Honoring Vivienne Westwood’s Legacy Through Iconic Jewelry Collection
Vivienne Westwood’s influence on the fashion world transcends traditional design. Her innovative vision melds fashion, art, and rebellion, establishing a unique legacy. A new book titled Vivienne Westwood & Jewellery sheds light on her remarkable contributions to the jewelry industry for the first time.
Exploring Westwood’s Jewelry Legacy
Published by Thames & Hudson, this book is the product of collaboration between fashion critic Alexander Fury and the Vivienne Westwood brand. It explores the distinctive style that characterized Westwood’s jewelry.
Iconic Jewelry Pieces
The book features a variety of Westwood’s most famous designs, such as:
- Safety-pin earrings
- Pearl chokers
- Bondage-inspired pieces
Each piece exemplifies Westwood’s unique juxtaposition of luxury and subversion. Her jewelry serves not just as adornment but as a vital means of expression.
The Symbolism in Westwood’s Designs
Andreas Kronthaler, the current Creative Director at Vivienne Westwood, emphasizes the depth of meaning behind the jewelry. He states, “Jewelry is powerful, and it can be loaded with meaning.” The orb logo, a symbol of heritage and unity, encapsulates Westwood’s vision, portraying a connection between past, present, and future.
Contents of the Book
Vivienne Westwood & Jewellery is organized into ten themed chapters, covering various aspects of her creative expressions. Notable chapter titles include:
- Pearls
- Do It Yourself
- Pagan
- Drops & Bows
Each chapter delves into recurring motifs and materials that defined Westwood’s artistic identity. The book also features nearly 200 photographs by Philippe Lacombe, showcasing pieces such as:
- Chaos Necklace
- Hardcore Paperclip Earrings
- Nymph Earrings
- Flower Skull Necklace
These details offer a comprehensive look at her artistry, complete with information on seasons, materials, and inspirations.
Upcoming Exhibition
In conjunction with the book release, an international exhibition titled Vivienne Westwood & Jewellery is set to debut at Te Papa, the National Museum of New Zealand, in late 2024. This exhibition will showcase Westwood’s jewelry alongside her iconic garments.
The exhibition promises an immersive experience featuring sound, video, and catwalk imagery. Following its initial run in New Zealand, it will travel to Shanghai in July 2025 before continuing its global journey across Asia, the USA, and Europe.
A Lasting Impact
Since the opening of her King’s Road boutique in 1971, Vivienne Westwood has revolutionized the perception of jewelry in fashion. Her incorporation of unconventional elements, such as chains and pearls, has infused traditional elegance with a rebellious spirit.
Westwood’s designs remain bold and thought-provoking, capturing her unmistakably British essence. Vivienne Westwood & Jewellery encapsulates her daring artistry, offering insight into how she transformed jewelry into a powerful act of self-expression and storytelling. The book is available now at major retailers.
