Background
Vivienne Westwood, the British fashion/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>style-health/fashion/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>fashion designer and a pioneer of the punk movement, is renowned for her groundbreaking contributions to the world of fashion. Her unique style and rebellious spirit have influenced generations of designers and fashion enthusiasts alike. Recently, Christie’s auction house announced an exclusive sale featuring a select number of items from Westwood’s personal wardrobe, offering fashion enthusiasts and collectors the rare opportunity to own a piece of her iconic legacy.
The Auction
Highlights
Some of the most noteworthy pieces in this auction include a bondage-style mini-dress from Westwood’s Anglomania collection, a
Significance
The significance of this auction extends beyond the value of these pieces as fashion items. It offers an insight into Westwood’s creative process, her personal style, and her impact on pop culture. Each piece tells a story – of rebellion, innovation, and the power of fashion to challenge societal norms.
The Legacy
Continuing Influence
Vivienne Westwood’s influence on fashion is undeniable. Her designs have shaped the way we dress and think about fashion. This auction serves as a reminder of her enduring impact, as these pieces continue to inspire and influence designers and fashion enthusiasts today.
Collecting and Preserving
For collectors, owning a piece from Westwood’s personal wardrobe is not just about acquiring a rare fashion item; it’s about preserving a piece of history. These items offer a tangible connection to the designer and her legacy, providing an opportunity for collectors to engage with fashion on a deeper level.
I. Introduction
Vivienne Westwood, a British designer renowned for her groundbreaking contributions to the fashion industry, gained prominence during the punk movement of the late 1970s. Her influence on this subculture and its impact on fashion at large is undeniable.
Brief background on Vivienne Westwood
Born in 1941, Vivienne Westwood began her career as a shop assistant at a London boutique named “Let It Rock” in the late 1960s. She soon became a partner and transformed the store into “Sex,” which quickly gained notoriety for selling provocative clothes that defied societal norms. During this time, she met Malcolm McLaren, with whom she would later form a romantic and professional partnership. Together, they opened their own shop, “Sex,” which became the epicenter of punk fashion in London.
Her role in the punk movement
Westwood’s designs for “Sex” reflected her rebellious spirit and her influence on the punk scene. She created clothing that challenged societal norms, such as bondage trousers, ripped jeans, and t-shirts adorned with provocative slogans. The Sex shop also became a gathering place for punk musicians and artists, further solidifying Westwood’s role in the movement.
Influence on the fashion industry
Despite her unconventional beginnings, Westwood’s influence on the fashion industry has been significant. Her designs paved the way for alternative fashion trends and her punk-inspired aesthetics continue to resonate with designers today.
Significance of Vivienne Westwood’s wardrobe auction
In 2013, Vivienne Westwood‘s personal wardrobe was auctioned off at Christie’s in London. This historic event marked the first time a designer had sold their entire wardrobe publicly, and the rarity and exclusivity of each piece made it a landmark moment in fashion history.
Historical importance
The auction provided an unprecedented opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts to own a piece of fashion history. Some of the most iconic items from Westwood’s career were included in the sale, such as the infamous “God Save The Queen” t-shirt and the bondage trousers worn by Sex Pistols bassist Sid Vicious.
Rarity and exclusivity of the pieces
Many of the items in the sale were one-of-a-kind, making them highly sought after by collectors. Some pieces sold for astronomical prices, demonstrating the enduring appeal and value of Westwood’s designs. This auction not only solidified her place in fashion history but also highlighted the importance of preserving and celebrating the role of innovative designers in shaping cultural trends.
The Auction House and Partnership
Introducing Christie’s: The Renowned Auction House
Christie’s, the world-renowned auction house with a storied history spanning over 250 years, is set to handle the much-anticipated sale of the Vivienne Westwood fashion collection. Reputation and expertise in fashion auctions are just a few of the reasons why collectors, enthusiasts, and industry insiders trust Christie’s with their most precious possessions. With
unparalleled global reach
, the auction house consistently sets new world records and offers unrivaled exposure to the international market.
The Collaboration: A Perfect Match
The partnership between Christie’s and fashion visionary Vivienne Westwood is a natural one. This
unique collaboration
was formed with the shared goal of bringing Westwood’s groundbreaking designs to a broader audience. The reason for the partnership lies in Christie’s ability to effectively curate and showcase Westwood’s extensive body of work, while offering prospective buyers an unparalleled opportunity to acquire pieces that have shaped the fashion industry.
Curating the Collection
The meticulous process of curating Westwood’s collection is underway, with a team of experts carefully selecting and cataloging each piece. The result will be a comprehensive presentation of the designer’s work, encompassing her most iconic creations from the past five decades. From punk and new wave to seductive glamour and ethereal beauty, this sale promises to be an unforgettable journey through the world of Vivienne Westwood.
