Burberry's early success came from its functional yet stylish outerwear. In 1879, Thomas Burberry invented gabardine, a breathable, weatherproof fabric that revolutionized rainwear. This innovation led to royal commissions, including outfitting British officers during the Boer War. By the early 20th century, the brand’s iconic trench coat became a military staple, later adopted by civilians as a fashion statement.

The Burberry check pattern, originally designed as a lining for trench coats in the 1920s, became a status symbol in the 1960s and 70s. Though it faced overexposure in the 2000s, creative directors like Christopher Bailey revived its prestige through limited-edition collaborations and modern reinventions.

Innovation Meets Tradition

Burberry has consistently balanced tradition with innovation. Under CEO Angela Ahrendts and Creative Director Christopher Bailey in the 2010s, the brand embraced digital transformation, becoming the first luxury label to live-stream runway shows and sell via social media. The "Burberry Beauty" line expanded its offerings beyond apparel, while sustainable initiatives like the zero-waste Econyl collection reinforced its forward-thinking ethos.

Today, Burberry remains a symbol of British craftsmanship under the leadership of current designer Daniel Lee. Recent collections reinterpret classic silhouettes with bold textures and artful deconstruction, ensuring its relevance for a new generation.

Interesting Facts About Burberry

• The brand’s Equestrian Knight logo symbolizes honor and has been used since 1901.
• Burberry was awarded a Royal Warrant by Queen Elizabeth II in 1955.
• Its iconic honey beige check was nearly abandoned in the 2000s due to counterfeiting but made a strategic comeback.

From classic trenches