Burberry – Suppliers during the First World War

Thomas Burberry founded Burberry in 1856 in England with a vision to create clothing adapted to tackle the British weather. From an outerwear focus at first, they have come to expand their range and are today well known for both bags, accessories and RTW, Ready to Wear.

Gabardin – Quality meets functionality

Something that distinguishes Burberry is the material gabardine. Namely, in 1879 Burberry created the world's first waterproof material with breathable capability. Previously, rain clothes tended to be heavy and uncomfortable, the newly found material composition became revolutionary for the waterproof outerwear industry. The gabardine material was patented a few years later.

Military coats

Under första världskriget skapade Burberry den idag ikoniska trenchcoaten. Det togs fram en design ämnad för att underlätta och skydda militären, med detaljer för att fästa vapen runt midjan och gabardinväv fick klä den brittiska militären. Rocken har kommit att bli ett signaturplagg som är lika klassisk idag som den var för hundra år sedan och kommer troligen fortsätta vara.

Royal Warrant Holders

During Burberry's active years, they have become official court suppliers of clothing and outerwear. In 1955 Queen Elisabeth II awarded a "Royal Warrant" and in 1989 by the Prince of Wales. This has been proof that they have repeatedly delivered high-quality products that have graced the royal families.

Between 1970 and 1990, the establishment of the brand began internationally, and from offering only outerwear, the range was broadened, to meet customer demand. Burberry started producing bags, shawls and other accessories and became a key player among other luxury brands on the market.

The Burberry Check

The chequered Burberry Check, or Nova Check as the pattern is also known, is clearly recognisable brand identity. With black, white and red stripes on either, a cream surface or a darker beige/tan/camel is Burberry's signature. At first the check patterned fabric was used to line the coats and only forty years later it became a clear signature and the pattern was requested by customers on more than just the inside of the coat.

Several logos along the way

In 1901, Burberry reached out to the public with a competition to create a logo that would fit the brand. Success landed on the horse carrying a banner with the Latin word "Prorsum", meaning "forward". This word symbolising the progress and reflecting the brand's commitment to quality and innovation.

Over the years, Burberry has updated and refined the logo to be more suitable for its target audience but has retained the iconic rider. Most recently in 2018, another major change was made. Together with British designer Peter Saville, the logo was changed once again, the rider removed, leaving a minimalistic font of the brand's name in capitals. A new monogram was also designed. This pattern features "TB", and stands for "Thomas Burberry".