While the fashion industry is constantly churning out new styles every season, the industry would not be where it is today without the help of influential fashion icons. In this series called Get That Look, we take a cue from doyennes and trailblazers in the 70s, and recreate their looks with a modern twist.

As a highly acclaimed designer and the pioneer of punk fashion, Vivienne Westwood is a British national treasure. In the 70s, she brought kinky BDSM gear, spiked dog collars, toilet chains and a number of unconventional items onto the runway, declaring the start of a new punk era. Like her designs, she is provocative and fierce.

Today, Westwood is a vocal environmentalist and political activist whom unlike many in her industry, aims to create real change through her designs. The non-conformist stays true to her roots and causes, and as a tribute to her, we look at her best 3 moments in fashion.

Vivienne Westwood’s Tartan Style

When you talk tartan, you cannot leave out Vivienne Westwood. In fact, tartan has become so synonymous with Westwood, that it has it’s very own clan—the McAndreas. Westwood’s love for the traditional British fabric begins with her exploration in the 80s and is seen as an important part of the Vivienne Westwood brand. With each collection, the brand ireinvents the use of the tartan, modernising it and keeping it current. Even Theresa May, UK’s Prime Minister is a fan of Westwood’s tartan, often seen wearing it, especially during major events. Ironically, Westwood is not much of a fan of the Prime Minister. Setting political talk aside for another time, we’ll explore styling this timeless classic.

Recreate the Westwood signature with a simple tartan dress. Balmain‘s Tweed Mini Dress might just do the trick, complemented with minimal gold jewellery, since sometimes, less is indeed more. If turtlenecks are not your thing, fret not. You can never overkill with too many patterns if you know just how to pair them. Try putting together Proenza Schouler‘s Striped Bouclé Top with Gucci‘s Pleated Tartan Skirt and be surprised at how harmonious the resulting look will be.

Vivienne Westwood‘s Animal Toe 3-Straps Red Heel, will finish the killer look, its animal-like toe in the front adding bonus points to the overall quirky charm.

Vivienne Westwood’s Seditionaries Style

Before Vivienne Westwood became Vivienne Westwood the brand, she ran the famed Sex Boutique at 430 Kings’ Road, which was later renamed to Seditionaries. The London boutique defined Britain’s punks culture and became a hotbed for modern punk movement in Britain. From fetish clothing to bondage and punk clothes, Seditionaries’ clothing were never for the conservatives. One of their iconic design featured a certain famous mouse in a risqué position—an image that is to this day, still popularly replicated.

Ditch the racy straitjacket for a more kid friendly Markus Lupfer Sequin Sweater and pair it with the Vanessa Seward Acronyme pants. As with any Westwood’s style, do not be afraid to try and be bold. The bright tulip pattern on the pants will definitely make heads turn,  but the classic cut with flat pleats and just-above-ankle length will earn them a nod of approval from conservative matrons. Go back in time and accessorise the outfit with a Time Pendulum Earrings from local designer, Carrie K. The overall outfit could go well with heels or flats but if you feel that the Mickey Mouse sweater is not bold enough, the Oscar Tiye Minnie Sandals will surely deliver the hit.

Vivienne Westwood Personal Style

There are times when Westwood’s own personal style is toned down, and she looks a little more regular man/woman-on-the-street. But that doesn’t mean that the look is ever dull. After all, as Westwood put it,“I am attracted to people who make this effort in knowing what suits them – they are individual and stylish.” The “Vivienne Westwood Style” is not about putting on just anything in trend, but wearing clothes that shows your individuality.

Try Self-Portrait‘s Crosshatch Panelled Dress, an elegant piece designed to fit at the waist and flare out into a full, box-pleated skirt with sheer trims. It’s a chic modern choice, versatile for any occasion. Drape a Narciso Rodriguez Cardigan over, since its the minimal design is a versatile number, and its sharp cutout-back adds a light and dreamy feel to any look. Perfect the look with a Laced Up Boots from Charles & Keith.  Inspired by classic combat styles, this pair has a chunky cleat sole and extended lace-up front. Hitting just above the ankle, the boots are a perfect complement to any of this Spring’s midi looks.
Just in case Vivienne Westwood’s image makes you feel like going for a ride, consider getting a style-friendly one from Hello Bicycle. The Caferacer Solo is modelled after vintage designs (minus the rust and age) with just the right amount of refinement.

Westwood once said, “I think dress, hairstyle and make-up are the crucial factors in projecting an attractive persona and give one the chance to enhance one’s best physical features.” Like Westwood, if hair colouring is your thing, remember that maintaing the perfect and silky hair shine is important. Botanics Creation Hair Studio treatment is definitely the resurrection to any damaged mane, and the salon’s Clarifying Scalp Therapy is targeted at these 6 areas: Detox, Energising, Sensitive, Normalising, Anti-Dandruff and Hair Loss. If you ever want to look like a brand new woman or just simply feel the need to pamper yourself, the hair salon is conveniently located at Pacific Plaza. Just call 6235 0362, to make an appointment.

Image Credits: Vivienne Westwood, Fastexposure, Pinterest, Balmain, Proenza Schouler, Gucci, Markus Lupfer, Vanessa Seward, Carrie K, Oscar Tiye, Net-A-Porter, Charles & Keith & Hello Bicycle.