The Timeless Legacy of Burberry
Founded in 1856 by Thomas Burberry at the young age of 21, Burberry has evolved from a modest outfitter to a global luxury brand synonymous with British elegance. The brand's journey began in Basingstoke, England, where Burberry pioneered weatherproof fabrics that would later define its iconic trench coats.
Innovation and the Birth of Gabardine
In 1879, Burberry invented gabardine, a revolutionary breathable, waterproof fabric that reshaped outerwear. This innovation caught the attention of explorers and aviators, including Ernest Shackleton, who relied on Burberry's designs during his Antarctic expeditions. By 1901, the brand introduced its signature Equestrian Knight
During World War I, Burberry designed the trench coat
Under creative directors like Christopher Bailey and Riccardo Tisci, Burberry embraced digital innovation—launching runway live-streams in 2010 and pioneering "see-now-buy-now" collections. The brand also champions sustainability, pledging carbon neutrality by 2022 and upcycling deadstock materials. Explore Burberry's latest collections in this detailed product spreadsheet, featuring seasonal highlights and limited editions. From the SCARF
As Burberry navigates its third century, it continues to balance innovation with tradition, proving that even in fashion, some legacies are truly weatherproof.
"Burberry's gabardine changed the way we think about functional elegance in fashion." — Fashion Historian
The Iconic Trench Coat
Modern Evolution
Burberry's Cultural Impact