I The Collection: A Deep Dive into Vivienne Westwood’s Personal Wardrobe
Description of each category or era of pieces
Punk Era:
Vivienne Westwood’s punk era wardrobe is a testament to her revolutionary impact on fashion during the late 1970s and early 1980s. This era is characterized by its raw, unapologetic, and provocative style. Key pieces include T-shirts with bold graphics, distressed jeans, and jackets adorned with safety pins, studs, or slogans. Accessories like dog collars, heavy-duty belts, and Dr. Martens boots rounded out the look. Iconic designs from this period include the “God Save The Queen” t-shirt, which famously featured the Sex Pistols logo and the British monarch’s image, as well as Seditionaries’ bondage pants and leather miniskirts. These pieces not only defined punk fashion but also paved the way for future trends and cultural movements.
New Romantic Era:
In contrast to punk, Westwood’s new romantic era wardrobe embraced femininity and glamour. During this time, she drew inspiration from the opulence of the 18th century, as well as the ethereal beauty of nature. Key pieces include voluminous dresses, floor-length skirts, and delicate accessories. Notable influences include the art deco movement, fairy tales, and mythology. Trends from this era included oversized bows, lace, silk, and ruffles. This collection represented a significant shift in Westwood’s design aesthetic while also showcasing her versatility as a designer.
Power Dressing Era:
Westwood’s power dressing era wardrobe marked her return to minimalist and tailored designs, focusing on business suits and power dressing items. This era saw her collaboration with Malcolm McLaren to create clothes for the Sex Pistols, which included iconic items like the “Bondage Trousers” and the “Seditionaries” label. Westwood’s designs challenged traditional gender norms and encouraged women to embrace a more confident, powerful appearance. The impact on office wear and feminism in fashion can still be seen today.
Contemporary Collections:
Westwood’s contemporary collections represent her continuous evolution as a designer and her commitment to pushing fashion boundaries. These collections include unique collaborations with famous brands, artists, and musicians. For example, she designed costumes for the Rolling Stones’ 1994 Voodoo Lounge tour and collaborated with H&M on a popular collection in 2008. One-of-a-kind pieces from this period often feature unconventional materials, bold prints, and avant-garde silhouettes.
Authenticity and condition of each piece
Verification by fashion experts or appraisers:
Each piece from Vivienne Westwood’s personal wardrobe carries significant historical value and cultural importance. To ensure the authenticity of these items, they have been verified by renowned fashion experts and appraisers. These professionals consider factors like provenance, production methods, materials, and design elements to determine the pieces’ authenticity.
Restoration and conservation efforts:
Many of Westwood’s pieces, especially those from her early punk era collections, may require restoration and conservation efforts to maintain their condition. This process involves cleaning, repairing damages, and stabilizing delicate materials. These efforts ensure that these precious pieces can be preserved for future generations to appreciate and study the rich history of Vivienne Westwood’s designs.
Pre-Auction Events and Exhibitions
Preview of the collection for potential buyers
During the pre-auction period, interested buyers are given the opportunity to preview Vivienne Westwood’s collection before the actual auction. This event is typically held at a central location in London, often at renowned auction houses like Christie’s or Sotheby’s. The dates for these previews are carefully selected to maximize accessibility and public interest, usually taking place a few days before the main event.
Educational events, talks, and workshops
Apart from the collection preview, there are several educational events designed to engage attendees and provide valuable insights into Vivienne Westwood’s illustrious career. These events offer a unique opportunity to learn about the designer’s groundbreaking
designs
and the impact they had on the fashion industry. Here are some of the activities that are commonly included in these programs:
Insights from fashion industry experts
Experts in the fashion industry are invited to share their perspectives on Vivienne Westwood’s work and legacy. These talks can range from academic analyses of her designs, personal anecdotes about working with the designer, or discussions on the influence of her work on contemporary fashion.
Opportunities for attendees to learn
In addition to the expert talks, there are often
interactive workshops
where attendees can gain hands-on experience in various aspects of fashion design. These could include classes on textile manipulation, pattern drafting, or even wearing and styling Vivienne Westwood’s iconic pieces.
Opportunities to engage with the collection
Both the preview and educational events provide attendees with an unparalleled opportunity to engage with Vivienne Westwood’s designs up close. By immersing themselves in her work, they can develop a deeper appreciation for the designer’s vision and the significant role she played in shaping modern fashion.
