The History of Burberry: From Trench Coats to High Fashion
Burberry is a British luxury fashion house that has been in business for over 150 years. The brand was founded in 1856 by Thomas Burberry, a draper’s apprentice, who opened his own shop in Basingstoke, Hampshire, England. Burberry’s early focus was on outdoor clothing, specifically practical and durable garments suitable for the British climate. In 1879, he invented gabardine, a waterproof and breathable fabric, which became the signature material for Burberry’s trench coats.
During World War I, Burberry’s trench coats were worn by British officers in the trenches, leading to their popularization and association with the war. The design was later adapted for civilians and became a fashion staple.
In the 1920s, Burberry expanded its product range to include accessories such as bags and scarves. The brand also introduced the iconic Burberry check, a tartan pattern that would become synonymous with the brand.
In the 1950s and 60s, Burberry continued to grow and expand internationally, with stores opening in Paris and New York. The brand’s reputation was further solidified when it was awarded a Royal Warrant by Queen Elizabeth II in 1955, designating it as a supplier to the royal family.
During the 1970s and 80s, Burberry faced a decline in popularity due to the overuse of its signature check pattern, which became associated with a “chav” or working-class stereotype in the UK. However, in the 1990s, the brand underwent a major rebranding effort led by new CEO Rose Marie Bravo. The Burberry check was scaled back and the brand focused on its heritage and quality craftsmanship, leading to a resurgence in popularity.
Since then, Burberry has expanded its product range to include high-end fashion items such as evening wear and accessories. The brand has collaborated with designers such as Vivienne Westwood and Riccardo Tisci, and has continued to innovate in fabrics and technology, with a focus on sustainability.
Today, Burberry is one of the most recognizable luxury brands in the world, with stores in over 50 countries and a strong digital presence. The brand’s commitment to heritage, craftsmanship, and sustainability continues to drive its success.
Exploring Burberry’s Iconic Trench Coat: A History
The Burberry trench coat is an iconic piece of outerwear that has been worn by everyone from British soldiers to Hollywood celebrities. The coat was invented by Thomas Burberry in the early 1900s and was originally designed for military use.
The trench coat’s design was inspired by the heavy, waterproof coats worn by soldiers in the trenches during World War I. Burberry created a new type of fabric called gabardine, which was a tightly woven, water-resistant material that was lightweight and breathable. The fabric was perfect for a military coat, as it kept soldiers dry and comfortable in the rain and mud.
Burberry’s trench coat was designed with a double-breasted front, epaulets, a storm flap, and a belt. The coat also had large pockets, which were perfect for carrying maps and other supplies. The design of the trench coat was so successful that it was soon adapted for civilian use and became a staple in the fashion world.
Throughout the years, the Burberry trench coat has evolved to include new features and styles. In the 1920s, the coat was updated with a check lining, which became a signature feature of the Burberry brand. In the 1950s, the trench coat was given a more feminine shape, with a nipped-in waist and flared skirt.
Today, the Burberry trench coat is still a popular item of clothing and is available in a variety of styles and colors. The brand has also expanded its trench coat range to include shorter versions and more modern designs. Despite the changes in design, the Burberry trench coat remains a timeless and classic piece of outerwear, loved by fashion enthusiasts around the world.
Inside Burberry’s Art of the Trench Campaign:
Burberry’s Art of the Trench campaign is a groundbreaking initiative that celebrates the iconic Burberry trench coat and the people who wear it. The campaign was first launched in 2009 as a digital project and quickly became a viral sensation.
The Art of the Trench campaign invites people from all over the world to submit photos of themselves wearing their Burberry trench coat. The photos are then featured on a dedicated website, as well as on Burberry’s social media channels.
What makes the Art of the Trench campaign so special is that it celebrates the diversity of people and styles that the Burberry trench coat can accommodate. The website features photos of people from all walks of life, from models and celebrities to students and working professionals. The campaign showcases how the trench coat can be worn in a variety of settings, from the city streets to the countryside.
The Art of the Trench campaign has also been used as a platform to showcase emerging artists and photographers. Burberry has collaborated with photographers such as Scott Schuman, the founder of the popular street style blog The Sartorialist, and Garance Doré, a renowned fashion photographer and illustrator.
