For its return to the runway, Vivienne Westwood's Spring Summer 2025 collection made a bold statement by closing out Shanghai Fashion Week, marking the brand's first catwalk appearance since 2019. The London-based team brought Westwood's signature rebellious spirit to China, kicking off the show with a gender-bending twist: a men’s pinstripe suit styled with silver leather peep-toe heels, followed by masc-looking models in black frocks, including one accessorizing with a basketball. This unconventional styling served as a reminder of Dame Westwood's legacy as a countercultural icon, breaking boundaries with her provocative designs.

The collection itself was a mix of commercial ready-to-wear pieces—think tees, denim mini skirts, jackets, and knit separates—alongside athleisure items like biker shorts, tights, a funky singlet, and wide-legged sweatpants, as well as swimwear. However, the assortment sometimes felt disjointed, with the inclusion of a Mao suit jacket standing out awkwardly. The attempt to engage with Chinese cultural elements lacked the depth seen in the work of local designers at Shanghai Fashion Week, leaving some wondering how the iconic Westwood tailoring could be better fused with traditional Chinese attire.

Where the collection truly shone was in its signature Westwood elements. Tailored jackets, corsets, plaid patterns, and the quintessential Vivienne skirt suit delivered the distinctive style that fans adore. Highlights in menswear included a black blouse with a ruched collar and a cropped denim jacket paired with a tiny black harness, embodying the brand’s avant-garde edge.

Draped frocks and sparkling mini dresses also made an appearance, catering to the label's growing celebrity following in the U.S., where stars like Taylor Swift and Malia Obama have been spotted in Westwood creations. With this Shanghai showcase setting the stage, New York seems a fitting next stop on the brand’s journey, as it continues to captivate with its audacious fashion language.