“An Ode to the Roots of Punk – Contemporary and Classically Inspired”
From the pioneering voice of punk fashion, the inimitable Vivienne Westwood once stated, “I was crafting punk before it was christened.” This bold proclamation to The Independent in 1988 reflects the indomitable spirit of the British fashion legend and the birth of the punk movement – a revolution she led in the heart of London. Celebrating this timeless figure and the enduring legacy of punk, the house of Vivienne Westwood recently infused the essence of its origin into its latest collection, blending traditional punk themes with a fresh, contemporary spin.
Unveiled in a captivating lookbook format rather than a traditional runway, the Fall/Winter 2023 collection showcases a modern interpretation of the iconic style. The vivacious assortment features the classic silhouettes characteristic of Westwood’s design, peppered with a medley of playful, statement-making graphics. Featured prominently on many pieces, these unique prints—ranging from plaid and tartan to stripes—are paired with a seasonally apt color palette. But the collection isn’t afraid to deviate, punctuating the array with vibrant splashes of red and green to intensify its appeal.
Red, an undeniably arresting color, recurrently brings punk ethos to life throughout the line. It graces a variety of pieces including shirts, jumpers, skirts, trousers, bags, and even socks. Each piece is a celebration of the punk aesthetic, with certain standout items narrating the transition of British fashion towards a more contemporary sensibility. Notably, the trench coat, adorned with the brand’s emblem superimposed on a backdrop of London’s skyline, captures this evolution vividly.
In contemplating the punk style, one cannot overlook the indelible influence of Vivienne Westwood. It’s virtually impossible to imagine this fashion phenomenon without her. Her influence, in conjunction with her husband, Andreas Kronthaler, who shares her unique fashion perspective, ensures the brand remains at the forefront of contemporary design. Today, Kronthaler successfully helms the creative direction of the brand, keeping the punk spirit alive and ever-evolving.
