Vivienne Westwood’s corsets have always been the symbol of femininity and emancipation. Though long regarded as a patriarchal instrument that would deform the female body, the garment would be reimagined by Vivienne, who was among the first to introduce underwear as outerwear. Vivienne’s revolutionary approach to corsetry started in 1987 and continuing to the present day. The retrospective illustrates the intrinsic links of the corset to historical dress, culture and fine art, which continue to serve as a constant source of inspiration for Westwood’s work. Each piece shown reveals Westwood’s ingenuity in corsetry design, and Andreas Kronthaler’s most recent iterations of this historical garment, which have gone on to influence the current collections of the house. The exhibition retraces the maison's corset archive and fashion memories, presenting some catwalk looks and other individual pieces.

A limited-edition jewellery collection has also been created for the occasion. Featured, is a 3D charm of the original Westwood Portrait corset, which has been reimagined in gold metal. The small range includes a Westwood gold–plated charm on a necklace and bracelet, on either a pearl or gold-plated chain with matching clip earrings.

In uniting historical elements with her singular perception of the zeitgeist, Vivienne’s corsets have become oeuvres in their own rights. They offered a new meaning, at once social and poetic.

Vivienne Westwood corsets exhibition
Vivienne Westwood Paris
Open until April 30, 2023
175 Rue Saint Honoré Paris 75001
Vivienne Westwood London
May 8 - 21, 2023
44 Conduit Street, London, W1S 2YL
www.viviennewestwood.com