Meet LA's Newest Designer: Hedi Slimane

Yves Saint Laurent creative director Hedi Slimane, photo courtesy of Rex Features/Vogue.co.uk

Los Angeles just got a design boost in the form of Parisian couture. Newly appointed Yves Saint Laurent creative director Hedi Slimane will base out of his studio in Los Angeles rather than at the house’s headquarters in Paris according to Vogue UK.

It’s not surprising to learn as Slimane has become a fan of LA since his relocation to the city in 2007. Following his departure from Dior Homme, he created an almost cult like following with his art and photography. An exhibition titled “California Song” debuted his artsy black and white photographs at the Museum of Contemporary Art last November.

Will California’s affinity for casual cool affect Slimane's design direction of the iconic couture house? With brands searching for ways to reach consumers, it’s entirely possible some Cali influence will emerge. Fittings will take place in Paris and the YSL ateliers will work from the label’s offices, but I for one am looking forward to a Cali take on YSL.