World-renowned, revolutionary French clothing designer Yves Saint Laurent died yesterday at the age of 71.

Saint Laurent’s long-time companion, Pierre Berge, revealed to the press that the fashion icon had been diagnosed with a brain tumor last year, passing away quietly in Paris on Sunday.

The living legend’s real career began when he became Christian Dior‘s right-hand man, ultimately succeeding the fashion giant. Saint Laurent eventually founded his own line, proving to be just as innovative and revolutionary in women’s fashion as his predecessor. His companion, Berge, said it best: “Chanel gave women freedom. Yves Saint Laurent gave them power.”