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How did Vivienne Westwood influence fashion?
1 Answer
Vivienne Westwood’s influence on fashion is deep and broad-ranging.
Westwood was only in her early 20s when she was creating jewelry in London during the 1960s, and her career in fashion began to take shape in the 1970s. She was quickly recognized for her unconventional and edgy approach, and opened a vintage shop with like-minded artist Malcolm McLaren.
Westwood found herself at the forefront of punk rock, and as the culture gained steam and its musicians rose to fame, so too did her preference for checkered prints, biker styles and provocative messaging. Her work became the look of punk and she was soon dressing members of the Sex Pistols.
The first Vivienne Westwood and Malcolm McLaren show marked the debut of the Pirate Collection, a swashbuckler-themed line that sprang from Westwood’s research into Indigenous Americans and the “power garments” of the Louis XIV era (this collection heavily influenced the likes of John Galliano and Alexander McQueen). For the colorful corsets of her 1990 Portrait collection, Westwood drew on 18th-century oil paintings, and her models donned the pearl necklaces that have become a social media star and a favorite of influencers and fashion lovers all over the world.
Dubbed “the undisputed Queen of British fashion” by musician Boy George, the acclaimed, award-winning late designer bridged the gap between music and fashion in a manner that has reverberated for decades. Today, her namesake label is beloved for its long history of imaginative, unique designs.
Find vintage Vivienne Westwood clothing and accessories on 1stDibs.
Westwood was only in her early 20s when she was creating jewelry in London during the 1960s, and her career in fashion began to take shape in the 1970s. She was quickly recognized for her unconventional and edgy approach, and opened a vintage shop with like-minded artist Malcolm McLaren.
Westwood found herself at the forefront of punk rock, and as the culture gained steam and its musicians rose to fame, so too did her preference for checkered prints, biker styles and provocative messaging. Her work became the look of punk and she was soon dressing members of the Sex Pistols.
The first Vivienne Westwood and Malcolm McLaren show marked the debut of the Pirate Collection, a swashbuckler-themed line that sprang from Westwood’s research into Indigenous Americans and the “power garments” of the Louis XIV era (this collection heavily influenced the likes of John Galliano and Alexander McQueen). For the colorful corsets of her 1990 Portrait collection, Westwood drew on 18th-century oil paintings, and her models donned the pearl necklaces that have become a social media star and a favorite of influencers and fashion lovers all over the world.
Dubbed “the undisputed Queen of British fashion” by musician Boy George, the acclaimed, award-winning late designer bridged the gap between music and fashion in a manner that has reverberated for decades. Today, her namesake label is beloved for its long history of imaginative, unique designs.
Find vintage Vivienne Westwood clothing and accessories on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertMarch 20, 2024
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Shop for Vivienne Westwood Fashion on 1stDibs
Vivienne Westwood SS 2020 Cocoon Dress Stunning Gown
By Vivienne Westwood
Located in Berlin, BE
Vivienne Westwood SS 2020 Dress
New, unworn
Cut from beautiful flower jacquard fabric, tailored with voluminous elements and frayed gathered seams for a patchwork effect. The cotton...
Category
2010s Italian Evening Dresses and Gowns
Vivienne Westwood Vivienne West Wood Anglomania Black Corset T-shirt Dress XS
By Vivienne Westwood
Located in London, GB
CONDITION is Very good. Hardly any visible wear to dress is evident on this used Vivienne West Wood Anglomania designer resale item.
Details
...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary British T-Shirts
Vivienne Westwood Red Croc Embossed Chancery Heart HandBag
By Vivienne Westwood
Located in Montreal, Quebec
COLOR: Red
MATERIAL: Leather
MEASURES: H 9” x L 5.11” x D 3.5”
DROP: 5.5”
CONDITION: Very good - faint hairline scratches form handling. Minimal signs of wear.
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Top Handle Bags
Vivienne Westwood Anglomania + Melissa Platform Sandals
By Vivienne Westwood
Located in London, GB
Vivienne Westwood Anglomania + Melissa Platform Sandals
CONDITION: This item is a deadstock ( unworn/new ).
SIZE LABEL: 35/36 ( UK 3 )
Category
2010s High Heels
Vivienne Westwood SS 2021 BAT COAT Satin Jacket Oversize Damatic
By Vivienne Westwood
Located in Berlin, BE
Vivienne Westwood BAT COAT, SS 2021 Collection
Stunning dramatic long jacket/coat in rose gold/copper silky satin. Fabulous typical Vivienne Westwood asymmetrical construction and e...
Category
2010s Italian Coats and Outerwear
2011 Vivienne Westwood blue taffeta off shoulder gown
By Vivienne Westwood
Located in Austin, TX
Vivienne Westwood blue taffeta gown
gold label
off the shoulder, fishtail train
fitted waist
Condition: Good, some wear and spotting near hem
Bust 34" , Waist 25...
Category