Vivienne Westwood: legacy in jeopardy and family tensions

Fashion icon Vivienne Westwood faces family and organizational challenges that impact her legacy.

The world of Vivienne Westwood is being turned upside down by internal tensions, involving questions of management and values. Following the designer’s death in 2022, her granddaughter, Cora Corré, has publicly expressed concerns about the company’s current direction. The young heiress seems to disagree with some of the brand’s decisions and management style. What’s really going on at this legendary fashion house?

Cora Corré, the heiress at odds with the brand’s direction

Since the death of Vivienne Westwood, Cora Corré, daughter of the activist and co-founder of the Joe Corré brand, has taken a leading role in the public debate surrounding the future of the house. Recently, she denounced some of the company’s practices, questioning its loyalty to her grandmother’s values. Cora spoke of growing tensions with current management. She seems worried that the brand’s rebellious, committed spirit is being diluted by a business model deemed “too commercial”.

Management in search of growth… at the risk of forgetting the Westwood essence?

Under the leadership of Andrea Baldo, CEO since 2022, the house seems to be moving towards international expansion and a more traditional strategy. Vivienne Westwood, who was known for her political, ecological and societal commitments, saw fashion as a means of revolutionizing minds. Cora, on the other hand, accuses current management of favoring a “superficial”, profit-driven approach.

Baldo, a former director of luxury brands such as Céline and Marni, explained that he wanted to honor Vivienne’s legacy while ensuring financial stability. However, for fans of the Westwood universe, this growth momentum could result in the brand losing its unique, challenging character.

The Vivienne Westwood Foundation: a controversial tribute

Another point of contention: the Vivienne Westwood Foundation, created after the designer’s death to perpetuate her values. Cora has expressed reservations about the foundation’s real motivations. She believes that some executives see the foundation as a tool for profit, rather than for social causes. Intended to defend environmental values, the foundation could become a mere communication tool for the brand.

Cora is campaigning for better fund management and a return to the company’s original values. She would like to see the foundation defend concrete social causes and not become a marketing tool.

An evolution that divides fashion fans and observers alike

These internal disagreements raise questions among fans: will the brand remain true to Vivienne Westwood’s ideals? The pressure to maintain a rebellious image while maximizing profits seems to be creating a major split. Could the young heiress influence a return to basics for this iconic punk fashion house?