Founded in 1856, Burberry is celebrating 170 years as one of the most influential luxury fashion houses in the world. To mark the milestone, the British brand recently launched a new campaign bringing together several cultural icons, including supermodel Kate Moss. The campaign reinforces Burberry’s long-standing relationship with fashion, music and British pop culture while highlighting the legacy that made the brand globally recognizable.
Known for its iconic trench coats, the unmistakable check pattern and its strong British heritage, Burberry has managed to reinvent itself throughout the decades while maintaining its classic identity. From dressing explorers and soldiers to becoming a symbol of modern luxury, the brand’s history is filled with innovations, cultural moments and unexpected transformations.
As Burberry celebrates 170 years, here are some interesting facts about the fashion house that helped shape the industry.
1. The brand was founded by Thomas Burberry when he was just 21
Burberry was founded in 1856 by Thomas Burberry in Basingstoke, England. At only 21, he opened a small outfitting shop focused on clothing that could withstand the unpredictable British weather.
His main goal was to create garments that were both functional and comfortable, something that would eventually define the brand’s identity. What began as a practical clothing store soon became a pioneer in technical fabrics and outerwear.
2. Burberry invented gabardine, a revolutionary fabric
One of the brand’s most important contributions to fashion happened in 1879, when Thomas Burberry invented gabardine. The fabric was breathable, water- resistant and durable, which represented a major innovation at a time when most rainwear relied on heavy rubberized materials.
Gabardine quickly became popular among explorers, soldiers and travelers who needed protection against harsh weather conditions. The invention also laid the foundation for what would become one of Burberry’s most famous pieces, the trench coat.
3. The trench coat has military origins
The iconic Burberry trench coat was originally developed for British soldiers during the First World War. Designed to be functional in the trenches, the coat featured details that were both practical and distinctive.
Elements such as epaulettes, storm flaps and D- rings were added to serve military purposes. Over time, however, the trench coat moved beyond the battlefield and became a fashion staple.
Today, the trench coat remains one of the most recognizable luxury garments in the world and continues to symbolize the brand’s British heritage.
4. The famous Burberry check appeared as a coat lining
The famous Burberry check pattern, with its beige background and black, white and red stripes, was first introduced in the 1920s. Interestingly, it originally appeared as the lining of Burberry trench coats rather than a visible design element.
Over time, the pattern became one of the most recognizable prints in fashion. It eventually expanded to scarves, bags and accessories, turning the check into a global symbol of the brand.
5. Burberry has long been connected to exploration
Burberry’s garments were worn on several historical expeditions. In the early 20th century, explorers relied on the brand’s outerwear for protection in extreme climates.
For example, Burberry clothing was used during Antarctic expeditions led by explorer Ernest Shackleton. The durability of the garments reinforced Burberry’s reputation for innovation and practicality.
These connections with exploration helped establish the brand as a pioneer in performance outerwear, long before the concept became common in fashion.
6. Burberry has reinvented itself multiple times
Like many heritage fashion houses, Burberry has undergone several transformations throughout its history. In the 2000s, the brand repositioned itself in the luxury market while preserving its classic identity.
Creative leadership played an important role in this process. Designers such as Christopher Bailey helped modernize the brand while maintaining its British aesthetic.
More recently, Burberry has continued to evolve under new creative directions and campaigns that connect the house with contemporary culture and younger audiences.
A legacy that continues to evolve
More than 170 years later, Burberry remains one of the most recognizable luxury brands in the world. Its ability to combine innovation, heritage and cultural relevance has allowed the fashion house to remain influential across generations.
From pioneering fabrics to iconic garments and collaborations with cultural figures, Burberry’s story reflects how tradition and reinvention can coexist in fashion, proving that even after nearly two centuries the brand continues to shape the industry.
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The article above was edited by Larissa Buzon.
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