February 18, 2018 |
Seventeen years of Christopher Bailey’s work tonight shone brightly under swinging space-ship like lamps. It was epic. Emotional. Poignant. Thrilling. Sad. Set in the history of the Dimco Buildings, the lineup of Burberry‘s best strode strong. “My final collection here at Burberry is dedicated to – and in support of- some of the best and brightest organisations supporting LGBTQ+ youth around the world” said Christopher. “There has never been a more important time to say that in our diversity lies our strength, and our creativity”.
And so even though it was the end, it felt like the beginning with rainbows suffused throughout the 100+ piece collection, tinging the Burberry check here, there, and then everywhere. Rainbow puffas, jumpers, even chiffon gowns worn true Brit style with chunky jackets and sneakers were the pounding heartbeat of the collection. Empowering. A trailing vintage crescendo of gloriousness. Full fine tracksuits were worn with heels and caps topped off zip up jackets. There was a whole lot of tartan, fleece, everything good that you want from a Burberry collection. Slouching trench coats.
Their most recent face Adwoa Aboah opened the show, and Cara Delevingne closed it, leading the finale in a rainbow cape lined with classic check, as they walked under a a prism of rainbow lasers. All heroes wear capes. The music was the heart of the ‘80s, The Communardsand Jimmy Somerville next up to be added to Bailey’s ’17 years of soundtracks.’ And because Burberry knows how impatient and greedy we are, they have partnered with Far Fetch to deliver an immediate ‘round-the-clock’ delivery service of the new reissued capsule collection for 24 hours. Only in London, the chosen ones, obvs. It was everything great that Bailey has done for Burberry, distilled in one hell of a fashion moment. The standing ovation marking the end of an era. Christopher Bailey, thank you for the memories, they are so sweet.
Photographs by Jason Lloyd Evans
