Vivienne Westwood, Men’s red bondage suit, c.1980
Malcolm Garrett Collection, Special Collections, Manchester Metropolitan University
Vivienne Westwood’s iconic designs reference punk counterculture of the 1970s and 80s by subverting the social and moral structures of decency and privilege, using underwear as overwear, and fetish clothes as everyday garments. This red suit, with its bondage allusions conveyed by strap between the legs, is elegant and expertly cut - it is about being powerful, alternative and superhuman.