Dearle Leicester Silk Habotai Scarf

DESIGNER'S NOTES

A rich Fox & Chave silk habotai scarf based on a design created in 1912 on behalf of Morris & Co. by John Henry Dearle (1859-1932)

The 1912 Leicester pattern, designed by John Henry Dearle for Morris & Co., exemplifies his late-career refinement of the company’s floral vocabulary. Dearle arranged sinuous stems of lilies, irises and convolvulus in a dense, rhythmic composition, where each flower grows from a shared lattice of intertwining vines.

Unlike earlier Morris designs, which often emphasizsed symmetrical repetition, Leicester balances variety with subtle regularity, creating movement across the textile without overwhelming the eye.

Printed on cotton and linen at Merton Abbey, the pattern showcases the layering of natural pigments, producing depth and vibrancy. Its intricate detailing and restrained palette allowed it to complement Edwardian interiors, where it was used for curtains, wall coverings and upholstery, bridging decorative artistry with domestic function.

COLOURS

STYLING

A Fox & Chave habotai silk scarf can be worn with the classic knot style or a pussycat bow. You can even create a shawl effect by knotting two scarves together behind your neck and allowing them to drape over your shoulders. More scarf styling ideas are available in this wonderful How to Tie a Scarf book.