burberrys กับ burberry | Burberry labels

Burberry. The name itself conjures images of timeless elegance, iconic trench coats, and that instantly recognizable check pattern. But have you ever noticed the slight variation, "Burberrys," lurking on older garments and accessories? Is there a difference? Is one "more authentic" than the other? The short answer is yes, there's a difference, and no, one isn't necessarily "more" authentic. Instead, the evolution of the brand name from Burberrys to Burberry reflects a fascinating journey through fashion history, trademark strategy, and global branding.

This article delves deep into the intricacies of the Burberry brand name, exploring its meaning, its historical significance, the reasons behind the name change, and how it all relates to the iconic luxury brand we know and love today. We'll navigate through the Burberry of London logo, decipher Burberry labels, and unravel the complete history of this British fashion powerhouse.

Burberry's Meaning: Rooted in Innovation and Outdoor Performance

To understand the significance of the name "Burberry," we must first look at its origins. Thomas Burberry, a 21-year-old draper's apprentice, founded the company in 1856 in Basingstoke, Hampshire, England. His initial focus wasn't high fashion; instead, he aimed to create practical, durable outerwear suited for the British climate. The name itself doesn't have a deeply symbolic or historical meaning in the traditional sense. It's simply the founder's surname.

However, the *spirit* behind the name embodies innovation and practicality. Burberry revolutionized outerwear with his invention of gabardine in 1879. Gabardine was a breathable, waterproof, and hard-wearing fabric woven from Egyptian cotton yarn. This invention was a game-changer, allowing for the creation of lightweight yet protective coats that were perfect for outdoor pursuits.

Therefore, the name "Burberry," while not inherently meaningful in itself, became synonymous with quality, innovation, and performance. It represented clothing designed to withstand the elements, a far cry from the delicate and impractical fashions of the time.

Burberry Brand History: From Outfitter to Global Luxury Icon

The early years of Burberry were marked by a dedication to practicality and functionality. The brand quickly gained a reputation for providing high-quality outerwear for sportsmen, explorers, and military personnel.

* Early Success and Military Contracts: Burberry's gabardine coats were adopted by the British military during the Second Boer War and World War I. The trench coat, specifically designed for officers in the trenches, became a signature piece and an enduring symbol of the brand. These military associations cemented Burberry's reputation for durability, reliability, and Britishness.

* Expansion Beyond Outerwear: While outerwear remained central, Burberry expanded its product line to include other clothing items, accessories, and luggage. The iconic Burberry check, initially introduced as a lining for the trench coat, began to appear on scarves, umbrellas, and other accessories. This marked a pivotal moment in the brand's evolution, as the check pattern became instantly recognizable and a symbol of Burberry's distinctive style.

* The "Burberrys" Era: From the late 19th century until the late 20th century, the brand was frequently referred to as "Burberrys." This wasn't an official name change; rather, it was a common colloquialism. The addition of the "s" after the surname was a popular way to denote a business or shop owned by someone (e.g., "Smith's hardware store"). It implied a sense of established tradition and a family-run business, even as the company grew into a larger enterprise. The "Burberrys" moniker was particularly prevalent in marketing materials and on labels during this period.

* The Rise of Counterfeiting and the Brand's Image: In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Burberry faced a significant challenge: widespread counterfeiting. The ubiquity of the Burberry check, coupled with its growing popularity, made it a prime target for counterfeiters. The brand's image also suffered from association with certain subcultures, particularly in the UK, where it became associated with "chav" culture. This association, fueled by the widespread availability of counterfeit and lower-priced Burberry items, threatened to dilute the brand's luxury appeal.

* Strategic Repositioning and the "Burberry" Rebrand: Recognizing the need to revitalize the brand and reclaim its luxury status, Burberry underwent a significant strategic repositioning in the late 1990s and early 2000s. This involved several key initiatives:

* Creative Direction: Appointing Christopher Bailey as Creative Director in 2001 was a pivotal decision. Bailey successfully blended the brand's heritage with modern designs, creating a fresh and relevant aesthetic that appealed to a new generation of consumers.burberrys กับ burberry

* Controlling Distribution: Burberry tightened control over its distribution channels, reducing the availability of discounted and counterfeit products. This helped to restore the brand's exclusivity and perceived value.

* Focus on Luxury and Innovation: The brand reaffirmed its commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and innovation. New materials and designs were introduced, while still respecting the brand's heritage.

* The Official Name Change: As part of this comprehensive repositioning strategy, Burberry officially dropped the "s" from its name and rebranded as "Burberry." This was a deliberate move to modernize the brand image and project a more streamlined and contemporary identity.