One of my favorite shopping haunts are museum gift shops; in particular, The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Several years back I purchased a tote bag designed with this William Morris print. I carried it for a while until my daughter kidnapped it to use as a book bag in college. Her affinity for textiles and the intricate weaving and dying technique developed by Morris was right in line with her studies at the Glasgow School of Art where Morris’ contribution to the Arts and Crafts Movement was paramount. But more than its history is the extraordinary complexity of his interpretations of form and nature and the body of work he created. Focused on the artistry of hand craftsmanship, he changed the landscape of Decorative Arts.
Imagine my reaction, then, when last week at the Only Hearts showroom, I saw the Compton Wallpaper collection inspired by Morris’ works. I knew in a heartbeat where the idea had come. This sheer silk georgette camisole and tap pant exemplifies the sophistication of the Only Hearts studio, adapting classical art themes for modern use. Available in S-L, it is their erudite hand that evokes such a feminine effect. Like Morris, Only Hearts have been innovators in their medium, developing sensual and pretty lingerie as well as apparel that blend together as both inner and outerwear. And, like Morris, the breadth of their workmanship can fill entire stores.
“What Moves Men Of Genius, Or Rather What Inspires Their Work,
Is Not New Ideas, But Their Obsession With The Idea That What Has Already Been Said
Is Still Not Enough.” ~Eugene Delacroix
