Check Up

English heritage brand Burberry, founded back in 1856, is a master of re-invention. But it wasn’t until 2020 that its instantly recognisable classic Nova check was declared a trademark – a surprise as the Creative Directors of the label have showcased the tartan in all its black, tan, and red glory in myriad ways over the years, to such an extent that it has occasionally suffered overkill. However, Riccardo Tisci’s tenure from 2018-2022 firmly reasserted its traditional influence and the House has gone from strength to strength.

Wearing the label head-to-toe is still quite a statement, though. And in 2019, at the AMAs, Billie declared her testimonial for the hallowed check by sporting a baggy, bespoke Burberry t-shirt with crystal lattice sleeves, matching, recycled polyester trousers, and sneakers that flashed with tartan. But the pièce de resistance was Billie’s sparkly, veiled, beekeeper bonnet – a newfangled Burberry piece from Tisci’s S/S 2020 catwalk – which gave Billie the sartorial edge on her competitors.

this page: More trophies!

opposite: Bee for Billie – arriving at the 2019 American Music Awards in sparkly, all-Burberry beekeeper fit.