I would like if I said I wasn't terribly excited as I walked down the path leading to the grassed field where Burberry had set up their open air tent at Perk's Field. I was hoping for a huge show with live music and unexpected effects (it rained once before, after all) but I was happily surprised by a cool and understated catwalk show instead. Thinking about it afterwards, it made sense for menswear to be more sober. Needless to say, the guest list was packed with familiar faces and the music, as usual, spot-on.
'Writers and Painters' was the title that Christopher Bailey had given to a SS14 collection inspired by David Hockney and Alan Bennett. The artistic and intellectual spirit was made evident by the relaxed silhouettes – low shoulder lines and unstructured on the outerwear, which contrasted with the brand's usual sharp tailoring. It was perhaps one of Burberry's most wearable collections of the last few years, anyone could easily wear any of the pieces off the runway.
Two of the big focuses were the lightweight materials such as silks and linens and the use of knitwear and shirts as outerwear. I particularly loved the chunky ultra soft knits in baby blue and red and the work jackets, which were perfect for a chic bohemian look. Blues and greys appeared everywhere but also camel, olive, terracotta and white. My personal favourites were the dusty greens, yellows and pinks, perfect for any season. Bailey has devised all the elements that make his collection in a way that makes them versatile so you can wear them at the end of the winter when the collection hits stores and all through the (British) summer.
The coloured suede and deck shoes, striped ties, patterned sunglasses and soft leather bags were some of the accessory highlights. All statement pieces and classics at once – something any man should always be looking for to stock up his wardrobe.
As it's become the norm, Burberry is offering fans around the world the option to pre-order most of the outwear and accessories now through their website and at Burberry stores, where buyers can personalise the items where their initials. Making every piece even more special.
Have a look below at my selection of looks and at the closer look I got of the collection at the showroom. Get cracking putting your wish lists together, the commercial collection is going to be a hit!
Courtesy of Burberry
