Saint Laurent

Yves Saint Laurent, born in 1936 in Oran, Algeria, moved to Paris at 18 to study fashion. At 21, he became an assistant to Christian Dior and was appointed creative director of Dior after Dior's death in 1957. His first collection in 1958 was a huge success, known for its modern, youthful designs. In 1960, Saint Laurent was drafted into the French army during the Algerian War, leading to his departure from Dior. After returning to Paris, he faced a challenging period personally and professionally.