The Birth of an Empire
Founded in 1856 by 21-year-old Thomas Burberry in Basingstoke, England, Burberry began as a small outdoor apparel store. The young draper's apprentice revolutionized rainwear by inventing gabardine
Trench Coats for Warriors
Burberry's pivotal moment came during World War I when the British War Office commissioned the company to adapt its weatherproof coats for military use. These original "trench coats" featured:
- D-ring belts for attaching equipment
- Gun flaps to divert rainwater
- Storm shield back panels
The iconic design became standard military issue and later transitioned into civilian wardrobes.
The Check Pattern Revolution
In the 1920s, Burberry introduced its signature camel, black, red, and white check pattern as a lining for trench coats. This distinctive design element:
- Gained royal warrant from Queen Elizabeth II in 1955
- Became synonymous with British style
- Transitioned from lining to main fabric in the 1960s
The pattern's popularity led to countless designer products from scarves to accessories
Modern Reinvention
After struggling with brand dilution in the 1990s, Burberry underwent a remarkable transformation under CEO Angela Ahrendts and Creative Director Christopher Bailey:
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 2001 | London Stock Exchange listing |
| 2006 | Digital-first fashion strategy |
| 2017 | Riccardo Tisci appointed Creative Director |
The brand successfully balanced heritage with innovation, attracting new generations of consumers.
Sustainable British Luxury
Today, Burberry maintains its position as a leading luxury fashion house while embracing sustainability:
In 2021, Burberry announced ambitious plans to become climate positive by 2030, building on its existing reputation for quality craftsmanship and responsible sourcing
From its trenches to its tech-forward approach, Burberry continues to write its extraordinary story.