The Burberry cohort are no doubt saying exactly the same about Donaldson, who is the kind of good egg you hope to run into at a fashion dinner, when not everyone dispenses of their time so generously. Jodie Turner-Smith and Naomi Campbell, her table mates at the Met – “a spectacular night from start to finish” – were lucky to have her. “I love the process of creating a custom look so much,” shares Lily, one of those rare beings who relishes wearing toiles (the blueprint of a gown) and the laborious back and forth fitting process. But Lily would notice the work of the incredible in-house seamstress. As an investment dresser, she buys good-quality items that get better with age. “I like pieces that I can wear now and that I’m super excited to pull out in 10 years time,” notes the vintage fan, who sees the Burberry Rocking Horse bag as a classic that will never date. “I have this amazing green colour, which I love wearing with jeans and a T-shirt – it just gives you a little lift.”
Describing Lee, who has been at the house since 2022, as “bringing a freshness to Burberry while still staying true to the brand”, the same sentiment could apply to Donaldson herself. Endlessly positive, with a touch of self-deprecation that is ever so endearing, Lily is a breath of fresh air, who knows what works for her. “Burberry is a quintessentially British brand I connect with, it’s a great privilege,” she adds, smiling. “It’s like riding a bike…”