours suggesting that Yves Saint Laurent’s new Creative Director Hedi Slimane (who took over from Stefano Pilati in March) would be changing the name of the iconic brand.
Unlike some rumours though, we can confirm that this one was 100% true (that makes a change, doesn’t it?) and Yves Saint Laurent will now officially be known as “Saint Laurent Paris”.
While the news has devastated many fans of the Fashion House, we think Hedi Slimane was trying to bring the brand back to its roots – the first ever ready to wear collection in 1966 was entitled ‘Saint Laurent Rive Gauche’ after all.
“This change celebrates our legacy and heritage, while boldly marking our ambition for the future,” said CEO Paul Deneve in a statement. “It will allow us to return to the fundamentals of YSL and revive the spirit and the intentions that reigned over the creation of ‘Saint Laurent Rive Gauche’ in 1966: principles of youth, freedom and modernity.”
Changes will be introduced slowly over the next few months, but everything will be ready in time for the spring/summer 2013 collection this September.
Do you think the name change is disrespectful to the late Yves Saint Laurent or do you understand where Hedi Slimane is coming from?
[poll id=”351″]
[WWD] [Image]
