Vivienne Westwood, a legendary figure in the world of fashion design, has passed away at the age of 81. Her family has stated that she passed away “peacefully” with them by her side in her home in Clapham.
The fashion designer rose to prominence in the 1970s and, along with her partner at the time, Malcolm McLaren, contributed to the development of the punk and new-wave fashion trends that were prevalent throughout the decade. Both of them contributed to the opening of the SEX boutique store.
Throughout the years, when new styles emerged, Vivienne was able to stay one step ahead of the curve by designing clothes for Tatler magazine in the 1980s.
She was also contacted by companies and institutions, such as Virgin Atlantic and King’s College London, in the hopes that she could assist them in the development of their own styles.
Her patrons adored her one-of-a-kind designs, and she became famous for clothing significant celebrities such as Dita von Teese and Marion Cotillard.
Her creations were so well received that Princess Eugenie, who is a huge fan, chose to wear one of her dresses at the wedding of the Prince of Wales and the Princess of Wales.
She even had her own personal run-in with royalty, and the attire she wore when she met the Queen was the subject of much discussion. Vivienne was trying to show off her dazzling style, but all that was seen was the skin that was behind her translucent tights.
She is survived by her husband, Andreas Kronthaler, and their two sons, Derek Westwood and Joseph Corré. Joseph Corré, her youngest son, has followed in his mother’s footsteps and is the founder of the lingerie business Agent Provocateur. Derek Westwood is a fashion designer.
A number of people have expressed their condolences and paid tribute to Vivienne Westwood, including fashion writer Vanessa Friedman, who wrote, “Farewell Vivienne Westwood, a real fashion original, and disruptor extraordinaire.”
In addition, Jonathan Ross stated: “Rest in peace, the wonderful Vivienne Westwood. Unique. Brilliant. Uncompromising. Thanks Viv x, “and the winner of the UK’s Drag Race The Vivienne made the following comment: “Vivienne Westwood is the woman who gave me the confidence that I could achieve everything I set my mind to, that I could wear anything I chose, that she was an Icon, and that I somehow lived my life through hers. There will never be another opportunity like this, but we will continue to fight for you.”
