Vivienne Westwood is known for her bold and innovative fashion designs that push the boundaries of what is considered "normal" in the industry. Her groundbreaking collections 'Cut, Slash, and Pull' and 'Cut and Slash' are no exception. For these collections, Westwood looked to Renaissance fashion for inspiration, specifically the trend of deliberately cut and slashed fabric.
Renaissance fashion was known for its elaborate and ornate clothing, with deliberate slashes and cuts in fabric being a defining feature. This trend started with soldiers who cut stolen garments to make them fit, and soon became popular amongst Western European aristocrats as a means of revealing ornate layers of fabric beneath their outerwear. The trend also allowed families to display multiple signs of wealth simultaneously, as slashing was cheaper than other forms of surface decoration like embroidery or braid.
Westwood's 'Cut, Slash, and Pull' and 'Cut and Slash' collections pay tribute to this rich history of Renaissance fashion. She incorporated slashed materials like denim, wool, cotton, and satin into her designs, and even slashed a pair of platform shoes for her women's wear line. The result was a collection that was both modern and timeless, with an edgy, deconstructed aesthetic that challenged traditional notions of beauty and elegance.
The 'Cut, Slash, and Pull' collection was launched for the Spring/Summer season of 1991, and included a range of clothing items for both men and women. The collection featured slashed and frayed denim, oversized jackets with exaggerated sleeves, and dresses with uneven hemlines. The men's line included slashed t-shirts and jackets with asymmetrical cuts, while the women's wear line showcased corsets with bold cut-outs and slashed platforms.
Westwood's first complete menswear show at Pitti Uomo was titled 'Cut and Slash,' and it continued the theme of deliberate slashing and cutting in fabric. The collection featured oversized suits with slashed lapels, asymmetrically cut shirts, and trousers with cut-out panels. The menswear line was a departure from traditional menswear, and embodied Westwood's rebellious and unconventional approach to fashion.
Vivienne Westwood's 'Cut, Slash, and Pull' and 'Cut and Slash' collections are a testament to the enduring influence of Renaissance fashion. By incorporating deliberate cuts and slashes in her designs, Westwood challenged traditional notions of beauty and elegance, and created a bold and innovative aesthetic that continues to inspire designers today.