Vivienne Westwood's Bold Legacy: A Fashion Icon's Wardrobe Up for Auction

Dame Vivienne Westwood, the iconic fashion designer and activist, continues to inspire awe even after her passing, as her personal wardrobe is set to be auctioned at Christie's in June. Among the more than 200 lots available are complete looks that span her career, showcasing her revolutionary style and unapologetic attitude.

From the extravagant taffeta ball gown reminiscent of a light aircraft to the politically charged pieces from her 2005/2006 Spring/Summer collection ‘Propaganda,’ each item tells a story of Westwood's bold creativity and commitment to pushing boundaries.

Selected by Andreas Kronthaler, Westwood's husband and design partner, the collection offers a glimpse into the woman behind the iconic designs. It reflects not only her rebellious spirit but also her dedication to sustainability, with many pieces showing signs of repair — as Adrian Hume-Sayer (collections director at Christie’s) details is a homage to her wartime upbringing of "make do and mend."

As the auction approaches, anticipation mounts regarding who will acquire these legendary pieces. Beyond the glamour, the auction also serves a cause, with all proceeds benefiting The Vivienne Foundation, Amnesty International, and Médecins Sans Frontières.

Here, what is reinforced is how Westwood’s legacy extends beyond the realm of fashion, leaving a mark on both style and social consciousness.

The items will be presented across two auctions. There will be a live sale in London on June 25 and an online auction between June 14-28. For the public, they will also be on display as part of a free exhibition at Christie’s, King Street, London, from June 14-24.