Memorial Mass Held in Paris to Honor Yves Saint Laurent

But it nevertheless attracted many longtime associates, employees, customers, former models and fellow designers, who joined Pierre Berge, the late couturier's companion and business partner of 50 years, to remember Saint Laurent. Designers in attendance included Hubert de Givenchy, who arrived on crutches; Agnes Trouble of agnes b., and Giambattista Valli. Former French culture minister Jack Lang and Ségolène Royal, the former presidential candidate, were the only representatives of the political world to attend. Betty Catroux and Dominique Deroche, Saint Laurent's former communications head, were also on hand.

Just like at the funeral service a year ago, Berge paid a moving tribute to Saint Laurent, recounting his influence on fashion. "He changed the life of women," Berge noted, alluding to the designer's innovations, such as the trouser suit. He also talked about the "unique relationship" he had with Saint Laurent, who died of brain cancer June 1, 2008, at the age of 71. In a touching and intensely personal remembrance, Berge recalled how he met Saint Laurent, then only 21, half a century ago at the time he showed his first collection for Dior, and how the two men combined their destinies into what would become one of fashion's most historic partnerships.