Vivienne Westwood is a luxury fashion label which has been described as “the embodiment of British fashion”, created by Vivienne Westwood (a madness, I know). The designer is seen as largely responsible for bringing modern punk and new wave fashions into the mainstream.
Vivienne Westwood, who is known for her quirky designs, started her career in 1971, which lead to her opening her first shop ‘Let It Rock’ at 430 Kings Road. Initially inspired by rebellion and 1950s music and fashion, in 1972, Westwood’s interests had turned to Punk Rock with the introduction of the Sex Pistols. She re-branded and her new aesthetic fit that of biker leather, zips and rubber-wear, bringing sexual fetishism into fashion and causing controversy with provocative messages printed on t-shirts. Her shop was renamed ‘Sex’, and she planned on shocking England by bringing something they hadn’t seen before “rubber-wear for the office”. However in 1980 the shop was refitted and renamed ‘Worlds End’ as the designer became disinterested when Punk hit the mainstream.
The Brand’s Aesthetic
Today, Vivienne Westwood’s collections, inspired by creative influences such as the Punk movement, the concept of rebellion, and French and British history, include footwear and accessories as well as clothing.
The key identifier of this luxury fashion brand is the iconic orb emblem, inspired by British royal iconography and Harris Tweed- it represents the importance of the past and the rings of Saturn signify the future. This symbol is found in the details on many Vivienne Westwood pieces, and is a popular pendant.
Collections
Here are a few of Vivienne Westwood’s collections, and some of my favourite pieces from them.
Fall 2019 Ready-to-Wear
This collection consisted of an electric colour palette along with an Eco-friendly message- Vivienne Westwood showcased her designs as well as her passion for fighting for the environment.
Fall 2014 Menswear
As did the the last collection, Westwood’s Fall 2014 Menswear also takes inspiration from her environmental activism, specifically drawing upon fracking, which is reflected by the darker colour palette of the looks.
Spring 2019 Ready-to-Wear
A collection of sustainable products, featuring materials such as sustainably extracted wood pulp and hemp-and-bamboo mix. This collection also includes 100% recycled army-inspired double-breasted jackets and hoodies.
Song recommendation: Fall in Love by GoldLink, Ciscero
SENSES & STYLE 