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FASHION DESIGNER: ANDREAS KRONTHALER

ABOUT ME

FASHION DESIGNER: ANDREAS KRONTHALER FOR VIVIENNE WESTWOOD.

PROCESS

Andreas Kronthaler, the distinguished fashion designer hailing from Tyrol, Austria, embarked on his artistic journey at the age of 14 when he enrolled in art school in Graz.

Originally training to become a jeweller, Kronthaler delved into various artistic pursuits, experimenting with sculptures, installations, and delving into sewing and textiles. To support himself through school, he began crafting clothes, showcasing and selling them to local stores.

Upon completing his diploma, Kronthaler sought admission to the Vienna School of Applied Arts to study Industrial Design. Balancing his education with his burgeoning clothes-making enterprise, he honed his tailoring skills. It wasn’t long before he realised his true passion lay in the world of fashion, prompting him to redirect his studies towards fashion design

The pivotal moment in Kronthaler’s career occurred in 1988 when he crossed paths with the iconic Vivienne Westwood, who was teaching at the university during his first year. Inspired by the Renaissance, Kronthaler designed a series of dresses characterised by circular, over-length silhouettes, versatile enough to be worn in myriad ways by incorporating a belt. Impressed by his work, Westwood invited Kronthaler to London to further develop this innovative design concept. In 1989, he collaborated with Westwood on her collection, introducing the ‘sun-wheel dresses,’ a culmination of their joint efforts.

Kronthaler’s professional journey continued with Westwood, evolving into a collaboration that transcended the professional realm. In 1993, the duo cemented their partnership by tying the knot. Although Kronthaler preferred a more discreet role in the public eye, their synergy became one of fashion’s most formidable alliances. While Westwood was known for her unconventional and challenging approach, Kronthaler was propelled by a commitment to quality and progression.

Assuming the role of Creative Director for Vivienne Westwood, Kronthaler took charge of overseeing the seasonal collections across four clothing ranges: Gold Label, Red Label, Man, and Anglomania. Additionally, he extended his influence to bags, jewellery, footwear, and eyewear. In 2016, a restructuring within the company led to a focused production strategy, retaining only Vivienne Westwood’s main line and Gold Label. The latter was rebranded as “Andreas Kronthaler for Vivienne Westwood,” a testament to Kronthaler’s indelible impact on the line after 25 years of creative direction.

FASHION DESIGNER:

ANDREAS KRONTHALER FOR VIVIENNE WESTWOOD.