CCE0446 – Dress, Vivienne Westwood, 1981

Part of the One Minute Wonders trail, a story written by one of our volunteers, inspired by objects on display.

By Dani Tabakova

A simple white cotton dress, with short sleeves, and a train extending behind.

This garment was part of Westwood’s first runway, Pirates. Inspired by historical dress, Westwood drew on her research at the V&A to incorporate accuracy into her designs.

Contrasting this dress, the Pirates collection itself was an exploration of bright and bold looks, with fits and patterns that mirrored those of the past.

After this show, Westwood’s fashion career was on the rise – her daring and performative styles also expressed her cultural and environmental activism.

While this dress could symbolize humble beginnings, its greater significance lies in Westwood’s mainstream success, and her campaigns towards a better global future.