From Humble Beginnings to Global Icon

Founded in 1856 by 21-year-old Thomas Burberry, this quintessentially British label began as a small outfitter's shop in Basingstoke, Hampshire. Originally specializing in outdoor attire, Burberry revolutionized rainwear by inventing gabardine in 1879 - a breathable, weatherproof fabric that would become the cornerstone of the brand's identity. This innovation led to the creation of the iconic Trench Coat, originally designed for British military officers during World War I.

Unlike stiff rubberized fabrics of the era, gabardine's woven design allowed for greater movement while maintaining its water-resistant properties. This perfect marriage of function and style became Burberry's signature approach to design - practical elegance that transcends seasons.

The Birth of an Iconic Pattern

In the 1920s, Burberry introduced its now-famous check lining - the beige background with black, white and red stripes that became synonymous with the brand. Originally used only as a coat lining, this distinctive pattern gradually gained popularity and was incorporated into scarves, umbrellas, and other accessories, creating a consistent visual identity for the company.

However, in the 1980s-90s, the once-exclusive check became overexposed through counterfeit products and lost its luxury appeal. This prompted a major rebranding effort, where then-CEO Rose Marie Bravo scaled back its usage while maintaining its heritage status - a delicate balance that defines Burberry's evolution to this day.

Burberry in the Digital Age

Under Christopher Bailey's creative direction in the early 2000s, Burberry embraced digital innovation while reinvigorating classic designs. Notable milestones include the first fully digital fashion show (2010), tailored online shopping experiences, and interactive campaigns featuring holographic runway models.

The brand's 2018 monogram reinvention under Riccardo Tisci - the "TB" motif honoring founder Thomas Burberry - successfully blended fresh contemporary appeal with heritage. Recent collections showcase this duality: trench coats with utilitarian details alongside streetwear-influenced pieces bearing the archival check.

Sustaining Heritage and Innovation

Beyond its Ready-to-Wear collections and accessories, Burberry maintains its essence through craftsmanship excellence. Each of its legendary trenches still requires:

• 28+ pieces of gabadrine fabric
• 180 precise stitching operations
• Hand-finished details

From royal warrants to celebrity followers, Burberry's enduring appeal lies in balancing its rich past with contemporary relevance - much like British style itself. This 160-year journey from functional outerwear to global luxury empire