How did Vivienne Westwood influence fashion?

Vivienne Westwood’s influence on fashion is deep and broad-ranging.

Westwood was only in her early 20s when she was creating jewelry in London during the 1960s, and her career in fashion began to take shape in the 1970s. She was quickly recognized for her unconventional and edgy approach, and opened a vintage shop with like-minded artist Malcolm McLaren.

Westwood found herself at the forefront of punk rock, and as the culture gained steam and its musicians rose to fame, so too did her preference for checkered prints, biker styles and provocative messaging. Her work became the look of punk and she was soon dressing members of the Sex Pistols.

The first Vivienne Westwood and Malcolm McLaren show marked the debut of the Pirate Collection, a swashbuckler-themed line that sprang from Westwood’s research into Indigenous Americans and the “power garments” of the Louis XIV era (this collection heavily influenced the likes of John Galliano and Alexander McQueen). For the colorful corsets of her 1990 Portrait collection, Westwood drew on 18th-century oil paintings, and her models donned the pearl necklaces that have become a social media star and a favorite of influencers and fashion lovers all over the world.

Dubbed “the undisputed Queen of British fashion” by musician Boy George, the acclaimed, award-winning late designer bridged the gap between music and fashion in a manner that has reverberated for decades. Today, her namesake label is beloved for its long history of imaginative, unique designs.

Find vintage Vivienne Westwood clothing and accessories on 1stDibs.