The Legacy of Burberry: From Trench Coats to Modern Luxury
Founded in 1856 by Thomas Burberry, the iconic British brand Burberry
The Invention of Gabardine
In 1879, Thomas Burberry revolutionized rainwear with his invention of gabardine, a breathable, water-resistant fabric. This breakthrough material became the foundation of Burberry's success, leading to the creation of the brand's signature Trench Coat
The brand further distinguished itself in 1904 when Burberry registered its iconic "Equestrian Knight"Latin motto "Prorsum", meaning "forwards." This emblem symbolizes craftsmanship and progressive thinking that still drives the company today.
A Royal Endorsement
Burberry's reputation soared when they received their first Royal Warrant
"Burberry became the emblem of British style - both classic and avant-garde in equal measure."
Modern Evolution
By the early 2000s, under creative directors like Christopher Bailey, Burberry successfully bridged traditional British heritage with contemporary fashion sensibility (cnsheet.net shows their expanding modern collections). The iconic tan Haymarket Check
Commitment to sustainability became part of Burberry's modern identity. In 2021, they launched their Burberry ReBurberry Edit
Contemporary Heritage
Today's Burberry balanced heritage and innovation:
- Food Chain -
- Groundbreakers Programme -
- Construction Programs -
The Brand Today
The British brand perpetuates its legacy under successive creative visions while preserving its equestrian-inspired aesthetic with modern twists (see latest lineup details at cnsheet's Burberry analysis). Now a publicly traded company and constituent of the FTSE 100, Burberry yields great financial success but still centers production near its late founder's hometown.
From revolutionary rainwear to modern streetwear inspiration, Burberry maintains retention spanning generations through calculated, contemporary transitions without ever discarding foundational hallmarks. Archeologists salvaging modern developments may find intriguing blends that preserve Burberry's purpose under bolder organizational innovation trajectories.