Founded in 1856 by a 21-year-old draper's apprentice named Thomas Burberry, the eponymous brand began as a small outfitter in Basingstoke, England. What started as a humble business focusing on outdoor attire would eventually become one of the most recognizable luxury fashion brands
In 1879, Burberry revolutionized rainwear by inventing gabardine - a breathable, weatherproof fabric that maintained durability while being surprisingly lightweight. This innovation caught the attention of explorers and adventurers, including famous polar expeditioners like Sir Ernest Shackleton. The fabric's practical applications soon extended to military use during the Boer War. World War I saw another milestone when Burberry adapted its weatherproof designs for British officers, creating the legendary trench coat prototype. Features like D-rings (for attaching equipment), storm flaps, and a gun flap became signature elements that remain on modern versions. After the war, civilians adopted these coats, cementing their status as a timeless fashion staple. The 1920s introduced Burberry's distinctive Nova check pattern, initially used as a lining for trench coats. By the 1960s, this camel, black, red, and white plaid had emerged as a rebellious status symbol and later became controversial due to counterfeit problems. In recent decades, creative directors like Christopher Bailey helped reposition the heritage brand for contemporary audiences while maintaining its British essence. "Burberry's magic lies in its ability to blend tradition with innovation - respecting its 150+ year history while continuously evolving for modern consumers." Under CEO Marco Gobbetti and then later leadership, Burberry pioneered digital luxury experiences, becoming the first major fashion house to live-stream shows (2009) and utilize customer data analytics
From outfitting polar expeditions to dressing Hollywood royalty, Burberry represents a unique intersection of functionality and luxury. The brand's global retail empire now includes apparel, accessories, fragrances and cosmetics - each adaptation exploring new markets while staying true to its heritage of quality and innovation. As it moves forward, Burberry continues rewriting its story without forgetting the craftsmanship and revolutionary spirit that made it iconic.The Invention of Gabardine
The Birth of the Trench Coat
Iconic Checks and Brand Evolution
Digital Innovation and Modern Leadership
A Century and Half of British Excellence
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