IT 46 - 36 Chest - S.

Burberry Prorsum 'Cigar Paisley' shirt from A/W 2008-2009. Sample in brand new condition with tags. Made in Italy. RRP: £695

Christopher Bailey's A/W 2008-2009 collection for Burberry Prorsum was dedicated to classic 1960s British elegance. Heavy outerwear was paired with elegant patterned shirts in beautiful autumn colours. The designer described it as 'nostalgic with rich elegant textures, effortless silhouettes and faded sombre hues.' The fusion of elegant dandy silhouettes with a modern rock 'n roll edge resulted in a critical and commercial success, and one of the most beautiful Burberry menswear collections to date. This patterned casual shirt is one of the collection's signature items and was worn in many runway looks, while also appearing in the seasonal campaign.

The shirt is made from a luxurious 100% silk poplin has been washed to give it a beautiful vintage finish with a subtle shine. The fabric has an intricate Modernist paisley print in muted tones of gold, brown and burnt orange. The fabric is exquisite while its unique print forms the perfect balance between eccentric and effortless, in line with Bailey's vision of 'disheveled elegance'. Like most Prorsum shirts, the cut is slim and flattering, with a sharp small collar, narrow shoulders and slim sleeves. The chest is adorned with an ornate piped pocket, while the back features Prorsum's signature long vertical pleat with an Ivy League-inspired locker loop on the top. 

All Prorsum pieces are constructed to a much higher standard than other Burberry lines and this shirt is no exception. Most edges (eg. on the collar, cuffs, hem and back) are decorated with ornate silk piping. The back is tailored with long pleats that follow the lines of the body. The cuffs have a strong geometrical shape, while the extra long cuff openings have sharp rectangular edges. All buttons are realised in genuine mother of pearl in a unique purple/blue colour and are engraved with the Burberry Prorsum logo. On the inside, all seams have flat fell finishing that looks very sharp while securing them from undesirable fraying.

Overall, this is a stand-out shirt that exemplifies Christopher Bailey's heritage-driven vision. A finely crafted piece that is cut to perfection with an exquisite aesthetic, it will complement any well put-together outfit.