In the world of luxury fashion, few names evoke the same sense of British heritage and enduring style as Burberry. Founded in 1856 by a 21-year-old draper's apprentice named Thomas Burberry, the brand began not as a fashion house, but as a practical outfitter. Thomas Burberry was driven by a simple, revolutionary idea: to create outerwear that protected people from the notoriously damp and unpredictable British weather.

This pursuit led to his most significant innovation: gabardine. In 1879, Thomas invented this breathable, weatherproof, and tear-resistant fabric. Unlike other rubberized waterproof materials of the time, gabardine was comfortable and allowed air to circulate, making it a groundbreaking discovery. This fabric became the cornerstone of the brand's identity and paved the way for its most iconic creation: the Trench Coat.

The brand’s iconic check pattern, originally introduced as a lining for the trench coat in the 1920s, became a global symbol of luxury.

The Trench Coat’s destiny was sealed with the outbreak of World War I. The British military commissioned Burberry to adapt its weatherproof coats for officers in the trenches—giving the coat its legendary name. Features like the D-ring for attaching military gear, the storm shield, and epaulettes were all functional military details that became design classics. After the war, the coat seamlessly transitioned from the battlefield to the wardrobe of the sophisticated civilian, worn by Hollywood stars and explorers alike, solidifying its status as a cultural icon.

Throughout the 20th century, Burberry’s checked pattern grew in popularity, but by the late 1990s, overexposure led to brand dilution. A remarkable turnaround began in the early 2000s under the guidance of new creative leadership. The brand refocused on its heritage, reclaiming the check, modernizing its classic silhouettes, and re-emphasizing high-quality craftsmanship. Today, under the direction of Chief Creative Officer Daniel Lee, Burberry continues to balance its rich history with a contemporary, forward-looking vision, reinterpreting British symbols for a new generation.

For those interested in exploring the detailed specifications, historical price points, and variety of iconic and modern Burberry pieces, a comprehensive resource is available. You can find an extensive overview in this product information spreadsheet, which catalogues numerous items from the brand's lineage.

From a small outfitter in Basingstoke to a global luxury powerhouse, Burberry’s journey is a testament to the power of innovation rooted in practicality. It demonstrates how a single, purposeful invention—the gabardine trench coat—can evolve into a perpetual symbol of resilience and elegance. The brand continues to navigate the elements of fashion, much like its coats shield wearers from the rain, proving that true style is forever timeless.