The Burberry Check
The Burberry check was first used to line our raincoats in the 1920s, but it was the 1960s that saw it become the unmistakable Burberry signature we know today. When customers began asking specifically for the Burberry check – the evolution of our house code began.
A Flash of Inspiration
In 1967, Jacqueline Dillemman – a buyer in our Paris store – had a flash of inspiration whilst preparing a fashion presentation for the British ambassador, Sir Patrick Reilly. She removed the check lining from a coat and used it to wrap luggage and create an umbrella cover. The check accessory was born.
Then and Now
Over the decades, the Burberry check has seen many incarnations. The cashmere check scarf was introduced in the 1970s and has become one of our best-known accessories. The check was then used for ready-to-wear – featuring prominently in our campaigns throughout the 1980s and 1990s – and is now a registered trademark.
The Rainbow check – a colourful reimagination that celebrates the LGBTQIA+ community – was introduced in 2018.
Under the creative direction of Riccardo Tisci, the Burberry check remains our iconic house code with a new vision for the future – elevated, reworked and reconstructed throughout our collections. No matter the incarnation, it will always be a marker of our history, our craftsmanship and enduring British style.
As a seasoned fashion expert and enthusiast with a deep understanding of the Burberry brand and its iconic elements, I bring a wealth of knowledge to shed light on the evolution and significance of the Burberry check. My expertise is rooted in a comprehensive understanding of fashion history, design evolution, and the cultural impact of iconic brand elements.
Now, let's delve into the key concepts mentioned in the article about the Burberry check:
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Introduction of Burberry Check:
- The Burberry check was initially used to line raincoats in the 1920s.
- It gained prominence in the 1960s, becoming the unmistakable signature of Burberry.
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Flash of Inspiration (1967):
- Jacqueline Dillemman, a buyer at the Paris store, played a pivotal role.
- While preparing a fashion presentation for the British ambassador, she had a creative revelation.
- She utilized the check lining from a coat to create an umbrella cover and wrap luggage, giving birth to the check accessory.
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Evolution Over Time:
- In the 1970s, the Burberry check expanded into accessories with the introduction of the cashmere check scarf.
- Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, it was incorporated into ready-to-wear collections, featuring prominently in campaigns.
- The Burberry check is now a registered trademark, attesting to its iconic status.
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Special Editions:
- The Rainbow check, introduced in 2018, is a colorful reimagination celebrating the LGBTQIA+ community.
- This reflects Burberry's commitment to inclusivity and contemporary social issues.
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Creative Direction of Riccardo Tisci:
- Under Riccardo Tisci's creative direction, the Burberry check retains its iconic status.
- Tisci has brought a new vision for the future, elevating, reworking, and reconstructing the Burberry check throughout the brand's collections.
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Enduring Symbolism:
- Regardless of its various incarnations, the Burberry check serves as a marker of the brand's history, craftsmanship, and enduring British style.
- It remains a constant in the brand's identity, adapting to contemporary tastes while honoring its heritage.
In conclusion, the Burberry check is not just a pattern; it's a symbol deeply rooted in the brand's journey, innovation, and commitment to both tradition and modernity. The article highlights its journey from a functional raincoat lining to a globally recognized symbol of Burberry's heritage and style.
