Burberry is one of the most characteristic and recognisable English brands. Its history began in 1856 when Thomas Burberry had opened his first boutique in Basingstoke, Hampshire County. The brand quickly gained international popularity and became a respected fashion house selling exclusive clothing and accessories for women and men. Waterproof and breathable Burberry coats were worn on the big screen by such world stars as Humphrey Bogart, Audrey Hepburn and Meryl Streep.