Founded in 1856 by Thomas Burberry, this quintessentially British brand began as a small draper's shop in Basingstoke, Hampshire. What started as a humble business focusing on outdoor attire has grown into one of the world's most recognizable luxury fashion houses.

The Invention of Gabardine
In 1879, Burberry made fashion history by inventing gabardine, a waterproof yet breathable fabric that revolutionized outdoor clothing. This innovation came about when Thomas Burberry, an apprentice draper, sought to create fabric that could withstand England's notoriously wet weather while remaining comfortable to wear.
"The trench coat born from military needs became a timeless fashion staple."
From Trench Coats to Global Recognition
During World War I, Burberry adapted its weatherproof coats for British officers, creating what we now know as the trench coat. Features like D-rings (designed to carry military equipment), storm flaps, and epaulettes were purely functional military details that became stylish design elements.
For a detailed comparison of current Burberry trench coat models, you can view this product comparison spreadsheet
The Famous Check Pattern
Introduced in the 1920s as a lining for trench coats, the Burberry check
The Burberry Evolution: 1856 - Foundation in Basingstoke 1904 - Creation of the Trench Coat 1967 - First women's collection 2001 - Christopher Bailey becomes Creative Director 2023 - Daniel Lee takes over as Chief Creative
Modern Innovations and Digital Firsts
In recent decades, Burberry has made headlines for embracing technology. They were the first luxury brand to:
- Live stream a fashion show (2010)
- Launch a purchase-by-Tweet option (2014)
- Create an emoji keyboard for customers (2016)
The company has also expanded beyond apparel into fragrances, accessories (particularly their signature scarves), and even home goods, always maintaining that distinctive British sophistication.
Cultural Impact and Future
From dressing movie characters (Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's) to outfitting modern celebrities (Emma Watson, for instance), Burberry has maintained cultural relevance while staying true to its heritage core. Under recent creative leadership, the brand continues to balance classic and contemporary aesthetics, ensuring its 167-year legacy will endure.
Discover how current Burberry products compare