Patchwork in Image and Material

This is the Autumn/Winter 2016 London Collections. Burberry, a driving force in the London fashion scene, is implementing a groundbreaking reform. The existing collection line "Burberry Prorsum" and the ready-to-wear lines "London" and "Brit" will be eliminated, with everything unified under "Burberry." License products in Japan will also be discontinued, creating a globally consistent "Burberry" brand.




The theme for this first "Burberry" collection is patchwork. The first look pairs a sturdy navy military coat with a silk mini dress. The subsequent python coat and mini dress feature a vibrant, London-esque hunting green. Black piping and stitching accentuate the silhouettes. The gussets of the pleated skirt vary in color and material, with added prints. A classic British check coat is paired with a sequined floral motif dress. Color python patchwork ankle boots and a thick leather belt, reminiscent of a trench coat's belt, add a touch of strength. Beyond just color and material, the collection also incorporates a patchwork of punk and rock imagery, distinctly London.



Another reform is the presentation of men's and women's collections in a single show starting next season, in September and February. Furthermore, items presented at the collection will be available for purchase in stores the very next day. This means collections will be shown for the actual season, rather than six months in advance. This strategy centers on boutiques. With Chief Creative Officer Christopher Bailey effectively taking the reins of management, he has personally spearheaded these reforms. There is no doubt that this reform will significantly influence other brands.