Text: Sophie Marie Rendon
Artwork: Kevin Pineda
For those who think they know Burberry’s signature trench, think again. Daniel Lee’s Spring-Summer 2025 collection reimagines the brand’s iconic pieces with a daring sense of lightness and joy, unveiling a lineup that balances rugged outdoor charm with polished sophistication. Presented at London’s National Theatre, the collection played out against the brutalist architecture, creating an intriguing contrast with the airy, summery silhouettes.
One of the most striking elements of the collection was the transformation of outerwear. Burberry’s classic trench coat was deconstructed and reinterpreted into cropped capes, feather-adorned tops, and lightweight silk poplin pieces. This season’s trench is designed for breathability, giving wearers that unmistakable Burberry confidence without the bulk. Paired with sun-bleached capes and functional yet chic cargo pants, the collection captured the adventurous spirit of a summer spent exploring the British countryside.
The color palette embraced both neutrals and bursts of bright hues. Soft shades like lilac, sky blue, and pale green seamlessly blended with pops of tangerine and vibrant orange, lending a playful energy to full-length skirts and dresses. These pieces, especially when adorned with faux feather trims and hand-stitched metallic paillettes, evoke a sense of whimsical luxury. It's the kind of collection that transitions effortlessly from an alfresco garden party to a night on the town.
For menswear, Lee embraced a refined yet daring aesthetic, featuring lightweight car coats and tailored leather jackets layered over crisp polo collars. This collection embodies casual elegance with a rebellious twist, ideal for those who appreciate tradition but aren’t afraid to break conventions.
As always, Burberry’s accessories were a key highlight. The robust clogs, soft penny loafers, and open-toe mules offered both form and function, making them the go-to for the stylish adventurer. The new Country and B Clip bags, in grainy leather and patchwork check, felt perfectly grounded in Burberry’s heritage, yet fresh enough to be coveted by modern fashionistas.
Closing the show, British artist Gary Hume’s set design—drawing from his 1990 installation Bays—provided the perfect artistic backdrop for Lee’s collection. His teal cloth installations softened the stark lines of the National Theatre, much like Burberry’s lightweight fabrics softened the collection’s structured silhouettes.
Burberry Summer 2025 is a delightful blend of British heritage and modern playfulness. Daniel Lee has expertly balanced nostalgia with innovation, reminding us all that Burberry is here to stay—ready to conquer both the city streets and the countryside with grace.