Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Vivienne Westwood

A closer look at the most debated and controversial moments involving Vivienne Westwood.

Dame Vivienne Westwood was a highly influential English fashion designer and businesswoman credited with popularizing punk and new wave fashion. Her designs challenged convention and pushed boundaries, solidifying her status as a major figure in the fashion world. In 2022, she was recognized as one of Britain's most influential artists of the last 50 years.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Controversies & Scandals

1974: Reopening of Boutique as Sex

In 1974, Vivienne Westwood and Malcolm McLaren re-modelled their boutique and reopened it as Sex. The pieces sold were intentionally abrasive and challenging, designed with fetish and sado-masochism themes, seeking to provoke the middle class and inspire punks into political action.

1987: 'Harris Tweed' Collection Launch

In Autumn-Winter 1987/88, Vivienne Westwood showcased the 'Harris Tweed' collection. The collection is credited with reviving its use as a fashion fabric. She also adopted the use of the Orb logo, similar to the Orb Mark of the Harris Tweed Authority, which sparked controversy.

2009: Tax Due to HMRC

In 2009, Vivienne Westwood owed £350,000 in tax plus interest of £144,112 due to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) for underestimating the value of her brand.

August 2011: Agreement to Pay Tax and Interest to HMRC

In August 2011, Vivienne Westwood's company, Vivienne Westwood Ltd, agreed to pay £350,000 in tax plus interest of £144,112, due in 2009, to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) for underestimating the value of her brand.

2011: Company Paid Latimo

Since 2011, Vivienne Westwood Ltd had been paying £2 million a year to offshore company Latimo for the right to use Westwood's name on her own fashion label.

2013: Accusations of Using Green Movement as Marketing Tool

In 2013, Eluxe Magazine accused Vivienne Westwood of using the green movement as a marketing tool due to her company's production practices, including using synthetic materials and producing numerous collections per year.