The Heritage Trench

Newly reimagined with archive inspiration. Distilled into three modern silhouettes. The Chelsea, our slimmest cut for a defined fit; The Kensington, a classic fit for a tailored silhouette and The Westminster, the relaxed-fit trench - created for easy layering.

Gabardine was invented in 1879 by Thomas Burberry. The cotton breathable cloth with microscopic open spaces allowed ventilation, whilst the compact structure prevented wind and rain from permeating the fabric. The innovation revolutionised rainwear, which up until then had typically been heavy and uncomfortable to wear. For 2018, our lighter tropical gabardine has been introduced to the Heritage Trench for the first time, adding lightness and fluidity to The Westminster fit.

At the Burberry textile mill near Keighley, England, traditional and modern techniques combine to create our signature gabardine. Cotton fibres are chosen for length and fineness before being coloured and spun into super-strong yarn.

There are 127 processes involved in the making of a single Burberry trench coat.

The original Burberry trench coat was born from function to protect the military during the First World War, where a reported 500,000 coats were worn by officers. Epaulettes displayed an officer’s rank, while the belt’s metal D-rings were used to attach equipment - every detail of the iconic design serving a purpose, contributing to its unmistakable design and enduring legacy.

Burberry was the outfitter of choice for several polar explorers, including Sir Ernest Shackleton who wore Burberry gabardine for three expeditions in the early 20th century. Our gabardine fabric’s protective and lightweight qualities made it well-suited to cope with inhospitable conditions.