A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience
Last month, I had the opportunity to attend a truly unforgettable event: "Radical Thinking: A Celebration of Vivienne Westwood" at Christie's (@christiesinc). This special 10-day showcase honoured the life and legacy of Dame Vivienne Westwood, the iconic fashion designer and cultural rebel.
The highlight of the event was a truly unique exhibition of Dame Westwood's personal wardrobe. This wasn't just a collection of clothes; it was a journey through four decades of her design career. We saw everything from clothing and jewellery to accessories, each piece a testament to her creativity and her unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of fashion.
What struck me was how the exhibition transcended fashion. Christie's Lates also included a selection of modern art from upcoming sales. The entire experience was a captivating blend of fashion, punk iconography, and contemporary art, all set against a stunning backdrop. It was a bold statement that challenged the boundaries between these different creative disciplines.
The charitable aspect of the event resonated deeply with me. The "Vivienne Westwood: The Personal Collection" auction, which was divided into a live auction and an online sale, offered fashion enthusiasts and collectors around the world a chance to own a piece of Westwood's legacy. More importantly, the proceeds from the auction supported causes that Dame Westwood passionately championed throughout her life.
"Radical Thinking: A Celebration of Vivienne Westwood" was a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience that I won't forget. It was a powerful tribute to a woman who redefined fashion, challenged the status quo, and never stopped fighting for what she believed in.
About Dame Westwood’s Activism
Vivienne Westwood was a true force in the fashion world. Her designs pushed boundaries and redefined what fashion could be. But her passion wasn't limited to just clothes. Westwood was also a dedicated environmental activist.
Climate change and excessive consumption were major concerns for her. She wasn't afraid to use her platform as a renowned designer to raise awareness about these issues. Every runway show became a stage for her message, urging people to reconsider their impact on the planet.
While fashion was her calling, Westwood saw it as a powerful tool for activism. She believed in the power of creativity and encouraged people to engage with the world through art and culture. Ultimately, Westwood was a designer with a cause, leaving a lasting legacy on both fashion and environmental awareness.
‘I WANT YOU TO HELP ME SAVE THE WORLD, I CAN'T DO IT ON MY OWN.’
— Vivienne Westwood
In the past two decades before her death, Vivienne has backed numerous causes, NGOs, grassroots charities, and campaigns such as Climate Revolution, Amnesty International, War Child, and Liberty. Additionally, she initiated her own advocacy movement called Climate Revolution and served as an ambassador for Greenpeace. In 2013, Vivienne created the official 'Save the Arctic' logo for Greenpeace, and in 2015, she spearheaded a worldwide campaign to halt drilling and industrial fishing in the region.
If you want to learn more about the late designer’s activism campaigns and achievements, check out this section on the brand’s website, and give The Vivienne Foundation (@theviviennefoundation) a follow for some inspiring content. The Foundation is built upon Vivienne’s four pillar approach to save the world – halt climate change, stop war, defend human rights and protest capitalism. They raise awareness and fundraise for NGO’s aligned with her mission to create a better society and halt climate change.
Even after Dame Westwood's passing, the brand she built continues to champion her values.
Vivienne Westwood was a pioneer in sustainable fashion, pushing boundaries in design while minimising environmental and social impact. Today, the brand remains one of the most dynamic forces in eco-conscious fashion.
From tackling carbon emissions and waste management to scrutinising their supply chain and materials, they are a true leader in sustainable practices. Dame Westwood would undoubtedly be proud of the brand's unwavering commitment to her vision.