appauling facts about burberry | who is Burberry owned by

Burberry. The name conjures images of impeccably dressed individuals, the iconic trench coat, and a certain British sophistication. It's a brand that has permeated popular culture, appearing on runways, in music videos, and adorning celebrities worldwide. But behind the polished facade of this luxury behemoth lies a history peppered with surprising, and in some cases, even *appalling* facts. Prepare to have your perception of Burberry challenged as we delve into 10 things you might not know about this quintessentially British brand, exploring its history, its controversial moments, and the surprising truths that lurk beneath the surface.

1. From Drapery to Global Domination: The Humble Beginnings

Burberry's origin story isn't one of instant fame and fortune. It all started rather modestly in 1856 when a 21-year-old draper named Thomas Burberry opened his own outfitting business in Basingstoke, Hampshire, England. Yes, *draper*. Not a fashion designer, not a visionary, but a draper – a retailer of cloth and clothing. He focused on outdoor attire, recognizing the need for durable and weather-resistant clothing for the local farming community and sportsmen. This pragmatic approach, rooted in functionality rather than high fashion, laid the groundwork for Burberry's future success. But who would have thought that this humble drapery shop would eventually blossom into a global luxury brand?

Burberry originated from which country? Burberry originated from England.

Where did Burberry originate? Burberry originated in Basingstoke, Hampshire, England.

Where was Burberry founded? Burberry was founded in Basingstoke, Hampshire, England.

2. The Invention of Gabardine: A Revolutionary Fabric with a Dark Sideappauling facts about burberry

Burberry's claim to fame isn't just its iconic pattern; it's also the invention of gabardine. In 1879, Thomas Burberry revolutionized outdoor wear with his patented gabardine fabric – a tightly woven, water-resistant, and breathable textile. This innovative fabric was a game-changer, offering protection from the elements without the bulk and discomfort of traditional waterproof materials.

However, the "appalling" aspect here lies not in the invention itself, but in its subsequent use and the marketing surrounding it. Gabardine was heavily marketed towards explorers and adventurers, painting a picture of rugged individualism and British exceptionalism. While Burberry coats were indeed worn by explorers like Roald Amundsen and Ernest Shackleton, the company often exploited these associations for commercial gain, fueling a narrative of colonial exploration and conquest that glossed over the darker aspects of British imperialism. The implication was clear: wearing Burberry made you part of this grand, and often morally questionable, adventure.

What is Burberry known for? Burberry is known for its iconic trench coats, gabardine fabric, and distinctive check pattern.

3. The Trench Coat's Wartime Past: From Battlefields to Runways

The iconic Burberry trench coat, synonymous with style and sophistication, has a surprisingly utilitarian origin. Designed for British officers during World War I, the trench coat was a practical and functional garment meant to withstand the harsh conditions of trench warfare. Its features, from the shoulder straps designed to hold epaulettes and gas mask bags to the D-rings used to carry equipment, were all born out of necessity.

The "appalling" part? The trench coat, a symbol of British military prowess, also represents the immense suffering and loss of life associated with World War I. While Burberry profited from providing uniforms for the war effort, it's important to remember the human cost of the conflict that gave rise to this iconic garment. The romanticized image of the trench coat often overshadows the grim reality of the trenches, a stark reminder of the complex relationship between fashion and history.

Burberry history and background: Burberry's history spans over 160 years, beginning with a drapery shop in England and evolving into a global luxury fashion brand. The company is known for its innovation in fabrics, particularly gabardine, and its iconic trench coats.

4. The "Chav" Association: A Brand Damaged by its Own Success

In the early 2000s, Burberry experienced a significant image crisis. The brand's check pattern, once a symbol of luxury and exclusivity, became associated with "chav" culture in the UK. This was largely due to the widespread availability of counterfeit Burberry products and the adoption of the check pattern by certain subcultures.

The "appalling" aspect here is how quickly a luxury brand can lose its cachet when its products become too accessible or are associated with undesirable demographics. Burberry's association with "chavs" severely damaged its reputation and led to a decline in sales. The company responded by limiting the use of the check pattern and focusing on higher-end products, a strategy that ultimately helped to rehabilitate its image. This incident serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of brand management and the delicate balance between accessibility and exclusivity.

5. Burning Unsold Merchandise: A Wasteful Practice Exposed