Chloé & Vivienne Westwood

Discover the story of two iconic women-led fashion brands Chloé and Vivienne Westwood with author Caroline Young. To coincide with The Biba Story exhibition, Dovecot is inviting fashion experts to explore other fashion houses led by women and the innovations they brought to the industry. 

Chloé awas founded in 1952 by Gaby Aghion, who promoted the revolutionary concept of prêt-a-porter to Paris. Renowned for romantic, feminine style and high-quality fabrics, the Chloé maison has employed legendary designers. Karl Lagerfeld, Phoebe Philo and Stella McCartney who have created an almost cult-like following for the label's beautiful clothes and accessories. In contrast, Vivienne Westwood's designs became known in the 1970s for their association with the punk movement. Safety pins, ripped clothes, visible seams and bondage trousers worn by her then-partner Malcolm McLaren's band the Sex Pistols launched Westwood's career as one of the most influential artists of recent times. 

Caroline Young is a fashion and film historian. Based in Edinburgh, she is the co-author of Tartan and Tweed, and the author of Classic Hollywood Style, Hitchcock's Heroines, Roman Holiday: The Secret Life of Hollywood in Rome, and Welbeck's The Colour of Fashion. Her most recent books are the Little Book of Chloé (2024) and Vivienne Westwood: Provocateur (2025).

The event includes entry to The Biba Story: 1964–1975 before the talk from 5pm.

Every ticket sold supports the work of The Dovecot Foundation to advance visual art, craft and design in all its forms.

Please note that tickets are non-refundable, non-transferable and may not be exchanged.

If you are unable to attend an event please contact Dovecot on 0131 550 3660 or info@dovecotstudios.com to inform the Front of House Team.