Whatever you think of her, who else but Vivienne Westwood could shine such a laser light on the global fashion industry? As someone who has spent a lifetime walking to beat of her own hems and heels, there is something incredibly gratifying in watching this almost octogenarian putting on the sustainability warrior garb.Westwood is upfront about her business and unapologetic about continuing in the fashion business and for this she has many detractors. Detractors whose criticisms are very real. It seems that there is no indication that Vivienne Westwood herself is doing anything to put into practice many of long laundry list of her preachings.For a start, the sheer number of outfits made of petroleum-based materials shown on runways seem to have violated both her ‘cut out plastic whenever possible’ and ‘quality vs quantity’ points. And that's before a person gets started on a declaration of her position on labour. One thing that is clear is that the prices she (fairly) charges keep the hordes at bay.For me, while she is a contradiction, she is giving the sustainability movement voice and starting conversations. By staying in fashion, people listen to her. I am just not sure that her apparently double standards around her own business behaviour are what you'd be teaching your children.Whatever you think of her: Buy less, choose well, make it last!
Photo: Asia Fashion News