Hedi Slimane Named Creative Director of YSL

French designer Hedi Slimane will replace Stefano Pilati as Yves Saint Laurent's creative director it has been confirmed today.The 42-year-old is no stranger to the brand, acting as head of menswear from  1997 to 2000.

In his new role he will assume total responsibility for the label and turn his hand to designing womenswear for the first time.

Slimane has been absent from the fashion industry for five years after deciding to pursue photography in the U.S.

His first designs will be unveiled when a 'resort' collection is shown this June.

YSL's parent group PPR said in a statement: 'Slimane will assume total creative responsibility for the brand image and all its collections. 

'In parallel with this new position, he will continue to pursue his career in photography.'

Before taking a sabbatical from fashion, Slimane was based at Dior Homme where he helped revolutionise the traditional aesthetic of male beauty, making a name for himself with skinny cuts.

However his contract was not renewed and he was replaced with Belgian designer Kris Van Assche.

 

It is perhaps a bold move by PPR as Slimane has never before designed a womenswear range - although his sharp men's tailoring has been been a hit with female commentators.

Paul Deneve, YSL chief executive, applauded Slimane's 'understanding of the spirit of Yves Saint Laurent' and said he looked forward to 'a promising new chapter in the story of the maison'. 

Pilati, who confirmed his departure from YSL only a week ago after months of speculation, spent more than a decade at the brand

While PPR chairman and CEO, Francois-Henri Pinault, said the 'formidable potential' of YSL 'will be successfully harnessed and revealed through the vision of Hedi Slimane'.

Pilati, who confirmed his departure from YSL only a week ago after months of speculation, spent more than a decade with the label.

He stepped in for Tom Ford in 2004 and the house credited him for 'rebuilding and repositioning' the brand, and its parent company, PPR, pointed to a 'giant step' up in profits last year.

He showed his final collection for autumn / winter 2012-2013 womenswear on Monday in Paris, which was met by a standing ovation from Anna Wintour.