In the world of high fashion, few names evoke a sense of heritage and classic style

Thomas Burberry, originally a draper's apprentice, was driven by a desire to create garments that protected people from the notoriously unpredictable British weather. His pivotal innovation came in 1879 with the invention of gabardine, a groundbreaking breathable, weatherproof, and tear-proof fabric. This material was revolutionary. By weaving cotton yarn before waterproofing it, Burberry created a fabric that was far superior to the rubberized or oiled materials of the time, which were often heavy and uncomfortable. This innovation laid the foundation for the brand's future.

The brand's iconic status was sealed with the creation of the Tielocken coat in 1912, the precursor to the renowned trench coat. Its design was perfected during World War I at the request of the British War Office, which needed a new functional coat for officers in the trenches—thus giving the coat its famous name. Features like the D-ring (for attaching grenades), gun flap, and storm shield were all born from practical military needs, becoming signature elements of a style that has endured for over a century.

Another unmistakable symbol of Burberry is the Nova check pattern—a beige background with black, white, and red stripes. First used as a lining for the trench coats in the 1920s, it grew to become a global status symbol. However, by the late 1990s and early 2000s, the pattern became a victim of its own success due to counterfeiting and over-licensing. The brand faced a critical challenge: to reclaim its image without abandoning its heritage.

Under the transformative leadership of CEO Angela Ahrendts and Chief Creative Officer Christopher Bailey in the early 2000s, Burberry underwent a remarkable renaissance. They masterfully rejuvenated the brand

Today, Burberry stands as a testament to the power of brand evolution. It successfully bridges its storied past, symbolized by the timeless trench coat, with a dynamic and contemporary present. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a symbol of British luxury, Burberry's story is one of continual reinvention, proving that true style is indeed timeless.