Dame Vivienne Westwood

London Fashion Week is in full swing and who better to spotlight this week than the Dame of British Fashion, Vivienne Westwood. Or simply, Queen Viv.

Over the years 430 Kings Road in London has been remodeled and renamed five times. It happened four times in the ’70’s alone; results of Dame Vivienne Westwood and partner, Malcolm McLaren’s wild new ideas. In 1971, McLaren, opened the storefront, Let It Rock, the shop specialized in second-hand clothing, ’50’s rock & roll records, and Teddy Boy fashions which Westwood designed.

Just one year later, the store changed direction and re-opened as Too Fast To Live, Too Young To Die. For two years the store stocked ’60’s “rocker” clothing, Zoot suits, and records. They closed the store again to reappear in 1974, rebranding itself as the now iconic, SEX boutique. It was here, a store with unmistakeable hot pink plastic letters above the doorway, that Vivienne Westwood introduced London to her outrageous “anti-fashions” and went on to define the punk movement in the UK. SEX boutique was known for its fetish and bondage wear, slashed-up subversive t-shirts, and clothing riddled with safety pins. It was like no other place in the world. The interior was covered in graffiti and rubber curtains were draped on the walls. English musician, Adam Ant, called it “one of the all-time greatest shops in history.”

Urban Outfitters: Employees at the shop included Chrissie Hynde and Sid Vicious

McLaren, a savvy purveyor of talent at the right moment, wanted to create a rock & roll act that would embody the spirit of the store. Part-time SEX employee, Glen Matlock was already in a band with Paul Cook and Steve Jones. He let McLaren know that they were looking for a singer. Johnny Lydon was a crude character that would hang around the SEX store jukebox. Lydon, who never sung before, was invited to audition and snagged the role as lead singer. The Sex Pistols were formed. Shortly thereafter, Matlock left to join a different band and John Richie (Sid Vicious) came in to replace him.

Even though the Sex Pistols produced only four singles and one studio album, Never Mind the Bollocks, Here’s the Sex Pistols, they are regarded as one of the most influential bands in the history of music. The Bromley Contingent was a name, given by a journalist, of the fans who would follow the Sex Pistols and helped popularize the fashions. This included Billy Idol, Siouxsie Sioux, and Adam Ant. They inspired rebel bands of the ’70’s like the Clash, Siouxsie and the Banshees, Buzzcocks, and X-Ray Spex.

Sid Vicious, Pretender’s singer Chrissie Hynde, and punk fashion pioneer, Jordan, worked as a shop assistants.

The Sex Pistols inspired many bands like The Clash and Siouxsie Sioux and the Banshees

In 1976 the store changed it’s name to Seditionaries. During this time Vivienne began to work with tartan prints, pin-stripes, and corduroy. Parachute shirts and bondage suits were among the designs that Westwood began to produce. The store faltered after the demise of the short-lived Sex Pistols. Seditionaries closed in the autumn of 1978 and remained closed until 1980.

In 1980, 430 Kings Road went from being on the “wrong end” of the street outfitting some of the most audacious figures in music to the World’s End. Today, the facade of World’s End includes a giant clock with arms that spin backwards. The space was intended to resemble a curiosity shop and an 18th century galleon. The store carries a limited collection of specialty items, one offs, show samples, and accessories from one of the most influential fashion designers.

Vivienne Westwood was designing for a niche market in the ’70’s but proved her technical skill with her 1981 ‘Pirate’ collection, her first runway show in London. Although her work was featured in magazines and street style sections the world over, Westwood has yet to receive mainstream recognition. Soon after the success of the ‘Pirate’ collection and the subsequent Savage (s/s 1982), Buffalo (a/w 1982-3), and Punkature (s/s 1983). A deal with Giorgio Armani was announced. That along with significant financial backing the Westwood label was ready for global marketing and branding.

