Russh Magazine

As the raindrops fell on the transparent roof of the elegantly pitched tent in London’s Hyde Park, we were once again welcomed back into the quintessentially British world of Christopher Bailey’s Burberry.

With the soulful voice of new Burberry Acoustic find, Rae Morris, as our soundtrack, we escaped the city in favour of a countryside jaunt where tweed flap caps, cinched riding jackets, down-filled bombers (such a serious AW trend that Net-A-Porter’s Natalie Massenet had already adopted the look in the audience), Herringbone tweeds and brogue lace-up ankle boots were de rigueur. Picture the hunting estate meets the urban manor.

But for Bailey it was the first runway look worn by Herieth Paul that encapsulated the season. The iconic trench had been updated with contrasting panels of cotton gabardine and tweed, complete with voluminous flap pockets (creating Bailey’s version of the peplum silhouette) and cinched at the waist with a bow (-tie) belt.

Then came playful owl and British animal motif tees, before the royal purple velvet draped front blanket coat, worn by current face Cara Delevingne to close the show - all of which we’re still day dreaming about.

Moments later we catch up with Christopher Bailey backstage to get his view on the season…

Let’s start with your inspiration for this collection?
For me it was all about slowing down and appreciating things that are very familiar, whether it be an item of clothing or whether it be something like, the rain! I like celebrating things that are different; just putting a spotlight on things that we all take for granted sometimes.
 
Tell us about the mesmerising Rae Morris, who’s track we heard during the show today?
When we established Burberry Acoustic it was always about finding, nurturing and supporting great British musicians. I first saw a little demo that she’d done on the internet and now it’s a privilege to have her record this track exclusively for our show.
 
You’re known as an artistic talent scout be it film, music or models…
It’s such a privilege to work with people that you admire and who have such talent; sometimes you just have to shine a light on them because people just need an opportunity.
 
So tell us about your new scholarship program with the Royal College of Art…
It’s such an incredible place for nurturing young talent and allowing people to breathe. Sometimes we don’t put enough emphasis on ideas and thoughts no matter how small they might be. This will allow people with amazing minds that may not have been able to go to the school that opportunity.

On the subject of talent, who are your model picks for the season…
I love Herieth who we opened the show with. I love Edie, Arizona, Cara ... there’s just so many…

SEE PETER PILOTTO'S AW 12 SHOW IN LONDON