Burberry Then
Burberry Now
Meet a Designer: Burberry
Then:
Clothing is designed for style (how something looks), as well as for function (how it works). Stylish clothing company Burberry became famous for making one of the most functional clothing items of all time—the “Trench Coat.” A 21-year old dressmaker named Thomas Burberry founded the brand in 1856. The outerwear he made was worn by explorers who led the first expeditions to the North and South Poles, and by pilots to keep warm as they flew in the open cockpits of early airplanes. These passionate adventurers, aviators, mapmakers and mountain climbers pushed the boundaries of human experience. When World War I broke out in 1914, British soldiers wore Burberry coats in the trenches as an alternative to heavy greatcoats, thereby giving the trench coat its name.
Now:
Every trench coat detail is designed for a specific purpose. The fabric is strong and water resistant; its khaki color blends with the surroundings. A plaid lining zips in for cold weather, and storm flaps keep out wind and rain. Large pockets hold maps; shoulder tabs secure gloves when not in use; a back slit allows the coat to be worn on horseback. Belts at the waist and wrists adjust the fit.
Christopher Bailey leads Burberry’s current design team with the same commitment to both style and function. Though the nature of exploration has changed, the challenges we face today are as daunting as the South Pole was a century ago. Just as Burberry supported yesterday’s adventurers, the company supports young people today in developing the resources they need to navigate their world.
Image credits:
Burberry.com
