Origins of an Iconic Brand
Founded in 1856 by 21-year-old Thomas Burberry, this legendary British fashion house began as a small outdoor attire store in Basingstoke, Hampshire. Initially specializing in weatherproof clothing, Burberry revolutionized outerwear by inventing gabardine in 1879 - a breathable yet water-repellent fabric that became the foundation of their global success. The brand's reputation grew rapidly among explorers and adventurers, with notable figures like Roald Amundsen wearing Burberry during his expedition to the South Pole
The Trench Coat Revolution
Burberry's most significant contribution to fashion came with the creation of the Tielocken coatmust-have civilian fashion item, appearing on silver screens and celebrity shoulders worldwide.
Brand Identity Evolution
The distinctive Burberry check pattern, first introduced as a lining in the 1920s, became one of the most recognized symbols in luxury fashion. However, the brand faced challenges in the late 20th century when the pattern became associated with counterfeiting and lost exclusivity. Under creative director Christopher Bailey's leadership (2001-2018), Burberry successfully repositioned itself by limiting check pattern usage while introducing fresh designs that honored heritage yet appealed to younger demographics.
Modern Innovation Meets Tradition
Today's Burberry masterfully blends technological innovation with timeless British style. From being the first luxury brand to live-stream its fashion showcontemporary reinterpretations
Commitment Beyond Fashion
Beyond creating iconic clothing, Burberry established the Burberry Foundation focusing on sustainability initiatives
From humble Hampshire beginnings to global prestige status, Burberry's 150+ year journey represents the perfect marriage between aristocratic British heritage and contemporary marketplace savvy. Each piece continues telling the story of innovation, craftsmanship, and enduring style that defines this remarkable fashion institution.