As we say a lot here, given the sheer volume of rumors that sweep through the corridors of fashion on any given day: Nothing is final until an announcement is made. Regarding the speculation that Hedi Slimane would take over for Stefano Pilati at YSL that broke over the weekend…well, an announcement has been made. More than a factual, neutral statement, it’s particularly complimentary of and thankful to the departing creative director, a rarity these days. It reads:

Yves Saint Laurent today announces the departure of Creative Director Stefano Pilati, who since 2004 has stood at the creative helm of the maison and has been instrumental in the rebuilding and repositioning of an iconic French luxury brand. Under Stefano’s guiding vision and artistic direction, the house has become a contemporary reference in high fashion.

Stefano will show his final collection for Fall/Winter 2012-2013 womenswear on March 5, 2012 in Paris. In the coming weeks, the maison will announce a new Creative Director.

Yves Saint Laurent and PPR would like to thank Stefano for his extraordinary contributions and wish him the very best with his future endeavors.

Commenting on the announcement, Yves Saint Laurent Chief Executive Officer Paul Deneve said ‘We are all at Yves Saint Laurent grateful to Stefano for his important achievements in advancing the mission and success of this historic and treasured fashion house.’

PPR Chairman and Chief Executive Officer François-Henri Pinault echoed these sentiments: ‘I join Paul Deneve and the house of Saint Laurent in thanking Stefano for his dedication and contribution to the story of Yves Saint Laurent. I personally wish him all the best.’