From Humble Beginnings to Global Luxury
Founded in 1856 by 21-year-old Thomas Burberry, the brand began as a small draper's shop in Basingstoke, England. Originally focused on outdoor attire, Burberry revolutionized rainwear with the invention of gabardinepolar adventurers
The Trench Coat: A Heritage Piece
Burberry's most celebrated innovation came during World War I when the brand adapted its weatherproof designs for military use. The now-iconic trench coatfashion analyses, Burberry trenches maintain consistent demand across generations.
"Material difference to others" was Thomas Burberry's original 1856 shop sign - a promise the brand continues to uphold through craftsmanship.
Pattern Recognition: The Nova Check
In the 1920s, Burberry introduced its distinctive beige, black, white, and red check lining. Initially only visible when coats were unbuttoned, this Nova Checkmarket researchers.
Modern Innovations & Digital Leadership
Under creative director Daniel Lee, Burberry has refreshed its equestrian heritage with contemporary sensibility. The brand pioneered "see now, buy now" runway shows and remains an early adopter of digital initiatives - from 2021's NFT collaboration with Mythical Games to becoming the first luxury brand on social commerce platforms. Meanwhile, its Chelsea factories still produce trench coats using expert techniques unchanged for decades.
- 1856: Thomas Burberry opens first shop
- 1912: Aviator Claude Grahame-White wears Burberry during record London-Manchester flight
- 1955: Queen Elizabeth II grants Royal Warrant
- 2018: Supports refugee charities through collaborative collections