Lily James shocked fans with her sensual Burberry campaign

Lily James shocked people by posing nearly nude for a Burberry fragrance campaign.

The British actress recently unveiled a more sensual side to herself in her latest advert for the fashion brand’s My Burberry Black perfume. Helmed by Mario Testino, the video and stills show Lily wearing little more than a pair of black knickers, covering her chest with her arms as she gazes into the camera.

The star has become known for her period roles, starring in the likes of Kenneth Branagh’s opulent Cinderella and hit TV shows Downton Abbey and War & Peace, and because of her previous work, 27-year-old Lily’s sexy shots for Burberry surprised a few people when they were released in August (16).

“The pictures are very sensual and seductive, and people are a bit shocked to think I would do that based on the period roles I’ve played,” she laughed to the British edition of Elle magazine

However the shift to a more modern look wasn’t a deliberate move on the actress’ part.

“It just felt natural,” she shrugged. “And it’s nice to explore different sides of yourself.”

For the campaign’s accompanying video, Lily slips out of one of Burberry’s famous trench coats, while she stands in the pouring rain.

“I felt confident and sexy,” she insisted. “I think you’re at your sexiest when you’re at your most free and uninhibited, and bold.

Rather than feeling exposed, Lily, who is currently dating former Doctor Who star Matt Smith, embraced the racy nature of the shoot. "Power is sexy. So is being open, innocent and vulnerable, but trying too hard is not sexy. Or thinking about it too much. I’ve got drawers of sexy underwear that I never wear because I’m much sexier when I’m not trying.”