STORY BEHIND

UNIKKO BY MARIMEKKO

THAT’S BRIGHT AND BREEZY: Yes. It’s one of Marimekko’s most popular designs. Unikko (poppy print) appears on bed linen, teapots, oven gloves, napkins, coats, dresses, cooking aprons and shower curtains. WHEN WAS IT DESIGNED? In 1964 by textile designer Maija Isola (1927-2001). She created more than 500 patterns for the brand. This one was made after Marimekko’s founder, Armi Ratia, banned them publicly from printing florals.

WHY? Ratia thought florals should only appear in nature. Nonetheless Isola created this cheering, flowery collection in protest and it has become an iconic design. ANYTHING ELSE? Jackie Kennedy was a fan of the brand. She bought seven dresses by Marimekko and was photographed in one on the cover of Sports Illustrated in 1960 before John F. Kennedy became president of the U.S. HOW MUCH IS IT? £39 a metre, marimekko. com.