Vivienne Westwood is widely recognised as one of the most influential fashion designers of the 20th and 21st centuries. Her name is synonymous with rebellion, punk, and British eccentricity, and her work has shaped both fashion history and cultural movements.
The Birth of Punk: Vivienne Westwood's Role in Shaping the Movement
Vivienne Westwood’s journey began in the 1970s during a time of social upheaval in the UK. After moving to London, she partnered with Malcolm McLaren to open a boutique on King’s Road in 1971, initially called 'Let It Rock'. The shop, later rebranded as ‘SEX’, became the epicentre of punk culture. Together, Westwood and McLaren created the iconic punk look, ripped t-shirts, bondage trousers, and anarchic slogans. As punk gained global momentum, Westwood emerged as its unofficial queen, defining the movement’s bold, rebellious style.
Vivienne Westwood's Evolution: From Punk Rebellion to High Fashion and Political Advocacy
By the 1980s, Westwood moved beyond punk, drawing inspiration from 17th and 18th century fashion, corsetry, tartan, and English tailoring, often with a rebellious twist. Her 1981 'Pirates' collection marked her shift to high fashion. Over the years, her work explored themes such as royalty, politics, femininity, and climate change. While her early designs focused on rebellion, her later collections embraced strong environmental and political messages. A passionate advocate for sustainability, she urged consumers to “buy less, choose well, make it last.”
Vivienne Westwood: A Legacy of Fashion
Vivienne Westwood became a British fashion icon, honoured with numerous accolades, including being made a Dame in 2006. Her brand, still family-run, remains true to her vision. Even after she died in 2022, her legacy lives on, with her husband, Andreas Kronthaler, continuing her work in design.
Signature Pieces by Vivienne Westwood
Throughout her career, Westwood introduced several iconic fashion pieces that continue to be beloved today. One of the most famous is the Orb logo, symbolising a fusion of tradition and the future. The British Crown Jewels with a Saturn ring have been instantly recognisable on jewellery, bags and clothing.
The Mini Bas Relief Choker, often featuring faux pearls and the orb pendant, became a viral fashion staple in the 2020s, worn by celebrities and influencers worldwide.
Vivienne Westwood revived the corset in modern fashion, turning 18th-century undergarments into outerwear. These corseted designs are still part of the brand's collections, with bustiers and structured gowns highlighting her expertise in historical tailoring.
Her signature Tartan Suit and use of Scottish fabrics became iconic, and the 1993 'Anglomania' collection celebrated the fusion of British heritage and French couture.
Westwood’s bags feature bold prints, the Orb logo, and structured shapes, blending vintage and futuristic styles. The brand also prioritises sustainable materials, reflecting its commitment to the environment.
Ultimately, Vivienne Westwood created more than clothing; she built a world. Her brand continues to design for those who dare to be different, blending art, activism, and style into every piece.
Vivienne Westwood at Auction
Lot 479
Vivienne Westwood - necklace
Price Realised: £52.00
Lot 247
Vivienne Westwood - Chancery Heart bag
Price Realised: £130.00
Lot 248
Vivienne Westwood - Yasmine
Price Realised: £110.50
Lot 506
Vivienne Westwood - ring
Price Realised: £59.80
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