The urban guide to the countryside -
Trend alert! Artisanal style
Delicate embroidery, expert craftsmanship and dreamy fabrics - we're coveting artisanal chic for summer. Here are 14 items to add to your (handwoven) basket.
Attitudes to style are shifting – we’re becoming more mindful about what we buy and are appreciating great craftsmanship more than ever. And with summer comes an influx of gorgeous artisanal goodies – think fringing, basketweave, tassels and beautiful embroidery.
These kind of items are perfect for the warmer months – they’re playful, light and work well in the sunshine – plus this year any clothing and interiors pieces that bring us joy are particularly welcome.
Cool kicks
White trainers are a summer essential and we’ll be upgrading ours to this stunning embroidered pair from Anthropologie. Muddy loves.
£128
Legs Eleven
Go short or go home! The embroidered cutouts and pintuck detailing on this Zara dress make it look way more expensive than it is. Dress up with strappy sandals, or down with chunky white trainers.
£29.99 reduced from £59.99
Scrunchie chic
Remember these? Scrunchies are having a renaissance and these silky, embellished ones, from Free People, are just the ticket. Style with a low bun for a low-key look.
£15
Summer stunner
Kaftans aren’t just for the beach, you know. This beautiful linen-blend embroidered number will be your chicest sartorial choice this summer. Mango have pulled it out the bag with this one and it’s currently on sale. Result.
£89.99 reduced from £99.99
Take my place
Pretty up your mealtimes with a pom pom trimmed jute placemat from Berkshire-based boutique Gift Pop. Available in Green, Orange, Blue, Pink and Yellow.
£20 each
Woven wonder
A basket bag is an easy-peasy way to nail the artisan trend and we love sunset colours on this handwoven, bucket-shaped number. Available from quirky London boutique KoiBird.
£195
Linen luxe
Oxfordshire-based brand Thread Tales ticks off tradition, luxury and responsibility with its handwoven scarves that use age-old techniques by artisans in Nepal and Myanmar. This subtly striped blue linen version is the perfect evening cover up.
£120
Add to basket
Up your storage style game with these large woven grass baskets with lid, handmade in Senegal, from Reading-based Field & Hawken. A great place to hide your dirty laundry, toys, blankets and small children.
£105
Hello Sunshine
This floaty embroidered dress is made for summer strolls and is a steal for under £50 (thanks H&M!). Pair with a woven tote or hat for added artisan chic.
£49.99
Playful Panama
Throwing on a decent hat instantly elevates an outfit and the bright design on this classic panama shape is a real talking point. It’s handwoven, hand-painted and comes in 15 fun designs. Available from Nadia C.
£140
Embroidered Beauty
For pieces that ooze craftsmanship anything from M.A.B.E is a no brainer. The delicate buttons and embroidery give this ecru blouse a luxe feel, plus added style points for the shoulder ruffles and collar.
£95
Country garden
How wonderful is this? Rising star British designer Alice Archer is known for her artisanal print and embroidery techniques and luckily for us, she’s just created an affordable range with Anthropologie. This is basically an English country garden in duvet set form.
From £148
Over the rainbow
Summer wardrobe favourite? This 100% cotton, rainbow stripe dress from Rae Feather is a strong contender. Flattering, versatile (throw over a swimsuit by day or a slip for dinner) and totally gorgeous.
£175
Boho babe
Tassels, detailed embroidery, ballon sleeves – this Vanessa Bruno shirt ticks all the boxes for ’70s chic.
£147 down from £210