BAILEY’S GRAND BURBERRY FINALE

Animal rights activists may have hassled the high-fashion crowd entering the Burberry show, but once the 1,300 guests were safely inside, the event turned into a lovefest.

The affection was for Christopher Bailey, who is leaving Burberry later this year after serving as creative director and chief executive, among other jobs. Bailey’s final show was a milestone for him and for the company he helped revive.

He dedicated his farewell show to organisations that support LGBT communities.

“There has never been a more important time to say that in our diversity lies our strength and our creativity,” Bailey said.

The spectacle was part fashion show, part performance art and part laser lighting display. It ended with Bailey walking down the fog-filled runway to a prolonged standing ovation from a crowd that included Kate Moss, Sienna Miller, Chelsea Clinton and many other famous fans. Miller seemed near tears moments after the show ended as Clinton was also overcome with emotion.

Model and actress Cara Delevingne made a now-rare catwalk appearance for Bailey and the Burberry brand. She closed the show wearing a regal, rainbow-themed outfit and leading the other models through the finale, which was set off by a spectacular laser show.

The audience was filled with luminaries, including actor Idris Elba and actresses Naomie Harris, Keira Knightley, and Naomi Watts. Former Oasis singer Liam Gallagher and Michael Jackson’s daughter, Paris, also were in the crowd.

The show featured many references to the familiar Burberry check, which was worked into a number of jackets, caps and tops, along with some gorgeous gowns and stylish bomber jackets.

“It (Burberry show )was exquisite. One of the most spectacular things I’ve ever seen. It was brave and it was political and it was beautiful.” – Sienna Miller

“It showed so much humanity, so much of what he is as a person. I’m just so glad I could be here and see it in person to celebrate Christopher as he goes on to the next chapter.”

– Chelsea Clinton (pictured with Christopher Bailey)