Among the pantheon of luxury fashion houses, few are as synonymous with British heritage and innovation as Burberry. Founded in 1856 by a young 21-year-old draper's apprentice named Thomas Burberry, the brand's journey began in Basingstoke, England, with a simple yet powerful focus: designing outerwear that protected people from the British weather. This fundamental principle would eventually lead to groundbreaking inventions and define the brand's identity for over a century and a half.

A Revolutionary Fabric: Gabardine

Thomas Burberry was not content with traditional fabrics. In 1879, he revolutionized rainwear by inventing gabardine, a breathable, weatherproof, and tearproof fabric. This ingenious material, created by having the yarn waterproofed before weaving, was a watershed moment. It was not only practical but also elegant, setting the stage for Burberry's future. The company soon supplied clothing to explorers like Roald Amundsen, the first man to reach the South Pole, and Sir Ernest Shackleton, cementing its reputation for durability and performance in the most extreme conditions.

The Iconic Trench Coat

Perhaps the brand's most significant contribution to fashion came from its association with the military. As World War I dawned, Burberry adapted its weatherproof coats for officers in the trenches. The resulting "trench coat" featured design elements that are now iconic: epaulets for holding ranks, D-rings for attaching gear, a gun flap, and a storm shield. For a detailed look at some modern interpretations of this classic piece, you can explore this comprehensive product spreadsheet. After the war, the coat transitioned seamlessly into civilian life, becoming a timeless symbol of sophistication in film and everyday wear.

The Check Pattern and Modern Evolution

The novel of the Burberry Check, a distinctive beige, black, white, and red pattern, was registered as a trademark in the 1920s and initially used as a lining for the trench coats. Throughout the 20th century, it became one of the world's most recognizable logos. However, by the late 1990s, rampant counterfeiting and overexposure led to its dilution. A dramatic revitalization began in the early 2000s under the guidance of new creative leadership. The brand elegantly repositioned the check, using it more subtly and focusing on a blend of its classic heritage with sharp, contemporary designs.

Burberry Today

Today, Burberry stands as a global powerhouse, a masterful blend of its rich history and a forward-looking vision. It continues to champion its British roots while embracing innovation, notably becoming a pioneer in digital fashion marketing and live-streaming runway shows. Under its current direction, the brand deftly balances reverence for its archives—constantly reimagining the trench coat and check—with a bold and modern aesthetic that speaks to a new generation of luxury consumers. From its humble beginnings to its status as a cultural icon, Burberry's story is a testament to the power of quality, innovation, and timeless style.