The History Behind the Burberry Coat: From Trenches to Fashion Icon

The Burberry coat, particularly the iconic trench coat, has become a symbol of timeless style, elegance, and practical functionality. Burberry, a name synonymous with luxury and British heritage, has evolved over more than 160 years from a humble outdoor wear brand to one of the world’s most recognized fashion houses. But behind the prestige and fame of the Burberry coat lies a rich history that begins on the battlefields of World War I and continues to this day as a mainstay in fashion.

In this article, we’ll dive into the history of the Burberry coat, from its military origins to its place in modern-day fashion as a true icon.

The Birth of Burberry: 1856

Burberry’s story begins in 1856, when Thomas Burberry, a young draper from Basingstoke, England, founded the brand. Initially, Burberry specialized in creating outdoor wear for the British weather. The company’s early years focused on creating high-quality coats and garments designed to keep people warm and dry in the often wet and unpredictable climate of Britain.

The foundation for the now-legendary Burberry coat was laid in the late 19th century, when Thomas Burberry invented a fabric that would go on to revolutionize outerwear: gabardine. This waterproof yet breathable fabric was a game-changer for the design of durable outerwear and soon became a hallmark of Burberry’s offerings.

The Birth of the Trench Coat: World War I

The defining moment in the history of the Burberry coat came during World War I. As the British Army prepared for the harsh conditions of the trenches, they needed a garment that was both functional and protective. Traditional military coats were often heavy and impractical, so the British War Office turned to Burberry to develop a new, more practical alternative.

In 1901, Burberry designed and patented the trench coat, a light yet durable garment that was ideal for soldiers in the trenches. Made from the brand’s signature gabardine fabric, the trench coat was waterproof, breathable, and easy to move in — making it perfect for soldiers who spent hours in wet, muddy conditions. The coat’s features included shoulder epaulets, deep pockets, a double-breasted front, and a belt to help keep out the cold.

Though the trench coat was initially designed for military use, it quickly became popular among civilians after the war. Soldiers returned home from the battlefield and, with the trench coat still on their backs, the garment began to transcend its military origins and enter the realm of fashion.

The Trench Coat as a Fashion Icon

The trench coat’s post-war popularity was not only due to its practicality but also its undeniable style. In the 1920s, the trench coat began to appear on the fashion scene, worn by the likes of Hollywood stars and society icons. Audrey Hepburn famously wore a Burberry trench coat in the film Sabrina (1954), and Humphrey Bogart donned the classic style in Casablanca (1942). These appearances cemented the trench coat’s place as a timeless, sophisticated wardrobe staple.

Over the years, Burberry began to diversify its outerwear collection, but the trench coat remained the signature piece. The brand’s signature check lining—a beige, red, and black tartan pattern—was introduced in the 1920s and became synonymous with Burberry coats, further elevating their status as a luxury item.

The Burberry Coat in Modern Fashion

By the 1970s and 1980s, Burberry had become a global luxury brand, known not only for its iconic trench coats but also for its high-quality outerwear and signature designs. In the 1990s and 2000s, Burberry transitioned from being a primarily traditional outerwear label to a modern fashion powerhouse. Under the creative direction of Christopher Bailey (who took over in 2001), the brand embraced a more contemporary aesthetic, expanding its offerings to include stylish, modern coats that retained the classic craftsmanship Burberry was known for.

Burberry also became a favorite among the British royal family, with both Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Charles sporting Burberry coats over the years. The brand’s association with the monarchy and its royal warrant helped maintain its reputation as a symbol of luxury and timeless British style.

In recent years, the Burberry coat has continued to evolve under the creative direction of Riccardo Tisci, incorporating modern trends while staying true to the brand’s core identity. The classic trench coat remains a central piece of Burberry’s outerwear collection, but the brand now offers a variety of other coat styles, from sleek wool coats to contemporary puffer jackets, all bearing the same signature Burberry quality.

Key Features of the Burberry Coat

The Burberry coat, particularly the trench coat, has several key features that have contributed to its status as a fashion icon:

Gabardine Fabric: The durable, waterproof, and breathable fabric originally invented by Thomas Burberry remains a cornerstone of Burberry coats. It offers both function and style, making it ideal for all types of weather.
Timeless Silhouette: The trench coat’s double-breasted design, epaulets, and belt provide a timeless, flattering fit that has remained popular for over a century.
The Burberry Check: The iconic check lining, first introduced in the 1920s, is a hallmark of Burberry outerwear. It adds a subtle touch of luxury and instantly identifies a Burberry coat.
Practical Features: The trench coat’s practical design, with deep pockets, a belt, and a weather-resistant fabric, continues to make it one of the most functional outerwear options.

The Enduring Legacy of the Burberry Coat

The Burberry coat, from its military origins to its place in modern fashion, has stood the test of time as one of the most iconic pieces of outerwear ever created. Its design has evolved, but its timeless appeal and functional qualities remain unchanged. Whether worn on the battlefield, by Hollywood stars, or as a symbol of sophistication on the streets of London, the Burberry coat continues to be a must-have wardrobe staple, admired for both its heritage and modernity.

Today, the Burberry trench coat stands as a tribute to the brand’s innovation, craftsmanship, and enduring legacy. With a Burberry coat in your wardrobe, you’re not only wearing a piece of fashion history — you’re embracing a timeless icon that will never go out of style.