Vivienne Westwood Calls on the 'True Punks' for Spring 2021
Fashion

Vivienne Westwood Calls on the 'True Punks' for Spring 2021

by Dylan Kelly

Navigating London Fashion Week digitally, Vivienne Westwood strayed from her traditional runway presentations with a punk-infused short film to showcase the British fashion house's Spring 2021 collection.

The debut video — captured by Louis Simonon (the son of the Clash bassist Paul Simonon) and narrated by Brian Nasty — stars an eclectic cast of models, talents, and activists. Among them are make-up mastermind Isamaya Ffrench, Skinny Girl Diet vocalists Ursula and Delilah Holliday, poet and activist Kai-Isaiah Jamal, and circus street performer Dott Cotton Clown, to name a few of the familiar faces.

The collection itself features artistic prints designed by Westwood's longtime friend and Pretenders lead vocalist Chrissie Hynde — all of which boast an electric, art deco-reminiscent style. And instead of invoicing the London designer for her artwork, Hynde accepted a donation to her non-profit Ahimsa Milk, an ethical, slaughter-free dairy farm that properly cares for its cows.

Elsewhere, Westwood's house codes remain at the forefront of the line — staple corsetry works its way into form-fitting dresses and high-cut trousers with waistbands leveled at the ribcage, while signature plaid suits paired with statement red platform shoes speak to the brand's legacy. In compliance with COVID-19 restrictions, models amplified Westwood's reigning anti-establishment style with face masks reading "TRUE PUNK."

Built from a bounty of eco-friendly textiles — organic cotton, silk and linen; recycled polyester; mulesing-free wool; forest-positive viscose and acetate — the range upholds the house's long-standing sustainable principles, a commitment Westwood has championed for decades.

Westwood, who is aiming to offer just one unisex collection a year from now on, puts it simply: "Dress for the time of day, or don't dress for the time of day — wear your evening clothes to the office if you go back to work, mix seasons."

Watch Vivienne Westwood's Spring 2021 short film, below.

Photos courtesy of Vivienne Westwood/ Alice Dellal