The Timeless Legacy of Burberry: A British Fashion Icon
Founded in 1856 by Thomas Burberry, the British luxury brand Burberry
Burberry's story began in Basingstoke, England, where 21-year-old Thomas Burberry opened a small outfitter’s shop. His greatest contribution to fashion was the invention gabardine, a waterproof yet breathable fabric patented in 1888. This revolutionary material laid the foundation for the brand's most famous product: the trench coat. Initially designed for military use during World War I, the trench coat's functional features—such as D-rings for attaching equipment and storm flaps—quickly made it a civilian wardrobe staple. Celebrities and royalty alike adopted the coat, solidifying Burberry's reputation. Another defining element of Burberry is its Nova check, introduced in the 1920s as a lining for the trench coats. This beige, black, and red plaid became synonymous with luxury and heritage. Though overexposure in the 2000s led to a temporary decline, Burberry effectively repositioned the print as a symbol of exclusivity. Under the leadership of creative directors like Christopher Bailey and Riccardo Tisci, Burberry embraced digital transformation early. It was one of the first luxury brands to livestream runway shows
Origins and Breakthroughs
The Iconic Check Pattern
Modern Innovations and Digital Mastery