The Legacy of Vivienne Westwood: A pioneering Designer Who Changed the Game

December 30, 2022
travis moyo tribute to vivienne westwood
travis moyo tribute to vivienne westwood

It is with great sadness that I learned of the passing of Vivienne Westwood. A true icon in the world of fashion. As a 17-year-old creative and fashion enthusiast. I have always admired Westwood’s innovative and rebellious approach to design. I would have loved to meet her, but sadly death had other unfashionable plans.

So, I had to pay tribute in this way. I took time to write this article in honour of Vivienne Westwood. A pioneer in the fashion industry and a true icon. As a young creative, I have always looked up to Vivienne  Westwood. Her bold, rebellious style and design choices that have consistently pushed the boundaries of fashion and self-expression.

She used her platform for good causes

Vivienne Westwood was not only a talented designer, but also a strong activist and voice for social and environmental issues. She was a vocal supporter of climate change action and used her platform to bring attention to important causes.

Vivienne’s influence can be seen in every aspect of fashion, from her punk-inspired collections to her avant-garde runway shows. Her innovative use of materials and silhouettes have inspired countless designers and will continue to do so for years to come.

Vivienne Westwood was known for pushing boundaries and challenging traditional norms in the fashion industry. She was a pioneer of the punk movement in the 1970s. And continued to push the envelope with her unique and edgy aesthetic throughout her career. Her commitment to sustainability and political activism only added to her legacy as a trailblazer in the industry.

She impacted so many lives

She touched the lives of young and old. Indeed, those with an eye for design and an interest in sustainable fashion.

Westwood’s influence on fashion can be seen in the work of countless designers. And her impact will be felt for generations to come. She will always be remembered as a true innovator. Indeed, a force to be reckoned with in the world of fashion.

Vivienne Westwood was born in 1941 in Glossop, Derbyshire, England. She studied fashion design at Harrow School of Art and began her career as a teacher. In the 1970s, she and her partner at the time, Malcolm McLaren. Opened a clothing store called “Let It Rock” in London. Which later became known as “Sex” and “Seditionaries.” It was during this time that Westwood and McLaren became closely associated with the punk movement, and Westwood’s designs, which often incorporated elements of punk style, became popular among punk fans.

In the 1980s, Westwood began to gain wider recognition as a fashion designer, and she opened her own boutique, called “World’s End,” in London. She also began showing her collections at Paris Fashion Week, where she garnered critical acclaim for her avant-garde and often controversial designs.

Throughout her career, Westwood remained true to her rebellious roots and continued to challenge traditional notions of beauty and fashion. She became known for her bold and edgy aesthetic, which incorporated elements of historical dress and her own political and social views. Westwood’s influence can be seen in the work of many contemporary designers and her impact on the fashion industry is undeniable.

Rest in peace, Vivienne Westwood. Your contributions to the industry will never be forgotten.