Jacket, shirt and skirt
1997 {Five centuries ago collection, autumn-winter 1997–98}
Medium
wool (flannel), polyester (satin), cotton, metal, plastic and nylon (fastenings)
Measurements
(a) 62.0 cm (centre back) 58.5 cm (sleeve length) (jacket)
(b) 58.5 cm (centre back) 64.0 cm (sleeve length) (shirt)
(c) 72.0 cm (centre back) 36.0 cm (waist, flat) (skirt)
Credit Line
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Gift of Krystyna Campbell-Pretty AM and Family through the Australian Government’s Cultural Gift Program, 2024
Gallery location
Special Exhibitions Gallery
Ground Level, NGV International
About this work
The Five Centuries Ago collection was partly influenced by Tudor and Jacobean portraiture that Westwood saw at the 1996 Dynasties exhibition at Tate, London. Fascinated by the Elizabethan age, she even posed as Queen Elizabeth I in full regalia for the campaign associated with the collection. This skilfully tailored skirt suit from Westwood’s own wardrobe features a square-cut neckline, standing collar and Tudor rose cast buttons. She wore it when taking her bow on the runway for the Tied to the Mast collection the following year.
Artwork Details
Place/s of Execution
England
Inscription
(a) label, centre back neckline, woven in gold on pink acetate: (orb) / Vivienne / Westwood / COUTURE / LONDON
(b) label, centre back neckline, woven in gold on pink acetate: (orb) / Vivienne / Westwood / COUTURE / LONDON
(c) label, centre back waistline, woven in gold on pink acetate: (orb) SPECIAL (orb) / (orb) / Vivienne / Westwood / COUTURE / LONDON
Accession Number
2024.1041.a-c
Department
International Fashion and Textiles