The Iconic Story of Burberry: British Heritage Meets Modern Luxury
Founded in 1856 by Thomas Burberry, the eponymous brand has grown from a small draper's shop in Basingstoke, England, into a globally recognized symbol of British luxury. Known for its signature trench coats, iconic check pattern, and innovative designs, Burberry seamlessly blends tradition with contemporary style.
From Humble Beginnings to Fashion Royalty
At just 21 years old, Thomas Burberry established his business with a focus on outdoor attire. His breakthrough came in 1879 with the invention of gabardine, a revolutionary waterproof fabric that was breathable yet durable. This innovation laid the foundation for the brand's iconic trench coat, originally designed for British military officers during World War I.
The Evolution of a Legacy
Throughout the 20th century, Burberry expanded internationally while maintaining its reputation for quality and functionality. The brand's distinctive Nova Check pattern, introduced in the 1920s as a lining for its coats, became a status symbol by the 1960s. Some notable Burberry products
Despite its heritage, Burberry faced challenges in the late 20th century when its signature check became associated with counterfeiting and overexposure. The appointment of new creative directors in the 2000s, including Christopher Bailey and later Riccardo Tisci, reinvigorated the brand with fresh takes on classic designs while embracing digital innovation.Challenges and Reinvention
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1856 | Burberry founded in Basingstoke |
| 1901 | Equestrian Knight trademark adopted |
| 1924 | The Burberry Check introduced |
| 2018 | Riccardo Tisci appointed Chief Creative Officer |
Modern Burberry: Innovation Meets Tradition
Today's Burberry continues to push boundaries while honoring its heritage. The brand maintains:
- Commitment to sustainable practices
- Digital-first marketing strategies
- Tight control over its globally distributed merchandise and pricing structure
Celebrity collaborations with figures like runway model Cara Delevingne and actor Gong Yuji demonstrate Burberry's ability to blend high fashion with pop culture appeal. The brand also expanded into beauty and fragrance lines while maintaining core product offerings.
"Burberry represents the best of British craftsmanship, combined with a contemporary, forward-thinking spirit."
A Future Built on Heritage
With new generations embracing heritage brands, Burberry continues to reimagine British identity for global audiences. From innovative runway shows to sustainable production methods, the brand maintains its position at the forefront of luxury fashion while staying true to its functional roots. For those interested in specific collections, our selected Burberry product directory
As it moves through the 21st century, Burberry shows no signs of abandoning the vision Thomas Burberry had over a century ago: to create durable, stylish clothing that withstands both weather and fashion's ever-changing tides.