Home > The Legendary Story of Burberry: From Trench Coats to Global Luxury

The Legendary Story of Burberry: From Trench Coats to Global Luxury

2025-04-08

Founded in 1856 by a 21-year-old draper's apprentice, Thomas Burberry, this British fashion house began as a small outdoor apparel store in Basingstoke. What started as a humble endeavor would grow into one of the world's most recognizable luxury brands, synonymous with timeless elegance and British heritage.

The Invention of Gabardine

In 1879, Burberry revolutionized outerwear by inventing gabardine, a breathable, waterproof, and durable fabric that became an instant success among explorers and adventurers. This innovation earned the brand a royal warrant from Queen Elizabeth II in 1955. Famous explorers including Roald Amundsen wore Burberry during their expeditions, with Ernest Shackleton even wearing a Burberry gabardine suit during his Antarctic journey.

For a detailed look at Burberry's product evolution, check this comprehensive product spreadsheet

The Birth of the Trench Coat

The legendary trench coat

The Check Pattern Phenomenon

Introduced in the 1920s as a coat lining, the Nova Check

Modern Innovations and Sustainability

Today under designer Daniel Lee's creative direction (since 2022), Burberry continues evolving while respecting its heritage. The brand has introduced sustainable initiatives like carbon-neutral runway shows and pledged to become climate positive by 2040. Recent collaborations with digital artists and video game platforms demonstrate their innovative approach to reaching new audiences.

Burberry flagship store in London

Key Brand Milestones:

  • 1856: Founded by Thomas Burberry
  • 1924: Nova Check trademarked
  • 2016: 160th anniversary with flagship store renovations
  • 2023: Reported £3.1 billion annual revenue

From outfitting polar expeditions to dressing modern icons like Emma Watson, Burberry maintains its position as a luxury juggernaut by blending heritage with cutting-edge design, proving that quality and innovation will always be in fashion.

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