Vivienne Westwood, Iconic British Fashion Designer, Passes Away at 81

Dame Vivienne Westwood has sadly died.

The British fashion designer, known for being part of the punk and new wave fashion revolution of the ’70s, died at the age of 81, her brand confirmed on social media on Thursday (December 29).

“Vivienne Westwood died today, peacefully and surrounded by her family, in Clapham, South London,” they announced in a post.

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“Vivienne continued to do the things she loved, up until the last moment, designing, working on her art, writing her book, and changing the world for the better. She led an amazing life. Her innovation and impact over the last 60 years has been immense and will continue into the future.”

“Vivienne considered herself a Taoist. She wrote, ‘Tao spiritual system. There was never more need for the Tao today. Tao gives you a feeling that you belong to the cosmos and gives purpose to your life; it gives you such a sense of identity and strength to know you’re living the life you can live and therefore ought to be living: make full use of your character and full use of your life on earth.’ The world needs people like Vivienne to make a change for the better,” the message concluded.

Along with bringing irreverent, androgynous designs to the mainstream, she was also an outspoken activist for causes like climate change.

Our thoughts are with Vivienne Westwood‘s loved ones at this difficult time.