The story of Burberry is intrinsically woven into the fabric of British history and global fashion. Founded in 1856 by a 21-year-old draper's apprentice named Thomas Burberry, the brand began as a small outfitter in Basingstoke, England, dedicated to creating durable outdoor attire. Burberry's visionary approach to design would soon propel his humble enterprise into an international symbol of luxury, innovation, and quintessential British style.

The Invention of Gabardine

Thomas Burberry was not merely a businessman; he was an innovator. In 1879, he revolutionized rainwear by inventing gabardine, a groundbreaking breathable, weatherproof, and tearproof fabric. Unlike the heavy, rubberised cotton coats of the era, gabardine was woven using a process where the yarn was waterproofed before weaving, making garments remarkably lightweight and comfortable. This ingenious material became the cornerstone of the brand's identity. To showcase its effectiveness, Burberry supplied attire to polar explorers like Roald Amundsen, the first man to reach the South Pole, and Ernest Shackleton, who relied on it for his expeditions into the harsh, unforgiving Antarctic.

The Trench Coat and Military Heritage

The brand's destiny changed forever with the outbreak of World War I. Burberry adapted its signature weatherproof coats for British officers heading to the trenches, creating the now-iconic trench coat. Features like the gun flap, D-rings for attaching equipment, and epaulettes to denote rank were all functional military details that have since become timeless style elements. This sturdy and reliable coat became synonymous with honor and British resilience, cementing its place not just in military history, but in fashion history.

The Equestrian Knight and Check Pattern

Another pivotal moment in the brand's history was the introduction of its logo, the Equestrian Knight, in 1901, and the now-famous Nova Check pattern in the 1920s. Initially used as a lining for the trench coat, the beige, black, white, and red check pattern quickly became a powerful status symbol. By the latter half of the 20th century, it was emblazoned on everything from scarves to umbrellas, becoming one of the most recognizable patterns in the world. However, its immense popularity also led to counterfeiting and over-exposure, challenges the brand would later have to address.

Modern Reinvention and Enduring Legacy

Like many heritage brands, Burberry faced the need for reinvention in the 21st century. The appointment of Christopher Bailey as Creative Director in 2001 marked a new era. Bailey masterfully balanced the brand’s storied history with a modern, digital-first sensibility. He emphasized the trench coat, reinventing it in countless fabrics and forms, and made the runway show a global digital event. Today, under new creative leadership, Burberry continues to evolve, championing its British roots while pushing contemporary boundaries. For a detailed look at some of the classic and modern Burberry pieces that define this legacy, you can explore this comprehensive product spreadsheet.

From a small Hampshire store to a global powerhouse, Burberry's journey is a masterclass in branding, innovation, and adaptation. It stands as a testament to the vision of its founder, proving that a commitment to quality and function can ultimately define global luxury for over a century and a half.