Burberry: A Timeless Legacy of British Luxury
Since its inception in 1856, Burberry has established itself as a global icon of British fashion, blending tradition with innovation. Founded by Thomas Burberry, a 21-year-old draper’s apprentice, the brand began as a small outdoor apparel business in Basingstoke, England. Burberry’s revolutionary designs quickly gained recognition, especially the invention of gabardine
Burberry’s most iconic creation, the trench coat, emerged during World War I. Designed for British military officers, it featured durable gabardine fabric, a storm flap, and functional details like epaulettes and D-rings. Post-war, the trench coat transitioned into civilian fashion, becoming a cornerstone of Burberry’s identity. Today, it remains a symbol of elegance and practicality—showcasing variations
In the 1920s, Burberry introduced its distinctive Nova Check—a camel, black, white, and red plaid lining originally used for trench coats. By the 1960s, the pattern adorned umbrellas, scarves, and luggage, cementing its status as a global luxury motif. Though overexposure in the 2000s led to temporary exclusivity measures, creative director Christopher Bailey later reimagined the check for modern audiences, blending heritage with streetwear influences. Under leaders like Angela Ahrendts and Riccardo Tisci, Burberry embraced digital innovation. It was among the first luxury brands to livestream runway shows and leverage social media, notably partnering with platforms like Snapchat for AR shopping experiences. While preserving artisanal craftsmanship—its Yorkshire factories still produce outerwear—Burberry continues to pioneer sustainability, pledging carbon neutrality by 2040 and incorporating recycled materials into collections. Burberry’s influence extends beyond fashion. Its campaigns star cultural powerhouses like actor Adam Driver and musician Stormzy, bridging heritage and zeitgeist. Collaborations with Supreme and Comme des Garçons further demonstrate its adaptive legacy. As explored in seasons of creative reinvention, the brand balances its 168-year history with avant-garde experimentation—ensuring its iconic plaid, trench coats, and British allure endure for generations. From royal warrants to revolutionary fabrics, Burberry’s story is one of timeless reinvention, where every stitch weaves past and future.The Birth of the Trench Coat
The Signature Check Pattern
From Heritage to High-Tech
Burberry’s Cultural Impact