In 1856 Thomas Burberry opened his first shop in Basingstoke, England- he was 21. By the end of the century Burberry had developed gabardine & the precursor of the trenchcoat. The new century brought the Equestrian Knight trademark accompanied by the Latin word Prorsum meaning forwards, the Burberry check & Royal Warrants to HM Queen Elizabeth II & HRH The Prince of Wales. 21st century Burberry is a global luxury brand at the forefront of the digital revolution in fashion, with ‘click & buy‘ runway shows & holographic runways. For more information on the company past & present click here: http://www.burberryplc.com/bbry/corporateprofile/history/ Watch highlights from the A/W 2012 show & read our Style Eye review below- For Burberry Prorsum’s Autumn/Winter collection 2012 Christopher Bailey sent out a mad mix of looks that almost resembled what the Brits call a jumble sale.  From the tiny ‘little girl’ bow belts on pieces that opened the show, to the melange of tweeds, puffer jackets and satins that led to florals that overtook the silhouette.  Flounces and draped panels added girth – hmmm – why?  The total mix seemed to be street fashion and High Street all in one ensemble.  No, this reviewer was not all that engaged…..but we give credit that checking this collection out in the showroom will be an interesting morning or afternoon for numerous retail buyers.  Oh yes – the traditional military trenchcoat theme did appear…..as did an ensemble of umbrellas– or should that be brollies?  at  the close.