In a modest shop on 430 Kings Road, London is where it all started for Vivienne Westwood. Teaming up with then partner Malcolm McLaren in 1971, Westwood began her flair for designing. Since 1976, the dynamic duo has set the bar for Punk fashion. By the end of the 70s, Westwood met Andreas Kronthaler, who later adopted a trio role of Creative Director, long-time design partner and husband of Miss Westwood herself. Advocate of environmental and human rights issues and recognized by Queen Elizabeth II, it is evident that Westwood has made her mark in British and fashion history. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that the brand is ready to make another mark in its rich history.
Westwood announces that they will be bringing their men’s collection back to its London roots, after presenting in Milan up until now. Delivering even more exciting news, they announced plans to showcase their Autumn Winter 17/18 Ready-to-Wear men’s and women’s collection under the convenient umbrella of one recognizable label: Vivienne Westwood. Westwood herself fabulously sums up the merge in her statement, “Reduce our company in size. Reduce it to its essentials. Selling only what we love. Our whole structure will be directed by quality. Buy less, choose well, make it last. Together Andreas and I head the design teams for all lines.”
This momentous decision stems from the brands desire to simplify its line portfolio. The decision to premiere the collection in January 2017 allows Vivienne Westwood to present the collections ahead of the sales period. This makes it easier for buyers to clearly understand the vision of the season ahead of time.
The brand also informs us that this September, there will be no womenswear show for Vivienne Westwood during London Fashion Week SS’17. However, the collection will be accessible by lookbook and private appointments only. Additionally, during Ready-to-Wear Fashion Week on October 1st, the Unisex collection, ‘Andreas Kronthaler for Vivienne Westwood’ will continue to show. Lastly, the label assures us that their brand portfolio will continue to include the Anglomania line, the Worlds End Collection and all accessories lines – so fret not, Viv lovers.