Thomas Burberry started his business at the age of 21, focusing on creating durable, weatherproof clothing for outdoor enthusiasts. His breakthrough came in 1879 with the invention of gabardine, a breathable yet water-repellent fabric. This groundbreaking material revolutionized rainwear and laid the foundation for Burberry’s most famous product—the Trench Coat.

Initially designed for British military officers during World War I, the Burberry trench coat later became a staple in civilian wardrobes, embodying both functionality and luxury. Its distinctive features, such as epaulets, the gun flap, and the D-ring belt, remain hallmarks of the brand’s design philosophy.

The Evolution of Brand Identity

In the 20th century, Burberry expanded its product range beyond outerwear, introducing scarves, handbags, fragrances, and accessories. The brand’s iconic check pattern, introduced in the 1920s as a lining for the trench coat, became an enduring symbol of British heritage. While it faced overexposure in the early 2000s, Burberry successfully revitalized its image under the creative direction of Christopher Bailey (2001-2018) and later, Riccardo Tisci (2018-2023).

Sustainability and Digital Innovation

Burberry has also embraced modern challenges by committing to sustainability, pledging to become carbon-neutral by 2040. Additionally, the brand has been a pioneer in digital fashion, leveraging virtual runways and collaborations with video games like Minecraft

The Signature Styles Defining Burberry Today