Burberry | The Art of Trench Defining British Luxury

Burberry was founded in 1856 by Thomas Burberry, a young English entrepreneur, in Basingstoke, Hampshire. Initially starting as a small outfitter, Burberry quickly made a name for itself by pioneering a new fabric—gabardine—in 1879, a durable, weatherproof material that revolutionized outerwear and set the brand apart in the market. The iconic Burberry trench coat was born during World War I, when the brand adopted its practical military raincoat design for civilian use, and quickly became the very staple of British fashion. In the following decades, the brand's reputation for quality and British craftsmanship solidified, expanding into garments, accessories, fragrances, and etc. In the 1920s, Burberry introduced its distinctive check pattern, which would eventually become one of the most recognized symbols of British luxury and heritage in fashion. Over the years, Burberry became synonymous with British elegance, appealing to both traditional and modern sensibilities. By the late 20th century, the brand faced challenges with maintaining its luxury image as its signature check pattern became widely associated with counterfeits, prompting to a revitalization under the creative leadership of designers such as Christopher Bailey. The new rebranding, alongside innovative collaborations and strategic focus on digital marketing, allowed Burberry to reclaim its status as a global fashion leader. Today, the brand remains a symbol of luxury, known for its timeless trench coats, classic British tailoring, and forward-thinking designs.