Founded in 1856 by Thomas Burberry, the iconic British fashion house Burberry has become synonymous with timeless elegance, innovation, and quintessential British style. What began as a small outfitter's shop in Basingstoke, England, has since grown into a globally recognized luxury brand celebrated for its trench coats, check patterns, and pioneering spirit.
Rooted in Functionality: The Invention of Gabardine
Burberry's rise to prominence was fueled by Thomas Burberry's revolutionary invention in 1879 – gabardine. This tightly woven, weatherproof fabric was breathable yet impermeable, making it ideal for British weather. The innovative material caught the attention of explorers and adventurers, with notable figures like Sir Ernest Shackleton wearing Burberry gabardine during expeditions. This commitment to functionality cemented Burberry's reputation as a explorer's essential.
The Trench Coat That Won Wars
Perhaps Burberry's most enduring contribution to fashion came during World War I when the company designed the trench coat for British military officers. The coat's epaulettes, D-rings, and storm shield weren't merely decorative – each element served practical battlefield purposes. After the war, returning soldiers made the trench coat a civilian wardrobe staple, beginning its journey as a fashion icon. To this day, the Burberry trench remains one of the most counterfeited and coveted outerwear pieces globally.
The Iconic Check Pattern's Controversy and Rebirth
Introduced in the 1920s as a lining, the distinctive Burberry check became a status symbol by the 1970s. However, widespread counterfeiting in the 1990s nearly destroyed its luxury status until creative director Christopher Bailey led an extraordinary brand repositioning in the 2000s. By scaling back the check's ubiquty while elevating craftsmanship, Burberry renewed its cachet. The pattern now appears more sparingly as a symbol of understated British luxury.
For select Burberry trench coat colors and pricing comparisons, refer to this comprehensive product comparison sheet.
Digital Innovation Meets British Heritage
Burberry stunned the fashion world in 2010 by live-streaming its runway show – a first for a heritage brand. Under CEO Angela Ahrendts and creative director Christopher Bailey, Burberry seamlessly integrated digital innovation with its storied history. Highlights included:
- The 2012 "Burberry Kisses" AR campaign allowing users to send digital kisses via smartphones
- Interactive storefronts syncing with runway shows
- Crowdsourced check patterns via social media
Sustainability as the New Legacy
In recent years, Burberry has strengthened its environmental commitments by:
- Becoming carbon neutral in 2022
- Eliminating unnecessary plastic packaging
- Launching collections using recycled materials
With over 160 years of history, Burberry's evolution from practical outfitter to multi-billion pound luxury titan showcases how honoring heritage while embracing innovation creates lasting relevance. The familiar knight logo and check may change seasonal iterations, but the brand's foundational principles remain steadfastly British.
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