Westwood’s platform for protest
– Vivienne Westwood turned her catwalk into a stage to protest issues ranging from climate change to Brexit at London Fashion Week on Sunday.
Britain’s dame of fashion Westwood gave models a voice on her homo loquax (chattering man) catwalk.
The 77-year-old, known for her environmental activism, allowed her models, which included actress and antiharassment campaigner Rose McGowan and other campaigners, to address various issues as she presented an eclectic mix of creations.
London
“We need more heroes,” McGowan declared on the runway.
Sustainable fashion, Britain’s looming exit from the European Union and climate change were addressed as models presented oversized chequered coats, tailored jackets, silk dresses, fitted knitwear and clashing prints.
Loose tops bore playing cards Westwood said she designed to “illustrate a plan to save the world from climate change”.
Both women and men took to the catwalk.
Some wore Pinocchio-like long noses.
Knotted headscarves worn back to front.
Dozens of protesters from the Extinction Rebellion group also sought to shine a spotlight on climate change by temporarily blocking roads.
Carrying flags and a “Rebel for Life” sign, they briefly stopped traffic outside the main London Fashion Week venue.
At Preen, designer duo Justin Thornton and Thea Bregazzi said they were “inspired by the culture of dance and music and the impact it has had on us”. – Reuters were