Vivienne Westwood: The Revolutionary Force in Fashion
International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate trailblazing women who have made a lasting impact on the world. Among them is Vivienne Westwood, the iconic British designer who redefined fashion with her rebellious spirit and innovative designs. From launching her own brand to revolutionizing the industry, Westwood remains a force to be reckoned with.
This March, forward2me is celebrating Women’s History Month with 25% off shipping from select women-owned brands. Shop from the official Vivienne Westwood online store and ship through our warehouses to enjoy this exclusive discount. Use code "IWD25VW" when creating your shipment to save on shipping. Find out more about our initiative and see the other brands featured here.
From a Small London Boutique to a Fashion Revolution
Born in 1941 in Derbyshire, England, Vivienne Isabel Swire became one of the most influential designers of all time. Initially a primary school teacher, she found her way into fashion in the 1970s when she and her then-partner Malcolm McLaren opened a boutique on King’s Road, London. Her designs, deeply rooted in punk culture, challenged conventional fashion norms and gave birth to an entirely new aesthetic.
Her shop, SEX, became a hub for punk rockers, including the Sex Pistols, whom McLaren managed. By the 1980s, she expanded beyond punk, incorporating historical elements and innovative tailoring into her collections. Over the years, her brand grew into a global fashion empire, encompassing ready-to-wear, couture, accessories, and fragrances. Despite her success, Westwood never lost her radical edge, using her platform to advocate for environmental and political causes.
Westwood's Unique Impact on Fashion and Lasting Legacy
Westwood was one of the first designers to blend subcultural styles with high fashion. She mixed historical references (like Victorian and Rococo styles) with modern, edgy designs, creating collections that were both avant-garde and wearable.
Westwood is also known for her commitment to sustainability long before it became a widespread issue in the fashion industry. She has been a passionate advocate for environmental causes, using her platform to promote eco-conscious fashion.
Vivienne Westwood Paris Fashion Week Womenswear Spring/Summer 2017
Vivienne Westwood Milan Men's Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2016/17
Westwood's designs have consistently pushed boundaries in terms of gender, encouraging nonconformity and self-expression. Her collections often blur the lines between masculine and feminine, and her provocative, unconventional designs challenge traditional beauty standards.
Today, Vivienne Westwood’s impact is still felt in the fashion world. Designers and brands continue to draw inspiration from her punk roots, her fearless approach to fashion, and her ability to mix high art with street culture. Her commitment to sustainability has inspired many within the fashion industry to think more about their environmental footprint.
Red Carpet Rebels: Stars Who Love Vivienne Westwood
Vivienne Westwood’s iconic designs have been a favorite of celebrities who embrace bold, rebellious fashion.
Helena Bonham Carter, a longtime fan, often sports Westwood’s quirky and avant-garde creations, while Victoria Beckham is known for her chic, structured Westwood pieces that combine elegance with edge. At the 2023 Met Gala, SZA wowed in a stunning Vivienne Westwood gown, showcasing the designer's timeless punk-inspired glam.
Helena Bohnam Carter wearing Vivienne Westwood at the Golden Globes 2011
Anya Taylor Joy wearing Vivienne Westwood at the Critics Circle Awards London 2019
Other stars like Kate Moss, Lady Gaga, and Rihanna have also turned to Westwood for their red carpet moments, embracing her blend of high fashion and rebellious spirit. Westwood’s designs continue to dominate celebrity wardrobes, symbolizing a bold, unapologetic approach to style.
Westwood's Timeless Appeal: Why Her Fashion Continues to Win
Westwood’s designs remain highly sought after, particularly among Gen Z and millennial fashion enthusiasts. The iconic Orb logo accessories, classic tartan prints, and bold statement pieces continue to dominate both streetwear and high fashion. Celebrities and cultural icons keep her spirit alive – Taylor Swift, for example, commissioned custom Westwood designs for her record-breaking Eras Tour, blending the brand’s signature corsetry with her own evolving aesthetic.
Meanwhile, Bella Hadid has been hailed as a modern muse for the house, frequently donning archival and contemporary Westwood pieces that embody the designer’s rebellious elegance. With each new collection, the brand stays true to Westwood’s ethos – using history, activism, and cutting-edge design – proving that her influence on fashion is truly timeless.
The Timeless Elegance of the Vivienne Westwood Pearl Necklace
The Vivienne Westwood orb necklace has become a symbol of the designer's unique ability to blend counter-culture with high fashion, making it an enduring piece in her collection. Since its debut in the 1987-88 Harris Tweed show, the orb has symbolized Westwood's bold approach to fashion, fusing historical British elements with futuristic, punk-inspired designs.
The Bas Relief pearl choker, adorned with the iconic orb and a satellite ring, is one of the brand's most recognizable pieces, representing the brand's rebellious yet refined spirit. This necklace, along with other orb-emblazoned designs, serves as an entry point into the world of Vivienne Westwood, appealing to those who embrace a mix of traditional luxury and subversive style. Celebrities like Dua Lipa, Bella Hadid, and Katy Perry have contributed to the continued popularity of the orb, incorporating it into their styles and showcasing its lasting influence in fashion.
Where to Buy Westwood's Iconic Designs & Latest Collections
Vivienne Westwood’s official online store is the go-to destination for timeless designs and exciting new collections that continue to push the boundaries of fashion. From iconic pieces featuring the brand’s signature orb logo to bold new creations, shoppers can explore the very best of Vivienne Westwood's distinctive punk-inspired luxury. For those looking for safe, international delivery, you can use our parcel forwarding addresses in the UK, US, Germany, and Japan for the most convenient shipping option.
This March, in celebration of International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month, we’re offering 25% off forward2me shipping costs when you shop from the official Vivienne Westwood store and ship through our warehouses. Simply use the code "IWD25VW" when creating your shipment.
Get Inspo - See What Our Customers Are Buying from Vivienne Westwood
Shop New and Vintage Vivienne Westwood Apparel and Accessories
Major luxury retailers like Farfetch and Net-a-Porter also carry a curated selection of Westwood’s clothing, accessories, and jewelry. For vintage and archival pieces, platforms like Vestiaire Collective and The RealReal offer pre-loved finds. No matter where you shop, you can use our parcel forwarding service for safe and convenient international delivery from the UK, US, Germany, and Japan, ensuring you get your Westwood pieces hassle-free.
Explore the online store in our Shopping Center and see what others are shipping:
Find out more about how parcel forwarding works.