Today the Vivienne Westwood brand umbrella covers her Gold Label (couture), Red Label (ready-to-wear), Vivienne Westwood Men, and Anglomania collections.

Vivienne Westwood and Gwen Stefani

The Westwood signature style mixes unconformity with historicism and experimentation. Tartans, pin stripes, and heavy draping are mainstays in her collections, proving that the punk roots are still there. Over the years they have been parlayed into couture-worthy garments. Westwood  is considered the Designers Fashion Designer and continues to outfit the fashion forward of the music industry. Singer turned designer, Gwen Stefani, fittingly sang “I’d buy everything/Clean out Vivienne Westwood/In my Galliano gown,” in the ‘04 hit song “Rich Girl.”

Westwood’s Manifesto, ACTIVE RESISTANCE, encourages all intellectuals in the fight against propaganda, an issue that Westwood addresses regularly on her AR website.

Listen to a mp3 audio clip of an interview Westwood did with The Guardian in which she discusses concern for the contemporary art and culture.

Check out Queen Viv representing in good form at last night’s AW 2010 runway show in London.

Fun Fact: Vivienne Westwood and Malcolm McLaren’s son, Joesph Corre is the co-founder of luxury lingerie brand, Agent Provocateur.

Christian Dior Haute Couture Spring 2010

You know when you sit down to watch a Christian Dior show that John Galliano will not skimp on the theatrics – and this show was no different. His collection had 3 main categories: women’s riding habits (the kind when women rode sidesaddle), day suits and dresses and gorgeous gowns.

The women’s riding habits were very influenced by 19th century looks complete with top hats, veils and riding sticks. I loved the signature New Look jackets – some belted, some with velvet collars – all fitting like a glove. His long skirts had beautiful pleated details – usually on one side – and added a bit of fullness and drama to an otherwise plain skirt. The use of wools and plaids in rich tones of red and grey gave these pieces a very warm feel that evoked the English country side. It was a bit Vivienne Westwood Anglomania, yes, but Galliano went with more of a “pretty” interpretation while Vivienne is known for adding her own to cents to these looks in very unexpected ways that sometimes come off as less pretty and more edgy.

Christian Dior Haute Couture Spring 2010

The second set of pieces were reminiscent of the pieces women wore to the races and polo matches. All in creamy pastel colors, each dress was topped off with an equally impressive hat with veils. The dresses were opulent with intricate details from floral appliques, beading and embroidery.

The final series of looks were gowns – one more gorgeous than the next. Galliano is not my favorite designer, but I will say that he does the most glamorous gowns that truly live up to the Dior legacy. There was not one gown that would wind up on a “worst dressed” list. These gowns were exceptional and were not subtle or for the faint of heart. Fitted bodices, full skirts, bows, petals skirts, gathering, tulle, beading – it was all there, complete with statement jewelry and opera gloves. These are the kinds of gowns that I would expect to see on the red carpets for the award shows (stylists take note!).

Christian Dior Haute Couture Spring 2010

The dramatic clothing was paired with equally dramatic hair and makeup. White bangs (also seen at Chanel) were paired with tremendous up dos. The makeup was a bit much for me. In trying to be theatrical, I thought the make up came off a bit as scary – in a Cruella De Vil sort of way. Models faces were super pale and the very dark eye makeup and ruby red lips were just a bit too much for me. I would have preferred to see something a bit more subtle that let the clothes do the talking, rather than overshadow the clothes.

Image Source

We’ve divided the clearance into three different markdown levels – 30%, 50%, and 75%. We put a few images next to each markdown level, but don’t worry – there’s lots more where those came from.  Click through the images below to see the styles by price, or click the first link to see everything. Be sure to check out the amazing Zaha shoes in our 30% off section.

Vivienne Westwood Wallpaper for Cole & Son

Vivienne Westwood may be known for her punk-inspired ’80s designs, and if you’re as big of a fan as M.I.S.S. is, now you can get a piece of the designer for your wall! No, we’re not talking about framed articles of Westwood’s unique clothing (although we semi-wish that were the case!). The famed designer is branching out to design wallpaper for Cole & Son, as reported by PSFK and ViewonFashion Magazine.

