Yves Saint Laurent for Men

From fashion historians Farid Chenoune and Florence Müller, "Yves Saint Laurent" is the first comprehensive retrospective of his life's work, originally published to coincide with an exhibition of some 250 garments from the collection of the Fondation Pierre Bergé–Yves Saint Laurent at the Petit Palais in Paris. This volume reveals the breadth and scope of the designer's entire career, from his early days working under Dior and heading the House of Dior after his mentor's death, to the opening of his first prêt a porter shop on the Rive Gauche and the debut of the Le Smoking tuxedo, to the muses he adored, Loulou de la Falaise and Catherine Deneuve among them.

Yves Saint Laurent takes his place in the pantheon of French couturiers, alongside Coco Chanel, Christian Dior, and Jeanne Lanvin, as one of the most distinctive and influential designers of the second half of the twentieth century. With a preface by Pierre Bergé, author Faride Chenoune explores the sources of inspiration that drove Saint Laurent's continuous innovation, drawing upon painting, sculpture, theater, opera, literature, and cinema.

The book features a comprehensive retrospective of Saint Laurent's life's work, showcasing the breadth and depth of his designs. From his early days at the House of Dior to the establishment of his own prêt a porter line and the creation of iconic pieces like the Le Smoking tuxedo, the volume traces the evolution of Saint Laurent's style and his profound impact on the fashion industry.

The exhibition at the Petit Palais in Paris, which this book was published to coincide with, featured a stunning collection of 250 garments from the Fondation Pierre Bergé–Yves Saint Laurent. This comprehensive retrospective provided an opportunity for fashion enthusiasts and scholars alike to explore the designer's profound influence on the industry.

Faride Chenoune's insightful text delves into the diverse inspirations that fueled Saint Laurent's continuous innovation, from the worlds of art, theater, and literature to the iconic muses that captivated the designer, such as Loulou de la Falaise and Catherine Deneuve. This holistic approach to understanding Saint Laurent's creative process offers readers a deeper appreciation for the depth and significance of his contributions to fashion.

With its rich visual content and engaging narrative, "Yves Saint Laurent" stands as a comprehensive and compelling tribute to one of the most influential designers of the 20th century. This volume serves as a valuable resource for fashion historians, designers, and enthusiasts, providing a detailed and multifaceted exploration of Saint Laurent's enduring legacy.

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