PARIS, Jul 9, 2006/ FW/ --- With the rumor going around that Stefano Pilati might leave YSL to move to another house, the fashion set was agog with trepidation last Sunday when Yves Saint Laurent Rive Gauche presented its Spring 2007 menswear collection.

Since Pilati took over as Creative Director for YSL in July 2004 during the Paris Menswear Spring 2005 season, he has gathered momentum worldwide as he garnered fans and admirers for the direction that he was taking the label.

He had also been receiving rave reviews for all the collections that he had presented to the point that Anna Wintour named him as one of the ‘Magnificent Seven’ who will bring fashion to the 21st century.

So, everyone was wondering, was this collection a farewell, or see you later! With Hedi Slimane at Dior Homme also in negotiation for the renewal of his contract, it was more than enough for the fashion set to take – two of the most high profile menswear designers on the verge of leaving!

But, last Sunday night, Stefano Pilati’s fans did not have to worry because their favorite designer was in top form, showing a very wearable, easy-to-wear and highly covetable collection.

Relaxed fitting suit jackets that were cut straight on the shoulders came in two-buttons, one-button and double-breasted. Playing with colors, Pilati used different washes of blue to complement the more formal black.

And since this is summer, he also made sure that the YSL gents will be comfortable in their relaxed fitting shorts.

Still, Pilati gave his audience a pleasant surprise by sending tunics that opened at the back and at the shoulders! The tunics were light and breezy, a perfect get up whether you are yachting in the Riviera or just hanging out in the city.

Going sportive and casual, Pilati also proposed sandals and clogs as footwear. Of course, there were also formal shoes, but the men’s strappy sandals are just so cool looking.

In fact, the whole collection is so refreshing, even the smoking jackets and tuxedos did not look stuffy or formal. The atmosphere was upbeat and optimistic.

And hopefully, this optimism will extend to the rumor mill and prove that all the whispers of Stefano Pilati leaving YSL is not true.

Yves Saint Laurent

Yves Saint Laurent

Yves Saint Laurent

Yves Saint Laurent