PARIS, March 12 (Xinhua) -- The House of Givenchy announced on Monday its founder Hubert de Givenchy, the aristocratic legend of French haute couture, died at the age of 91.

Hubert de Givenchy is "a major personality of the world of French haute couture and a gentleman who symbolized Parisian chic and elegance for more than half a century. His enduring influence and his approach to style reverberates to this day," said the house in a statement.

Philippe Venet, partner Hubert de Givenchy, announced on Monday that De Givenchy had died in his sleep on March 10, adding the funeral would take place in the "strictest intimacy."

Known for his chic creations and elegant designs, De Givenchy had presented his first collection in 1952 at the age of 25, to become one of the youngest designers in the French fashion scene.

He founded one of the world's leading fashion houses in Paris in the 1950s which was sold to LVMH luxury group in the 1980s.

He was famous for the "little black dress" he desgined for actress Audrey Hepburn in the movie "Breakfast at Tiffany's." She became his loyal muse to whom he dedicated his perfume "L'Interdit."

De Givency was also known for styling many socially prominent women including former U.S. first lady Jacqueline Kennedy.