For the first time, the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) in Melbourne presents Vivienne Westwood and Rei Kawakubo side by side. Although born only a year apart and raised in vastly different cultural contexts, both designers reshaped the fashion landscape. Their work challenged established codes, creative limits, and even the very purpose of clothing.
The exhibition, titled “Westwood | Kawakubo”, brings together over 150 pieces spanning from the 1970s to the present day. The showcase explores both the common ground and the divergences between two designers who questioned traditional ideas of gender, beauty, taste, and function in fashion.
Among Westwood’s highlights are her late-1970s punk looks, tied to the London scene and bands such as The Sex Pistols. The exhibition also includes the iconic tartan dress from the Autumn/Winter 1993–94 collection, famously worn by Kate Moss on the runway. Another key piece is the original corseted wedding dress from the Autumn/Winter 2007–08 collection, known for its appearance in Sex and the City: The Movie, where it was worn by Sarah Jessica Parker.
From Kawakubo’s side, the exhibition presents pieces that reflect her sculptural and conceptual approach. These include the petal ensemble worn by Rihanna at the 2017 Met Gala, alongside designs seen on Lady Gaga and Katy Perry. The works underscore her interest in breaking away from traditional silhouettes and questioning how the body is shaped through clothing.
A journey into their creative worlds
In addition to garments, the exhibition features archival material, photography, and runway footage, offering deeper insight into the evolution of their ideas and the motivations that shaped their work across the decades.
“Westwood | Kawakubo” is on view at NGV International, Melbourne, until 19 April 2026. It is a rare opportunity to witness how two essential voices in fashion have rewritten its history through distinct yet equally influential paths.
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