Lila Moss Among Star Cast at Burberry's Tate Modern AW 2025 Show
London Fashion Week’s Autumn/Winter 2025 season culminated in a spectacular showcase from Burberry, a brand synonymous with British luxury and enduring style. Staged within the iconic industrial grandeur of the Tate Modern, the presentation was more than just a fashion show; it was a deeply immersive, theatrical experience that celebrated the rich tapestry of British heritage while firmly looking to the future. With a star-studded cast featuring models like Naomi Campbell and the highly anticipated appearance of Lila Moss, this event solidified Burberry’s position at the heart of global fashion.
Under the creative direction of Daniel Lee, the AW 2025 collection masterfully blended classic elegance with a distinct sense of refined decadence and eccentricity, a trend that resonated across much of London Fashion Week this season. Traditional materials, strong prints, and an unmistakable air of Britishness pervaded the entire collection, offering a fresh yet familiar take on luxury.
The Grand Stage: Tate Modern & British Storytelling
The choice of the Tate Modern as the venue for Burberry’s AW 2025 show was a stroke of genius, immediately setting a powerful narrative tone. Guests were ushered into a seating area dramatically draped in frescoes, artfully designed to evoke the illusion of dust sheets covering furniture in an old, packed-up British country house. This evocative setting provided a rich backdrop for the collection, hinting at stories untold and a history preserved yet ready to be unveiled.
The runway itself was a striking deep Prussian blue, framed by colossal curtains that amplified the theatrical atmosphere. This meticulous attention to detail transformed the contemporary gallery space into something akin to a grand, if slightly melancholic, estate. Furthermore, the show marked a significant one-year partnership with the Tate, underscoring Burberry’s commitment not only to culture and art but also to vital conservation work at Tate Britain’s world-leading Painting Conservation Studios. This collaboration highlights a growing trend among luxury brands to align with cultural institutions, adding depth and purpose beyond mere aesthetics.
The entire setup communicated Burberry's commitment to British identity—a blend of stately grandeur, a touch of bohemian irreverence, and an appreciation for the arts. It was a visual feast that prepared attendees for the sartorial journey that was about to unfold, creating an environment where heritage felt alive and relevant.
A Constellation of Stars: From Screen to Runway
Daniel Lee’s casting for the AW 2025 show was as much a part of the narrative as the clothes themselves. Breaking from traditional model lineups, Burberry enlisted an extraordinary ensemble of talent that blurred the lines between acting and modeling, bringing a unique dynamism to the catwalk. The intention, as Lee explained in the show notes, was for the cast to "chimed with the bohemian irreverence" and, crucially, to "make clothes come alive."
This star-studded procession included acclaimed actors from iconic British films and television series, lending a truly theatrical air. Audiences recognized faces from Downton Abbey and The Crown, with luminaries such as Richard E. Grant, Elizabeth McGovern, Lesley Manville, Jessica Madsen, Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù, Jason Isaacs, and Guy Remmers gracing the runway. Their presence infused the show with a stately mood, transforming the catwalk into a living tableau.
Alongside these acting giants, supermodels of various generations ensured the collection was presented with impeccable grace and presence. The legendary Naomi Campbell exuded her signature power, while Erin O’Connor brought her distinct, commanding elegance. However, one of the most talked-about moments, eagerly anticipated by fashion enthusiasts globally, was the lila moss sfilata burberry – the very appearance of Lila Moss. Her walk, combining youthful energy with an innate understanding of high fashion, underscored her rising prominence in the industry and made for an unforgettable highlight of the show.
The decision to feature such a diverse and accomplished cast was a masterstroke, celebrating a broad spectrum of British talent and reinforcing the idea that Burberry’s clothing is designed for individuals with character and presence, not just mannequins. It highlighted the brand’s deep connection to British culture, from its cinematic prowess to its iconic fashion figures.
The Collection: A Symphony of Heritage & Modernity
The Autumn/Winter 2025 collection itself was a profound exploration of Burberry’s heritage, reinterpreted through Daniel Lee’s contemporary lens. It was a sophisticated blend of the familiar and the novel, rich in texture, silhouette, and thoughtful detailing.
Sumptuous Fabrics and Textural Play
Lee leaned heavily into sumptuous fabrics that exuded luxury. Wool, supple leather, and rich velvet formed the foundation of many pieces, offering both comfort and opulence. A particularly innovative touch was seen in beautiful dresses crafted from shredded chine damask, creating a delicate yet impactful texture. Velvet brocade jackets, designed to replicate flocked wallpaper, introduced a deliberate tension and interplay between indoor furnishing fabrics and outerwear. This clever concept brought a domestic intimacy to the collection, blurring the lines between personal space and public presentation.
Dynamic Silhouettes and Iconic Outerwear
The silhouettes presented were both classic and commanding. An equestrian theme ran through several looks, featuring tightly fitted jodhpur trousers paired with impeccably tailored cropped jackets and long, sleek leather boots. This nod to Burberry’s outdoor legacy, founded by Thomas Burberry in 1856 with a focus on practical yet stylish outdoor clothing, was perfectly executed.
Naturally, Burberry’s outerwear was a standout. The trench coat, the brand’s undisputed icon, reappeared in refreshed forms, including a stunning version in embossed leather that offered a tactile and modern update to the classic. Oversized classic tailored coats, clearly inspired by the precision and craftsmanship of London’s Savile Row, added a sophisticated drape and volume. These coats were styled with a touch of authentic nonchalance, like one model who wore a coat seemingly thrown over her long hair just before hitting the runway, adding a layer of realism and lived-in luxury to the garments.
Exquisite Accessories and Footwear
Accessories played a crucial role in completing the narrative. The collection introduced a new saddle bag, distinguished by its elegantly curved top handle and hardware inspired by equestrian bridle reins and fine jewelry, blending practicality with adornment. Crystal-embellished star necklaces and brooches added a touch of celestial sparkle, providing points of intrigue against the rich fabrics.
Footwear was equally compelling, showcasing a range that spanned historical inspiration and modern utility. Pointed-toe pumps, reminiscent of elegant 18th-century court shoes, brought a refined, almost regal air. For a more grounded yet equally stylish option, lace-up and monk strap Loch brogues were presented on sturdy rubber soles and embellished with subtle studs, perfectly marrying traditional design with contemporary edge. Estate slippers completed the footwear offering, hinting at the comfort and luxury of a private manor.
Burberry's Enduring Legacy and Future Vision
Burberry’s Autumn/Winter 2025 show at the Tate Modern was a resounding success, a masterclass in how to honor a rich heritage while propelling a brand forward. Daniel Lee has clearly defined his vision for Burberry, infusing it with a sense of vibrant Britishness, artistic collaboration, and a confident exploration of luxury that feels both familiar and refreshingly new.
The show underscored that Burberry is more than just a purveyor of luxury goods; it is a storyteller, deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of Britain. The integration of actors and models like Lila Moss on the runway not only generated significant buzz but also powerfully communicated the brand's belief in clothing that comes alive on diverse personalities. For consumers and fashion enthusiasts, this collection offers practical inspiration – a reminder of the timeless appeal of well-crafted outerwear, the enduring sophistication of classic silhouettes, and the power of subtle, luxurious details. Burberry under Lee continues to assert its status as a global leader, confidently marching into the future while carrying the weight and wonder of its illustrious past.