Crown
1987 {Harris Tweed collection, autumn-winter, 1987–88}
Medium
wool, polyester (fur), silk (satin)
Measurements
12.0 cm (height) 28.0 cm (width) 50.5 cm (crown circumference)
Credit Line
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Gift of Krystyna Campbell-Pretty AM and Family through the Australian Government’s Cultural Gifts Program, 2023
Gallery location
Special Exhibitions Gallery
Ground Level, NGV International
About this work
Westwood played a key role in the revival of an upper-class ‘British’ style, beginning with her 1987 Harris Tweed collection. Often referred to as her ‘royal’ collection, it was inspired in part by the childhood wardrobes of Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret, featuring English tweeds, red wool barathea, twin sets and striped schoolboy blazers. Westwood even presented a royal crown sculpted in tweed and faux fur, designed in collaboration with milliner Stephen Jones. The collection also introduced model Sara Stockbridge, whose blend of ‘English rose’ and 1950s pin-up looks embodied Westwood’s ideal woman at that time.
Artwork Details
Place/s of Execution
England
Inscription
label, centre back stand, woven in gold on red polyester: Vivienne / Westwood / ©
label, centre back stand, woven in gold on red polyester: Made in England
Accession Number
2023.717
Department
International Fashion and Textiles