Vivienne Westwood's Personal Fashion Archive Goes on Sale at Christie's: Top Pieces to Watch for in the Auction
If you’re a fan of Vivienne Westwood’s bold, rebellious style, you’re in for a treat. This July, Christie’s is hosting an auction featuring the legendary designer’s personal fashion archive. As someone who has always admired Westwood’s fearless approach to fashion, I can’t help but feel a surge of excitement at the prospect of owning a piece from her personal collection. Let’s dive into some of the standout pieces to watch for in this landmark sale and see how they match with Dovetailed’s own unique ethos.
Vivienne Westwood’s Legacy: A Brief Overview
Vivienne Westwood is a name synonymous with avant-garde fashion. From her punk beginnings in the 1970s to her luxurious, historically inspired collections, Westwood has consistently pushed the boundaries of what fashion can be. Her designs are not just clothing but statements—pieces that challenge conventions and provoke thought. At Dovetailed, we celebrate this kind of innovative spirit, seeking to bring our own unique twist to fashion by merging traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design.
The Allure of Owning a Piece of History
There’s something incredibly special about owning a piece of fashion history, especially when it comes from a designer as iconic as Vivienne Westwood. Her personal collection offers a glimpse into her unique world—a world where fashion, art, and activism intertwine. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a fashion enthusiast, this auction is an opportunity to own a piece of that legacy and perhaps even pair it with something equally distinctive from Dovetailed.
Iconic Pieces to Watch for in the Auction
Christie’s auction will feature a wide array of items from Westwood’s personal wardrobe, spanning several decades. Here are some of the must-have pieces to look out for:
Dressed to Scale Collection (A/W 1998/99)
One of the most anticipated collections in the auction is the “Dressed to Scale” collection from Autumn/Winter 1998/99. This collection is a testament to Westwood’s ability to blend historical elements with modern sensibilities.
Key Pieces to Watch For
- The Corseted Dress: A stunning piece that showcases Westwood’s mastery of structure and form. This dress combines historical corsetry with modern fabric and design, creating a timeless yet contemporary look.
- The Tartan Ensemble: Westwood’s love for tartan is well-known, and this ensemble is a perfect example. It’s a playful yet sophisticated take on traditional Scottish patterns.
Styling Tips
These pieces are versatile and can be styled in various ways. For a modern twist, pair the corseted dress with sleek, minimalist accessories. The tartan ensemble can be dressed up with heels and statement jewelry or dressed down with classic trainers for a chic, casual look. At Dovetailed, we suggest complementing these with our bespoke accessories that add a touch of individuality to any outfit.
Propaganda Collection (A/W 2005/06)
The “Propaganda” collection from Autumn/Winter 2005/06 is another highlight. This collection is a powerful commentary on political and social issues, expressed through bold designs and provocative slogans.
Notable Items in the Auction
- The Slogan T-Shirts: These shirts feature some of Westwood’s most famous political statements. They’re not just clothing—they’re a call to action.
- The Military-Inspired Jacket: This piece blends military aesthetics with Westwood’s unique flair, resulting in a jacket that’s both edgy and elegant.
How to Incorporate These Pieces
The slogan t-shirts are perfect for adding a touch of rebellion to any outfit. Pair them with jeans and a blazer for a balanced look. The military-inspired jacket can be worn over a dress for a striking contrast or with trousers for a powerful, cohesive ensemble. For an even more personalized touch, pair these items with pieces from Dovetailed’s collection, designed to add flair to any wardrobe.
Historical Silhouettes and Corsets
Vivienne Westwood is known for her reinterpretation of historical fashion. Her corsets and dresses often draw inspiration from the past, yet they remain strikingly relevant today.
Key Corsets and Dresses
- The Rococo-Inspired Corset: This piece features intricate detailing and a flattering silhouette that harks back to the Rococo period.
- The 18th Century Dress: A beautiful dress that captures the elegance and opulence of 18th-century fashion.
Wearing Historical Pieces Today
Incorporating these historical pieces into a modern wardrobe can be a lot of fun. The Rococo-inspired corset can be paired with high-waisted trousers for a contemporary look. The 18th-century dress, with its dramatic silhouette, is perfect for special occasions. Add modern accessories to balance the historical elements and create a look that’s uniquely yours. At Dovetailed, we offer a range of custom accessories that can help you achieve the perfect balance.
Punk-Inspired Pieces
Westwood’s role in the punk fashion movement cannot be overstated. Her punk-inspired pieces are bold, rebellious, and unapologetically unique.
Standout Punk Items
- The Safety Pin Dress: A piece that embodies the punk ethos, featuring strategic rips and safety pin details.
- The Leather Jacket: A staple in any punk wardrobe, this jacket is adorned with Westwood’s distinctive touches.
Styling Suggestions
The safety pin dress is perfect for making a statement. Pair it with combat boots and bold makeup for a full-on punk look. The leather jacket can be thrown over almost anything—jeans, dresses, skirts—to add an instant edge to your outfit. Dovetailed’s own collection includes pieces that can complement these iconic items, enhancing their rebellious charm.
Political and Activist Statements
Vivienne Westwood was not just a fashion designer; she was also a passionate activist. Many of her pieces feature bold political statements, making them both stylish and meaningful.
Key Pieces with Bold Statements
- The Climate Revolution T-Shirt: A piece that reflects Westwood’s commitment to environmental causes.
- The Anti-War Dress: This dress features powerful anti-war slogans, blending fashion with activism.
How to Wear Activist Pieces
These pieces are perfect for those who want to make a statement with their fashion choices. The Climate Revolution t-shirt can be paired with anything from jeans to skirts. The Anti-War dress is a powerful piece that can be styled with minimalist accessories to keep the focus on its message. At Dovetailed, we encourage fashion with a purpose, and our collection includes several items that align with these values.
Vivienne Westwood Bridal
For those dreaming of a wedding dress that defies convention, Vivienne Westwood bridal collections offer a stunning alternative. Known for her dramatic silhouettes and luxurious fabrics, Westwood’s bridal designs are perfect for the bride who wants to make a statement.
Notable Bridal Pieces
- The Couture Gown: Featuring intricate detailing and impeccable craftsmanship, this gown is the epitome of elegance and style.
- The Mini Dress: For the daring bride, a mini dress offers a fun and flirty option that’s still undeniably chic.
Styling Your Bridal Look
Pair a Vivienne Westwood bridal gown with accessories like a Vivienne Westwood pearl choker or a Vivienne Westwood necklace gold for a touch of luxury. These pieces not only complement the gown but also add a layer of sophistication to your bridal look. At Dovetailed, we offer bespoke bridal accessories that can further enhance the elegance of these stunning gowns.
Investment Potential
Aside from their aesthetic and historical value, Westwood’s pieces also have significant investment potential. Fashion collectors know that her designs appreciate in value over time.
Why Westwood’s Pieces are Valuable Investments
- Rarity: Many of Westwood’s pieces are limited edition or one-of-a-kind, making them highly sought after.
- Historical Significance: Her designs are not just fashion statements; they’re pieces of history.
Tips for Potential Buyers
- Look for Iconic Pieces: Items from her most famous collections tend to appreciate the most.
- Consider Condition: Ensure the piece is in good condition to maintain its value.
- Provenance: Documentation of the item’s history can add to its value.
The Auction Experience
If you’re new to auctions, the process might seem daunting. But don’t worry—here’s a quick guide to help you navigate Christie’s auction.
Details on the Auction Process
- Live Auction: The live auction will take place on June 25, 2024, at Christie’s in London.
- Online Auction: An online auction will run from June 14 to June 28, 2024.
- View Virtual Tour: Visit https://www.christies.com/en/events/vivienne-westwood/what-is-on
How to Participate
- Register in Advance: Make sure to register with Christie’s ahead of time.
- Set a Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend before the auction.
- Attend the Preview: Visit the exhibition at Christie’s headquarters from June 14 to June 24, 2024, to see the pieces in person.
Styling Westwood’s Pieces
Vivienne Westwood’s designs are versatile and can be incorporated into a modern wardrobe with ease. Here are some tips on how to style her pieces for different occasions.
Mixing High Fashion with Everyday Pieces
Westwood’s designs can elevate any outfit. Try pairing a statement piece with everyday basics for a balanced look.
Example Outfits
- Casual Day Out: Pair a Westwood slogan t-shirt with jeans and trainers.
- Smart-Casual Event: Combine a corseted dress with a blazer and heels.
- Evening Chic: Wear a dramatic 18th-century-inspired
Conclusion
The upcoming auction at Christie’s is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a piece of Vivienne Westwood’s personal fashion archive. From iconic collections like “Dressed to Scale” and “Propaganda” to punk-inspired pieces and bold political statements, there’s something for everyone in this auction.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a fashion enthusiast, this auction offers a chance to own a piece of fashion history. And remember, owning a piece of Vivienne Westwood’s collection is not just about fashion—it’s about embracing a legacy of creativity, rebellion, and activism.
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