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The designer died on December 29 in the British capital

The last farewell to Vivienne Westwood: London dedicates fashion week to her

From Vanessa Redgrave to Helena Bonham Carter and Elle Fanning, from Simon Le Bon to Nick Cave, VIPs and celebrities paid tribute to the famous designer and activist, synonymous with punk rock of the 70s, who never stopped supporting democracy and freedom

16/02/2023

On Thursday, February 16, celebrities and fashionistas gathered in London's Southwark Cathedral for the last farewell to fashion designer Vivienne Westwood, who died in December at the age of 81. Wstwood died on December 29, exhausted by an illness that, by her will, had been kept hidden and the funeral took place privately. Today's commemoration of the designer and activist attracted famous names from the worlds of cinema, music and fashion who wanted to bring Vivienne the last farewell. Among others: Vanessa Redgrave and her daughter Joely Richardson, Helena Bonham Carter and Elle Fanning, as well as music stars Simon Le Bon and Nick Cave. Fashion designer Victoria Beckham, models Lily Cole and Kate Moss with her daughter Lila Grace, were among the big names in fashion at the ceremony, along with Westwood's husband and creative partner, Andreas Kronthaler.

Westwood was synonymous with punk rock of the 70s, dressing the Sex Pistols, a rebellion that has remained his hallmark. He has addressed climate change, pollution and his support for WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange on protest T-shirts or banners carried by his models on the runway of his fashion shows. Many guests at his memorial were dressed in his creations, including Scottish designs, his famous towering wedge heels and pirate strap boots. The memorial was held on Thursday 16 February, one day before the start of London Fashion Week, where designers will present their latest collections; the event will last five days and is dedicated to Westwood.