Vivienne Westwood is one of my biggest inspirations and I would like to focus this project on her. Rock and punk music is something I have always been interested in, and a big part of my life. Studying Vivienne Westwood in my essay module last year made me realise what a pioneering designer she is. Her work encompasses the punk style, not only as a type of music but as a way of life. In the 1970s, being different was looked down upon, however, Westwood turned this around with her unique sense of style, shaping fashion to this day, allowing us to wear whatever we want. Social class was a huge factor in fashion before this moment in time, however, Westwood stripped these barriers down. She also links a lot of her work to political campaigns, and I think this makes her a stand out designer. It is easy to design things which are fashionable at the time, but it is difficult to tell a story or start a conversation in your work, and this is something she has repeatedly achieved. Feminism is a big factor in her work. In the 70s, women were opting for designs which made them appear more masculine, but Westwood disagreed with this outlook saying, "I've never thought it powerful to be like a second rate man." Instead, she felt women should show off their sexuality through their style, creating genderless clothing which works for both men and women.