1. Burberry’s Origins (1856)
Burberry was founded in 1856 when 21-year-old Thomas Burberry opened his first shop in Basingstoke. From the outset, the brand focused on creating durable, functional clothing designed to handle the British climate, prioritising performance long before fashion became part of the conversation.
2. The Invention of Gabardine (1879)
In 1879, Burberry invented gabardine, a tightly woven fabric that was both weatherproof and breathable. This innovation revolutionised outerwear and laid the groundwork for modern performance clothing decades before technical fashion became mainstream.
3. The First Trench Coat Prototype (1912)
Burberry patented the Tielocken coat in 1912, widely considered the original prototype of the modern trench coat. Its design was driven entirely by function, using a belt fastening for flexibility and protection rather than decorative elements.
4. World War I and Military Function (1914–1918)
During World War I, Burberry adapted the trench coat for British military officers. Features such as storm shields, epaulettes, D-rings, and reinforced shoulders were all added for practical battlefield use, proving the coat was built for utility before style.
5. The Hidden Burberry Check (1920s)
The Burberry check first appeared in the 1920s as a lining inside raincoats rather than a visible design feature. It only became a bold exterior symbol decades later, eventually rising to iconic status from the 1960s onwards.
6. The Equestrian Knight Design (1901)
Created through a public competition around 1901, the Equestrian Knight Design features a banner reading “Prorsum,” meaning “Forward.” The logo reflected Burberry’s commitment to innovation, progress, and movement rather than purely decorative branding.
7. Tested at the South Pole (1911)
In 1911, explorer Roald Amundsen reached the South Pole using Burberry gabardine clothing and tents. Burberry equipment was later used in several historic expeditions, demonstrating the brand’s credibility in extreme conditions.
8. Royal Recognition (1919 & 2024)
Burberry received its first Royal Warrant in 1919 in recognition of its quality and craftsmanship. In 2024, the brand was awarded a new Royal Warrant by HM King Charles III, reaffirming its long-standing prestige.
9. Crafting the Iconic Cashmere Scarf
Burberry’s iconic check cashmere scarf is still made in Scotland by Johnstons of Elgin. Each scarf goes through more than 30 production stages, highlighting the craftsmanship behind one of the brand’s most recognisable pieces.
10. A Digital-First Luxury Brand (2020)
In 2020, Burberry became the first luxury brand to livestream a fashion show on Twitch. This move showed how the brand continues to push boundaries by blending heritage with modern digital storytelling.
