The Legendary Heritage of Burberry: A British Icon
For over 160 years, BurberryThomas Burberry, a 21-year-old draper's apprentice, the brand revolutionized outerwear with its iconic trench coat and distinctive check pattern, becoming synonymous with sophistication and adventure.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Dominance
Burberry's origins trace back to a small boutique in Basingstoke, England, specializing in durable outerwear. Thomas Burberry's breakthrough came in 1879 with the invention of gabardine, a breathable, weatherproof fabric that would later equip explorers like Ernest Shackleton. By 1891, the company opened its first London flagship, catering to British officers and pioneering aviators.

The Birth of an Icon: The Trench Coat
World War I marked Burberry's metamorphosis into a cultural symbol. The Burberry Trench Coat, initially designed for military use, featured epaulettes, a gun flap, and D-rings—functional elements that became decorative hallmarks. Post-war, the coat transitioned into civilian wardrobes, donned by style icons from Audrey Hepburn to modern celebrities like Emma Watson.
“Burberry’s genius lies in balancing heritage with modernity—their check pattern is as recognizable today as it was in 1924.” — Fashion Historian Claire Montgomery
The Signature Check: Scandal and Revival
Introduced as a lining in the 1920s, Burberry's nova checkChristopher BaileyDaniel Lee
- 1856: Founding in Basingstoke
- 1901: Equestrian Knight logo registered
- 1955: Queen Elizabeth II grants Royal Warrant
- 2023: Launch of Knightfall collection
Digital Innovation Meets Tradition
Pioneering digital strategies, Burberry was among the first luxury brands to live-stream shows (2010) and adopt Snapchat AR. Their 2024 seasonal lineup
From dressing polar explorers to gracing metropolitan streets, Burberry's narrative weaves resilience and reinvention. Each pinstripe trench tells a story of British craftsmanship meeting global aspirations—a fabric of timeless allure.