Designer Research: Vivienne Westwood

In researching a designer for my project I was very drawn to Vivienne Westwood. As the my theme is renaissance I feel likeVivienne does incorporate many aspects of clothing during the renaissance time like corsets for example. One use for corsets in Vivienne Westwood's designs is as solo clothing. She designs dresses or corset tops that draw attention to and accentuate the wearer's waist, resulting in an exaggerated hourglass form. To improve the structure and fit, these corsets may have boning, lacing, and beautiful detailing.

Vivienne Westwood autumn/winter 1995

In addition, Vivienne Westwood is renowned for her draping methods, which draw on corsetry. She works with the cloth to create gathered or folded features that are similar to corsetry. Using this method, she can produce unique volumes, contours, and shapes for her works, giving them depth and dimension.

Vivienne Westwood,  Corset, 1987

The use of corsets in Vivienne Westwood's designs demonstrates her talent for combining historical elements with a modern, rebellious mindset.