The Vivienne Westwood Autumn-Winter 2024/25 collection transports us to an era of extravagant opulence, evoking the grandeur of Imperial Rome and the romantic spirit of Goethe’s “The Sorrows of Young Werther.” Drawing inspiration from the Napoleonic aesthetic and the beauty of classical antiquity, the collection presents a captivating fusion of history, literature, and fashion.
Photographer William Waterworth and stylist Kshitij Kankaria breathe life into the collection, capturing its essence in a pastoral English farm setting. The bucolic landscapes and still life scenes create a romantic backdrop that perfectly complements the collection’s timeless elegance.
Vivienne Westwood Autumn-Winter 2024/25: A Napoleonic Journey of Opulence and Romance
Vivienne Westwood delves into the Napoleonic influence with a focus on military uniforms, full sleeves, high collars, drapery, and gilt metal frames.

Polished leather accessories and dancing slippers add equestrian flair, while vibrant red tones evoke a sense of confident power. Fluid forms and sheer fabrics introduce a new sensuality, celebrating the beauty of the human form.
Early this month, Andreas Kronthaler took the lead in designing for Vivienne Westwood. Kronthaler expressed that he found inspiration in the late Renaissance costumes showcased in a Giovanni Battista Moroni exhibition in Milan, as well as in sports protection gear. Additionally, Sam Smith made their runway debut in Paris.
The influence of “The Sorrows of Young Werther” is palpable throughout the collection, reflecting the novel’s impact on the Romantic movement and its enduring relevance in European literature.
In essence, the Vivienne Westwood Autumn-Winter 2024/25 collection is a celebration of history, literature, and fashion. By blending elements of the past with contemporary design, the collection offers a unique and unforgettable experience that is both opulent and deeply romantic.
Just as Napoleon was captivated by Goethe’s work, Vivienne Westwood’s Autumn-Winter 2024/25 collection invites us to immerse ourselves in a world of passion, emotion, and unbridled creativity.
