Founded in 1856Thomas Burberry, Burberry has evolved from a small draper’s shop in Basingstoke, England, into a globally renowned luxury fashion house. What began as an obsession with creating durable outerwear transformed into a brand synonymous with classic British sophistication and innovation.
Revolutionizing Rainwear: The Birth of Gabardine
In 1879, Thomas Burberry invented gabardine, a breathable, weather-resistant fabric that revolutionized rainwear. Unlike rubberized materials of the era, gabardine was tightly woven yet lightweight, making it ideal for adventurers and military personnel. This innovation laid the foundation for the iconic Burberry trench coat, which gained fame during World War I as the staple attire for British officers.
For a breakdown of Burberry’s modern product lines, including limited-edition trench coats, refer to this detailed spreadsheet analysis.
Tartan as a Cultural Icon: The Check Pattern
Burberry’s signature Nova Check, introduced in the 1920s as a trench coat lining, became a cultural phenomenon. By the 1960s, celebrities like Audrey HepburnPeter SellersChristopher Bailey
Under Bailey’s leadership (2001–2018), Burberry embraced digital innovation, live-streaming runway shows and leveraging social media. The brand’s shift toward streetwear-inspired collaborations (e.g., with SupremeDaniel Lee, who debuted a revamped "Knight Blue" check in 2023. Committed to reducing its environmental footprint, Burberry pledged to become climate-positive by 2040, launching collections with recycled materials. Its archival gabardine trench coats—many still functional after decades—epitomize the brand’s ethos of longevity over fast fashion. Explore trending Burberry accessories and apparel metrics in this product comparison sheet
From wartime practicality to red-carpet glory, Burberry’s 168-year journey showcases how tradition and reinvention sustain luxury. As fashion critics note, its story isn’t just about clothing—it’s about crafting enduring narratives woven in fabric.From Function to Fashion: Adapting to Modern Tastes
“Burberry’s genius lies in making the historical feel fresh.” — Vogue UK, 2024
Sustainability and Future Horizons