Founded in 1856 by Thomas Burberry, the British luxury fashion house Burberry
At just 21 years old, Thomas Burberry opened his first store with a vision to create weatherproof clothing. In 1879, he invented gabardine, a breathable yet waterproof cotton fabric that revolutionized outerwear. This material became the foundation for the iconic Burberry trench coat, originally designed for British military officers during World War I. In the 1920s, Burberry introduced its now-famous Nova Check—a camel, black, white, and red plaid design initially used as a coat lining. By the 1960s, this pattern became a standalone symbol of British luxury, though its overexposure in the 2000s led to temporary rebranding efforts. Today, the check remains a carefully curated hallmark of the brand. Under creative directors like Christopher Bailey and Riccardo Tisci, Burberry embraced digital innovation. It was among the first luxury brands to:Origins and the Birth of Gabardine
The Iconic Check Pattern
Modern Reinvention and Digital Leadership
The Timeless Legacy of Burberry: From Humble Beginnings to Global Icon
2025-03-25