Yves Saint Laurent ruled the world of fashion for four decades. A sophisticated young man, Saint Laurent became the head designer at the renowned House of Dior at 21. He was a pioneer at heart. Influenced by the 1960s, the designer managed to embody the rebellious atmosphere in his fashion. Saint Laurent’s revolution was elegant, with formal dinner jackets, trouser suits and semi-transparent dresses, which changed the fashion world for good. August 1 marks the 75th birthday of the man crowned the king of haute couture. Photo: Yves Saint Laurent before leaving Paris for New York to receive the Neiman Marcus Oscar, 1950s.