Vivienne Westwood

Vivienne Westwood – The godmother of British punk fashion

Vivienne Westwood is undoubtedly one of the most influential and iconic fashion designers that Britain has produced. Born in 1941 in Derbyshire, she settled in London where she opened a boutique on King's Road in Chelsea in the early 1970s with Malcolm McLaren. This shop — which underwent various name changes over the years, from Let it Rock to SEX — became the epicentre of the punk revolution that would forever change the fashion world.

Westwood combined historical clothing with provocative elements: safety pins, bondage trousers, and her iconic tartan prints became symbols of a generation that rebelled against the establishment. Later, her work evolved into haute couture that blended British tailoring tradition with subversiveness and historical references. Signature elements include the orb logo, corset-style dresses, platforms, and the famous mini crinoline.

Vivienne Westwood passed away in December 2022, but her legacy lives on under the creative direction of her husband Andreas Kronthaler. The brand remains a bastion of originality, social engagement, and fashion art. Westwood was also a passionate environmental and human rights activist. At Winkelstraat.nl, you will find a selection of Vivienne Westwood pieces that embody her unparalleled spirit.