Boater hat
1988 {Britain must go Pagan collection, spring-summer 1988}
Medium
nylon (net), polyester (grosgrain), straw
Measurements
12.0 cm (height) 37.0 cm (width) 108.0 cm (outer circumference)
Credit Line
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Gift of Krystyna Campbell-Pretty AM and Family through the Australian Government’s Cultural Gift Program, 2025
Gallery location
Special Exhibitions Gallery
Ground Level, NGV International
About this work
Referencing the elevated sixteenth-century Venetian chopine shoes and Japanese wooden geta sandals, Westwood created her infamous rocking horse shoes to transform the wearer’s posture and gait. Their name comes from the distinctive rocking motion from heel to toe they demand. This dramatic style stood in stark contrast to the modest ballet flats, pumps and trainers that were the norm at the time.
Artwork Details
Place/s of Execution
England
Inscription
label, crown, woven in yellow on red acetate: (orb) / Vivienne Westwood / MADE IN ENGLAND
Accession Number
2025.585
Department
International Fashion and Textiles