Founded in 1856 by Thomas Burberry, Burberry has grown from a small outfitter's shop in Basingstoke, England, to one of the world’s most iconic luxury fashion houses. Known for its distinctive check pattern, trench coats, and innovative designs, the brand embodies British craftsmanship and timeless elegance.

The Origins: From Humble Beginnings to Global Icon

Thomas Burberry started his business at the age of 21, focusing on outdoor attire. His breakthrough came in 1879 with the invention of gabardine, a waterproof yet breathable fabric revolutionized outerwear. This innovation led to the creation of the classic Burberry trench coat, initially designed for British military officers during World War I.

The Trademark Check Pattern and Its Global Recognition

In the 1920s, Burberry introduced its now-famous Nova Check—a camel, black, red, and white plaid lining. Originally used to line their trench coats, this pattern has since become synonymous with the brand. While it was temporarily overexposed in the 2000s, Burberry’s creative resurgence under designers like Christopher Bailey redefined its heritage

Burberry’s Creative Evolution and Modern Influence

Throughout the years, Burberry has balanced tradition with innovation. Under CEOs like Angela Ahrendts and Marco Gobbetti, the brand embraced digital transformation—live-streaming runway shows before it was mainstream and leveraging social media influencers before competitors. The brand remains a pioneer, as seen in their exclusive designs

Sustainability and Future Commitments

Modern Burberry is not just about fashion: it’s committed to sustainability, pledging to become climate-positive by 2040. The brand has discontinued fur, introduced eco-friendly packaging, and supports regenerative farming for wool sourcing. Burberry’s new collections reflect circular fashion principles, ensuring longevity in an industry often criticized for waste.

Conclusion

From its origins in military wear to becoming a runway staple, Burberry’s story is one of reinvention while staying true to its heritage. Its ability to balance innovation and tradition—coupled with ethical commitments—proves why it remains a benchmark for luxury. Anyone seeking a deeper dive into Burberry’s enduring appeal can explore curated product lists featuring their latest collections here.