A few months ago I went to the textile museum in Lyon. I visited their exhibition dedicated to Vivienne Westwood. What struck me was her avant-gardism and cultural influence.
A pioneer of the Punk movement:
Westwood brought about the punk movement in fashion. Her creations blended leather and checkered materials which soon became a case in point of the British identity. Her first shop was set in Kings Road, London where her work appealed to many.
A cultural turnabout:
Red haired, high healed, occasionally despising underwear, the designer was willing to provoke and raise awareness both through her work and personality. Perhaps her affinity with the punk movement was linked to its ties with the anarchists’ scorn for set rules.
Westwood fostered designs which voiced her disregard for the political and social rules of the time. Her creations were in keeping with her stand as an environment activist fighting against patriarchy. They put a stress on a planet jeopardised by global warming and pollution, while debunking a man ruled society adding penis to her works.
Not only did Westwood influence culture through the punk movement, but she also had an impact on culture through art. Her creations were imagined as canvases transcending history.
They combined Keith Harrings’ modern designs with ancient creations which bring about the Renaissance movement.
What do you think about Westwood and her creations? Comment below your favourite outfit.
I am working with the textile museum. We will soon create a blog and instagram where you will see my other works. Stay tuned.
XO
LFB
La Fashion Bubble 