By alexpettyfersource 
The History of Burberry
Burberry is a British luxury fashion house that was founded in 1856 by Thomas Burberry. The brand is best known for its iconic trench coats and iconic checkered pattern. Over the years, Burberry has evolved from a small outdoor clothing company to a global fashion powerhouse.
Early Years and Trench Coat Invention
Thomas Burberry opened his first store in Basingstoke, Hampshire, England in 1856. The store quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality outdoor clothing, including coats, jackets, and suits. In 1901, Burberry invented the first-ever weatherproof fabric, which he used to create the iconic Burberry trench coat. The trench coat became a staple of the brand and was popularized by celebrities and fashion icons around the world.
Expanding the Brand
In the early 20th century, Burberry began to expand its product offerings beyond outerwear. The brand introduced accessories, such as scarves and bags, and launched its first fragrance in 1921. Burberry’s signature checkered pattern was also introduced during this time and became synonymous with the brand.
The Transformation of Burberry
While Burberry was known for its classic and timeless pieces, the brand underwent a major transformation in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Under the creative direction of Christopher Bailey, Burberry began to embrace a more modern and fashion-forward aesthetic.
Rebranding and Revitalization
In 1998, Burberry underwent a rebranding effort to shed its outdated image and appeal to a younger audience. The brand introduced a new logo and modernized its signature checkered pattern. Burberry also expanded its product offerings to include a wider range of clothing and accessories.
Celebrity Endorsements and Collaborations
Under Christopher Bailey’s creative direction, Burberry became a favorite among celebrities and influencers. The brand’s iconic trench coat was worn by stars such as Kate Moss, Emma Watson, and Cara Delevingne. Burberry also collaborated with renowned artists and designers, such as Vivienne Westwood and Gosha Rubchinskiy, to create limited-edition collections.
Burberry in the Digital Age
Burberry was one of the first luxury fashion brands to embrace digital technology and social media. The brand launched its own e-commerce website in 2006 and became one of the first to livestream its runway shows. Burberry also leveraged social media platforms, such as Instagram and Snapchat, to engage with its audience and showcase its collections.
A New Era Under Riccardo Tisci
In 2018, Burberry appointed Riccardo Tisci as its new Chief Creative Officer, signaling a new era for the brand. Tisci brought his own unique vision to Burberry, blending modern streetwear with the brand’s traditional aesthetic. His debut collection for Burberry was highly anticipated and received critical acclaim.
Sustainability and Ethical Practices
As consumer demand for sustainability and ethical practices in fashion grows, Burberry has taken steps to reduce its environmental impact. The brand has launched initiatives to promote sustainable sourcing and manufacturing practices, including using recycled materials and reducing waste. Burberry has also committed to becoming carbon neutral by 2022.
The Future of Burberry
As Burberry continues to evolve and adapt to the changing fashion landscape, the brand remains dedicated to innovation and creativity. With a focus on sustainability, inclusivity, and modern design, Burberry is poised to remain a leading force in the fashion industry for years to come.
In conclusion, the evolution of Burberry from its humble beginnings as a small outdoor clothing company to a global fashion powerhouse is a testament to the brand’s enduring legacy and creativity. With its iconic trench coats, innovative designs, and commitment to sustainability, Burberry continues to inspire and captivate fashion enthusiasts around the world.