Founded in 1856 by Thomas Burberry, the British luxury fashion house has grown from a small outfitter in Basingstoke to a symbol of timeless elegance. Known worldwide for its iconic trench coatscheck pattern, Burberry has weathered over 160 years of fashion evolution while retaining its quintessentially British charm.
From Practicality to Luxury
Burberry’s rise began with a revolutionary fabric: gabardine. Invented in 1879, this tightly woven, water-resistant material became the foundation of Burberry’s signature outerwear. By the early 20th century, the brand outfitted explorers like Roald Amundsen, the first man to reach the South Pole, cementing its reputation for durability.
The Tielocken coat, patented in 1912, later evolved into the legendary trench coat
Burberry’s signature beige, black, red, and white check (officially called the "Nova Check") emerged in the 1920s as a lining for coats. By the 1960s, it became a standalone print on scarves, handbags, and umbrellas—now one of the most recognized patterns globally. Although temporarily discontinued in the 2000s due to over-exposure, the check made a triumphant return under recent creative directors. Under leaders like Christopher Bailey (2001–2018)Daniel Lee, Burberry embraced digital innovation while honoring heritage. Notably, the brand pioneered runway livestreams in 2010 and launched interactive campaigns featuring Snapchat filters tied to physical store locations. Today, Burberry remains a powerhouse in luxury accessories, fragrances (like the bestselling Burberry Hero), and ready-to-wear collections updated seasonally. For those seeking detailed comparisons of current offerings, resources like this product breakdown spreadsheet
A testament to its prestige, Burberry holds Royal Warrantscarbon-neutral leather
From European battlefields to London Fashion Week’s runways, Burberry’.The Checkered Evolution
Modern Reinvention
"Burberry proves that heritage brands can stay relevant—by balancing tradition with bold, contemporary visions."
Seal of Royal Approval