Emily Ratajkowski reignited the allure of Burberry’s check bikini during a June 2025 vacation in Anguilla, a Caribbean island. On June 10, she posted an Instagram carousel showcasing the beige, black, white, and red plaid two-piece, evoking Kate Moss’s iconic 2000s style. Paired with a Burberry bucket hat and a Gucci Giglio tote, the look merges Y2K nostalgia with modern luxury. Fashion editor Emma Childs predicted the bikini’s return in May, and Ratajkowski’s endorsement confirms its resurgence. Set against Anguilla’s turquoise backdrop, the ensemble, complete with polka-dot linen pants and a cord necklace, sparked widespread buzz, cementing the tartan print’s revival.
The outfit extended beyond the bikini. Ratajkowski layered it with airy linen pants, letting the bikini’s side-ties peek through, and accessorized with a Gucci tote from the Cruise 2026 collection. A Burberry bucket hat, also in the signature check, tied the look to early-2000s aesthetics. Having modeled for Gucci at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, Ratajkowski’s choice of the Giglio bag feels like a nod to her campaign work.
- Key pieces: Burberry check bikini, Burberry bucket hat, Gucci Giglio tote.
- Location: Anguilla, eastern Caribbean.
- Post date: June 10, 2025.
Burberry bikini’s big comeback
The Burberry check bikini, a 2000s staple, is back in the spotlight, thanks to Emily Ratajkowski. Emma Childs of Marie Claire flagged its revival on May 14, noting its transition from one generation of It-girls to another. Priced at US$655 on Burberry’s website, the bikini features a halter-neck top and side-tie bottoms in the brand’s iconic plaid. Its minimalist cut and earthy tones align with the retro-chic trend dominating 2025 fashion.
Burberry has fueled this resurgence with campaigns featuring Alexa Chung and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, reintroducing the tartan print to a new audience. Ratajkowski’s Instagram post, reaching millions, amplifies this effort, positioning the bikini as a must-have for summer.
Kate Moss’s lasting influence
Ratajkowski’s look pays homage to Kate Moss, the original Burberry bikini muse. In the early 2000s, Moss wore the plaid two-piece in shoots and public appearances, making it a cultural touchstone. The 2025 version retains its core design—triangular cups, tie details, and neutral plaid—while Ratajkowski modernizes it with contemporary accessories.
Her outfit balances high-end and casual elements. The polka-dot linen pants add a breezy vibe, while the check bucket hat leans into Y2K nostalgia. This mix reflects Ratajkowski’s knack for blending accessible style with luxury, resonating with her diverse fanbase.
Gucci’s role in the ensemble
Ratajkowski paired the Burberry pieces with a Gucci Giglio tote, priced at US$1,950, from the Cruise 2026 collection. Unveiled at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, where Ratajkowski modeled for Gucci, the bag boasts an 18.5-inch opening and monogram print, ideal for beach outings. Her early adoption of the tote underscores her influence in luxury fashion.
The Gucci bag introduces a contrasting monogram pattern, breaking up the Burberry plaid’s dominance. Its oversized design, seen slung over Ratajkowski’s shoulder, adds practicality and flair, bridging beach and city aesthetics.
- Bag price: US$1,950 on Gucci’s website.
- Collection: Cruise 2026, debuted at Cannes.
- Features: Monogram print, wide opening, beach-friendly.
Y2K trends take over
The Y2K aesthetic, marked by bucket hats, bold prints, and statement accessories, dominates 2025 fashion, with brands like Dior and Prada embracing the trend. Ratajkowski’s Burberry bikini fits seamlessly into this revival, appealing to both millennials nostalgic for the early 2000s and Gen Z discovering it anew.
Her mix of luxury (Burberry, Gucci) and casual (linen pants, cord necklace) reflects a broader shift toward versatile, aspirational style. This approach makes her look relatable yet unattainable, a balance that drives her influence.
Social media amplifies the trend
Ratajkowski’s June 10 Instagram post garnered thousands of likes and comments, with fans praising the Burberry bikini’s return. The hashtag #BurberryBikini is gaining momentum, as other influencers share similar looks. Burberry, attuned to digital trends, likely sees this organic exposure as a win, boosting the brand’s relevance among younger consumers.
Anguilla’s pristine beaches, a favorite of stars like Beyoncé, enhance the post’s appeal. The tropical setting makes the bikini pop, reinforcing its status as a summer essential.
Accessories that seal the deal
The Burberry bucket hat, priced at US$480, is a standout accessory. Crafted from cotton with the signature check, its flared brim channels 2000s vibes. Ratajkowski’s close-up shots highlight its role in tying the outfit together without overwhelming it.
A cord necklace, reminiscent of styles worn by Jennifer Lawrence, adds a laid-back touch. These choices showcase Ratajkowski’s ability to mix high fashion with everyday elements, creating a look that’s both curated and effortless.
- Hat price: US$480 on Burberry’s website.
- Material: Cotton with check print.
- Inspiration: Y2K fashion, early 2000s.
Burberry’s strategic revival
Burberry is actively rebranding to capture a younger demographic, with the check print at the core of its strategy. Recent campaigns with Chung and Huntington-Whiteley have spotlighted plaid across trench coats, bags, and now swimwear. Ratajkowski’s endorsement aligns with this push, leveraging her global reach to drive interest.
The bikini’s revival is poised to impact markets like Miami and Cannes, where tartan swimwear is expected to dominate beaches by July 2025. Burberry’s focus on nostalgia and relevance strengthens its position in luxury fashion.
Anguilla as the perfect backdrop
Anguilla, with its crystal waters and exclusive resorts, is a fitting stage for Ratajkowski’s look. The island, a hotspot for celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio, elevates the bikini’s glamour. Photos capturing different times of day show the outfit’s versatility, from sunlit beach shots to golden-hour close-ups.
The Caribbean setting ties into the broader narrative of summer 2025 fashion, where tropical destinations inspire bold, colorful looks. Ratajkowski’s presence in Anguilla cements it as a go-to spot for style-conscious travelers.
Fun facts about the look
Ratajkowski’s ensemble is rich with details that tell a broader story:
- Bikini legacy: Kate Moss made the Burberry check bikini a 2000s icon in campaigns.
- Y2K dominance: Analysts say 60% of 2025 summer collections draw from Y2K aesthetics.
- Cannes connection: Ratajkowski’s Gucci tote debuted at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival.
- Social impact: Her post saw 20% higher engagement than her average Instagram content.
What’s next for Burberry
Burberry is set to expand its swimwear line, with new plaid-inspired designs in the works. Ratajkowski’s influence could spark collaborations with other influencers, further boosting the brand. Accessories like sunglasses or sandals may follow, capitalizing on the bikini’s success.
The blend of nostalgia and modernity in Ratajkowski’s look positions the bikini as a 2025 summer staple. As beaches from Miami to Cannes embrace the tartan trend, Burberry solidifies its foothold in luxury fashion.
