Iconic Vivienne Westwood Safety Pin Choker History and Style

The Iconic Vivienne Westwood Safety Pin Choker

The safety pin choker designed by pioneering fashion designer Vivienne Westwood has become an iconic piece of jewelry and a staple accessory for many. Originally created in 1977, this choker put Westwood on the map with its punk rock aesthetic that challenged norms. More than four decades later, the safety pin choker remains a coveted fashion statement.

The History of the Safety Pin Choker

The beginnings of Vivienne Westwood's rise in the fashion world ties back to her boutique called SEX that opened in the 1970s. Westwood created shocking fashion that incorporated fetish wear and punk rock influences. In 1977, she debuted the safety pin choker as part of her Nostalgia of Mud collection. Made of high quality sterling silver, the choker featured a giant safety pin as the focal point. Its meaning challenged concepts of destruction versus creation.

The provocative jewelry piece caused quite the stir but also drew plenty of intrigue. Fans clamored for their own safety pin chokers and it became synonymous with Westwood's aesthetic. To this day, the accessory remains one of her most iconic creations. Westwood has since reworked the safety pin choker in different metals, colors, and stones but the original design still sees significant demand.

The Allure of the Safety Pin Choker

Why has the Westwood safety pin choker maintained its allure after all these decades? The timeless appeal stems from a variety of factors.

• The striking and edgy design act as a statement piece that attracts attention
• It contrasts dark and light elements with the sterling silver and punk connotations of safety pins
• The accessory has nostalgic ties to 70's era punk fashion
• It remains avant-garde despite being created 40+ years ago
• The combination of jewelry and unexpected elements create an innovative look
• The styling potential suits both everyday wear and events

Interest has also renewed thanks to celebrity fans sporting safety pin chokers. Modern stars like Billie Eilish, Julia Fox, and Bella Hadid have brought back demand. For many, owning an iconic Westwood choker offers a chance to own a piece of history.

The Unboxing Process of a Westwood Safety Pin Choker

Unwrapping one of Vivienne Westwood's famous safety pin chokers delivers thrills for jewelry and fashion enthusiasts. The signature pearlescent ivory packaging brims with potential. What awaits inside? Carefully opening the oval box reveals a pillowed interior protecting the precious choker within. Nestled inside sits that timeless sterling silver colored safety pin hooked through a matching chain. Gently lifting the choker allows the hallmark heart-shaped Westwood tag to sway, signifying its luxurious authenticity.

Examining the dangling tag, iconic safety pin, and drapable silvery chain links before trying it on builds anticipation. Will it live up to years of fashion inspiration? Slipping the choker around the neck provides a quick answer. The cool metal and unique jagged textures contrast beautifully against the skin. Looking at its edgy yet refined reflection in the mirror makes it clear. This Westwood safety pin choker offers everything expected of the legendary designer — breathtaking audacity, punk charm, and luxury glamor.

Wearing and Styling Your Westwood Safety Pin Choker

Once unboxed, how should you style your Vivienne Westwood safety pin choker to maximize its iconic look?

Complementing Outfits

One of the joys of the safety pin choker comes from making bold styling choices. Leaning into punk, goth, and edgy aesthetics can create striking looks. So bring out the leather, denim, mesh, mini skirts, and statement tees. Accessorizing the choker with silver earrings, stacked bracelets, a lip ring, or nose ring doubles down on its provocative impact.

For a more refined take, pair with flowing maxi dresses, coral blouses, or cashmere sweaters. Tone down the metal hardware with elegant fabrics and feminine silhouettes to provide contrast. This allows the safety pin design to shine as the prime focus point.

Styling Tips

• Showcase it as a standalone piece without competing jewelry
• Let your hair up to put the choker and décolletage on display
• Incorporate silver and metallic tones in your outfit
• Stack with another delicate silver necklace for extra glamour
• Try incorporating safety pin designs elsewhere like on bags, jeans, or jackets

Use your beloved Westwood safety pin choker as part of your everyday wardrobe or reserve it for making a statement at special occasions. Either way, its ability to add an editorial edge remains timeless.

Caring for Your Westwood Safety Pin Choker

As an iconic fashion jewelry piece, proper care helps preserve your Vivienne Westwood safety pin choker to treasure for years.

Day to Day Care

• Store inside its original Westwood box and protective pillow insert when not wearing
• Wipe gently with a soft polishing cloth after each use
• Apply lotion, fragrance, hair product etc carefully while wearing to avoid chemical damage
• Remove during rigorous activity, exercising, showering, cleaning, gardening etc

Occasional Cleaning

Over time, beauty products, environmental build up, and regular wear may leave your Westwood choker looking dull or dirty. Bring back its shine and sterling silver sheen using these tips:

• Gently scrub with a soft toothbrush and mild soap then rinse
• Soak in warm water with a small amount of dish detergent for 3-5 minutes
• Use a silver jewelry polishing cloth
• Try a silver dip cleaning solution

Avoid harsh chemical cleaners as these may damage the protective finish. Seek professional care if you notice any loose fittings, damage, or need repairs. With proper maintenance, your iconic Westwood safety pin choker will stay cherished and on trend for decades to come.

FAQs

What inspired Vivienne Westwood’s original safety pin choker design?

Westwood created the safety pin choker for her 1977 Nostalgia of Mud collection which incorporated punk and fetish influences. The safety pin represented concepts of destruction and creation in an avant-garde jewelry piece.

What metals and stones are used in Westwood safety pin chokers?

The iconic chokers come in sterling silver, gold plate, and rose gold plate. Some feature Swarovski crystals or onyx stones for added embellishment while still featuring the signature safety pin.

How can I authenticate my Westwood safety pin choker?

Authentic Westwood chokers feature the designer’s hallmark—a small heart shaped tag engraved with “Vivienne Westwood” in flowing script. The tag is connected to the adjustable chain next to the safety pin.

Is the safety pin on the choker real or decorative?

The safety pin goes through the choker chain and serves as a functioning clasp mechanism. So beyond decoration, it actually holds the choker together.