The Burberry Story

Since its founding in 1856 by Thomas Burberry, our brand has stood as a symbol of British heritage and innovative design. What began as a young draper’s vision to revolutionize outdoor wear has grown into a global legacy built on purpose, craftsmanship, and timeless style.

Thomas Burberry understood a simple but profound need: those braving the British climate deserved clothing that was both protective and liberating. He set out to create garments that allowed people to move freely—no matter the weather. This vision led to the invention of gabardine in 1879, a breathable, weatherproof fabric that redefined rainwear and remains central to our collections today.

Among our most enduring icons is the trench coat. Originally designed for military officers during the First World War, its functional details—like epaulettes and D-rings—were born from necessity. Today, it stands as a masterpiece of tailoring. Each collar requires more than 180 stitches applied by specialist artisans who train for a year to perfect its fluid curve, ensuring it rests flawlessly on the wearer.

Equally iconic is the Burberry Check, introduced in the 1920s as a distinctive lining and now celebrated worldwide as a mark of authentic style. We continue to protect and evolve this signature, weaving it into modern expressions of our identity.

At Burberry, we are driven by the same spirit of exploration and innovation that inspired Thomas Burberry. We honor our past by continually advancing it—crafting pieces that are not only functional and beautiful, but truly timeless.