15 Mar 2019

Design Stories: The Toile de Jolie Print

Inspired by the SS19 runways, the Toile de Jolie collection puts a modern spin on botanical etchings from Victorian gardens with hand-painted prints on clean, contemporary designs. Created in our in-house London studio, exclusively for Accessorize, we take a closer look at spring’s freshest print, flourishing across the season’s must-have accessories and gift ideas that are perfect for Mother’s Day.

On the Runway

Oscar de la Renta, Resort 2019 | Dior, Cruise 2019 | Oscar De La Renta, Resort 2019

Having originated from the small French town of Jouy-en-Josas, not far from Paris, toile prints combine illustrative landscapes and buildings with decorative florals. Favoured by the aristocratic elite in eighteenth- and nineteenth-century France, the pictorial print has become synonymous with classic English interiors and has recently seen a revival on the SS19 runways. Artful designs on long, languid silhouettes were prominent in Oscar de la Renta’s most recent resort collection, while the motif underwent a modern makeover at Dior with the inclusion of animal prints on sports-luxe sweatshirts.

The Toile Neckerchief

Hand-painted florals bloom across this silky-soft neckerchief, accompanied by sketches of stately homes for a true nod to nostalgia. The classic colour palette of blue and white suits spring’s lighter mood and offers an easy refresh to new-season outfit options. Knot it around your neck or ponytail or tie it onto the handles of your tote bag.

The Toile Bags

Want a bolder way to wear this season’s toile prints? It’s all in the bag. From spacious totes to the cross-body styles of spring, these printed pieces lend vintage flair to simple silhouettes. Let them take full focus against pared-back palettes for a fuss-free transition into warmer weather.

Mother’s Day Gifts

Want more gifting inspiration? Whether celebrating your mum (or honorary mum), grandmother, aunt, sister or best friend, you’ll find all sorts treasured finds in our Mother’s Day edit.