In addition to showcasing the Burberry trench coat and the people who wear it, the Art of the Trench campaign has also helped to reinforce Burberry’s reputation as a forward-thinking and innovative brand. By using digital technology to connect with customers and showcase their creativity, Burberry has been able to stay at the forefront of the fashion industry and engage with a new generation of consumers.
Overall, the Art of the Trench campaign is a testament to Burberry’s commitment to innovation, creativity, and inclusivity. It celebrates the brand’s iconic trench coat while also highlighting the diverse styles and personalities of its customers.
Burberry’s Collaboration with Vivienne Westwood
In 2018, Burberry collaborated with legendary British designer Vivienne Westwood on a limited-edition collection that combined both brands’ signature styles. The collection, titled “Vivienne Westwood & Burberry,” featured a range of apparel and accessories that showcased Westwood’s punk-inspired aesthetic and Burberry’s iconic check pattern.
The collection included classic Burberry trench coats, reimagined with Westwood’s unique twists such as asymmetric shapes and draped detailing. The collaboration also featured knitwear, silk scarves, and hats, all featuring a mix of Burberry’s signature check and Westwood’s signature prints.
In addition to the apparel and accessories, the collaboration also included a unisex fragrance named “Burberry X Vivienne Westwood.” The fragrance was inspired by British forests and features notes of sandalwood, jasmine, and musk.
The collaboration between Burberry and Vivienne Westwood was not just a celebration of British fashion, but also a statement about sustainability. The two brands pledged to use sustainable materials in the collection and to donate a portion of the profits to the rainforest charity Cool Earth.
The collection was widely praised for its fusion of both brands’ styles, as well as its commitment to sustainability. It was also a nod to Westwood’s punk roots, as she had famously worn a customized Burberry trench coat in the 1990s.
Overall, the collaboration between Burberry and Vivienne Westwood was a successful and well-received effort to merge two iconic British fashion brands and bring attention to the importance of sustainability in the fashion industry.
The Evolution of Burberry’s Iconic Check Pattern
The Burberry check pattern, also known as the Nova check, is one of the most recognizable patterns in the fashion world. It has been associated with the Burberry brand since the early 1900s, and has become a symbol of British heritage and luxury.
The original Burberry check pattern was first introduced in the 1920s as a lining for the brand’s iconic trench coats. The check pattern was used on the inside of the coats, and was not intended to be seen by others. However, the pattern soon became popular among Burberry’s customers, and was eventually used on the outside of the coats as well.
In the 1960s, the Burberry check pattern became synonymous with the mod and punk fashion movements. It was popularized by celebrities such as the Beatles and the Sex Pistols, who wore Burberry check jackets and trousers on stage.
However, in the 1990s, the Burberry check pattern fell out of favor and became associated with chavs, a derogatory term used to describe a subculture associated with working-class youth. The overuse and misuse of the pattern led to a decline in the brand’s popularity.
In response to this, Burberry decided to phase out the check pattern and focus on more understated designs. However, in the early 2000s, the company decided to bring back the check pattern in a more subtle way. The pattern was used on accessories such as scarves and bags, and was often paired with other prints and textures.
Today, the Burberry check pattern is still a key part of the brand’s identity, but it is used in a more restrained and sophisticated way. The pattern has been updated and modernized, and is often used alongside other design elements such as stripes and floral prints.
Overall, the evolution of the Burberry check pattern is a reflection of the brand’s ability to adapt and evolve over time. From a humble lining for trench coats to a symbol of British fashion, the check pattern has become an iconic design element that is recognized all over the world.
Burberry’s Creative Team and their Vision for the Brand’s Future
However, based on public information and interviews, I can provide some general insights about Burberry’s creative team and their vision for the brand’s future.
In 2018, Burberry announced the appointment of Riccardo Tisci as its new Chief Creative Officer, succeeding Christopher Bailey. Tisci is a well-known fashion designer with previous experience at Givenchy, where he brought a modern edge to the brand’s classic aesthetic. His appointment marked a new direction for Burberry, with a focus on rejuvenating the brand’s image and attracting younger consumers.
