burberry brit symbol | why is Burberry logo tb

The Burberry Brit symbol, while not officially a distinct logo, is a pervasive and recognizable visual element deeply intertwined with the Burberry brand identity. It represents a specific era and stylistic direction within the iconic fashion house's history. To understand the significance of the Burberry Brit symbol, we must delve into the evolution of the brand, its logos over the years, its rebranding efforts, and the overall visual language that contributes to its enduring appeal. This article will explore the Burberry Brit symbol within the context of Burberry's broader branding journey, covering aspects from its original logo to the modern TB monogram.

Burberry: A Legacy Woven in Fabric and Symbolism

Before diving into the specifics of the Burberry Brit symbol, it's crucial to understand the foundation upon which the brand was built. Burberry was founded in 1856 in Basingstoke, Hampshire, England, by Thomas Burberry. Initially, the company focused on outerwear, particularly for outdoor pursuits. This practical focus led to the invention of gabardine, a durable, breathable, and water-resistant fabric that would become synonymous with the brand.

The early success of Burberry was driven by innovation and a commitment to quality. The trench coat, designed for British officers during World War I, cemented Burberry's reputation for functional and stylish clothing. This historical context is essential because it shaped the brand's core values: practicality, durability, and a connection to British heritage.

The Original Burberry Logo: Equestrian Knight Device (EKD)

The original Burberry logo, and arguably the most iconic, is the Equestrian Knight Device (EKD). This emblem features a knight on horseback, clad in armor and carrying a shield. The knight holds a pennant emblazoned with the Latin word "Prorsum," which translates to "forward."

The EKD embodies the brand's values. The knight represents chivalry, courage, and protection, reflecting the durability and functionality of Burberry's clothing. The "Prorsum" motto signifies progress, innovation, and a forward-thinking approach. The EKD was a powerful symbol that communicated Burberry's heritage and aspirations. It appeared on everything from garment labels to advertising campaigns, becoming instantly recognizable as a mark of quality and British craftsmanship.

Burberry Logos Over the Years: An Evolving Identity

The Burberry logo has undergone several transformations throughout its history, reflecting shifts in fashion trends, brand strategy, and market positioning. Understanding these changes provides valuable context for the Burberry Brit symbol and its significance within the brand's evolution.

* Early Years (1856 - early 20th century): The focus was primarily on the name "Burberrys" (with an "s" at the end), often accompanied by descriptions emphasizing the quality and innovation of the products. The EKD gradually gained prominence during this period.

* Mid-20th Century: The EKD became more standardized and widely used. The typeface used for "Burberrys" became more refined.

* Late 20th Century: The brand officially adopted "Burberry" (without the "s"). The EKD remained a central element, but the overall design became cleaner and more modern.

* The Burberry Brit Era: During this period, which we will delve into more detail later, the brand explored variations of the logo and introduced new visual elements, including the Burberry Brit font and imagery.

* The Riccardo Tisci Rebrand (2018): A significant shift occurred when Riccardo Tisci became Chief Creative Officer. He introduced a new logo featuring a bold, sans-serif typeface and a TB monogram, designed in collaboration with Peter Saville.

The Burberry Brit Aesthetic: A Sub-Brand with a Distinct Identityburberry brit symbol

Burberry Brit was a sub-brand within the Burberry portfolio that targeted a younger, more contemporary audience. It represented a more relaxed and accessible interpretation of the Burberry aesthetic. The Burberry Brit symbol, therefore, wasn't a formal logo change for the entire brand, but rather a specific visual identifier for this particular line.

The Burberry Brit aesthetic was characterized by:

* A Casual and Relaxed Vibe: Unlike the more formal and sophisticated mainline Burberry collection, Burberry Brit focused on everyday wear with a touch of British cool.

* A Younger Target Audience: The designs and marketing campaigns were geared towards appealing to a younger demographic.

* A Playful Use of the Tartan: While the iconic Burberry check remained a key element, it was often used in more unexpected and playful ways within the Burberry Brit collection.

* A Distinct Font: The "Burberry Brit" font was a key identifier, often appearing in a slightly distressed or handwritten style, further emphasizing the casual and approachable nature of the sub-brand.

While there wasn't a single, codified "Burberry Brit symbol," the overall visual language associated with this line – the font, the styling, the photography – collectively formed a distinct and recognizable identity. This identity often incorporated elements of the classic Burberry heritage, such as the check and the EKD, but presented them in a more modern and youthful context.

Why Did Burberry Rebrand? The Evolution of a Fashion House

Burberry's rebranding efforts, including the introduction of the TB monogram and the streamlined logo, were driven by several factors: