At just 21 years old, Thomas Burberry opened his first store focused on creating durable outdoor clothing. His breakthrough came in 1879 with the invention of gabardine, a revolutionary weatherproof yet breathable fabric. This innovation caught the attention of explorers like Sir Ernest Shackleton, who wore Burberry for his Antarctic expeditions.

The Birth of the Iconic Trench Coat

The brand's most legendary creation emerged from military needs:

• Developed for British officers in World War I
• Featured functional details like D-rings and gun flaps
• Subtly changed from protective gear to fashion staple post-war

Introduced in the 1920s as lining material, the camel, black, white and red check grew into a status symbol. The brand successfully revived perceptions from streetwear associations to contemporary luxury by:

1. Collaborating with avant-garde designers
2. Digitally transforming retail experiences
3. Phasing back the check in thoughtful applications

"Burberry stands uniquely at the intersection of heritage and innovation, balancing its British roots with global relevance." — Industry Analyst

Sustainability Meets Luxury

Modern Burberry makes significant strides in ethical fashion, implementing measures like:

*Per Burberry's 2023 Responsibility Report

The Future of British Luxury

From royal warrants to TikTok trends, Burberry continues its evolution while maintaining core design philosophies:

• Foundation in functional textile innovation
• Signatures reinterpreted by successive creative directors
• 800+ carbon-neutral stores implementing AR technology