Founded in 1856 by Thomas Burberry, the iconic British luxury brand Burberry
The Early Years: Innovation Meets Functionality
At just 21, Thomas Burberry opened his first store, focusing on outdoor attire. His breakthrough came in 1879 with the invention of gabardine, a breathable, weatherproof fabric that revolutionized rainwear. This material became the foundation for the iconic Burberry trench coat, initially designed for British military officers during World War I. The coat's functional details—D-rings, epaulets, and storm flaps—remain signature elements today.

The Birth of an Icon: The Burberry Check
In the 1920s, the brand introduced its signature check lining, a beige and black pattern accented with red and white stripes. Originally used only as coat linings, the design gained cult status and became a standalone emblem of luxury. Though overexposure in the 1990s led to temporary discontinuation, the check made a triumphant return in the 2000s under creative director Christopher Bailey's minimalistic vision.
"Burberry's check is more than a pattern—it's woven into fashion history like no other design." — Fashion Historian, Sarah Cooper
Modern Reinvention: Bridging Heritage and Technology
Burberry consistently balances tradition with innovation. Under CEO Marco Gobbetti and former Chief Creative Officer Riccardo Tisci, the brand embraced streetwear influences while preserving its heritage. Notably, Burberry was an early tech adopter in luxury, live-streaming runway shows in 2010 and pioneering social media campaigns.
Today, Burberry's collections blend British eccentricity with global appeal, offering everything from leather goods and accessories
Cultural Impact: Celebrities and the Silver Screen
Burberry's cultural cachet spans generations, worn by style icons like Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s
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Conclusion: A Future Woven in Tradition
With nearly 170 years of history, Burberry remains at fashion's forefront by honoring its roots while embracing change. As new creative director Daniel Lee takes the helm, the brand continues to redefine British luxury for a new era—one that respects craftsmanship and daring creativity in equal measure.
For an in-depth look at Burberry's latest collections, explore our interactive product catalog here, featuring seasonal highlights alongside archive classics.