Vivienne Westwood, designer died at 81
Dame Vivienne Westwood, the revolutionary English fashion designer died at the age of 81. Surrounded by her family, she passed away at her home in London on Thursday, according to her label.
“Vivienne continued to do the things she loved, up until the last moment, designing, working on her art, writing her book, and changing the world for the better. She led an amazing life. Her innovation and impact over the last 60 years has been immense and will continue into the future,” from the official statement of her brand.
Vivienne Westwood considered herself a Taoist
There are many words to describe Ms. Westwood – Style icon, fashion designer, activist, and the godmother of punk. She has brought punk style to the world. Meanwhile, Ms. Westwood was also a longtime political activist. She worked not only to fight consumerism but also to protect the environment.
“Westwood: Punk, Icon, Activist”, a 2018 documentary captured her intimate and inspiring moments. It said that she is Punk Rock’s Grande Dame and one of the most culturally influential provocateurs in recent history. After defining the 1970s punk look with the Sex Pistols, Westwood has shaped the world with her daring fashion.
Along with her own collections, she designed the uniforms for flight attendants at Virgin Atlantic. Also, she designed costumes for Elisabeth Shue for several movies.
Ms. Westwood won the designer of the year in 1990 and 1991 by the British Fashion Council. She also received an Order of the British Empire (OBE) from Queen Elizabeth in 1992 for her contribution to fashion and the arts. In 2006, she was made a dame on the queen’s New Year’s Honors list. Later, she won the standing achievement in fashion at the British Fashion Awards in 2007.
Featured image via Wireimage.