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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
Vintage F/W 1991 Velvet Co-ord
By Vivienne Westwood
Located in London, GB
We are excited to present this Vivienne Westwood Fall Winter 1991 black velvet co-ord set. The jacket features a sultry black velvet body, rounded shoulders, classic orb metal logo b...
Category
1990s European Skirt Suits
A/W 1994 Vivienne Westwood Peach Knit Top and Hat Set
By Vivienne Westwood
Located in North Hollywood, CA
A/W 1994 Vivienne Westwood 'On Liberty' Collection peach knit top and hat set. Openwork crochet knit silk-cotton top with elbow-length sleeves and ruffle trim neckline pairs with mat...
Category
1990s Suits, Outfits and Ensembles
Vivienne Westwood A/W 1999 - 2000 'Showroom' Collection Hooded Pointy Tit Dress
By Vivienne Westwood
Located in Sheffield, GB
A Rare and Iconic Hooded dress from Vivienne Westwoods Fall/Winter 1999- 2000 Runway Collection 'Showroom'.
This Charcoal & Stone Grey Jersey Dress features a bias-cut knee length ...
Category
1990s Italian Evening Dresses
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
1998 Vivienne Westwood runway coat
By Vivienne Westwood
Located in CAPELLE AAN DEN IJSSEL, ZH
This exquisite coat, crafted from rose floral canvas and adorned with distressed fringe, is a standout piece from Vivienne Westwood's Spring 1998 "Tied to the Mast" collection. The c...
Category
1990s Coats and Outerwear
2000S Vivienne Westwood Silk Charmeuse Dress
By Vivienne Westwood
Located in New York, NY
2000S Vivienne Westwood Silk Charmeuse Dress
Category