From Humble Beginnings to Global Luxury: The Burberry Story
Founded in 1856 by Thomas Burberry, a 21-year-old draper’s apprentice, Burberry has grown from a small outdoor attire shop in Hampshire, England, into one of the world’s most iconic fashion houses. The brand’s journey, marked by innovation, timeless style, and royal endorsements, reflects over a century of sartorial excellence.
The Birth of Trench Coats and Gabardine Fabric
Burberry revolutionized outerwear in 1879 with the invention of gabardine, a breathable, weatherproof fabric woven from tightly spun yarn. This breakthrough led to the creation of the legendary Burberry trench coat, initially designed for British military officers during World War I. The coat’s functional details—D-rings for equipment, epaulettes for rank insignia—became hallmarks of the brand’s design language.
Royal Warrants & Global Expansion
By 1911, Burberry had earned its first Royal Warrant from King Edward VII. Its reputation soared when explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton wore Burberry gabardine during his Antarctic expeditions. The iconic Equestrian Knight
Modern Reinvention & Digital Pioneering
Under CEOs like Christopher Baileydigital-first strategy
Today, Burberry balances heritage with progressive values. Its 2025 sustainability goals include carbon neutrality and upcycling initiatives. The brand’s artisans in Yorkshire still hand-stitch trenches using Thomas Burberry’s original techniques—each coat taking three weeks
From adorning Audrey Hepburn in "Breakfast at Tiffany’s" to outfitting contemporary celebrities, Burberry’s legacy as a storyteller through fabric endures. Explore their latest innovations in this product catalog spreadsheet, showcasing how tradition evolves with modernity.
Sustainability & Artisanal Craftsmanship