The Birth of a British Icon
Founded in 1856Thomas Burberry, this legendary brand began as a modest outfitter's shop in Basingstoke, England. Originally focused on outdoor attire, Burberry revolutionized weatherproof clothing with their patented "gabardine" fabric in 1880 — a breathable, tear-resistant material that later became the cornerstone of their iconic trench coats.
By the early 20th century, Burberry had become synonymous with British exploration. Their jackets outfitted polar expeditions (Ernest Shackleton, 1914) and aviation pioneers (the first transatlantic flight crew in 1919), embedding the brand in history while showcasing their technical innovation.
The Military Origins of Timeless Designs
World War I shaped Burberry's most recognizable product — the trench coat. Commissioned by the British War Office, their "Tielocken" design (1912 precursor) evolved into the modern trench with features like D-rings (for map cases) and gun flaps (shoulder reinforcement). This wartime necessity transitioned into civilian fashion, dominating post-war London streets and silver screens alike.
The company's signature check pattern
Controversies and Modern Reinvention
Conservation controversies over fur use () pushed new ethical initiatives by