By Maria Mukaranda
Vivienne Westwood on the runway during Paris Fashion Week, October 2010 (Getty Images)
In a poignant homage to the late Dame Vivienne Westwood, the designer and spirited activist's wardrobe is set to go under the hammer at renowned arts institution Christie's. The collection, curated by her widower Andreas Kronthaler, encompasses over 200 lots of Westwood's most cherished garments, accessories, and jewellery, spanning four decades of her illustrious career.
Among the treasures to be auctioned are pieces from some of Westwood's most iconic collections, including the groundbreaking "Witches" collection of 1983-84, inspired by the mystical symbols of artist Keith Haring, and the politically charged "Propaganda" collection of 2005-06. Each item tells a different fragment of Westwood's story - one of creativity, activism, and innovation, reflecting her unparalleled vision and commitment to social change.
The auctions, scheduled for June 25th in London and running online from June 14th to 28th, will not only celebrate Westwood's remarkable legacy but also will work to help serve a noble purpose. Proceeds from the sales will benefit several organisations known for being close to the designer's heart, including Greenpeace, Amnesty International, Médecins Sans Frontières, and The Vivienne Foundation, established in her honour after her passing in 2022.
In London, 2009 (Dave M. Benett / Getty) & In London, 2016 (Chris Ratcliffe / AFP via Getty)
Adrian Hume Sayer, director of private and iconic collections for Christie's, expressed the significance of the event, stating, "Vivienne Westwood's sense of activism, art, and style is embedded in each and every piece that she created." The auctions will be accompanied by a free public exhibition at Christie's King Street headquarters from June 14th to 24th, allowing fans and fashion enthusiasts alike to immerse themselves in Westwood's world.
The announcement follows Christie's recent initiative to auction playing cards designed by Westwood, further showcasing her enduring influence and commitment to environmental causes. With limited edition prints estimated to fetch between £30,000 to £50,000, the auctions promise to be an ode to Westwood's story and her dedication to making noise - and making a difference.
From punk provocateur to fashion icon, Vivienne Westwood's legacy of style has indeed left an indelible mark on the world of fashion and beyond. As her personal fashion effects now take centre stage at Christie's, it will serve as a final expression of a life of work punctuated by creativity and passion - whilst also being a commitment to all the causes she held dear.
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