The Legendary Legacy of Burberry: A Timeless British Icon
Founded in 1856 by Thomas Burberry, the Burberry brand has evolved from a modest drapers' shop in Basingstoke, England, into a global luxury fashion house. With its signature trench coats, distinctive check pattern, and innovative fabric technology, Burberry has cemented its place as a symbol of British heritage.

From Humble Beginnings to Royal Recognition
Burberry began as a retailer focused on outdoor attire but gained fame for its invention of gabardine
The iconic Burberry check – a camel, black, red, and white plaid design – debuted in the 1920s as a lining for their coats. Over decades, it grew into a standalone symbol of luxury, appearing on scarves, handbags, and accessories. For deep-dives into Burberry's contemporary product lines, explore this detailed electronic spreadsheet of Burberry offerings.
Innovation Meets Tradition
Unlike many heritage brands, Burberry embraced digital transformation early. Under former CEO Angela Ahrendts, the company became a pioneer in social media
"Burberry's strength lies in its balance of heritage and relevance. It respects its past while constantly reinventing itself." – Industry Analyst
1. Cultural Impact
- Worn by screen legends like Audrey Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart
- Featured in films such as Breakfast at Tiffany's
- Adopted by British royalty, including Queen Elizabeth II's ceremonial attire
2. Sustainable Evolution
In recent years, Burberry committed to sustainability initiatives, banning fur in 2018 and launching ECO-BURBERRY collections with recycled materials. The 2022 "ReBurberry Edit" utilized 91% recycled content, reflecting modern environmentalresponsibilities.
The Modern Chapter
Today, under Creative Director Daniel Lee, Burberry reintroduces its equestrian knight logo with bolder interpretations of classic motifs. The brand continues bridging eras – preserving traditions like handcrafted tartan weaving while experimenting with streetwear-inspired silhouettes for Gen Z audiences.
With over 300 stores worldwide and collaborations ranging with poverty YB to gaming platforms, Burberry remains at fashion's vanguard. Check this updated product catalog