We don't actually mean sip a cup of Earl Grey with Matthew Williamson, but the designer has made it possible to turn your morning brew or afternoon breather into a beautiful ritual.
Partnering with top notch tea company, Newby Teas of London, the renowned British designer has produced a limited-edition collection of three loose-leaf tea blends, presented in colourful tea caddies that would brighten anyone's day.
Known for his bold prints and use of vivid colours, Williamson has taken inspiration from the Rajasthan region of India to create evocative prints based on original water-colours, each one reflecting a facet of the chosen tea and its heritage.
“India is my all-time favourite destination”, says Williamson. “I’ve been over 40 times; I took my first trip when I was 18 and fell in love straight away. It’s long provided endless inspiration for my work and I’m forever fascinated by the colours, its vibrancy, diversity and craftsmanship. I couldn’t have done this collection without paying homage to one of the birth places of tea and my forever home-from-home.”
Find out how Matthew Williamson goes wild with colour.
The collaboration is the latest venture for Matthew Williamson, who has become known for his flamboyant fashion, interior design and homewares since his debut at London Fashion Week in 1997.
We grabbed 5 minutes with Matthew Williamson to find out more.
Why tea caddies?
Like most Brits, I’ve always loved a good cup of tea. When this collaboration came about I instinctively knew I wanted to do it for that reason but also because it was Newby.It’s such a wonderful heritage brand.
What was the inspiration behind each of the designs?
Maharaja’s Breakfast is a kaleidoscope of colour and Rajasthani iconography. It’s an ode to the regal ways of the Maharaja with the painted Indian elephant mirrored at the front of the design.
Exotic Earl Grey's tiger motif design encapsulates the fine Indian tea’s origins and its originality, with oranges to reference the citrus subtlety of the blend.
Jasmine Rose Garden's design depicts the eponymous flowers of the tea in full bloom against a turquoise sky. Butterflies flit in between - a motif synonymous with my brand's DNA.
Which is your favourite tea and how do you take it?
I’m quite traditional with my tea. I love an English Breakfast or an Earl Grey usually but in the summer months I’m more drawn to green or fruit teas. I think my favourite tea in the Matthew Williamson collection is the Jasmine Rose Garden - light and delicately fragranced.
Where’s your favourite place to take tea?
Always at home - whether on my terrace under the olive trees in Deia, Mallorca or by the windows of my flat in London.
Who would you most like to take tea with?
Frida Kahlo is my eternal muse. I would love to sit with her and talk to her about her work and love of colour.
Want to see Matthew Williamson's home? Check it out here.
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