Burberry

Founded in 1856 in Basingstoke, United Kingdom by Thomas Burberry, Burberry developed into a distinct label. Burberry’s story begins in 1856 when 21-year-old Thomas Burberry opened a small outfitting shop in Basingstoke, aiming to create clothing that could withstand the British weather. In 1879 he invented gabardine, a breathable waterproof fabric that he patented in 1888 and used to produce durable coats. The equestrian knight logo was introduced in 1901, the London flagship opened in 1891 and by 1912 Burberry had patented the Tielocken coat, the forerunner of the trench coat worn by soldiers in both world wars.

The signature check lining debuted in the 1920s and became synonymous with British style. The label works across ready-to-wear, accessories, and fragrance. Creative direction is currently led by Daniel Lee. The house is part of Burberry Group PLC. The brand quickly gained favour with explorers, providing garments for Fritjof Nansen’s Arctic expeditions and military officers. In the late 20th century Burberry diversified into accessories, fragrance and ready-to-wear, eventually repositioning itself as a global luxury brand.

Burberry’s philosophy balances heritage, innovation and social responsibility. The brand upholds Thomas Burberry’s original mission of protecting people from the elements through technical fabric developments like gabardine. It celebrates British culture and craftsmanship, championing artisans in the United Kingdom and emphasising tailoring, outerwear and cashmere scarves woven in Scotland. Under its Burberry Beyond sustainability strategy, the house focuses on four pillars - product, planet, people and communities - committing to carbon neutrality, circular design and supporting social causes.

The brand invests in regenerative agriculture and materials innovation, and it encourages product longevity through repair services and vintage buy-back programmes. By marrying innovation with a respect for history, Burberry invites customers to invest in pieces that are both timeless and forward-looking, embodying a philosophy of enduring style and responsibility. Narrative and cultural reference operate here as structuring devices rather than decorative afterthoughts. Material choice and construction are treated as part of the argument, not as secondary finishing touches.