Celebrities, fashionistas, and industry insiders gathered at London’s Southwark Cathedral to pay their respects and bid farewell to the iconic designer Vivienne Westwood. The memorial service, held in honor of Westwood, who sadly passed away in December at the age of 81, attracted a star-studded guest list from the worlds of film, music, and fashion.
Prominent figures such as actors Vanessa Redgrave, Joely Richardson, Helena Bonham Carter, Gwendoline Christie, and Elle Fanning, as well as music stars Simon Le Bon, Nick Cave, Bob Geldof, and Stormzy, came together to honor the late designer. Renowned designers Victoria Beckham and Paul Smith, models Kate Moss, Lila Grace, and Lily Cole, and British Vogue editor Edward Enninful were also in attendance. Westwood’s husband and creative partner Andreas Kronthaler joined the memorial as well.
Westwood’s impact on the fashion industry is immeasurable. She became famous for her association with the punk rock movement of the 1970s, creating rebellious and groundbreaking designs. In addition to her avant-garde fashion, Westwood was known for her commitment to addressing important issues like climate change and pollution. She frequently utilized her fashion shows as platforms to express her support for causes, including WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange, often featuring protest slogans on T-shirts and banners carried by her models.
During the memorial service, guests paid tribute to Westwood by wearing badges that reflected her activism, with slogans such as “climate” and “revolution.” Some attendees even sported clothing items featuring Westwood’s distinct tartan designs, as well as her signature towering platform heels and pirate boots.
The timing of the memorial service, taking place a day before the commencement of London Fashion Week, holds additional significance. It serves as a reminder for the fashion industry to honor and remember Westwood’s lasting legacy during this prestigious event. The British Fashion Council (BFC) has announced that this year’s London Fashion Week will be dedicated to Westwood.
Caroline Issa, CEO and fashion director at Tank magazine and a BFC board member, expressed her admiration for Westwood’s influence on the British fashion industry. She emphasized the importance of Westwood’s legacy in sparking conversations surrounding climate change, responsible production, and sustainability within the industry. Issa noted that Westwood’s punk spirit will forever inspire the fashion industry as it faces future challenges.
The impact of Vivienne Westwood on the fashion world cannot be overstated. Her rebellious and innovative designs, combined with her activism and dedication to addressing pressing issues, have left an indelible mark on the industry. As the fashion world enters a new era, the legacy of Vivienne Westwood will continue to serve as an inspiration, pushing designers, fashionistas, and industry insiders to prioritize sustainability, responsibility, and social consciousness.
Useful links:
1. Vivienne Westwood Official Website
2. British Fashion Council