Westwood won’t be straying far from her fashion roots though: the wall decorations will be inspired by Westwood’s own collections, both past and present. According to PSFK and ViewonFashion, Westwood will specifically be channeling her F/W 1981-82 Pirate Collection and her more recent S/S 2007 I am Expensive Collection. Westwood won’t be taking on the venture alone, either. She’s paired up with industry vets Cole & Son in the new undertaking. According to the UK’s Telegraph, the collection is slated to feature 12 of Westwood’s prints.

Vivienne Westwood Wallpaper for Cole & Son

We love each of the quirky prints – Westwood’s definitely staying true to her unique style and persona. Even for those who aren’t into home decorating (yet), these fun patterns will have you jonesing for an empty space to adorn with Westwood’s wallpaper!

Letter From the Editor: NYFW & Vegas Tradeshows Wrap Up

I’m on the plane as I write this and reflect on the past two weeks. The whirlwind started when I went to Las Vegas for the circus that is the apparel tradeshows. After seeing 4 shows in 2 days I was back to the daily grind for a few days before flying to NYC for the New York Fashion Week spectacle. I’ve been bombarded with so much in so little time, it’s been hard to find a moment to process everything but here are my thoughts on what I saw the past few weeks.

VEGAS TRADESHOWS OVERVIEW

I left Vegas disappointingly uninspired. I’ve been going to the tradeshows in Vegas for over 6 years (that’s 12+ plus shows because they are twice a year) and this was the most depressing show I have been to. The hype and excitement surrounding “streetwear” 3 years ago was gone. Streetwear has been dead for at least the past year or two but if there was any doubt about it, “streetwear” in the 21st century incarnation is completely defunct.

S.L.A.T.E. at M.A.G.I.C. was the most depressing of the shows. It was the same brands, showing the same thing. Sure, the economy played a role in the bleak atmosphere but the somberness trickled down to the clothes. Everyone was playing it safe – no risks were taken, no exciting new pieces to discover. Brands just pumped out more of the same and made what they KNEW would sell. The most exciting thing about S.L.A.T.E. was running into Claw$ who was signing her Mountain Dew Green Label Art bottles.

Pool was showing at the Las Vegas Convention Center as well and had a much more optimistic offering of indie designers. While the established brands were playing it safe, it was refreshing to see new brands born at Pool filled with new life and vitality, while also seeing established brands continuing to expand their product offering.

Project was smaller than usual but had a solid offering of brands. What surprised me most was that there was very little apparel that I found exciting. If you’ve seen our coverage from Project over the past week you may have noticed that we focused on a lot of footwear. From Melissa x Vivienne Westwood, Puma x Sergio Rossi and Reebok x Uslu, the most exciting products were born from footwear collaborations, or in the case of CeCe Chin Collection, out of debut footwear collections.

The most refreshing part of the Vegas Tradeshows was Capsule, a small selective tradeshow that reminded me of the early days of Pool when brands just had racks in a ballroom at the Alexis Park Hotel. Capsule highlighted the best of the best contemporary men’s sportswear and footwear. The women’s offering was pretty sparse, and I’m hoping that the coming shows will bring in more women’s brands of the same caliber.

VEGAS TRADESHOWS FINAL THOUGHTS

Financial analysts have something different to say about the state of the economy every day – one day it’s on an upswing, the next it’s still tumbling. I understand why a brand would want to play it safe in these uncertain times but I’m not sure safe is going to sell. People aren’t buying the way they used to – new pieces either need to add something new and exciting to existing wardrobes or need to add incredible value.

