Designer Hedi Slimane to leave Yves Saint Laurent

Paris : The creative director of Yves Saint-Laurent is to leave the French fashion house after four years, its parent group Kering announced Friday.

"A new creative organisation for the House will be communicated in due course," Kering said in a statement.

Slimane, a cult designer beloved of rockers and fashionistas alike, took over at Yves Saint Laurent in 2012.

But rumours had swirled recently that Slimane, who lives in LA and who created the rock-star skinny jeans look, was about to leave the label he has helped revitalise.

Profits have skyrocketed since he has been in charge, with revenue doubling as he gave the haute couture brand a street style edge.