The Auction Process: Bidding, Winning, and Payment
Description of the bidding process:
Bidding is an essential part of any auction, where potential buyers compete to purchase an item by offering a price. The process can take place
online
or in a
live auction
setting. In an online auction, bids are typically submitted through the website hosting the sale. The highest bidder at the closing time of the auction wins the item. Some websites offer
real-time bidding
or
proxy bidding
, allowing bidders to enter their maximum bid and have the system bid on their behalf up to that amount.
On the other hand, a live auction offers a more traditional and interactive experience. Bidders are usually required to register beforehand, and bidding takes place in real-time as the auctioneer calls out prices. The excitement builds up as the bids increase until only one bidder remains, winning the item with their final bid.
Winning a bid and payment methods:
Once a bidder has won an auction, the next step is to make the
payment
. Winning bidders are usually notified via email or a message on the auction site, and they have a specified time to complete the transaction.
Payment methods can vary depending on the auction platform. Some offer
instant payment
options, where bidders pay for their item immediately using a credit card or other online payment methods. Others may provide
financing options
, allowing bidders to pay for their purchase over time. It is essential for bidders to review the payment terms carefully before participating in an auction.
Additionally, it’s important to consider
shipping
,
handling
, and
insurance
costs when making a payment. These expenses can add to the total cost of an item, so bidders should factor them into their budget before placing a bid.
VI. Post-Auction: Ownership and Display of the Pieces
Once the auction gavel has fallen, the excitement of acquiring a new piece from the legendary fashion designer Vivienne Westwood shifts to the responsibility of preserving and displaying it. Proper storage and preservation techniques are essential to maintain each piece’s integrity, ensuring its longevity and value for future generations.
Proper storage and preservation techniques for each piece
Temperature, humidity, and light control:
| Recommended Conditions | |
|---|---|
| Temperature: | 50°F – 60°F (10°C – 15°C) |
| Humidity: | 40% – 50% |
| Light: | Limited exposure, preferably in a dark or very low-lit environment |
These conditions create an optimal storage environment. Temperature and humidity levels that are too high or low could cause damage to various materials, while excessive light exposure can lead to fading.
Displaying the pieces in a personal collection or home
Creating an inspiring and functional fashion display area:
The display of a Vivienne Westwood piece is not just about preserving it; it should also be an inspiring addition to your personal collection or home. Consider creating a designated space that showcases the piece’s unique character and beauty while maintaining proper storage conditions.
Creating an inspiring and functional fashion display area
A well-lit, temperature, and humidity-controlled room is perfect for housing a Vivienne Westwood collection. A glass display case or wardrobe can provide the necessary protection while showcasing your pieces in an attractive manner. Adding soft lighting and complementary decorative elements can create a cohesive, inspiring environment that enhances the fashion pieces’ visual appeal.
Integrating the Vivienne Westwood pieces with other fashion items
Integrating the Vivienne Westwood pieces with other fashion items:
Creating a fashionable display doesn’t mean isolating your new acquisitions. Consider showcasing Vivienne Westwood pieces alongside complementary items from other designers or eras to create an intriguing and harmonious aesthetic. This not only adds visual interest but also highlights the versatility of each piece.
By following proper storage and display techniques, your Vivienne Westwood pieces can continue to inspire and delight you while remaining in excellent condition for years to come.
V Conclusion
V Conclusion: In this auction, we have witnessed a unique and unprecedented event in fashion history – the sale of Vivienne Westwood’s personal wardrobe. This collection, which includes pieces from her own closet spanning several decades, is not just a mere accumulation of clothing items but a testament to the influence and impact she has had on the fashion industry.
Recap of Significance and Importance
This sale signifies not only a significant event for collectors but also a crucial moment for fashion enthusiasts. The items up for auction represent a part of Westwood’s creative process, her personal style evolution, and the cultural influence she has had on the fashion world. By owning a piece from this collection, one becomes part of an exclusive community, connecting to Westwood’s legacy and contributing to its preservation.
Impact on Fashion History and Collectors
The impact of Vivienne Westwood’s personal wardrobe sale on fashion history can be compared to the importance of a rare artifact in an archaeological museum or a significant historical document in a library. Each piece holds value not just as a fashion item but as an essential part of the narrative that shaped the fashion industry. For collectors, this auction offers an unparalleled opportunity to acquire a piece of history, adding value not only monetarily but also culturally.
Encouragement for Interested Individuals
We encourage all interested individuals to attend or participate in the auction. Whether you’re a collector, a fashion enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates the art and craft of haute couture, this event is an opportunity to be a part of something extraordinary. By taking part in this auction, you’ll not only acquire a unique piece but also become part of the continuing legacy and story of Vivienne Westwood.
