London's Calling At Vivienne Westwood Gold Label

Posted: 03/03/12

Katie Jones

Follow: Autumnwinter 2012, Paris Fashion Week, Vivienne Westwood, Vivienne Westwood Gold Label

WHO: Vivienne Westwood Gold Label

vivienne-westwood-gold-label Photo: PA

IN A NUTSHELL: Entitled 'London', Westwood's Autumn/Winter Red Label show was a mix of all things British, with a bit of history and drama thrown in. In her show notes, Westwood named the 17th century as "a conscious frame of reference" but it had a cosmopolitan feel to it, with bejwelled corsets worn with Union Jack printed leggings and the highest, rockstar-style platforms we've ever seen on the catwalk.

BEG, BORROW OR STEAL: The long, satin coats and cloaks that opened the show had an air of dignity about them, while knitted jumpsuits with detachable, but buttoned-up cardigans attached added a relaxed, playful mood to the collection. Ripped tweed and tartan pieces were worn with Union Jack printed jackets or in one case, a tutu, and while Westwood's signature tailoring was still as present as ever, it was the giant feathered coats and gold applique designs that stole the show - particularly the poor model who had to ride the runway on a bike (in the killer platforms, we might add) instead of walking it.

VERDICT: This show was almost a history lesson of Britain, but through the eyes of Vivienne Westwood. It included everything from the crown-jewel inspired grandeur in the final, decadent pieces and the market seller style flat-caps. It was as eccentric as ever, but if anyone can pull of a mash-up of British tradition, Westwood can.

More from the amazing Vivienne Westwood collection below: