Founded in 1856 by Thomas Burberry, Burberry has grown from a small outfitter in Hampshire, England, to a global luxury fashion house. Known for its iconic trench coats, distinctive check pattern, and timeless designs, the brand has become synonymous with British heritage and sophistication.

Thomas Burberry began his journey by opening a small shop in Basingstoke, focusing on outdoor attire. His breakthrough came in 1879 when he invented gabardine, a waterproof yet breathable fabric. This innovation revolutionized rainwear and solidified Burberry's reputation as a pioneer in functional fashion. The brand quickly gained recognition among adventurers and explorers, with figures like Sir Ernest Shackleton donning Burberry attire on expeditions to the Antarctic.

In the early 20th century, Burberry introduced the iconic trench coat, originally designed for British soldiers during World War I. The coat's durable construction, storm flaps, and epaulettes made it both practical and stylish, and it soon became a civilian staple. Over the decades, the trench coat has been embraced by celebrities, royals, and fashion enthusiasts, cementing its status as a timeless wardrobe essential.

Another hallmark of Burberry is its distinctive check pattern, introduced in the 1920s as a lining for its trench coats. The pattern, featuring beige, black, white, and red stripes, quickly became a symbol of the brand. By the 1960s, it had expanded to scarves, umbrellas, and luggage, becoming a global emblem of luxury.

However, Burberry's journey hasn't been without challenges. In the 1990s, the brand faced criticism as its check pattern became overly popular and associated with counterfeiting. To restore its exclusivity, Burberry scaled back the use of the pattern and focused on innovative designs and high-quality craftsmanship.

Today, Burberry continues to evolve under the creative leadership of designers like Riccardo Tisci, who blends the brand's heritage with modern aesthetics. The brand has embraced sustainability, committing to reducing its carbon footprint and using eco-friendly materials. Its digital presence has also grown, with innovative campaigns and virtual fashion shows engaging a global audience.

For those interested in exploring Burberry's latest offerings, you can check out this product spreadsheet

From its humble beginnings to its status as a global luxury icon, Burberry's story is one of innovation, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to quality. Whether through its iconic trench coats or modern runway collections, the brand continues to inspire and captivate fashion enthusiasts worldwide.