Vivienne Westwood, the brand’s founder, has pushed the boundaries of fashion and design for over five decades, creating daring and unconventional creations that have become synonymous with the punk movement.  She is quoted as saying, “The only reason I am in fashion is to destroy the word ‘conformity'” Still to this day the brand exudes a spirit of rebellion and non-conformity.

Vivienne Westwood and Malcolm McLaren played a significant role in shaping the punk movement of the 1970s. They founded the iconic clothing boutique, SEX, which quickly became a hub for London’s punk scene. Young people from diverse backgrounds were drawn to the shop’s provocative designs and boundary-pushing aesthetics.

At a time when punk was still a relatively new subculture, Westwood and McLaren’s designs stood out for their boldness and irreverence. They embraced DIY punk aesthetics, incorporated found objects and unconventional materials into their clothing and challenged gender roles in ways that were both daring and empowering.

The Sex Pistols, the band that McLaren managed and for which Westwood designed clothing, became the embodiment of punk’s rebellious spirit. Their music and image were a direct challenge to the establishment, and their influence on the punk movement can still be felt today.

Westwood and McLaren’s impact on fashion and design extends far beyond punk. They helped to usher in Characterised by a new era of fashion, characterized by an irreverent spirit and a rejection of traditional norms. They embraced the idea of fashion as a form of self-expression, and their designs reflected a sense of individuality and freedom that was highly influential.

Vivienne Westwood and Malcolm McLaren: Punk Visionaries Shaping Fashion and Rebellion

Westwood’s Environmental Activism:

In addition to her revolutionary contributions to fashion and design, Vivienne Westwood has also been an influential figure in the realm of environmentalism and activism. Her punk spirit and commitment to challenging norms extend beyond the realm of fashion, as she has actively used her platform to raise awareness about pressing environmental issues and advocate for change.

Westwood’s dedication to environmental causes is evident in her passionate opposition to fracking, a controversial method of extracting natural gas from the earth. She has been an outspoken critic of the practice, highlighting its detrimental effects on the environment, including water pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and the destruction of natural habitats.

Embodying the punk ethos of rebellion and non-conformity, Westwood fearlessly uses her influence to amplify her voice and draw attention to environmental injustices. She has organized protests, collaborated with environmental organizations, and actively spoken out against fracking and other environmentally destructive practices.

By blending her activism with her fashion, Westwood effectively communicates her message to a wider audience. Her designs often incorporate elements inspired by nature, sustainability, and environmental motifs, acting as a visual representation of her commitment to the cause. Through her work, she demonstrates that fashion can be a powerful tool for social and environmental change.

In her pursuit of environmental activism, Westwood encourages individuals to challenge the status quo and take action. Her dedication to sustainability extends to her own brand, where she strives to implement eco-friendly practices and promote conscious consumption. By embracing the punk spirit of resistance, she inspires others to question established systems, stand up for what they believe in, and make a positive impact on the world.

Vivienne Westwood’s role in environmentalism and anti-fracking exemplifies the inherent connection between her fashion and her activism. Both are driven by a desire to challenge conformity and break free from societal norms. She demonstrates that fashion can be a vehicle for expressing one’s values and advocating for change. In the spirit of punk, Westwood continues to push boundaries and use her platform to fight for a more sustainable world. 

Vivienne Westwood: Fashion Rebel Turned Environmental Activist, Leading the Charge Against Fracking

The Brand Today:

Today, Vivienne Westwood continues to embody the rebellious spirit that defined it, staying true to its British roots and known for daring designs, bold color combinations, and playful patterns. The brand’s use of British cultural references, from the incorporation of materials like tweed and tartan to the use of iconic British symbols, sets it apart from other fashion brands, evident not only in the brand’s clothing but also in its collection of watches that were first released in the 1990s.

The design of Vivienne Westwood watches reflects the punk attitude that is still very much alive, with each watch designed to challenge the status quo and make a statement. Whether it’s the use of unexpected materials or bold colour combinations, there’s always an element of risk-taking and creativity.

The brand’s watches are not just known for their unique design, but also for the names of their collections, often named after places in London where the brand originated.

The Collections:

Vivienne Westwood has named each collection of watches after a place in London that has played a significant role in the brand’s history and identity. For instance, the Mews collection derives its name from the quaint alleyways of London that traditionally housed horses and carriages. These watches boast playful and bold designs that prioritize bright colours and patterns.

The Kensington collection takes inspiration from the posh and fashionable district of London that shares its name. It comprises refined and sophisticated watches that focus on luxurious materials and classic design elements.

On the other hand, the Carnaby collection pays tribute to the vibrant and colourful street in London that was at the forefront of the swinging sixties. The watches in this collection feature bold patterns and bright colours, capturing the era’s spirit and reminiscing about the brand’s punk roots.

The Ladbroke collection is named after the trendy neighbourhood in West London known for its bohemian charm and creative energy. These watches are designed with unique textures and unconventional designs, reflecting the area’s artistic vibe and free-spirited attitude.

The Camberwell collection, on the other hand, takes its name from the diverse and vibrant district in South London that boasts an eclectic mix of cultures and artistic communities. The watches in this collection have a playful and bold aesthetic that prioritizes bright colours and unconventional materials.

By incorporating the unique characteristics of each place into the designs of their watches, Vivienne Westwood has created a collection that not only reflects the brand’s rebellious spirit and commitment to daring design but also pays homage to its British heritage and roots