Founded in 1856 by 21-year-old Thomas Burberry, this quintessential British fashion house began as a small outfitter's shop in Basingstoke, Hampshire. What started as a modest business catering to outdoor enthusiasts has grown into a global luxury brand synonymous with British elegance and innovation.
Thomas Burberry's first breakthrough came in 1879 with the invention of gabardine, a breathable yet weatherproof fabric created using an innovative weaving technique. This revolutionary material transformed outerwear and laid the foundation for Burberry's reputation as a pioneer in functional yet fashionable clothing. The brand gained royal warrants from both Queen Elizabeth II and the Prince of Wales, cementing its status as a truly British institution.
During World War I, Burberry adapted its trench coat design for military use, creating the iconic Burberry Trench Coat with features like D-rings (originally for attaching grenades) and gun flaps. See how classic designs influence modern collections
The Burberry check pattern—a camel, black, red and white plaid design—was introduced as a lining for trench coats in the 1920s. By the 1960s, this distinctive pattern became a status symbol, appearing on scarves, umbrellas, and other accessories. The pattern's popularity surged internationally in the 1970s and 1980s but eventually became overexposed, requiring strategic repositioning in the 1990s under new creative leadership.
Christopher Bailey, who served as creative director from 2001 to 2018, played a pivotal role in Burberry's modern reinvention. He skillfully balanced tradition with innovation, preserving the brand's heritage while making it relevant for contemporary audiences. His technological forward-thinking led to pioneering digital strategies in fashion marketing, including live-streamed runway shows accessible via Twitter in 2010.
Today, under the creative direction of Daniel Lee (appointed in 2022), Burberry continues to evolve while maintaining its core identity. The brand offers diverse product categories including:
For detailed information about current offerings, view this season's product assortment, featuring specifications, materials, and price comparisons for all Burberry categories.
Beyond fashion, Burberry has made significant commitments to sustainability—aiming for climate positivity by 2040 and eliminating unnecessary plastic packaging. The brand also engages in cultural partnerships with organizations like The Elephant Family to support environmental conservation.
From its rural English beginnings to becoming a global powerhouse, Burberry's journey represents the perfect blend of tradition and innovation. With over 160 years of history, the brand continues to write new chapters while staying true to the quality and craftsmanship that Thomas Burberry established in that small Hampshire shop.
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