Inspired by the power of imagination, dreams, and fantasy, Riccardo Tisci, Chief Creative Officer of Burberry, creates a dynamic Spring/Summer 2022 Womenswear presentation. In reconstructing the famed Burberry trench coat, introducing a new leather shoulder bag named the Rhombi, and featuring minimalist footwear, the collection feels forward-thinking and contemporary for the modern woman who is not afraid to connect with her natural side. The presentation, entitled “Animal Instinct,” utilizes leather, monochromatic colorways, and tortoiseshell and camouflage prints to further accentuate the idea that we are all a part of a natural landscape. 

 

“To me, this presentation really represents the freedom of our imaginations: how we dream to come alive,” says Tisci. “It’s that idea of flicking between the endless realities and fantasies we have at our fingertips each day. This is for my mother, Elmerinda, and to a journey full of new possibilities.”   

 

This collection embraces the animal side within us through a variety of earth tones. The signature trench coat comes in soft fawn and Burberry beige, and bodysuits, capes, and dresses in deep dark birch brown with warm walnut accents seem to appear straight from the forest. Toying with the possibilities of the imagination, the collection also features pops of bubblegum pink, yellow, and orange in an array of prints. True to the tribulations of life, embracing your animal instinct is not always what you might think. 

 

Incorporating volume, raw hems, and exaggerated embellishments, the iconic Burberry trench coat receives an edgy makeover. A few of the styles are cropped at the back, revealing what’s underneath—in this case, swimsuits with abstract prints. Oversized sleeves and chain-link accessories reinvent the classic Burberry gabardine and textural linen cotton, creating pieces that are energetic, youthful, fluid, and have a little punk rock attitude.  

 

Connecting with the abstractness of the natural world, experimental geometric prints evoke camouflage on dresses, shirts, and blazers. The “Universal Passport” graphic reminiscent of the menswear collection adorns pieces and is layered on sheer tops, adding texture and intrigue. Mini dresses—decorated with fringe, frills, and straps—and halter neck gowns with thigh-high slits further explore the possibilities of movement and imagination. Other sensual pieces, like figure-hugging dresses, bodysuits, and leggings seem to revisit the meaning of animal instinct. 

 

 

The collection feels fresh for spring, encouraging us to tap into our imaginations and embrace the fantastical. Engaging with animalistic qualities, the possibilities of movement with an edgy twist, this collection is a newfound call of the wild. A version of the wild with incredible tailoring, luxury fabrics, and strong design, that is.