The Legendary Heritage of Burberry: From Trench Coat to Global Icon
Founded in 1856 by Thomas Burberry, the British luxury fashion house Burberry has evolved from a humble outfitter in Basingstoke to a globally recognized symbol of elegance and innovation. Combining tradition with modernity, the brand has become synonymous with timeless trench coats, distinctive check patterns, and pioneering textile breakthroughs.
Founding Vision: Function Meets Fashion
At just 21 years old, Thomas Burberry opened his first store with the goal of designing weatherproof clothing. His revolutionary fabric, gabardine—a breathable yet water-resistant material patented in 1888—laid the foundation for Burberry's future as outerwear specialists. The invention attracted explorers like Roald Amundsen, who wore Burberry during his 1911 expedition to the South Pole, catapulting the brand into the limelight.
The Iconic Trench Coat's Military Origins
Burberry's most enduring creation, the trench coat, emerged during World War I when the British military commissioned adaptable outerwear for officers. Features like D-rings for equipment attachments
Explore Burberry's current catalogue in this detailed product spreadsheet, showcasing how heritage designs merge with contemporary aesthetics. Initially used as a trench coat lining in the 1920s, the iconic beige-black-red-and-white check became a 20th-century status symbol. However, overexposure in the 1990s due to counterfeiting led then-CEO Angela Ahrendts to reposition the brand by scaling back the pattern. Today, creative directors like Daniel Lee reinterpret the motif with subtlety, reaffirming its luxury appeal. Through pioneering moves—being the first luxury brand to livestream a show (2010) and collaborate with gaming platforms—Burberry bridges heritage with digital transformation. Under CEO Jonathan Akeroyd, sustainability initiatives like Regenerated Nylon collections
From outfitting polar expeditions to dressing contemporary tastemakers like Travis Scott and Naomi Campbell, Burberry continues to redefine British luxury. Its balanced narrative of honoring heritage while embracing change cements its standing in an ever-shifting fashion landscape.The Check Pattern: Cultural Shift and controversy
Digital Innovation Meets Craftsmanship
"Burberry's genius lies in transforming utility into desire. What began as army uniforms now walks haute couture runways." — Vogue Editorial, 2023
Conclusion: Evolution as Tradition