Burberry’s Spring/Summer 2025 ready-to-wear collection, presented at London’s iconic National Theatre, embodies a fresh vision under Creative Director Daniel Lee. The show stood out not just for the collection but also for its setting—the Brutalist architecture of the National Theatre. This juxtaposition between the venue’s raw, minimalist concrete forms and the lightness of the garments set the stage for a collection full of contrasts.
A New Era for Burberry
This season’s collection signals a departure from the more traditional grandeur of Burberry shows. Instead, Lee opted for a setting that underscored the modern, practical turn Burberry is taking. This decision is emblematic of Lee’s approach: pairing familiar elements of British fashion with unexpected modern twists.
British artist Gary Hume created a striking set design with torn, fabric-like installations that mirrored the collection’s deconstructed aesthetic. This visual collaboration highlighted the balance between tradition and innovation that Burberry continues to navigate.
A Collection Rooted in Practicality and Adventure
The collection itself blends practicality with elegance. Lightweight fabrics like washed silk poplin and linen are used for classic Burberry trench coats, reimagined for warmer weather. Trench coats are shorter, more playful, and adorned with details like feather trims, perfect for a British summer, where the line between city chic and countryside exploration often blurs. Capes and parkas, made from sun-bleached cotton and washed leather, evoke the feeling of an outdoor adventure while retaining the brand’s weatherproof legacy.
A Joyful Color Palette
One of the most distinctive aspects of this collection is its vibrant color palette. Moving away from Burberry’s traditionally muted tones, the Spring/Summer 2025 pieces feature cheerful hues like carrot, palma, lilac, and green, alongside neutral shades such as whittle and skylark. This shift toward brighter, optimistic colors reflects a renewed sense of joy and playfulness in the brand’s vision for the season.
Outdoor-Inspired Pieces
Beyond the trenches, Burberry’s outdoor influence shines through in functional garments like cargo pants and easy, relaxed trousers, with details like ankle buttons that allow wearers to adjust their silhouette. Full-length skirts come in bold colors and are finished with faux feather trims, while hand-stitched paillettes in shades of gold and lilac add a touch of whimsical luxury to flowing dresses. These items strike a balance between utilitarian design and elevated summer elegance, perfectly suited for the modern adventurer.
Accessories with Heritage Appeal
The accessories from this collection also emphasize Burberry’s connection to the outdoors, particularly with new bag styles like the Country crossbody, featuring Burberry’s signature check pattern. Practicality and heritage are reflected in these pieces, which incorporate grainy leather and patchwork designs. Shoes like clogs, open-toe mules, and penny loafers offer both function and flair, further contributing to the collection’s easygoing, yet refined, sensibility.
Stars and Intimacy at the Show
The choice of venue, combined with the intimate nature of the presentation, allowed for a more focused experience for the audience. Celebrities like Liu Wen, who closed the show, and stars like Olivia Colman and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley added to the allure of the event. This mix of high fashion and familiar faces emphasized the brand’s blend of tradition and contemporary appeal.
In summary, Burberry’s Spring/Summer 2025 collection is a celebration of British heritage reinterpreted for modern life. By blending functional outdoor wear with high fashion, all while maintaining a playful and optimistic spirit, the collection speaks to a future where style and practicality coexist effortlessly.
