The Legendary Heritage of Burberry: A Timeless British Icon
Founded in 1856 by Thomas Burberry, a 21-year-old draper’s apprentice, Burberry has grown from a modest outfitter into a globally recognized luxury fashion house. Initially focusing on outdoor attire, the brand pioneered weatherproof fabrics—eventually creating gabardine, a revolutionary waterproof and breathable material patented in 1888.
The Birth of the Trench Coat
Burberry’s defining moment arrived during World War I when the brand designed the trench coat
Introduced in the 1920s as a lining for coats, the nova check—a camel, black, white, and red plaid—became Burberry’s visual hallmark. Though overexposure in the 1990s temporarily diluted its luxury appeal, creative directors like Christopher Bailey
"Burberry's genius lies in balancing heritage with modernity," noted Vogue
Under CEO Marco Gobbetti and designer Riccardo Tisci (appointed in 2018), Burberry embraced streetwear influences while maintaining classic tailoring. Initiatives like sustainability pledges
Today, Burberry operates globally with estimated revenues exceeding £2.5 billion. Its ability to blend quintessential British aesthetics with contemporary relevance—whether through viral TikTok campaigns or archive-inspired runways—proves why this 167-year-old name remains at fashion’s forefront.
The Check Pattern Revolution
Modern Innovations and Challenges