One of the legendary names of the world of fashion, Yves Saint Laurent, has died. His clothes were worn by the rich and famous - but they also helped revolutionise what every woman wears today. He was 71. This report from Razia Iqbal:

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He made clothes that were elegant and sexy, reflecting women's more confident role in society. He took the world by storm with his tuxedo, ethnic prints and designs inspired by the art world.

Taunted as a schoolboy because of his homosexuality, he suffered mental and physical ill-health for much of his life and rarely appeared in public. But his influence will last for years to come - France has lost not only its greatest fashion designer but also a cultural icon.

Razia Iqbal, BBC

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a precocious talent
an exceptional natural ability that showed at an unusually early age

brought him to the notice
got / drew / caught the attention and interest

elegant
very stylish; showing sophistication and good taste

sexy
very attractive visually; sexually attractive

took the world by storm
made a great sudden impression on people around the world; suddenly became extremely successful globally

tuxedo
an elegantly styled, usually black jacket worn by men to formal social occasions

inspired by
if someone or something inspires you, it stimulates and encourages greater effort, enthusiasm or, as in this case, creativity

Taunted
annoyed and upset by others making unkind remarks to him, laughing at him or bullying him

for years to come
for a long time in the future

a cultural icon
someone widely admired for their contribution to culture

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