From the classic trench coat to last season’s must-have aviator jackets, Burberry has brought us some serious sartorial treasures over the years. The evolution of this quintessential British brand from 19th century raincoat manufacturer to cutting edge couturier is one which never ceases to amaze me. From kitting out officers during the first world war to dressing Emma Watson for the red carpet, Burberry has undergone a few pretty major transitions in it’s time. But the most exciting change of all has to have been Yorkshire-lad-turned-fashion-God, Christopher Bailey’s appointment as Creative Director. Since Christopher came on to the scene back in 2001 Burberry has come back from style Siberia to claim it’s rightful place as London’s foremost Fashion House. To quote Wilhemina from Ugly Betty (LOVE her), it was “the biggest comeback since Jesus.”

Burberry SS11

Anyway, blasphemous Ugly Betty quotes aside, my obsession with Burberry started at a young age. Embarassingly, the object of my 12 year old affections was the brand’s distinctive checked scarf (I also had a faux-Burberry phone cover, oh the shame!) but since those dark days I have come to appreciate it for other reasons. Under Christopher’s masterful leadership Burberry’s collections always manage to perfectly combine classic elegance with modern influence for an aesthetic which is both timeless and fashion forward. For SS11 Christopher served up a collection which displayed traditional craftsmanship and sexed-up, Brit-punk influences in equal measure. Having set the fashion world on fire with his shearling lined lovelies last winter, the pressure was on for Christopher to really wow us with Burberry’s new season fare and as always the Burberry show more than lived up to the hype.

Burberry SS11

What I love the most about Burberry is the subtle yet effective ways in which they manage to bring their staple pieces bang up to date. This season the classic trench has been given a super-sleek makeover with leather detailing and the addition of brightly coloured, waist-cinching belts. Add to this Burberry’s skin tight motorcycle pants, cropped leather jackets, eye-popping neon silk tee’s and vibrant print party dresses et voila! Fashion history in the making.

Burberry SS11

Whilst I like to take risks and have fun with fashion, there is nothing I adore more than really well-made garments so Burberry’s perfect blend of fierceness and craftsmanship really hits the spot. The largely muted palette of jet black and soft nudes works perfectly against the colour-pop brights and other more daring pieces. Futuristic silver looks even saw the Burberry girl go sci-fi in a grand finale that combined androdgynous trouser looks with deliciously detailed party frocks in a tribute to the brand’s heritage and a toast to it’s future.

Burberry SS11

Ever wondered how, or indeed if it’s even possible to combine badass biker chic and ladylike luxe? Well, here’s your answer. Body-conscious leather plus elegant silhouettes and flawless tailoring, just what every English rose needs in order to take a well-dressed walk on the wild side.

Love Ella. X