Few garments have achieved the cultural status of the trench coat. Practical, elegant and unmistakably British, it has evolved from military-inspired outerwear into one of fashion’s most enduring symbols. At London’s Victoria and Albert Museum, The Burberry Trench: Crafting an Icon explores the history, craftsmanship and continuing reinvention of this timeless design.

Founded by Thomas Burberry in 1856, the British fashion house established its reputation through innovation in outerwear, notably the development of gabardine, a weather-resistant fabric. The trench coat emerged from this functional tradition, its distinctive silhouette combining double-breasted construction, epaulettes and a belted waist.

The exhibition reveals how this familiar design has become a canvas for creative experimentation. Highlights include a mirror-embroidered men’s trench from Autumn/Winter 2015, a pink metallic silk version from Spring/Summer 2013 and a purple baroque-print, fringed design from Winter 2025. These pieces demonstrate how Burberry continues to reinterpret its heritage through unexpected materials, colours and embellishments.

Beyond its practical origins, the trench coat has acquired an unmistakable cultural presence, appearing across cinema, photography and popular culture. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to balance tradition with transformation, retaining its recognisable identity while adapting to successive generations.

The Burberry Trench: Crafting an Icon celebrates the relationship between craftsmanship, heritage and innovation. In an industry driven by constant change, the trench coat remains a powerful reminder that a true fashion icon is not defined by its ability to stand still, but by its capacity to evolve.

The Burberry Trench: Crafting an Icon is on view at the V&A South Kensington until 3 January 2027. Admission is free.

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