Childhood and Education Journey of Vivienne Westwood in Timeline

An overview of the childhood and early education of Vivienne Westwood, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

Dame Vivienne Isabel Westwood (1941-2022) was a highly influential English fashion designer and businesswoman. She is credited with introducing modern punk and new wave aesthetics into mainstream fashion. Her designs often incorporated political and social commentary, solidifying her status as a cultural icon and activist. In 2022, she was recognized as one of the most influential artists in Britain of the past half-century.

Sections (4)

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

April 1941: Vivienne Westwood's Birth

In April 1941, Vivienne Isabel Swire, later known as Dame Vivienne Westwood, was born. She became an influential English fashion designer and businesswoman who popularized modern punk and new wave fashions.

April 1941: Vivienne Westwood Born in Cheshire

In April 1941, Vivienne Westwood was born in Hollingworth, Cheshire, to Gordon and Dora Swire. At the time of her birth, her father was a storekeeper in an aircraft factory.

1958: Family moved to Harrow

In 1958, Vivienne Westwood's family moved to Harrow, Greater London. She briefly attended Harrow Art School before leaving and later became a primary school teacher while creating and selling her own jewellery at a stall on Portobello Road.

July 1962: Marriage to Derek Westwood

In July 1962, Vivienne Westwood married Derek Westwood, an apprentice at the Hoover factory, in Harrow. She designed and made her own wedding dress for the occasion.

1963: Birth of Ben Westwood

In 1963, Ben Westwood, Vivienne Westwood's son with her first husband Derek Westwood, was born. He later became a photographer of erotica.

1967: Birth of Joseph Corré

In 1967, Joseph Corré, Vivienne Westwood's son with her second husband Malcolm McLaren, was born. He later founded the lingerie brand Agent Provocateur.

1992: Marriage to Andreas Kronthaler

In 1992, Vivienne Westwood married Andreas Kronthaler, who had been her fashion student.

2000: Move to Queen Anne Style House

In 2000, Andreas Kronthaler convinced Vivienne Westwood to move from her ex-council flat on Nightingale Lane to a Queen Anne style house in Clapham, built in 1703.

December 2022: Death in Clapham, London

In December 2022, Vivienne Westwood died in Clapham, London, at the age of 81.

December 2022: Vivienne Westwood's Death

In December 2022, Vivienne Westwood passed away. Her death marked the end of an era for the influential fashion designer and businesswoman. She was later ranked as the 4th most influential artist in Britain of the last 50 years by Sky Arts.

January 2023: Private Funeral Held in Tintwistle

In January 2023, a private funeral was held for Vivienne Westwood at Christ Church in Tintwistle, Derbyshire, where the church was decorated with 45 metres (148 ft) of MacLeod Harris Tweed tartan.