When people aren’t spending as much on apparel and making due with what they have, why would they buy something safe and expected (and probably similar to something already hanging in their closets?) I think that might be why I was most drawn to accessories at the shows – shoes, bags and jewelry are an easy way to create new looks without having to buy a whole new wardrobe. A different shoe and accessories can completely change a look.

NYFW OVERVIEW

New York Fashion Week Invitations

New York fashion week was definitely more exciting than the Vegas tradeshows – doesn’t really compare. There’s more glamour, I mean we’re in the tents at Bryant Park! The Spring 2010 Mercedes Benz Fashion Week was particularly exciting because it was the first Fashion Week that I attended with M.I.S.S. credentials. From my own press pass to invitations to shows and events, M.I.S.S. made giant strides in NY.

That’s not to say we were invited to Marc Jacobs or anything – we weren’t – but we’re taking baby steps and we’re ever grateful to the brands that do value our input and wanted us there to report on their lines. We hope they appreciate our insight to their collections.

From tent shows, to shows off-site, to parties and store openings, the M.I.S.S. team was running deep with several of us at different shows at the same time – we tried to cover as much ground as we could. The M.I.S.S. writers holding down the fort at home gave you their opinions on the collections that we didn’t get to see ourselves, because we felt like you would want to hear about those collections as well. Many thanks go out to the entire M.I.S.S. team – from writers to graphic designers – who are helping to bring you the coverage you want to see.

There’s been a few days lag time on some NYFW posts because it’s been exhausting going to all the events – the M.I.S.S. ladies need their beauty rest! The next few days you’ll see our coverage, and I hope that you’re as excited to see it, as we are bringing it to you.

Eyes to the sky, Ears to the street
-GDK

Vivienne Westwood Anglomania + Melissa Wing

OK, it’s official: We have a new best friend, and her name is Melissa! M.I.S.S. has been following the Melissa footwear collabos since 2008, specifically with a focus on the fabulous Vivienne Westwood and Vivienne Westwood Anglomania styles. Aunt Viv and Brazilian company Melissa debuted some very creative new styles recently at the Project tradeshow in Vegas. Although there are some repeats of last year in terms of product styles (like with the Vivienne Westwood Anglomania +Three Strap Elevated style – which were once adeptly described by another M.I.S.S. writer as “a bit gladiator, a little Maryjane, and a dash of Fetish thrown on”), most of the older styles are done in fresh, new metallic colorways (blue, red, gold, dark green, and light green that will mesh well with the ox blood, dark brown, and black leathers of the Fall. These hues will especially look good with washed leather jackets or leather jackets that have pearly, iridescent sheens.

A new M.I.S.S. favorite designed by Vivienne Westwood are the amazing Vivienne Westwood Anglomania Wing stacked 70’s-style platform sandal; these gems have wings which wrap around the ankles of the wearer. The shoes themselves look similar to some of the pairs in the Natural Comfort brand, and the marbled rubber material (shown in baby pink, white, black, and lavender) looks exactly like the plastic used to make Caboodles from back in the day. If you ever contemplated getting one of those wing tattoos on your back a la Nicole Richie, these shoes will probably appeal to you.

The entire Spring 2009 Melissa collection was designed by Vivienne Westwood, with the exception of the floral sandals and the Melissa Numa + Lovefoxxx sandals which have a Rat perched all up on the ankle strap. The Rat shoes are very avant garde, but unless the rat is detachable, the shoes may not be very practical. The Lady Dragons are back in full force, but they are in now offered in color combinations that are slightly more muted than the original Lady D’s. They also played with the ornament on the Lady D’s, including the slingbacks with the pearly mirror-balls (which remind me of that Frog Prince fairytale) and the Lady Dragons featuring the letter seals. The very sexy AND practical Melissa Kali bow wedges are also a style we are excited about. The wedges are great for rain and for accident-prone females, and they are also great for females who love the comfort of a flat, but are 5’2” or shorter. And yes, I am talking about myself and a few other M.I.S.S. ladies.