Tisci’s vision for Burberry is to merge the brand’s heritage with modernity, creating a new contemporary aesthetic that appeals to a younger, more diverse audience. He has emphasized the importance of inclusivity, sustainability, and community engagement, and has introduced new initiatives to support these values. For example, he launched the “Burberry Foundation” to support education and youth empowerment programs around the world, and the “ReBurberry” program, which upcycles old Burberry products into new ones to reduce waste.
In terms of design, Tisci has introduced new collections that feature a mix of classic Burberry motifs such as the iconic check pattern, and more modern streetwear-inspired pieces. He has also collaborated with a range of artists, musicians, and influencers to create limited-edition collections and campaigns that resonate with younger consumers.
Overall, Burberry’s creative team, led by Riccardo Tisci, seems to be focused on transforming the brand into a more contemporary, inclusive, and sustainable fashion label. They are leveraging Burberry’s heritage to create a new, more diverse aesthetic that appeals to a wider range of consumers.
Burberry’s Iconic Scarf: How it Became a Fashion Must-Have
Burberry’s iconic scarf, also known as the “Burberry check” scarf, has become a fashion must-have for many reasons, including the brand’s long history, unique design, and clever marketing campaigns.
The Burberry check pattern was first introduced in the 1920s and has become synonymous with the brand. The pattern features a tan background with black, white, and red stripes that cross over each other, creating a distinctive plaid pattern. The scarf, made from a soft wool and cashmere blend, is both warm and stylish, making it a popular choice for both men and women.
Burberry’s clever marketing campaigns have also contributed to the scarf’s popularity. The brand has collaborated with a number of celebrities and influencers, who have been spotted wearing the scarf on numerous occasions. These high-profile endorsements have helped to cement the scarf’s status as a fashion must-have.
In recent years, Burberry has also expanded the scarf’s availability by introducing new colors and variations of the classic design. The brand has also released limited-edition versions of the scarf, which feature unique patterns or materials, making them highly sought after by collectors.
Overall, Burberry’s iconic scarf has become a fashion must-have due to its timeless design, quality materials, and clever marketing campaigns. The scarf has become a symbol of luxury and style, and it is likely to remain a popular accessory for years to come.
FAQ
Sure! Here are some frequently asked questions about Burberry:
What is Burberry known for?
Burberry is known for its iconic check pattern, trench coats, and luxury fashion accessories, including scarves, handbags, and shoes.
Where is Burberry based?
Burberry is based in London, UK.
Who is the founder of Burberry?
Burberry was founded by Thomas Burberry in 1856.
What is the Burberry check pattern?
The Burberry check pattern is a plaid design featuring a tan background with black, white, and red stripes that cross over each other.
What is the price range for Burberry products?
Burberry products can range in price from a few hundred dollars for smaller accessories to several thousand dollars for high-end items such as trench coats.
Does Burberry offer a warranty for its products?
Burberry offers a one-year warranty on its products, which covers any defects in materials or workmanship.
Where can I buy Burberry products?
Burberry products can be purchased at Burberry stores worldwide, as well as through the brand’s online store and at select department stores and luxury retailers.
Does Burberry have a sustainability program?
Burberry has launched a number of sustainability initiatives in recent years, including the “ReBurberry” program, which upcycles old Burberry products into new ones, and the “Burberry Foundation,” which supports education and youth empowerment programs around the world.
Does Burberry offer customization services?
Burberry offers a range of customization services for select products, including the ability to add monograms to certain handbags and wallets.
Is Burberry a publicly traded company?
Yes, Burberry is publicly traded on the London Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol BRBY.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Burberry is a luxury fashion brand based in London, UK, that is known for its iconic check pattern, trench coats, and high-end accessories. The brand was founded by Thomas Burberry in 1856 and has since become a symbol of luxury and style. Burberry’s current creative team, led by Riccardo Tisci, is focused on transforming the brand into a more contemporary, inclusive, and sustainable fashion label. The brand offers a range of customization services for select products and has launched several sustainability initiatives in recent years, including the “ReBurberry” program and the “Burberry Foundation.” Burberry products can be purchased at Burberry stores worldwide, through the brand’s online store, and at select department stores and luxury retailers.
