Founded in 1856 by Thomas Burberry, Burberry is a globally renowned British luxury fashion house that has become synonymous with timeless elegance and innovative design. From its humble beginnings as a small outfitter’s shop in Basingstoke, England, Burberry has grown into a symbol of quintessential British style, celebrated for its iconic trench coats, distinctive check pattern, and pioneering spirit.

Thomas Burberry, a former draper’s apprentice, established the brand with a vision to create durable and functional outerwear. In 1879, he revolutionized the industry by inventing gabardine, a breathable, weatherproof fabric that was both lightweight and waterproof. This innovation paved the way for the brand’s iconic trench coat, which was later adopted by British soldiers during World War I. The trench coat’s functional design, featuring epaulettes, a storm shield, and D-rings, solidified Burberry’s reputation as a leader in outerwear.

Burberry’s distinctive check pattern, introduced in the 1920s as a lining for its trench coats, quickly became a hallmark of the brand. The tan, black, and red check design is now instantly recognizable worldwide, symbolizing luxury and sophistication. Over the years, the pattern has been adorned on a wide range of products, from scarves and handbags to ready-to-wear collections, further cementing Burberry’s status as a global fashion icon.

Throughout its history, Burberry has embraced innovation while staying true to its British heritage. In the early 20th century, the brand became the outfitter of choice for explorers and adventurers, including Ernest Shackleton and Roald Amundsen. More recently, Burberry has been at the forefront of digital transformation in the fashion industry. Under the creative direction of Christopher Bailey in the 2000s, the brand embraced social media, livestreamed fashion shows, and launched interactive e-commerce platforms, setting new standards for luxury retail.

Today, Burberry continues to evolve under the leadership of its current creative director, Daniel Lee, who joined the brand in 2022. Lee’s vision has infused Burberry with a fresh, contemporary energy while honoring its rich legacy. From its iconic trench coats to its innovative ready-to-wear collections, Burberry remains a beacon of British luxury, blending tradition with modernity.

For those interested in exploring Burberry’s latest offerings, you can find a detailed product spreadsheet here, showcasing the brand’s exquisite range of accessories, apparel, and more.

Burberry’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment to quality. With over 160 years of history, the brand continues to inspire and captivate fashion enthusiasts around the globe, proving that true luxury is timeless.