THE HISTORY OF BURBERRYS CHECK

1879

Thomas Burberry invents gabardine, this was a breathable, hardwearing and waterproof fabric, which had been very uncomfortable and heavy to wear.

1920

The Burberry check which is now the registered trademark

The buttoned-up British brand has always been deeply tied to class; its fortunes have ebbed and flowed largely based on how UK’s various social strata have viewed it. The vision of the brand in popular culture is inextricably connected to the iconic Burberry check, one of the most recognisable patterns in the world. This history of the Burberry check tells a story about class.

THE TRENCH COAT

The Burberry trench coat was invented in the First World War. This design was functional which includes epaulettes used to suspend military equipment such as gloves and whistles, D- rings used to carry grenades, the gun flap to provide additional protection when in action and the storm shield to allow water to run off it smoothly.

A Burberry trenchcoat advertisement circa WWI-era

In the 1920s, Burberry’s next creation of its iconic check, a Scottish tartan design with a beige base, accented by black, red, and white. Originally, the check was only sewn into the company’s coats. The manager of Burberry’s Paris store wanted to add a splash of colour to a display of trench-coats. He placed some of the coats with the hem facing out, showing off the “house check” pattern. The Burberry check quickly became a status symbol. The rise of the Burberry check among chavs was a part of the ‘90s logo weave.” This period saw the rise of iconic brands like Gucci, Chanel and, of course, Burberry, among lower income and international customers.

5 DIFFERENT SILHOUETTES

The Chelsea The slim fit - our closest, body-skimming fit with narrow shoulders and a nipped-in waistline. In two colours - honey and midnight - and available in two lengths. The Waterloo The relaxed fit - longer in length with a subtle and relaxed fit that's ideal for layering over tailoring. In three colours - chestnut, black and honey - and available in one classic length. The Westminster The oversized fit - oversized and lightweight, cut for a fluid, draped silhouette. In two colours - honey and dark military khaki - and available in two lengths. The Pimlico The straight fit - a single-breasted car coat with minimalist features and a streamlined silhouette. In three colours - biscuit, midnight and honey - and available in one classic length.

FUNCTIONAL DESIGN

Storm shield- allowed water to run off it smoothly