Founded in 1856 by a 21-year-old draper's apprentice, Burberry

Pioneering Fabric Technology: The Gabardine Breakthrough

In 1879, Thomas Burberry invented gabardine—a waterproof, breathable fabric that would redefine outerwear. By weaving cotton yarns with an impermeable coating before construction, the material repelled rain while allowing air circulation. This innovation attracted explorers like Roald Amundsen, who wore Burberry during his 1911 South Pole expedition, and military forces, who adopted the brand's "Tielocken" coat (later renamed the trench coat) during World War I. The utilitarian design—complete with D-rings, epaulettes, and storm shields—transitioned seamlessly into civilian wardrobes post-war.

Cultural Icon Status & Modern Transformations

Burberry acquired royal warrants from Queen Elizabeth II and the Prince of Wales in �..., embedding British heritage into its DNA. The 1960s saw the Nova Check—a beige-black-red-and-white plaid—become synonymous with the brand, adorning everything from scarves to car interiors. However, after overexposure in �� counterfeit markets, the 2000s brought a creative revival under CEOs like Angela Ahrendts and Christopher Bailey, who blended digital innovation (e.g., live-streamed runway shows) with craftsmanship, reaffirming Burberry's luxury status. Recent collections celebrate sustainability with reclaimed materials while honoring archives like the 1954 Copenhagen Check.

"Burberry is one of those rare brands that maintains relevance by respecting its past while evolving its future." — Fashion historian James Sherwood

Conclusion: Weathering Trends Like a Trench Coat

From Sir Ernest Shackleton's Antarctic expeditions to collaborations with Vivienne Westwood and localized webstores in China, Burberry demonstrates adaptability without sacrificing core values. Today, under designer Daniel Lee, fresh iterations of Prorsum knights, floral prints, and unconventional materials ensure its position where tradition meets tomorrow. For detailed comparisons of classic vs. modern Burberry designs, explore this product analysis spreadsheet