Vivienne Westwood Catwalk

Synopsis

One of the most thought-provoking and influential designers in the world - she once declared 'the only reason I'm in fashion is to destroy the word "conformity"' - Vivienne Westwood reinvented, changed and challenged the world of fashion for over five decades.

Celebrating 40 years of catwalk collections, this book records the inimitable creations imagined by Vivienne Westwood since her first runway show in 1981, as well as those designed by her husband and long-time collaborator, Andreas Kronthaler. Complete with an introduction and collection texts by Alexander Fury, and biographies written by the designers themselves, Vivienne Westwood Catwalk offers a rare opportunity to chart the development of a uniquely creative fashion house.

After Chanel, Dior, Louis Vuitton, Yves Saint Laurent and Prada, Vivienne Westwood - is the sixth new volume in the best-selling Catwalk series, which offers an unrivalled overview of the collections of the world's top fashion houses through original catwalk photography.

With 1300 illustrations in colour

Summary

Chapter 1: Punk Revolution (1971-1976)

* During the 1970s, punk subculture emerged as a rebellion against mainstream society.
* Vivienne Westwood and Malcolm McLaren founded the boutique SEX in London, selling provocative and subversive clothing.
* The Seditionaries collection (1976) featured ripped T-shirts, studs, and safety pins, becoming iconic symbols of the punk movement.

Example: The "God Save the Queen" T-shirt with Queen Elizabeth II's image defaced with a safety pin.

Chapter 2: New Wave Romantics (1977-1982)

* The punk movement transitioned into New Wave, which celebrated individuality and eclecticism.
* Westwood's Pirates collection (1981) drew inspiration from historical pirate attire, featuring ruffled fabrics, corsets, and exaggerated jewelry.
* The Buffalo Girl collection (1982) showcased bold, vibrant colors and oversized shoulder pads.

Example: The "Harris" jacket with exaggerated puffed sleeves and a wasp-waisted silhouette.

Chapter 3: Deconstructive Elegance (1983-1990)

* Westwood challenged fashion conventions by deconstructing garments and exposing their construction.
* The Mini-Crini collection (1985) featured short, voluminous skirts that subverted the traditional crinoline shape.
* The Anglomania collection (1993) explored British heritage, combining traditional tailoring with unconventional details.

Example: The "Gibson" jacket with its intentionally raw seams and visible tailoring.

Chapter 4: Global Influence (1991-2000)

* Westwood's designs gained international recognition, influencing fashion around the world.
* The Red Label collection (1993) targeted a more mainstream audience, featuring wearable, yet avant-garde pieces.
* The Gold Label collection (2000) showcased Westwood's most experimental and couture creations.

Example: The "Couture Pirate" gown from the 2000 Gold Label collection.

Chapter 5: Activism and Sustainability (2001-Present)

* Westwood became an outspoken activist, using her platform to promote environmental and social issues.
* The Active Resistance collection (2005) featured slogans and symbols inspired by political activism.
* The Choose Love collection (2016) collaborated with refugee charities, donating profits to organizations supporting refugees.

Example: The "Climate Revolution" T-shirt with the message "Buy Less, Choose Well, Make It Last."