Remembering Vivienne Westwood
Vivienne Westwood, the punk fashion icon, passed away peacefully at the age of 81. While many have focused on her association with the Sex Pistols and her controversial moments, it is important to recognize Westwood as one of the greatest couturiers of all time. Her designs were revolutionary and rival those of fashion legends like Jeanne Lanvin, Christian Dior, and Yves Saint Laurent.
Westwood’s journey from rebel to grand bohemian lady was truly remarkable. She went from disrupting the Queen’s silver jubilee and getting arrested in 1977 to being honored as a Dame by the same monarch in 2003. I had the privilege of meeting Vivienne Westwood in 1994 when she showcased her Gold label collection at the Grand Hotel in Paris. We sat down for coffee in Les Halles, where she shared her unique vision and inspiration behind her iconic Mini Crini.
The Mini Crini, a combination of a crinoline and a mini skirt, perfectly captured Westwood’s blend of historical references and edginess. It was moments like these that solidified her status as an innovative force in fashion. Influential figures in the industry recognized her talent, including Pierre Bergé, the partner of Yves Saint Laurent. Despite her success, Westwood remained humble, choosing a simple two-star hotel as our meeting place.
Westwood’s upbringing in a modest household and her thrifty nature played a significant role in establishing her fashion house. Her designs often reflected her childhood in the English countryside, combining nostalgic elements with urban sophistication. As a former school teacher, Westwood’s knowledge of art and fashion history was evident in her discussions and designs. She even posed as Margaret Thatcher for Tatler magazine, showcasing her determination to succeed on a grand stage.
Collaborating with Malcolm McLaren, whom she met while working at a club, propelled Westwood’s career to new heights. Designing clothes for The Sex Pistols cemented her position as a trailblazer in punk fashion. Her ideas, from mohair sweaters to rebel kilts, defined an entire generation. However, Westwood’s designs expanded beyond punk, evolving into new styles like New Romanticism, Pirate chic, and Anglomania. Her collections always had evocative names, and she openly expressed her concerns for ecological disaster through politically themed T-shirts.
Westwood’s influence on British fashion cannot be overstated. She paved the way for designers like John Galliano, Alexander McQueen, and Kim Jones to achieve their success. Jones, the current menswear designer of Dior, is a dedicated collector of Westwood’s work. Even in recent years, Westwood continued to make an impact through collaborations with various brands and her activism against global warming.
Her legacy lives on in the work of other designers, and her creations have adorned famous figures like Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and the City. Westwood’s designs continue to inspire and captivate, with slimline versions of her voluminous wedding gown still available for purchase.
As we say goodbye to Vivienne Westwood, the Godmother of punk fashion, let us remember her as an innovator and an icon. Her rebellious spirit and commitment to activism have left an indelible mark on the fashion industry. We honor her as one of the greatest couturiers of all time.
Useful links:
– Vivienne Westwood Official Website
– Vogue UK: Vivienne Westwood
