Origins of an Icon
Founded in 1856 by Thomas Burberry, a 21-year-old draper's apprentice, Burberry began as a small outdoor apparel shop in Basingstoke, England. Known for its rugged yet refined designs, the brand quickly gained recognition among explorers and military personnel. Its breakthrough came in 1879 with the invention of gabardine, a breathable, waterproof fabric revolutionizing outerwear.
The Trench Coat Era
During World War I, Burberry designed the iconic Tielocken coattrench coat. Features like D-ring straps, epaulettes, and storm shields became signature elements. Post-war, the trench coat transitioned into civilian fashion, immortalized by celebrities like Audrey Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart.
For a curated selection of classic and modern Burberry trenches, refer to this comparison spreadsheet
Revolution Under Creative Leadership
The 2000s marked a transformative era under Christopher Bailey, who infused digital innovation while preserving heritage. Notable milestones include:
- The 2001 nova check
- Pioneering live-streamed fashion shows in 2010.
- Collaborations with tech giants like Apple and Google.
Sustainability and Modern Identity
Under current CEO Marco GobbettiRiccardo Tisci, Burberry emphasizes sustainability, pledging carbon neutrality by 2022. Recent collections reimagine the brand’s equestrian motif with streetwear influences, appealing to younger demographics.
"Burberry is no longer just about raincoats—it's a global lifestyle statement," wrote Vogue UK