Humble Beginnings
Founded in 1856 by Thomas Burberry, a 21-year-old draper's apprentice, the brand started as a small outfitter's shop in Basingstoke, England. Originally named 'Burberrys', the company gained early recognition for inventing gabardine
The iconic Burberry trench coat20th-century fashion staple, worn by everyone from soldiers to Hollywood stars.
Signature Patterns & Modern Transformation

In 1924, Burberry introduced its now-iconic check patternreintroducing it as an exclusive luxury motif
Burberry's digital innovation
- Live stream fashion shows (2010)
- Sell via social media's "See Now, Buy Now" (2016)
- Collaborate with tech companies for augmented reality experiences
21st Century Luxury Evolution
Under creative direction from Christopher Bailey (2001-2018) and later Riccardo Tisci, Burberry has successfully balanced heritage with contemporary relevance. The brand's monogram pattern
As sustainability becomes paramount in fashion, Burberry has made significant commitments:
Commitment | Timeline |
---|---|
Carbon Neutral | Achieved in 2020 |
Plastic-free packaging | Completed in 2021 |
100% sustainable cotton | Target for 2023 |
The brand's current product range
Enduring British Icon
From outfitting Antarctic explorers to dressing royal family members, Burberry has woven itself into British cultural identity over 167 years. While competitors chase fleeting trends, Burberry's success lies in transforming utilitarian garments into timeless luxury
"Burberry represents the rare alchemy of heritage and innovation—a brand that dressed soldiers now thrives on digital runways." - Fashion Historian Caroline Cox