Founded in 1856 by Thomas Burberry, Burberry started as a British outerwear brand renowned for inventing gabardine—a waterproof, breathable fabric that revolutionized trench coats. Over the decades, Burberry became synonymous with classic British elegance, iconic trench coats, and the signature check pattern introduced in the 1920s. The brand successfully navigated modern luxury fashion by blending heritage with contemporary innovation, becoming a global powerhouse in outerwear, ready-to-wear, and accessories.