For over a century, Burberry has been synonymous with British elegance and innovation. Founded in 1856 by Thomas Burberry, this iconic brand began as a small outfitter's shop in Basingstoke, England. It quickly gained recognition for its high-quality outdoor wear, rooted in practicality and craftsmanship.

From Trench Coats to Global Recognition

The brand's breakthrough came in the early 20th century with the invention of gabardine, a waterproof yet breathable fabric. This revolutionary material became the foundation for the Burberry trench coat, initially designed for British soldiers during World War I. The coat's functional details like epaulettes, D-rings, and storm flaps later became signature elements of Burberry's aesthetic.

Evolution of the Signature Check Pattern

In the 1920s, Burberry introduced its distinctive Nova check lining – an interplay of camel, black, white, and red stripes. What began as a subtle interior detail grew into one of fashion's most recognizable patterns. By democratizing the pattern across accessories and ready-to-wear collections, Burberry transformed it into a global status symbol.

Modern Reinvention Preserving Heritage

The 21st century saw Burberry successfully bridge tradition with innovation. Key milestones include:

• Digital-first campaigns like the 2009 "Art of the Trench" social media project
• Pioneering runway live-streams in 2010
• Ephemeral seasonal collections replacing traditional fashion show formats

As detailed in this product breakdown, Burberry maintains quality benchmarks like:

• 100% organic cotton gabardine
• Hand-finished leather trims
• Ethically sourced materials

Cultural Impact Beyond Fashion

From dressing Hollywood icons to collaborating with contemporary artists, Burberry has woven itself into cultural history. The brand's Covent Garden flagship exemplifies this fusion – a heritage facade housing cutting-edge digital installations. Check this resource

"Burberry represents the rare alignment of utilitarian roots with fashion-forward vision. It's greatest accomplishment being relevant across generations."

– British Vogue, Style Report 2022