Women Who Tell Our Stories: Vivienne Westwood | by Keira Todd
The 2023 Women’s History theme, “Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories,” recognizes "women, past and present, who have been active in all media and storytelling including print, radio, TV, stage, screen, blogs, podcasts, news, and social media." (National Women's History Alliance)
Dame Vivienne Isabel Westwood was an English fashion designer, businesswoman and activator. She was known for her innovative take on high-fashion punk clothing and for her unapologetic anarchy and rebellion portrayed through fashion and attitude.
Born in April 1941, she lived a memorable life all through until December 2022, when she sadly passed away. Her legacy, movements and designs will, however, live on for many years and generations to come.
What differed Vivienne from other fashion designers?
Westwood’s designs weren’t solely made for exhibitions and fashion shows, she wore her views and her values on her sleeve, advocating for sustainable fashion and making her voice heard regarding capitalism. Vivienne believed that art links the present and the future, this is one of the many reasons why her work will live on for decades ahead.
Vivienne used her creativity, success and audience to create awareness surrounding political and environmental issues. Westwood is one inspiration to many designers, showcasing how a platform is beneficially used, to create awareness to better our world. She made sure her voice was heard loud and clear throughout her time whilst creating timeless garments consistently.
Vivienne was well respected and known as an icon in her time. Westwood founded The Vivienne Foundation in 2019, the Foundation will continue to fight for change, honour, protect and continue Vivienne’s legacy. The Foundation is built upon Vivienne’s four pillar approaches to save the world. This consists of halting climate change, stopping war, defending human rights, and protesting capitalism.
The Vivienne Westwood Foundation is currently campaigning for the Stop War pillar. Ten thousand pounds have been donated to support CAAT’s legal battle to stop arming Saudi Arabia, twenty-five thousand pounds have been donated to Refugees Council’s Age Disputes Programme and twenty-five thousand pounds have been pledged to War Child’s Emergency Relief Fund.
Check the following link to see The Vivienne Foundation Instagram Account.
Keira Todd is a Multiverse alumnus who has completed the Digital Business Accelerator programme.