Vivienne Westwood, the legendary fashion designer known for her bold designs and unwavering activism, was recently bestowed with the prestigious 2019 London Design Medal for Lifetime Achievement. This esteemed award, presented by the London Design Festival, serves as a testament to Westwood’s extraordinary contributions to the design industry over the course of her remarkable career.
The ceremony, held at The House of Commons in Westminster, London, was a fitting backdrop for Westwood to accept the award in a striking Chinese tea print suit from her own Gold Label collection. This sartorial choice not only showcased her avant-garde style but also highlighted her creative vision that has made her a revered figure in the fashion world. Joining the ranks of luminaries such as Zaha Hadid, Richard Rogers, and Paul Smith, Westwood’s recognition solidifies her status as a true icon in the design community.
Throughout her illustrious career, Westwood has garnered an impressive array of accolades, including being appointed an OBE in 1992 and later receiving a DBE in 2006. She has also been honored with the British Designer of the Year award on two occasions. Moreover, her groundbreaking work was commemorated with a retrospective exhibition at the V&A in 2004, a testament to her enduring influence as a trailblazer in British fashion.
In addition to her design prowess, Westwood has been a trailblazer in advocating for a more sustainable fashion industry. Her commitment to advancing sustainability in fashion was recognized when she received the Swarovski Award for Positive Change at The Fashion Awards in the previous year, underscoring her dedication to driving positive transformation in the field.
With a legacy that spans decades and continues to inspire artists, designers, and activists globally, Vivienne Westwood’s impact on the fashion industry is immeasurable. Her tireless pursuit of innovation and sustainability sets a standard for aspiring designers to aspire to, making her a truly deserving recipient of the London Design Medal for Lifetime Achievement.
To learn more about Vivienne Westwood and her groundbreaking work, visit her official website here and explore her retrospective exhibition at the V&A here.
