Since the 1800s, French textile producers have been at the forefront of using technology to create beautifully detailed fabric designs and textures. It all began when Joseph Marie Jacquard invented a device that could mechanically manufacture highly patterned fabrics.
Throughout September, we are celebrating our range of gorgeous French fabrics with our window featuring a curtain using Camengo fabric.
Why Camengo?
The core philosophy behind Camengo fabrics is to “invite nature into the home to create easy-going, lively and bright collections, with simple elegance”. Their designs often follow a modern aesthetic that perfectly balances graphics with colours. Their ranges also includes plain fabrics in distinctive, nature inspired colours.
Jacquard Fabrics
Named after the inventor who revolutionised the French textile industry, Jacquard fabrics have a very luxurious look and texture to them. Unlike other fabrics, the pattern is woven directly into the fabric instead of being printed or stamped. Jacquards are easy to identify as the pattern is often quite intricate and usually has a slightly raised pattern and a tone-on-tone appearance. They are typically used for curtains, bedspreads, upholstery and feature cushions.
Toile Fabrics
Like Jacquard, Toile fabrics feature intricate print details. They are often perceived as romantic and luxurious because they depict historic scenes from French country life. Traditional Toile designs use a single colour such as black, blue or a characteristic red/prink shade printed on unbleached fabric – often linen (or linen look).
Classic Provincial Fabrics
Provincial-style fabrics originally came from India and Persia but the French loved them so much, they created their own unique patterns and styles.
Inspired by the purples of their lavender fields, the silver-green of olive groves, the blue Provence sky and the vibrant yellows and crimsons of the French countryside, these fabrics bring nature inside. They are also hugely popular for alfresco dining and outdoor seating areas because they always feel like summer.
French Linens
True French linens are made from flax and while they look and feel luxurious, they are also extremely hard wearing. These days, French flax is sustainably grown without the need for irrigation, pesticides or fertilizer.
French linen is great for upholstery because it provides year round comfort – cool in summer and warm in winter. These fabrics are also fabulous for curtains, especially in high-traffic areas, because they are easy to clean and become softer with age.
