Burberry is ushering in the festive season with a delightful campaign that mixes British comedy royalty, high fashion, and global stardom. The luxury house has unveiled “’Twas The Knight Before…”, a charming holiday film curated by Chief Creative Officer Daniel Lee, set in a cozy London townhouse and hosted by none other than the iconic comedian Jennifer Saunders.
The campaign serves as a playful, yet sophisticated, portrait of gift-giving, anticipation, and, of course, impeccable Burberry outerwear, bringing together an unforgettable ensemble of talents from the worlds of film, fashion, and sport.
The Absolutely Fabulous Hostess
In the campaign film, directed by John Madden, Jennifer Saunders sets the festive tone as the gracious host of a lively gathering. Known globally for her sharp wit and enduring role as Edina Monsoon in Absolutely Fabulous, Saunders brings a quintessential British charm and subtle humor to the holiday preparations.
Saunders is seen modeling a luxurious piece herself: the Heath quilted cape in walrus brown and hemlock beige, featuring a classic corduroy collar and a detachable shearling trim—a perfect embodiment of cozy, heritage luxury.
The Special Guests
The brilliance of the campaign lies in its diverse and impressive cast of arriving guests, each showcasing a key piece from the festive collection:
- Naomi Campbell: The legendary supermodel makes a dazzling entrance, wearing the Trerose trench coat in tundra beige, cut from water-resistant fabric and highlighted by a signature bow-detailed collar.
- Ncuti Gatwa: The celebrated actor from Sex Education and Doctor Who brings contemporary flair, sporting a marsh green trench coat finished with leather-wrapped B buckles and the unmistakable Burberry Check lining.
- Rosie Huntington-Whiteley: The model and entrepreneur appears in the short Fitzrovia trench, a garment made in Castleford with a fuller skirt and stylish, crested metal buttons.
- Son Heung-min: The global football icon layers the cozy Harrogate duffle coat in scout green, striped like a blanket, over a cotton Harrington jacket embroidered with the iconic Equestrian Knight.
The narrative follows these stars as they arrive one by one, turning the process of party preparation into an intimate and lively celebration centered around gift-giving and sharing the holiday spirit.
A Celebration of British Heritage
Daniel Lee’s vision for this holiday season reinforces Burberry’s deep connection to British culture, quality, and heritage.
- Outerwear as the Centerpiece: The campaign emphasizes the brand’s expertise in outerwear, showcasing modern yet classic silhouettes that are both functional and fashionable.
- Global Connection: By casting figures from diverse fields—comedy, modeling, acting, and sports—Burberry beautifully connects its British roots with its global, contemporary relevance.
- Retail Activations: To complement the campaign, Burberry is also engaging in major retail activations, including a partnership with Claridge’s in London, where Daniel Lee will design the 2025 Christmas tree, further cementing the brand’s place in the festive landscape.
This year, Burberry offers more than just gifts; it offers a grand, humorous, and heartfelt reminder that the best part of the holidays is gathering with special guests, all wrapped up in enduring style.
