Burberry SS24 Show: Daniel Lee’s Triumph of Style Democracy
In the heart of London, against the backdrop of Highbury Fields, Burberry’s latest spectacle unfolded under a giant green tent – a marriage of military surplus and upscale festival chic. It was none other than the much-anticipated Burberry Spring/Summer 2024 show, helmed by the brilliant Daniel Lee, the creative director who had already made waves with his debut collection for the iconic fashion house. As the fashion elite descended upon the showground, the entire city of London seemed to embrace Burberry fever, welcoming it with open arms.
Daniel Lee’s vision for Burberry epitomizes a new era of style democracy, and the city of London was quick to respond. Norman’s, a beloved café in Tufnell Park, received a fashionable makeover, and even Bond Street station transformed into a Burberry-themed spectacle. The equestrian knight flags fluttered across the streets, and gorilla stencils adorned the city’s pavements. This fusion of high fashion and everyday life was a testament to Burberry’s evolving identity.
The atmosphere at the showground was unlike any other. Dog walkers and school children stood in awe as a star-studded guest list, including luminaries like Rachel Weisz, Kylie Minogue, Damon Albarn, Skepta, Bukayo Saka, Mo Farah, Neneh Cherry, Jodie Comer, and Top Boys Michael Ward, Kano, and Barry Keoghan, graced the venue with their presence.
Seated on green benches covered in plush green blankets, guests sipped on coffee and Guinness bread from a Norman’s food truck. The staff, clad in understated beige slacks and blue knit jumpers, signaled a departure from the conventional black suits worn by greeters at previous shows. Burberry was redefining luxury with a cool, egalitarian twist.
It was evident that Daniel Lee was finding his stride at the fashion house. His sophomore collection exuded maturity and focus. The show began with an iconic twist – the trench coat, Burberry’s super-seller, reimagined in black, with the collar raised and belted low on the hip. This new silhouette radiated a sense of effortless cool, a departure from the classic waisted versions.
The trench coat made various appearances, each with its unique twist. A white version boasted a bold printed chain motif, while a light beige iteration featured a thick hip belt, worn with a rebellious green lip by Liberty Ross. Another trench coat came in vibrant red, and a purplish grey one was provocatively worn off the shoulder, its wide beige check lining honoring the house’s heritage. The print continued to make statements on green silk men’s shirts, black trousers, and knee-length shorts. Not to forget the gold print on a white pleated asymmetric-hemmed skirt, gracefully worn by Karen Elson.
Amidst the elegance, moments of playful flair emerged in the form of fringed knitted polo neck dresses that swayed dramatically with each step. A chiffon pleated military jacket in azure blue exuded seduction, while crystal-covered backless loafers and heeled leather versions punctuated the collection with a hint of fun. The crescent-shaped Shield bag was nonchalantly slung across the body, some adorned with chunky silver chains.
The collection was a tribute to Britishness in all its eccentric glory. From barking dogs in the soundtrack to strawberry, pear, and cherry prints and embroideries, vibrant poppies, forget-me-nots, and roses in primary brights adorned the finale looks. Daniel Lee’s Burberry seamlessly blended precision with ease, bridging the gap between punk and street, high and low. The Burberry Spring/Summer 2024 collection promises to ignite the fashion world with its unique blend of British charm and contemporary style, reaffirming Burberry’s position as a trailblazer in the industry.
