Vivienne Westwood's legacy is immeasurable and is arguably one of the biggest contributors to British fashion. Following the formidable designer's passing in December 2022 at the age of 81, it's clear that her impact will never be erased from the fashion landscape. Whether it be working tirelessly to help eradicate pollution and waste within fashion or playing a crucial role in the punk movement – which is very much aflame today – Westwood's torch lives on through the industry and her loved ones.
Therefore, it was apt that her husband and creative partner Andreas Kronthaler, and her granddaughter, model Cora Corré accept the late designer's Lifetime Achievement award at this evening's ELLE Style Awards in London, hosted in partnership with Tiffany & Co, Moët et Chandon and Snapchat. The pair received the award from Bianca Jagger, founder and president of the Bianca Jagger Human Rights Foundation (BJHRF), who wore a beautiful black Vivienne Westwood corseted gown with sheer sleeves for the occasion.
'I know V would have used this to speak to you about something she cares about deeply,' stated Kronthaler. Corré - who wore Tiffany & Co. jewellery and a blush-hued midi dress from Westwood's collection - then went on to call her grandmother a 'true original and originator' and 'someone who was unapologetic in being herself never having to conform to industry norms of the status quo'.
Moments before Kronthaler and Corré headed up to the podium, Westwood's longtime confidant and supermodel Bianca Jagger honoured her memory and paid tribute to her dear friend, noting: 'V was always able to make her voice her heard. She is a role model for millions of young people throughout the world, and for me too.'
She continued by highlighting the Dame's environmental efforts, too. 'I don’t know how much really you knew about V — besides from being one of the greatest designers in the world she was a champion of the environment. She broke barriers and had no sense of limitation. The sky was the limit to what she could do to communicate her message. We protested against war, against fossil fuels, fracking but above all V dedicated her life to saving our planet,' she added.
Ending on a heartfelt note, Jagger acknowledged the Dame's everlasting footprint. 'Her legacy will live on forever – I know if she was here tonight she’d urge us all to buy less, treat it well, make it last.'
