When a catwalk show is led by a live solo performance of a folk-artsy type, the ambiance is bound to be serene and magnetic. This was emphatically the case at the Burberry Fall/Winter 2016-2017 Ready-to-Wear runway show and Christopher Bailey made sure the crowd was mesmerized with the presentation.
While most fashion devotees can recognize the brand’s distinctive pattern a mile away, this time around Bailey made it beautifully discrete. The grand entrance was marked by a model donning a navy military-like coat with Burberry’s distinctive tartan pattern as its lining. And just then, a myriad of models came flowing in with Bailey’s own personal vintage twist, such as laminated A-line mini dresses, snake-patterned coats, 70’s-like midi dresses highlighted by geometrical lines, short-sleeved bodices printed with a riot of motifs, shimmery dresses with a hint of metallic accents and floral blouses paired with monochrome suit-pants. Along came evening dresses sprinkled with a dusting of glitter whereas others were embroidered with whimsical patchworks.
Adding a spine to the collection were the overzealous pleated dresses highlighted at the waist by a thick belt and most importantly, the oh-so-chic black lurex coat. Fur was also playing a starring role as it was elegantly channeled through an oversized coat.
Christopher Bailey continues to work his way into the vintage world, adding zesty cross-bags to the retro collection. The runway show was a feast for the eyes and it will surely be a feast for Burberry’s new initiative as well, particularly since the collection is made to be instantly available for purchase after the show. Kudos Mr. Bailey!
Cindy Menassa
