Founded in 1856 by Thomas Burberry, the British luxury fashion house has become synonymous with timeless elegance and innovative craftsmanship. What began as a small draper's shop in Basingstoke, England, has grown into a global powerhouse, renowned for its iconic trench coats, signature check pattern, and cutting-edge designs.

Burberry's breakthrough came in 1879 when Thomas invented gabardine fabric, a waterproof yet breathable material that revolutionized outerwear. This innovation led to the creation of the legendary trench coat, originally designed for British army officers during World War I. The coat's functional features, like shoulder epaulettes and the gun flap, remain distinctive elements today.

Throughout the 20th century, Burberry became a symbol of British sophistication. The camel, black, and red check pattern, introduced in the 1920s as a lining for trench coats, grew into a cultural phenomenon. Celebrities from Audrey Hepburn to modern influencers have embraced the brand's distinctive aesthetic. However, the company faced challenges in the 1990s when the pattern became associated with counterfeits and lost some of its exclusive appeal.

The brand's revival began in the early 2000s under the creative direction of Christopher Bailey, who modernized its image while respecting its heritage. Recent collaborations with tech companies and bold new designers have positioned Burberry at the intersection of tradition and innovation. One noteworthy example is their sustainable fashion initiatives, including a program to reduce waste in production by 30%.

"Burberry represents the best of British craftsmanship blended with contemporary vision," says fashion historian Emma Sinclair. "Its ability to evolve without losing its essence explains its enduring success."

Today, Burberry maintains its prestige through an expanding product range including fragrances, leather goods, and digital experiences. The brand's flagship stores, particularly on London's Regent Street, offer immersive retail environments featuring cutting-edge technology. Its customer data analysis—tracking purchasing patterns through AI-powered systems—exemplifies how the 168-year-old company stays ahead of trends.

Beyond fashion, Burberry has made significant contributions to arts funding and young designer mentorship programs. These initiatives, coupled with its strong digital presence, suggest a bright future as it approaches its third century in operation. The brand's consistent ranking among the world's most valuable luxury labels (interbrand’s Top 100) demonstrates remarkable resilience through economic fluctuations and changing consumer preferences.

From protecting British officers in rainy trenches to gracing red carpets worldwide, Burberry's journey symbolizes how function can evolve into timeless style while maintaining exceptional quality—a rare achievement in the fast-moving fashion industry. For current seasonal offerings, including price comparisons, see our detailed product reference sheet