A legend never dies

YSL shares a light moment with Shirley MacLaine (Agency Photo) More picsHe might have led the life of a recluse. But, when he passed away, the world of fashion was stunned into silence. For, Yves Saint Laurent was a genius, a pioneer, a revolution all by himself.
The ideas of YSL, which took the shape of tuxedos, trouser suits, safari jackets and so many other outfits, transformed the look of those sections of the society which sought to make unique statements of personal style.And, although he retired from haute couture a few years ago, the fact of his death has evoked immense sadness in the hearts of those for whom he was an inspiration.
���I think it���s remarkable that YSL had been there as a pioneer for generations. There was a time when, if you didn���t have a YSL gown, it was hard to be noticed. He wasn���t in the fashion industry, he was the industry himself. Even though he came from an aristocratic family, it was the fire in him which got him all the love and respect even after retiring seven years back,��� explains designer Shaina NC.
When YSL created his works of pure art, his admirers watched in sheer awe. If his creativity was the substance of legends, so was his dedication. Like all those who have grown up idolising the man, designer Neeta Lulla feels that YSL���s death is a huge loss for the industry which had learnt so much from him. ���YSL took pride in giving a different look to women, a more dramatised look to his clothes. His style was classic and extravagant. He was amongst that segment of fashion couturiers that made a huge impact and made him one of the revolutionary designers. He has been an inspiration for many other designers, even me,��� says she.
His outfits spoke so much about his artistic individuality that it was often said that a YSL creation led to ���the total silence of clothing���. Discussing the magnitude of his impact, city designer Revati Borawake says, ���I did my first article in college on him. Europe was deglamourised after the War, and especially women were confined to their homes. When the countries were in the dark, YSL brought fashion back. Even though the economic situation was in a mess, he is one of the reasons Europe saw colours again. He introduced suits for women which gave them a lot of confidence. He gave them a new perspective of life.���
YSL also gave his own distinctive touch to menswear. ���His white collared classic office wear shirts were something which fascinated me a lot. The way he picked two-toned colours to add to his design was incredible. His clothes always gave a very masculine appeal,��� says another city designer Ushma Karia-Agarwal.
His death has left a huge void in the fashion industry. But, there are many who will continue to be
inspired by the man���s phenomenal creative output which not only modified the dress sense of people, but also imparted a feeling of optimism in their lives.Goodbye, YSL. Thou shall live on.