Laura Ashley

Apr 1, 2009. Written By Samantha O'Neill
Laura Ashley has evolved since its days of screen printing on kitchen tables. Today it is one of the best lifestyle brands around

Laura Ashley is a strange brand, their clothes in the 60s were the height and epitome of fashion, and now it’s likely you associate Laura Ashley with your mum. But whether you love or loathe the clothes you have to admire their homeware line. It continues to be one of the best furniture and interiors brands on the high street.

 

For a little insight here’s some background. Laura and Bernard Ashley started printing fabrics in their home back in 1953. They then spent £10 on wood in order to create a screen of screen printing and some dyes and fabric. Then influenced by Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday they then began to make scarves which they in turn supplied to Heals and John Lewis. The couple then became a brand and a hugely successful brand was born.

 

The reason why we love the homeware collection so much is purely because it has a vintage feel without being try-hard. Everything from the prints, fabrics and wallpapers to the furniture feels fresh. Here’s our top picks:

 

1. Laura AshleyGatsby Dressing Table, £562.93

Pure elegance, this is one of the finest dressing tables we’ve spotted. The mirrored Art Deco style will never go out of fashion and because it is so simple it will remain forever stylish. It exudes Hollywood glamour, something we are always fans of. Try pairing with a modern style chair for an eclectic take.

 

2. Laura AshleyOriental Garden Wallpaper in Charcoal, £25.45

If you’ve been looking for a statement wallpaper then this has to be it. The dramatic colour scheme is softened by the beauty of the images. This conjured images of secret gardens for us, and of course we instantly fell in love with it. We would recommend pairing this will either clean cream or a dusty rose to continue the garden theme.

 

3. Laura AshleyBluma Decorative Pendant ceiling light, £146.85

Wow, this is truly beautiful. If you want a high impact light fitting then this is the one for you. The nickel and inset glass crystals disperse the light to brilliant effect. And the simplicity of the shape create this feeling of understated drama.

 

4. Laura AshleyFinchley Wing Occasional Chair in Tatton Cerise, £636.35

Now this is full on girliness at its very best. Everything from the print to the colour is perfect and will brighten up any home.  A statement chair is a great way to bring a feature into the home which is actually functional and fashionable.

 

5. Laura AshleyCeline pair of small door pulls, £14.69

No we haven’t gone mad showing you some door knobs, instead we know that this is one of the quickest and chicest ways to update your home. Sometimes the little changes like repainting cupboards, buying a new light fitting and changing door handles can have the most effect. These ones are some of the most gorgeous around.

 

6. Laura AshleyEau De Nil Spot Floral Teacup Saucer, £11.75

Now, is this not the prettiest teacup and saucer ever? It's almost too pretty too use, we may be keeping it out on the side just to look pretty. We are particularly loving the spot print on the outside and the floral inside which will surely brighten your day as you finish off your tea. 

Photo of Samantha O'Neill

Samantha O'Neill

Samantha is editor in chief of Chiconomise. Having previously worked as news editor for Myfashionlife.com, she is well versed in all things fashion.

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