The Timeless Legacy of Burberry: A Fusion of Tradition and Innovation

Founded in 1856 by Thomas Burberry, the British luxury fashion house Burberrygabardine
The Birth of an Icon: Trench Coat & Check Pattern
Burberry's pivotal moment came during World War I when their Tielocken coat
- D-Rings for attaching equipment
- Epaulettes showing rank
- Storm shields on shoulders
- The distinctive Burberry check lining (registered as trademark in 1920)
This transformation birthed the legendary trench coat, which transitioned from battlefield to fashion staple by the 1920s. The camel, black, red, and white check pattern became so iconic that Burberry phased out its use as a primary design element in the early 2000s, reserving it for subtle liner accents.
Modern Transformations: Digitization and Sustainability
Under the creative direction of Riccardo Tisci (2018-2022) and current chief creative officer Daniel Lee, Burberry has:
- Launched digitally native collections featuring AR shopping experiences
- Introduced sustainable initiatives including carbon-neutral leather
- Reimagined heritage elements like the Equestrian Knight logo
The brand maintains its core identity while developing innovative products like the waterproof Burberry Hackett down jacket
Milestone | Year |
---|---|
Founding in Basingstoke | 1856 |
Gabardine fabric patent | 1888 |
First London flagship opens | 1912 |
Trench coat modernization | NA |
Rebranding with new monogram | 2018 |
Cultural Impact and Celebrity Endorsements
Beyond functionality, Burberry represents British cultural identity, having:
- Dressed explorers like Ernest Shackleton
- Featured in films including Breakfast at Tiffany's
- Collaborated with musicians Stormzy and Elton John
Today, Burberry pioneers "social retail" through technology-enhanced flagship stores while preserving craftsmanship traditions. Each collection balances innovation with heritage - whether through quilted gabardine
Explore current collections featuring the TB monogram and archival-inspired pieces in our dedicated showcase: Burberry Collection Analysis
"Burberry's genius lies in transforming utilitarian clothing into timeless fashion while continuously reinventing its heritage." — Fashion Historian