Trending | British Arts & Crafts Movement
The limited-edition J. Crew Home collection, featuring table linens and bedding in classic Arts and Crafts motifs.
Strawberry Thief, 1883, William Morris (1834-1896) V&A Museum no. T.586-1919
Inspired work, Robins and Raspberries by Kelly Louise Judd
Suddenly everywhere, the iconic prints of designer William Morris channel Britain's Arts and Crafts movement of the late 19th century. As a reaction to the damaging effects of industrialization, the Arts and Crafts movement marked a shift in values where society placed a newfound importance on how things were made. "The Arts and Crafts movement in Britain was born out of an increasing understanding that society needed to adopt a different set of priorities in relation to the manufacture of objects. Its leaders wanted to develop products that not only had more integrity but which were also made in a less dehumanising way," notes the Victoria and Albert Museum.
The movement was heavily influenced by designer William Morris, whose famous textile prints including Strawberry Thief have remained popular for over a century. According to the V&A, "Morris believed passionately in the importance of creating beautiful, well-made objects that could be used in everyday life, and that were produced in a way that allowed their makers to remain connected both with their product and with other people." Morris looked to the past for inspiration, citing simpler and better models for living and production found in the small-scale workshops of the medieval period. The Arts and Crafts approach and philosophy are strikingly similar to today's emphasis on supporting the works of artists and makers, and valuing simpler homes and ways of life. Perhaps that is why so many brands are taking style cues from the movement this season, from J. Crew to Williams Sonoma.
J. Crew Home Collection
Williams Sonoma Fall Collection
March Fall Collection
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