Yves Saint Laurent set for name change

Following rumors that French fashion house Yves Saint Laurent would be dropping the Yves from its name, reports June 21 reveal that there are plans to change the moniker to Saint Laurent Paris.

Founded in 1962 by late creator Yves Saint Laurent and his partner Pierre Bergé, it is reported that the label's rebranding is part of new creative director Hedi Slimane's makeover of the fashion house, following the announcement back in March that he would replace Stefano Pilati.

According to WWD, the new branding will be introduced in the coming months, most likely to coincide with Slimane's first designs for the label's Spring 2013 collection going on sale. However, it is expected that the YSL logo, which has long been one of the most iconic symbols of French luxury, will remain.

Sources told the publication that Slimane hopes to bring Saint Laurent into a new era, and although this new move may raise eyebrows, it is in keeping with many other top houses that go by a singular surname such as Prada, Versace and Chanel.

When Slimane was appointed Saint Laurent creative director a statement explained that he had been given "total creative responsibility for the brand image and all of its collections."

So far he has shied away from the press, with his women's cruise and Spring 2013 menswear collections only going on show to buyers.

Slimane should be making his first big statement to the international press this September during Paris Fashion Week when he showcases his Spring 2013 womenswear designs.

First Published: Jun 22, 2012 15:20 IST