When you hear Burberry, you probably think of classic British luxury and timeless style. This brand has been a fashion staple for ages.

Over the years, various celebrities and personalities have flaunted the iconic Burberry check, from Rihanna and Beyonce to Prince Harry and Queen Camila. At the Met Gala 2023, Barry Keoghan turned heads in a sleek black and blue Burberry suit, which proves that Burberry has always been at the forefront of fashion.

But what exactly drives Burberry’s designs? Let’s break it down.

A story of never-ending innovation

Burberry’s story began in 1856 when Thomas Burberry invented the gabardine, a game-changing fabric that’s weatherproof and breathable. During World War 1, the Burberry trench coat debuted, combining style and practicality designed for soldiers and adventurers alike. Fast-forward to today and Burberry perfectly blends timeless with contemporary cool, keeping the brand fresh and exciting.

The creative geniuses

Let’s not forget the fashion masterminds who have taken Burberry to the next level:

Christopher Bailey

• Christopher Bailey was a total game-changer. During his stint as chief creative officer and president of Burberry from 2001 to 2018, he brought Burberry into the digital age. Burberry was the first brand to live-stream catwalk shows.

  He also turned Burberry into a social media sensation by using Snapchat, Apple Music, and Twitter (now X) to engage with the fashion-forward crowd. He took the classic Burberry look and gave it a major upgrade that is fit for a new generation of fashion lovers.

Riccardo Tisci

• When Bailey stepped down in 2018, Riccardo Tisci took over and brought his bold and edgy designs with him. He gave Burberry a street-smart vibe that blended high fashion with streetwear aesthetic, attracting a younger, more diverse crowd. Tisci proved that Burberry isn’t just about tradition but also about pushing boundaries and staying ahead of trends.

  
  

Daniel Lee

• Current chief creative officer Daniel Lee focuses on making Burberry relatable and progressive. He believes in developing an identity, focusing on Burberry’s classic elements, such as the iconic Burberry Check.

  Lee's works are also inspired by the 1901 Equestrian Knight Design logo by incorporating the Knight Blue color into the collection. He created looks that were adventurous and confident while maintaining functionality.

The Burberry Check: A style icon

The Burberry Check is everywhere. The classic pattern of tan, black, red, and white started as a raincoat lining in the 1920s but has now evolved into a global fashion icon.

It has become a statement piece featured in Burberry’s collections, including scarves, bags, and even sneakers. The check is a signature of Burberry’s style, adding a timeless flair to your style.

Burberry is an icon of fashion and sustainability

While Burberry is making waves in fashion, it is also making significant efforts to maintain its commitment to sustainability. It exercises eco-friendly practices, including the reduction of its carbon footprint and the use of recycled materials.

In 2020, they launched the “ReBurberry Edit” collection, featuring pieces made from sustainable materials, including capes, parkas, and other accessories. This collection shows that Burberry continues to evolve, maintaining its commitment to combining style with responsibility.