Lastly, there are the Vivienne Westwood Anglomania + Melissa Ankle Boots, which have 2 style modes (with bow in front OR 3 gold buttons on the side) and 6 different possible styles with the version with the bows. A big yay on these rain booties – with these, ladies can avoid getting nasty wet socks in the rain – and they also don’t have to suffer through the shweaty-leg syndrome that can occur in traditional rainboots. Plus, when you are feeling feisty, you can move the bows around and make a whole new look with the booties.

Continue whetting your Melissa obsession by trolling them online, and cop them at Epaulet in Brooklyn, or online at www.epauletshop.com. Some of the older styles can also be found on the Melissa page at www.revolveclothing.com.

Today we honor Linda Smyth; the amazingly-creative mind behind the accessory lines, Fleathers and The Rabidfox and the Philly boutique Topstitch, each one cementing her place in women’s history.

Linda has been creating jewelry for 10 years now. It all started with self-adornment and the love of body art that over the years transformed into a more wearable, whimsical way of life.

Fleathers was developed 6 years ago. Originally inspired by birds, flowers and the aquatic world, these days color combinations explode from day to day experiences. Leather has been taken to the next level here with the variety of shapes and colors within this jewelry form.

More on this inspiring lady and her bright and colorful passions, after the jump!

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A-Morir is a one-of-a-kind accessory line created by a lady who’s as unique as her poducts: Ms. Kerin Rose. For having a relatively young brand, word of this lovely and ecclectic soul is spreading fast. From the NY Post to MTV’s “The City” people are taking note.

The lady we honor today, as a Woman Making History, introduces herself below:

Hola. I’m Kerin Rose, owner/designer of A-morir. The accessory line, consisting of Swarovski encrusted glasses, headpieces and necklaces, has been around since the middle of this past October [2008]. I’ve been featured in Missbehave / Missbehavemag.com, Highsnobette.com, NY Post, NY Observer, AOL’s Stylelist blog, fashionweekdaily.com, the Urban Outfitters blog, I’m repped on MTV’s “The City” by the lovely Erin Lucas, and my Bizet frames were just in Jazmine Sullivan’s “Dream Big” video for 5 seconds… which is 5 seconds more than before!!

In addition to A-morir, I am the girl “Friday”/clothing designer for The Savant Guard, an incredible Brooklyn based record label. I have recently become a blogger for San Francisco’s Fatlace AND! I am also training for my first half marathon in 10 years with the Chrons and Colitis Foundation of America while my sister and I work on developing our 501c3 non-profit called We Love Your Guts. Please go to www.weloveyourguts.org to see what we’re about and help me in my fundraising efforts!

Kerin has a lot of amazing things going on and she’s more than deserving of the shine! We’ve got more on this crafty lady, after the jump!

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“There is status in wearing your (old) favorites over & over until they grow old or fall apart.”

Gotta love Viv!

Via The Foxy Man

Worship Worthy has launched the follow-up Holiday collection to their debut season.  The new line features printed tees, leggings, bodysuits, and sequins galore.  The tees are cute and include the logo variety, as well as homages to high fashion icons like Vivienne Westwood and Yves Saint Laurent.  The sequin pieces include a pair of leggings and a bodysuit that zippers down the front (very sexy!).  The pieces are interchangeable and layer in way that is nonchalant but very chic.  The sequins add the right amount of glitz to your glam. In addition to the clothing, Worship Worthy teamed up with Devout Dolls to create Lin & Ling the cutest, straight-jacketed twins I’ve ever seen.

The look book is shot beautifully by Olivia Malone and I like the props, especially the mask, bows, veils and black roses.  Balloons are also featured:  I’ve seen so many balloons in look books lately I’m beginning to think balloons are the new black. Check out more pictures from the look book after the jump.  The pieces are available on the WW Web Shop, Cultist Shop, The Reed Space (NY) and Bauhaus (HK).

All images shot by Olivia Malone

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